The concept of an enclosure around your company’s data is fast becoming obsolete in the digitally connected world of today. The Supply Chain Attack is a new cyberattack that targets the complicated web of services and applications on which businesses are reliant. This article explores the supply chain attack, the threat landscape and your organization’s vulnerability. It also discusses the steps you can take to enhance your security.
The Domino Effect – How a small flaw could cripple your company
Imagine the following scenario: your business does not employ a specific open-source software library that has been identified as having a security vulnerability. But the provider of data analytics services, on which you depend heavily, has. This seemingly small flaw is your Achilles’ heel. Hackers exploit this vulnerability within the open-source code, gaining access to the service provider’s systems. They now have a backdoor into your organization, thanks to an unnoticed connection to a third party.
This domino effect beautifully illustrates the subtle character of supply chain threats. They target the interconnected systems that businesses depend on. By gaining access to systems, they exploit weaknesses in partner software, Open-Source libraries, and even Cloud-based Services (SaaS). Talk to an expert for Supply Chain Attack Cybersecurity
Why Are We Vulnerable? The Rise of the SaaS Chain Gang
Supply chain incidents are a result of the same factors which fueled the current digital economy and the rising use of SaaS and the interconnectedness between software ecosystems. The complex nature of these ecosystems make it hard to keep track of each piece of code that an organization uses and even in indirect ways.
Beyond the Firewall Traditional Security Measures fail
The traditional cybersecurity measures that focused on enhancing your systems are no longer sufficient. Hackers can bypass perimeter security, firewalls, and other security measures to gain access to your network through trusted third-party suppliers.
Open-Source Surprise It is not the case that all open-source software is developed equally
The open-source software is an extremely well-known product. This presents a vulnerability. While open-source software libraries are beneficial however, they also present security threats because of their popularity and dependance on developers who are not voluntarily involved. A security flaw that’s not fixed in a library with a large user base could expose the systems of countless organisations.
The Invisible Attacker: How to spot the signs of an escalating Supply Chain Threat
The nature of supply chain attacks makes them difficult to detect. Certain warning indicators can raise a red flag. Strange login attempts, unusual behavior with data, or unexpected updates from third party vendors can be a sign that your network is at risk. A major security breach within a widely-used library or service provider could be a sign your entire ecosystem has been compromised.
Fortress building in a fishbowl: Strategies for reduce supply chain risk
How do you strengthen your defenses against these invisible threats? Here are some important steps to consider:
Do a thorough evaluation of your vendor’s security practices.
The Map of Your Ecosystem : Create an outline of every library, software and services your organization uses, in a direct or indirect way.
Continuous Monitoring: Monitor every system for suspicious activities and monitor the latest security updates from third-party vendors.
Open Source with Caution: Take cautiously when integrating open source libraries and prioritize those with an established reputation as well as active maintenance groups.
Building Trust Through Transparency Inspire your vendors to implement secure practices and promote open communication regarding potential security risks.
Cybersecurity in the future Beyond Perimeter Defense
Supply chain attacks are on the rise, and this has forced businesses to reconsider their approach to security. No longer is it sufficient to just focus only on your personal security. Organizations must move towards an integrated approach and prioritize collaboration with vendors, encouraging transparency in the software ecosystem, and proactively combating risks across their digital supply chain. Your business can be protected in an ever-changing, connected digital ecosystem by recognizing the risk of supply chain attacks.