The concept of protecting the data of your organization is quickly becoming obsolete in today’s digitally interconnected world. A new kind of cyberattack, known as the Supply Chain Attack, has emerged, exploiting the intricate web of software and services which businesses rely upon. This article takes a deep dive into the realm of supply chain attack, and focuses on the increasing threats to your business, its vulnerability, and the most important actions you can take to fortify your defenses.
The Domino Effect – How a small flaw could cripple your business
Imagine this scenario: your organization does not employ a specific open-source library that is known to have a security vulnerability. But the data analytics services on whom you rely heavily, does. This flaw that appears to be minor could become your Achilles heel. Hackers exploit this flaw in the open-source software, gaining access to the service provider’s systems. They now could have access to your business, via an invisible third-party connection.
This domino effect perfectly illustrates the insidious nature of supply chain attacks. They attack the interconnected systems that businesses depend on. By gaining access to systems, they exploit weaknesses in software that partners use, Open-Source libraries as well as Cloud-based Services (SaaS).
Why Are We Vulnerable? What is the SaaS Chain Gang?
In fact, the very factors which have fuelled the modern digital age and the rise of SaaS software and the interconnectedness of software ecosystems — have led to the perfect storm of supply chain threats. The massive complexity of these ecosystems is difficult to track every piece of code an organization uses and even in indirect ways.
Beyond the Firewall Traditional Security Measures aren’t enough
Traditional cybersecurity measures focused on fortifying your own systems are not enough. Hackers know how to find the weakest link, elude firewalls and perimeter security to gain access into your network via reliable third-party suppliers.
The Open-Source Surprise The Open-Source Surprise: Not All Free Code is Created Equal
The wide-spread popularity of open-source software poses a further security risk. Although open-source software libraries are an excellent resource however, they also present security risks because of their ubiquity and dependence on voluntary developers. Unpatched vulnerabilities in widely used libraries can compromise the security of many organizations that have integrated them into their systems.
The Invisible Threat: How to Find a Supply Chain Security Risk
Supply chain attack are hard to spot due their nature. Certain warnings could be a cause for concern. Strange login patterns, strange data processes, or sudden software upgrades by third-party vendors could indicate an insecure ecosystem. In addition, the news of a major security breach in a widely used library or service provider should take immediate action to determine your potential exposure.
Building a fortress in a fishbowl: Strategies to mitigate supply chain risk
What can you do to strengthen your defenses in order to ward off these hidden threats. Here are some crucial things to consider.
Checking Your Vendors Out: Create a stringent selection process for vendors that involves evaluating their cybersecurity methods.
The mapping of your Ecosystem: Create an exhaustive list of all the software and services that you and your company rely on. This includes both indirect and direct dependencies.
Continuous Monitoring: Check all your systems for suspicious activity and keep track of updates on security from third-party vendors.
Open Source With Caution: Take care when integrating open source libraries. Select those that have an established reputation and an active maintenance community.
Transparency helps build trust. Inspire your suppliers to adopt strong security practices.
The Future of Cybersecurity: Beyond Perimeter Defense
As supply chain-related attacks become more frequent, businesses must rethink how they approach cybersecurity. The focus on protecting your perimeter is no longer sufficient. Organizations must employ a more holistic strategy, focussing on cooperation with suppliers as well as transparency within the software’s ecosystem and proactive risk mitigation across their entire supply chain. You can protect your business in a complex, interconnected digital world by recognizing the risk of supply chain attacks.