The concept of an enclosure around the company’s information is quickly becoming obsolete in our digitally interconnected world. Supply Chain Attacks are a new kind of cyberattack, which exploits complex software and services used by companies. This article delves into the world of supply chain attacks, looking at the ever-changing threat landscape, your company’s security risks, and important measures you can adopt to protect yourself.
The Domino Effect – How a small flaw could cripple your company
Imagine that your business does not use a certain open-source library that is known to be vulnerable to an issue with security. But, the data analytics provider you depend heavily on is vulnerable to. This flaw, which appears to be minor, is your Achilles’ heel. Hackers exploit this vulnerability found in open-source software, in order to gain access to systems of the service provider. They now could have access to your organization, all through an invisible third-party connection.
This domino effect perfectly illustrates the insidious nature of supply chain attacks. They target the interconnected ecosystems businesses depend on. By gaining access to systems, they exploit weaknesses in software that partners use, Open-Source libraries, and even Cloud-based Services (SaaS).
Why Are We Vulnerable? The Rise of the SaaS Chain Gang
In reality, the exact elements that have fueled the modern digital age with the advent of SaaS software and the interconnectedness amongst software ecosystems — have created the perfect storm of supply chain threats. It’s impossible to trace each code element in these ecosystems, even if they’re in some way.
Traditional security measures are not adequate.
It’s no longer enough to rely on traditional cybersecurity methods to protect the systems you utilize. Hackers are adept at finding the weakest link in the chain, bypassing firewalls and perimeter security in order to gain access to your network via reliable third-party suppliers.
Open-Source Surprise It is not the case that all open-source software is made equally
Another security risk is the massive popularity of open-source software. While open-source libraries offer numerous benefits, their widespread usage and reliance on developers who volunteer to work for them can lead to security threats. Insecure libraries could expose a variety of organizations who have integrated these libraries into their systems.
The Invisible Threat: How To Be able to Identify a Supply Chain Threat
The nature of supply chain attacks can make them difficult to spot. However, a few warning indicators might signal warning signs. Strange login patterns, strange information actions, or sudden software upgrades by third-party vendors could signal an unstable ecosystem. An incident of serious security at a library or a service provider that is used widely is a good reason to act immediately.
Building a fortress in the fishbowl: Strategies to mitigate the risk of supply chain risks
How can you improve your defenses against these threats that are invisible. Here are some important actions to consider:
Reviewing your Vendors: Follow an effective process for selecting vendors which includes evaluating their cybersecurity practices.
Map Your Ecosystem Make a complete diagram of all software library, services and libraries that your business relies upon directly or indirectly.
Continuous Monitoring: Actively track all security updates and monitor your system for suspicious activity.
Open Source with Attention: Be mindful when installing libraries which are open source and prefer those with good reputations and active communities.
Transparency increases trust. Inspire your suppliers to adopt strong security practices.
Cybersecurity Future Beyond Perimeter Defense
As supply chain security threats grow and businesses are forced to rethink the way they approach cybersecurity. It’s no longer sufficient to focus solely on securing your personal perimeter. The organizations must adopt a more holistic strategy, that focuses on cooperation with suppliers and suppliers, transparency in the entire software’s ecosystem and proactive risk reduction across their supply chain. Your business can be protected in an increasingly complex and connected digital environment by being aware of the potential threat of supply chain threats.