Within the complex world of cybersecurity, vulnerability management has been one of the most talked about topics. It started with organizations scanning all the systems against issues like misconfiguration and code flaws that can pose risks to the database of businesses.
To tackle such issues, reliable risk based vulnerability software that can identify any threat and prioritize remediation came into existence. This software goes beyond just discovering vulnerabilities as they help businesses in understanding the potential impact of the attacks. Let’s learn more about them in detail.
Cyber Risk vs. Vulnerabilities: What’s the Difference?
Usually people take cyber risk and vulnerabilities as synonyms. Here we will burst this bubble and explain with an example the difference between the two:
Assume you are building a sandcastle on a beach. Now, your mind will worry about two things: the chances of something going wrong and the weak spots of the sandcastle.
Cyber Risks: They are like the chances of something bad happening to your sandcastle. It could be a hacker trying to get into your computer or a virus that messes things up. These risks are the threats that you must watch out for.
Vulnerabilities: Now, think about the parts of your sandcastle that aren’t as strong. These are termed vulnerabilities – these weak spots can be misused by someone who could knock down your software. Vulnerabilities are the gaps or weaknesses in your computer systems that hackers can use to get in and create trouble.
Putting them in simple terms:
Cyber risks are like digital dangers. They’re the things that could go wrong in the online world and cause problems.
Vulnerabilities are weak spots in your computer or online systems that could be used to cause trouble. By using risk based vulnerability management system you can get rid of this mess.
5 Most Common Types of Vulnerabilities
Misconfigurations:
Sometimes, a system’s settings are not set up properly. This can create gaps that hackers might use to get in and cause trouble.
Unsecured APIs:
As APIs connect you with outside information and complementary application with the help of public IP addresses, they pose the greatest threat to your data as these poorly secured networks gives unauthorized access to the data.
Outdated or Unpatched Software:
Outdated software are like cracks in the system; if left unnoticed, these cracks can become potential sneak holes for hackers.
Weak or Stolen User Credentials:
User credentials are like keys to the online kingdom. Weak passwords or stolen keys give hackers an easy way in, just like a thief using a copied key to enter your home.
Misunderstanding the “Shared Responsibility Model”:
Misunderstanding the shared responsibility model is when an organization doesn’t grasp its and its cloud provider’s roles. The provider handles infrastructure; the organization handles other parts. Not understanding leads to missing vulnerabilities, especially during runtime operations (‘runtime threats’).
Now that you understand the most common threats, the next thing to see is how to avoid them. Here are the top practices that one must follow along with installing a vulnerability management system to ensure your systems remain safe:
Top Practices to Ensure Your Systems Remain Safe:
By following these top practices businesses can safeguard their data from external threats.
Prioritize vulnerabilities based on potential impact: First, focus on fixing the most critical weaknesses to minimize potential damage.
Regularly scan and assess systems for weaknesses: Perform routine checks to find and address vulnerabilities promptly.
Updating software and systems: To fix security holes, ensure all software and systems are updated often.
Train employees on security awareness: Educate staff about cybersecurity risks to enhance their ability to spot and avoid potential threats.
Establish a straightforward process for vulnerability remediation: Have a well-defined plan for fixing vulnerabilities once they’re identified.
Monitor and respond to emerging threats: Stay vigilant and ready to take action against new and evolving security risks.
Team up with sources that know about online dangers: Stay connected to places that tell you about new computer problems.
Fix things fast: When there are updates to keep things safe, use them immediately to ensure bad things can’t get in.
Implement patches promptly: Apply security patches and updates quickly to address known vulnerabilities. Make use of risk based vulnerability management system to ensure that your data remains safe.
Keep looking at your plan and changing it: As things online change, now and then, check and make your strategy for dealing with problems better.
Conclusion:
The “Prevention is Better Than Cure” this idiom fits well when discussing vulnerability risk management software. By taking timely precautions, one can keep the risk at bay. Risk based vulnerability management ensures that the maximum chance of vulnerabilities is eliminated and better strategies are formulated.
Author bio:
Kavita has extensive experience in developing technical and SaaS content. She is a cybersecurity expert at www.thinktanks.co.za, renowned for delivering cutting-edge software tailored to optimize IT assets and manage IT services seamlessly. Kavita’s writing bridges intricate technology and practical applications, empowering businesses to make informed decisions.
