The Hidden Dangers of Everyday Business Tools

The attack surface of a business is often viewed as a visible entity, comprised of servers, identity systems, and cloud workloads. However, a significant portion of the attack surface remains hidden, lurking in the everyday tools used by employees to get work done. These tools, including PDF readers, compression utilities, and remote access clients, are often overlooked when it comes to security, despite being an integral part of the business environment.

According to experts at Action1, a company that specializes in visibility into third-party software exposure, these tools are a significant blind spot for many organizations. "Most organizations do not spend much time debating whether to deploy these tools," says a spokesperson. "They are simply part of operating in a digital economy." Contracts are often sent as PDFs, finance teams work with spreadsheets, and HR reviews resumes, all using software that can be vulnerable to cyber attacks.

The use of third-party software is ubiquitous in modern business, with many companies relying on a suite of tools to manage their operations. However, this reliance comes with significant security risks. A vulnerability in a single tool can provide a backdoor for attackers, allowing them to gain access to sensitive data and systems.

The problem is exacerbated by the fact that many of these tools are not regularly updated or patched. This can leave them vulnerable to known exploits, which can be easily used by attackers to gain access to a company's systems. In fact, many of the most significant data breaches in recent years have been attributed to vulnerabilities in third-party software.

So, what can companies do to mitigate these risks? The first step is to gain visibility into the third-party software being used across the organization. This can be achieved through regular audits and inventories of software assets. Companies should also prioritize patching and updating of third-party software, ensuring that any known vulnerabilities are addressed in a timely manner.

In addition, companies should consider implementing a third-party patching program, which can help to identify and remediate vulnerabilities in third-party software. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is essential for reducing the risk of cyber attacks.

Ultimately, the key to mitigating the risks associated with third-party software is to recognize the importance of these tools in the overall security posture of the organization. By prioritizing the security of these tools, companies can reduce their attack surface and minimize the risk of cyber attacks.

As the digital economy continues to evolve, the use of third-party software will only become more prevalent. It is essential that companies take steps to address the security risks associated with these tools, in order to protect their sensitive data and systems. By doing so, they can help to ensure the integrity of their business operations and maintain the trust of their customers.