Supply Chain Attack: Everything You Need To Know

Understanding Different Types of Supply Chain Attacks

Compromising Third-Party Software or Services

• Attackers may compromise a third-party software or service used by multiple organizations, allowing them to infiltrate the networks of all users.
• The SolarWinds attack is a prime example, where hackers compromised the company's software update system, enabling them to distribute malware to thousands of customers.

Exploiting Vulnerabilities in Hardware Components

• Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in hardware components, such as chips or firmware, to gain unauthorized access to a target system.
• For instance, in 2018, Bloomberg reported (although the report was later disputed) that Chinese spies had allegedly implanted tiny microchips in server motherboards used by major tech companies and government agencies, potentially compromising their data.

Targeting Third-Party Vendors or Suppliers

• In some cases, attackers may target a third-party vendor or supplier directly, exploiting their weaker security measures to gain access to a larger organization's network.
• The Target breach in 2013 is an example of this attack, where hackers accessed Target's payment systems through a third-party HVAC contractor.

Manipulating Open Source Libraries or Repositories

• Attackers can manipulate open-source libraries and repositories to introduce malicious code into software projects that rely on them. In 2021, the Codecov breach involved hackers exploiting a vulnerability in the company's Bash Uploader script, potentially affecting thousands of clients who used the tool for code coverage analysis.

How to Secure Your Company Against Supply Chain Attacks?

Adopt Robust Cybersecurity Measures, Practices, and Protocols

• Equip your organization with firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems to prevent and identify attacks.
• Follow best practices for password management, software updates, and network security to enhance your defenses further.

Utilize Dedicated Security Teams or Engage Reputable Security Firms

• In-house security teams or collaborations with trusted security firms can help proactively monitor your network for anomalous activity or security events, allowing for a rapid response that can significantly lessen the impact of an attack.

Keep an Eye on Your Supply Chain for Unusual Activity or Security Events

• Use tools like intrusion detection systems, log management, and automated threat forensics to oversee your supply chain. Additionally, ensure your employees are well-trained to recognize and report suspicious behavior or phishing attempts.

Confirm the Integrity of Software Updates and Security Patches

• Before implementing software updates and security patches, verify their integrity to avoid introducing malicious code into your supply chain.

Implement Secure Coding Practices and Regular Vulnerability Scans

• Adopt safe coding practices such as input validation, output encoding, and least privilege principles.
• Additionally, use tools like static application security testing (SAST), dynamic application security testing (DAST), and interactive application security testing (IAST) to scan your organization's codebase for vulnerabilities regularly. These proactive measures can help identify and remediate security flaws before attackers exploit them.

Conduct Risk Assessments and Regular Audits of Third-Party Vendors

• Perform ongoing risk assessments and audits on third-party vendors to ensure they maintain strong cybersecurity measures, helping to identify potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement within your supply chain.
• Risk assessments should include evaluating the vendor's security policies, incident response plans, staff training, and compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards. Regular audits should verify the implementation and effectiveness of the vendor's security controls and their ability to identify and remediate security issues. Establishing a vendor risk management program can streamline this process and help maintain a consistent approach to evaluating and managing third-party risks.

Foster Clear Communication Channels with Vendors and Partners

• Cultivate open, transparent communication with vendors and partners to share information about potential threats and collaborate on security best practices, ultimately strengthening your overall supply chain security.

Embrace a Zero-Trust Approach to Network Security

• Implement a zero-trust strategy for network security, assuming all users, devices, and applications on your network may be compromised. This approach involves ongoing validation of access permissions and requires all users to authenticate themselves before accessing sensitive data or resources.

Create and Execute Incident Response and Business Continuity Plans

• Prepare for potential supply chain attacks by developing and implementing comprehensive incident response and business continuity plans, outlining your organization's steps to address an attack, minimize disruptions, and rapidly restore normal operations.

Train Your Workforce on Supply Chain Security Best Practices

• Invest in employee training and education on supply chain security best practices to create awareness and vigilance, ensuring all staff members can recognize potential threats, report suspicious activity, and adhere to your organization's security protocols.
• Employee training should cover topics such as recognizing phishing emails, avoiding social engineering attacks, securing personal devices, and identifying signs of a compromised system. Regular security awareness training and simulated phishing campaigns can reinforce these concepts and keep security top-of-mind for employees. Additionally, specialized training should be provided for staff members with specific roles in supply chain management, IT security, or procurement, as they may be more likely to encounter supply chain-related threats.