Cybersecurity is a necessity in today’s interconnected world. To protect us against cyber threats
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) has identified the “Essential Eight” as a criterion of mitigation
strategies. Patching apps is one of the most important initial steps among these. Given that unpatched
programs are a primary attack vector, it is possibly the most fundamental of the Essential Eight.
Why Patching Matters?
Applications are the gateways to our digital world. However, if they are not properly maintained they
can also be vulnerable to exploitation. Patches are frequently released by software developers to
address security vulnerabilities; timely application of these updates are essential for preventing
cyberattacks. As these flaws can be anything from little bugs to serious exploits, it can give hackers total
control over a system.
Importance of Patching Applications
For the following reasons, the ASD stresses the significance of patching applications:
– Reduces attack surface: Think of your software as a house; each unpatched vulnerability is like
an unlocked window or door. Patches fix known vulnerabilities and make it more difficult for
attackers to get in.
– Mitigates known exploits: Unpatched systems are easy targets for attackers since vulnerability
databases, including the National Vulnerability Database (NVD), openly publish known
vulnerability in systems. Patching applications on time helps to seal these security holes and
improves your defenses overall.
– Foundation for other controls: A patched system is a more secure system, as it offers a strong
foundation for the implementation of additional security measures. It makes other security
layers, such as intrusion detection systems and firewalls, easier to use and more effectively.
The ASD’s Recommendations
The ASD recommends patching applications within 48 hours of a patch being released, especially for
critical vulnerabilities or when exploits are known to exist. This timeframe is suggested on the
observation that cybercriminals often act quickly to take advantage of newly identified vulnerabilities.
This timeframe window shrinks rapidly as information about vulnerability spreads.
Real World Incidents
Timely patching can prevent many breaches, yet unpatched vulnerabilities remain a major point of entry
for attackers. Here are a few instances of unpatched applications:
– IoT Device Botnets: The November 2024 “Matrix” incident brought attention to the growing
danger posed by IoT-based botnets. To create enormous botnets, attackers progressively exploit vulnerabilities in IoT devices, such as routers, IP cameras, and smart home appliances. These
were then employed for criminal operations such as DDoS attacks, spreading malware, and
other malicious activities.
– State-Sponsored Attacks on Telecom: In November 2024, the Chinese state-backed hacking
group, Salt Typhoon, breached major U.S. telecom networks, including AT&T, Verizon, and
Lumen Technologies. To obtain intelligence, the attack targeted senior national security officials’
unencrypted messages, call logs, and communication data. This event demonstrates how
espionage can be carried out by taking advantage of unpatched vulnerabilities in critical
infrastructure.
– Fortinet VPN Zero-Day Vulnerability: In July 2024, it was discovered that a zero-day flaw in
Fortinet’s Windows VPN client was exploited by the China-linked Deep Data malware
framework. It took private information out of the app’s memory, including passwords and
usernames. This incident shows that even for the less known risk, the unpatched vulnerabilities
pose a serious threat.
Risks of Not Patching
Applications that are not patched expose people and businesses to several threats, such as:
– Ransomware: Cybercriminals use unpatched software flaws to access systems, encrypt data,
and demand payment to unlock it. Not Petya and WannaCry are well-known instances.
– Supply Chain Attacks: Cybercriminals insert malicious code into software upgrades from reliable
suppliers. A well-known example is the 2020 SolarWinds assault, in which hackers infected
software upgrades of a well-known IT management tool with malware, affecting numerous well-
known companies.
– Data breaches: By taking advantage of unpatched vulnerabilities, attackers might steal
confidential information, resulting in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities.
– System compromise: Unpatched applications make the complete system vulnerable which can
help the attackers to take full control over the system, who can then use them to launch
additional attacks or host malicious and illegal content.
– Financial losses: A successful cyberattack can have severe consequences, such as lost revenue,
legal bills, regulatory fines, and data recovery costs.
– Reputation Damage: Organizations with poor cybersecurity practices risk losing customer trust
and credibility.
Challenges and Solutions
Patching is necessary but it can be challenging to implement it effectively. Some common challenges
include:
– Identifying vulnerabilities: It can be quite difficult to keep track of every application and its
weaknesses, particularly in businesses with a wide range of software portfolios.
– Patching process: In large businesses with intricate systems, patching can be a disruptive and
time-consuming operation. Productivity may be impacted by patching downtime.
– Compatibility issues: Patches may result in unforeseen issues by making other software or
hardware incompatible.
– Resource Constraints: Companies might not have the budget or staff to put in place reliable
patching procedures.
Organizations might take into consideration the following methods to get beyond these challenges:
– Vulnerability scanning: To find missing updates, routinely check systems for vulnerabilities. This
procedure can be made more efficient with the use of automated vulnerability scanners.
– Automated patching: To apply patches fast and effectively, use automated tools. This expedites
the patching cycle and lessens the amount of manual labor required.
– Centralized Management Systems: To maintain uniformity across all applications inside the
company, track, manage, and apply patches using centralized patch management solutions.
– Prioritization: Patching major vulnerabilities, particularly those with known exploits, should be
the top priority. Patching activities should be prioritized using a risk-based methodology.
– Security Awareness Training: Educate employees about the importance of patching and the
risks of using unpatched software.
Conclusion
Patching applications is a fundamental cybersecurity practice that individuals and organizations should
prioritize. We can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks and protect our digital assets by swiftly
applying the patches. It involves proactive risk management and creating a more secure digital
environment rather than only responding to vulnerabilities.
How DigixCyber Can Help
We at DigixCyber are aware of how difficult it may be to navigate the complex world of cybersecurity.
We provide a whole range of services aimed at assisting people and businesses in defending against
cyber threats. Our areas of expertise include:
– Vulnerability Management: We help you focus on the most critical threat, by assisting you in
identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities in your systems and applications.
– Penetration Testing: To find gaps in your defenses before attackers do, our team of
professionals can simulate real-world attacks.
– Security Awareness Training: We offer Security Awareness Training to staff members to help
them comprehend the need for timely software upgrades and patching. We instruct teams on
how to avoid major security breaches caused by unpatched software.
– Incident Response: We can assist you in minimizing damage, retrieving data, and promptly
restoring your systems in case of an attack.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. To find out how we can help you improve your cybersecurity posture and
safeguard your priceless assets, get in touch with DigixCyber right now.
References:
https://www.cyber.gov.au/resources-business-and-government/essential-cyber-security/essential-eight
https://www.intellinez.com/blog/ai-in-cybersecurity/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Vulnerability_Database
https://www.cyber.gov.au/resources-business-and-government/essential-cyber-security/small-
business-cyber-security/small-business-cloud-security-guide/technical-example-patch-applications
https://www.cloudflare.com/en-gb/learning/security/ransomware/wannacry-ransomware/
https://www.zscaler.com/resources/security-terms-glossary/what-is-the-solarwinds-cyberattack
https://www.volexity.com/blog/2024/11/15/brazenbamboo-weaponizes-forticlient-vulnerability-to-
steal-vpn-credentials-via-
https://www.verizon.com/about/salt-typhoon-matter-update
https://www.volexity.com/blog/2024/11/15/brazenbamboo-weaponizes-forticlient-vulnerability-to-
steal-vpn-credentials-via-
https://www.security.land/inside-the-million-dollar-zero-day-exploit-market-what-security-teams-need-
to-know/
