How Protected Are Your Open Source Systems

Open source software security is a big responsibility. Open source is considered to be more secure than proprietary software, because more widely the open software is available, more closely it is examined. And, the more flaws that surface, the stronger a code becomes.

This would be true if the components, which make up the open source code are constantly analyzed and if web application security services are verified by the developers, before they are incorporated into their work.

But, this is not always the case. Similar to automobile assembly plants, which uses independently manufactured brake components and airbags for building cars, software developers also assume that their supply chain open source components are up to date, patched and reliable.

Regrettably, assumptions like these allow vulnerabilities similar to those that were present in the Heartbleed bug.

There are a number of reasons why flaws exist in the open source system: the components when used for the first time might be old, or they might not have been appropriately tested. But usually, an open source component that makes it into a broadly used application is assumed to be safe, therefore, diminishing the demand for testing.

Be Aware of What's in Your Software

The inventory of open source components is crucial, because without that, IT managers will not be able to know if the system has compromised components. One way of checking is through Application Health Check, which provides free breakdown of each component and also alerts IT managers of likely licensing and security problems.

When there is a defect in the open source, it's revealed, but if you are not aware of the problems in your software, that revelation may tip of enemies who can use it to exploit vulnerabilities. And hackers get immense benefit by going after the components, which are extensively used, such as Heartbleed attck/OpenSSL demonstrated.

Following are the ways for agencies to ensure that their systems uses a secure software supply chain.

Usage of best ingredients: Agencies should ensure that the components used are coming directly from a trusted archive. Search for software that is compatible with CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures). These are a set of standard identifiers known for exposures and security vulnerabilities.

Make a list – IT managers should device and secure a bill of materials, for the components that are used in a piece of software.

Scan the code – Automated code scanners, which are compatible with SCAP (Security Content Automation Protocol), should be used.

Government-certified software should be used – Using cryptography libraries that are FIPS-certified, for writing encryption applications, eliminates the need of obtaining additional FIPS-certification.

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