It’s an organization’s responsibility to protect itself from attacks as a result of weaknesses in third-party systems and software. To enhance their safety, businesses should identify vulnerable third-party software before they can use them. Below are security tips for third-party software.
1. Set up a third-party management system
The aim of setting up a third-party management system is to reduce cybersecurity risks that may arise due to cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security concerns. This involves analyzing and controlling third-party risks to determine their suitability for a given task and how secure they can keep the information.
It also manages reputation risk, which might result from customer dissatisfaction, poor recommendations, and inappropriate interactions. Additionally, third-party management systems lower financial risk from poor management of the supply chain. Following the risk management practices reduces third-party breaches, improving security.
2. Third-party patching
Third-party patching is the deployment of patches to third-party software like the Jitbit help desk installed in your endpoints to address vulnerabilities that may affect the software’s function or security and prevent hackers’ exploitation. Perform third-party patching each time you detect a vulnerability and fix it. When you automate third-party patching, vulnerabilities are deployed as soon as they are detected to enhance cybersecurity and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
3. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication is a security technique requiring users to provide two or more verification details to access an app or an online account. The fact that MFA requires more than just a username and a password to access an app boosts security and makes it impossible for unauthorized persons to access your data. Multi-factor authentication prevents some of the common cyberattacks, such as phishing and credential stuffing.
4. The principle of least privilege (PoLP) implementation
The principle of least performance privilege is a best practice cybersecurity where users are granted minimum level access or permission to perform their job functions. You can apply this principle in apps and systems that need permission to complete a given task, protecting high-value assets and data. PoLP reduces cyberattack surfaces by limiting administrator and user access. By endpoints least privilege, PoLP stops the spread of malware attacks.
5. Avoid public free Wi-Fi networks
Connecting and exchanging personal information on public Wi-Fi may leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, share your information on fully encrypted sites only and avoid apps that ask for financial or personal information. Avoiding public free Wi-Fi and connecting through secure channels such as VPN enhances security and protects your data from attack.
6. A routine audit of third-party cybersecurity procedures
Once you have vetted a third party software and decide to work with it, it’s essential to keep checking whether they’re still complying because even the slightest mistake can lead to a breach. Periodically auditing their cybersecurity procedures assures you that your company’s data and your clients are safe from cyberattacks.
Endnote
Third-party software is beneficial for most businesses as it can save some overhead costs on tasks that cannot be handled in-house. Observe these security tips for third-party software to keep your high-value data safe from cyberattacks.
