Why automation is essential for effective Vulnerability Management

The global crisis generated by the COVID-19 is affecting us hastily. This migration of companies to remote work was something expected for several years. Many companies are trying to put in place this change in the best possible way. However, there are people taking advantage of the initial chaos. In recent weeks, security researchers report an increase in malicious activities. And they are all linked to the COVID-19 contingency.

They say the risks to organizations are rising especially in digital operations. It is in these moments where automation becomes vital for vulnerability management.

How have COVID-19 attacks on digital security evolved?

As expected, much of the activity involves phishing and social engineering campaigns. Hackers are using the COVID as a magnet to make people click on malicious attachments and links. And they don’t just focus on emails; also in malware downloads on cell phones and other devices.

This increase in the use of remote access and VPN services is giving attackers more targets. Especially in organizations that haven’t used them before, easier to chase and infiltrate. As a result, attacks have increased in a very short time. Organizations that don’t know about automation or vulnerability management suffer more than others.

Remote access technologies and the risks involved

You need to consider some risks associated with this increase in remote connectivity. To do this, we present a sample of the easiest remote accesses to put in place. These models represent only a sample; each organization must consider its risks before deciding which one to apply. It is also important to take these models into account for vulnerability management. Mainly to exercise automation more effectively.

Direct Access

The simplest and least secure access method is Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). This protocol exposes your network to the Internet. It is a practice that is widely used worldwide by many Incident Response companies. However, more mature organizations prohibit direct access through appropriate firewall restrictions and settings.

VPN

Another of the most common implementations that we find for companies is a VPN solution. We see organizations put in place this tool to provide greater access to the inner network. There are two types of usable VPNs: Split Tunnel and Full Tunnel.

vulnerability management In the Full Tunnel, receiving and transmitting data goes through the VPN connection. This connection goes between the computer and the network or server to which it connects. Split Tunnel, configuration transmits only certain data through the VPN. This way, we can filter the most confidential information so that it goes only through the VPN. Yet, less relevant information or data would don’t go through the tunnel.

Having a split tunnel offers a couple of advantages, such as faster and more efficient service. Because the VPN bandwidth only works for sensitive data. Furthermore, confidential data can be completely segregated from internet traffic.

Given the significant increase in recent remote work, companies with full tunnels are migrating to split ones. Keep in mind that this technology is difficult to put in place for automation.

Zero Trust

The latest emerging remote access model is the Zero Trust. This model uses an identity provider to grant access to applications. This determines authorization rights based on both the user and the device. Common authorization rights include device and user identity checks. The origin of the login and user functions are also evaluated. While some organizations use this model, many continue using VPN access as a backup.

The importance of automation for vulnerability management

Right now, organizations will overwhelm if they try to treat all vulnerabilities equally. Given the high volume of attacks on remote accesses, vulnerabilities are growing nonstop. This is hard for companies with limited resources and variable team objectives. Effective cybersecurity requires the ability to see vulnerabilities in the right context. Furthermore, they must focus on what vulnerabilities risk remedying, mitigate, or accept.

Vulnerability automation, when it comes to cybersecurity, is a necessary process today. It is about using digital tools for the systematic execution of processes. Although, these processes are usually repetitive or tedious. Even so, they important to detect vulnerabilities in your company’s systems in time. Automation eliminates the variables and adds structure to the vulnerability process.

This ensures bidirectional communication between the teams, making the process easier. Humans can’t be completely replaced, but in repetitive tasks, automating saves time.

The best solution for automation

For vulnerability automation, our recommendation is Rapid7’s InsightVM. Your automation processes for patching, for example, use the automation assistance system. This tool enables the least necessary human interaction within the automated workflow. InsightVM allows you to automate workflows for assets or vulnerabilities.

Rapid7’s InsightVM is an automated solution to help improve the efficiency of patching. Besides, it addresses all the steps in the vulnerability risk management process. InsightVM can provide clarity on risks, the influence of security, and see multiple progress. All this reduces risk throughout your organization.

If you want more information about this tool, do not hesitate to contact us. At GB Advisors we offer the best solutions on the market. We offer you a team of professionals ready to advise you on your way to a more efficient IT environment.

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Why automation is essential for effective Vulnerability Management4 min read

How have COVID-19 attacks on digital security evolved?