2021 OWASP Top Ten: Software and Data Integrity Failures
by F5 DevCentral
📚 Main Topics
Introduction to Software and Data Integrity Failures
- New category in the 2021 OWASP Top 10 list.
- Focuses on assumptions made regarding software updates and critical data in CI/CD pipelines.
Risks Associated with Software Integrity
- Applications may rely on untrusted sources for plugins, libraries, and updates.
- Insecure CI/CD pipelines can lead to unauthorized access and malicious code.
Real-World Examples
- Home Router FirmwareLack of verification for firmware updates can allow attackers to manipulate firmware.
- IoT DevicesMany devices do not update their software from verified sources, posing security risks.
- SolarWinds AttackA significant breach where attackers compromised the update process of SolarWinds software, affecting numerous organizations, including FireEye.
Preventative Measures
- Digital SignaturesUse digital signatures or checksums to verify software integrity.
- Trusted RepositoriesEnsure libraries and dependencies come from trusted sources.
- OWASP ToolsUtilize tools like OWASP Dependency Check and Cyclone DX to verify software components.
- Code Review ProcessesImplement a review process for code and configuration changes.
- CI/CD Pipeline SecurityEnsure proper segregation, configuration, and access control in CI/CD pipelines to maintain code integrity.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Software and data integrity failures can lead to severe security breaches if not properly managed.
- Regular verification of software updates and dependencies is crucial to prevent unauthorized access.
- Real-world incidents highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity of software update processes.
🧠Lessons Learned
- Always verify the integrity of software updates, especially in automated environments.
- Use established security tools and practices to safeguard the software supply chain.
- Continuous monitoring and review of code changes are essential to maintain security in development processes.
By implementing these strategies, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of software and data integrity failures.