How can I evaluate the security of a software application I am considering using?

Hard to imagine a world without software… right? Applications are essential for businesses of all sizes. Even your home computer needs software for you to do anything. The web browser you are using to read this article is technically – software. With the ever-increasing threat landscape, software is quickly becoming an attack surface for threat actors. Some software is even deployed with back doors built in, creating major security concerns. When selecting software, it’s vital to evaluate the security of the application before putting it into place in your network. Luckily you can trust software that carries a few key factors. The industry has been forward-thinking in how to manage security and assure companies that the packages they are purchasing are secure. Here is a breakdown of things to look for:

1. Security Certifications and Compliance

• Certifications: Look for applications that adhere to industry-recognized security standards like ISO 27001, SOC 2, or HIPAA.
  Compliance: Ensure the software aligns with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) if applicable to your business.
  
  2. Data Encryption
• Data at Rest: Verify that data stored on the application's servers is encrypted using strong algorithms. If the application is on-prem and uses a database, that database needs to use some form of encryption to obfuscate the data. Particularly if the data contains PI data related to your clients and customers. Your servers should already use drive-based encryption.
• Data in Transit: Confirm that data transmitted between your devices and the application is protected with secure protocols (e.g., HTTPS). This is valid for both SaaS and on-prem installs. Any unencrypted transmission can be intercepted and altered or stolen.

3. Access Controls

• Role-Based Access: Ensure the application allows for granular control over user permissions based on their roles within your organization.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Check if MFA is available, requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification (e.g., password, code from an app) to access the application. Some on-prem applications will make a “call” to a hosted authentication system to verify licenses as well as require 2FA

4. Vulnerability Management

• Regular Updates: Inquire about the application's update frequency and how it addresses known vulnerabilities. In particular with niche software packages, you need to know if there is still a dev team actively updating the product. Windows update can re-write some of the underpinning OS-level hooks in use causing the application to stop working. Or of course, exploits in the source code could be discovered and exploited.
• Penetration Testing: Ask if the vendor conducts regular penetration testing to identify potential security weaknesses.

5. Incident Response Plan

• Preparedness: Understand how the vendor handles security incidents and what measures are in place to minimize data breaches.

6. Vendor Reputation

• Track Record: Research the vendor's reputation and history of security breaches or data leaks.
• Customer Reviews: Look for feedback from other customers regarding the vendor's security practices. If this is a trade-specific package, talk to your peers directly about the software and their experience. Particularly in implementing the package.
• Additional Considerations:
  • Third-Party Risk Assessment: Evaluate the security practices of any third-party vendors involved in the application.
  • Employee Training: Ensure employees are aware of security best practices and can identify potential threats.
  • Regular Security Reviews: Conduct periodic assessments to identify and address emerging risks.

Conclusion

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions about the security of software applications and protect your business from potential cyber threats.