In this nugget, we discuss the most common pitfalls to complying with all of the secure architecture controls. We are presenting them in order of most frequent so you can address the most common failures first.
- Unpatched Systems and Software: Failing to apply patches and updates promptly increases system vulnerability. Unpatched vulnerabilities are often exploited by malicious actors and can lead to a data breach where DoD information is exposed. Organizations should have a robust patch management process in place.
- Weak Access Controls: Inadequate controls related to user access, privilege management, and authentication can lead to unauthorized access. Ensure strong access controls, including the principle of least privilege, and regularly review and update user access permissions.
- Insecure Configuration of Servers and Systems: Improperly configured servers and systems may expose vulnerabilities. Often organizations do not change the default configurations on their servers. This results in unnecessary services running in the background. Attackers can exploit these services to gain unauthorized access and compromise sensitive data. Be sure to follow security best practices for configuring servers and conduct regular security assessments.
- Inadequate Network Segmentation: Failing to properly segment networks can expose sensitive information to unauthorized access. Malware can traverse freely across the entire network enabling a security incident to spreads and affect the entire organization’s infrastructure. Organizations should ensure that networks are segmented based on the principle of least privilege.
- Insufficient Logging and Monitoring: Effective logging and monitoring are essential for detecting and responding to security incidents. The absence of comprehensive logging and monitoring can fail to detect unusual activity. Malicious insiders can go undetected as their actions aren’t logged which may allow them to steal sensitive data over an extended period. Organizations may overlook the importance of comprehensive logging and fail to establish monitoring processes.
- Lack of Endpoint Protection: Endpoints, including workstations and mobile devices, can be vulnerable points. Workstations lacking updated antivirus software can allow a malware infection to spread across multiple machines. Implementing and maintaining endpoint protection measures, such as antivirus software and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, is crucial.
- Poorly Configured Firewalls: Incorrectly configured firewalls can lead to vulnerabilities and unauthorized access. Hackers can exploit these misconfigurations to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. Regularly review and update firewall configurations to align with security policies and best practices.
- Inadequate Incident Response Planning: Failing to have a well-defined incident response plan can result in delayed or ineffective response to security incidents. Organizations should have a documented and regularly tested incident response plan in place.
- Neglecting Physical Security: Physical security is often overlooked. Without proper physical security protections, unauthorized personnel may gain access and tamper with IT assets. This can result in service disruptions and potential data breaches. Organizations should ensure that physical access to sensitive systems and data centers is restricted and monitored.
- Insufficient Encryption Practices: Data in transit and at rest should be encrypted to protect against unauthorized access. Sensitive data stored without encryption allows attackers to expose customers to intellectual property theft, access to controlled / sensitive and potential privacy violations. Organizations may overlook encrypting sensitive information or fail to use strong encryption algorithms.
- Poor Supply Chain Security: Overlooking the security of the supply chain can introduce vulnerabilities. Malicious cyber actors compromising vendors with weak security practices can execute supply chain attacks that affect the integrity of products they deliver. Organizations should assess and manage the security of third-party vendors and ensure secure handling of products and components.
- Failure to Conduct Regular Security Assessments and Audits: Regular security assessments and audits are crucial for identifying and addressing vulnerabilities. Without regular testing, undiscovered vulnerabilities may persist, and attackers can exploit them leading to a security breach. Organizations may neglect to conduct these assessments or fail to act on the findings promptly.
Remember, every organization is unique, and the specific challenges they face will vary. However, by addressing these common failures, organizations can increase their implementation of CMMC practices, secure their architecture, and pass a CMMC assessment.