Patch management is a fundamental pillar for ensuring the security and stability of any system or software. It involves applying updates that fix vulnerabilities and bugs that cybercriminals could exploit or that could cause operational failures. However, many organizations neglect this task, exposing themselves to significant risks that can impact their operations and reputation.
This article explores the dangers associated with unpatched software, the reasons behind this neglect, and best practices for mitigating these risks.
What is an unpatched vulnerability?
An unpatched vulnerability is a security flaw in software that has not been corrected through updates. These vulnerabilities are especially dangerous because they are often documented in public databases, such as the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) list, making them known to both defenders and attackers.
When software vendors identify these flaws, they publish patches to address them. However, if these patches are not applied, the vulnerabilities remain active and pose a significant threat.
Real-world example: the WannaCry ransomware attack
The WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 is a clear example of the consequences of failing to apply patches. This attack exploited a vulnerability in the Windows operating system, for which Microsoft had already published a patch months earlier.
Many organizations, including parts of the National Health Service (NHS) of the UK, did not apply the patch in time. As a result, the ransomware spread rapidly, encrypting data and demanding ransoms to restore access. The impact was particularly severe in the healthcare sector, leading to canceled appointments, disruptions in surgeries, and affecting patient care.
The top 5 risks of not patching software
- Increased risk of security breaches
- Unpatched systems are vulnerable to known attacks. This makes it easier for cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive data, which can result in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities.
- Operational disruptions
- Vulnerabilities can cause unexpected downtime, underperformance, or even system failures. These disruptions affect productivity and can lead to significant financial losses.
- Higher operational costs
- Unpatched systems require more maintenance and support, which increases labor costs and downtime.
- Legal and compliance issues
- Noncompliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS can result in fines and penalties. Keeping systems updated demonstrates a commitment to security and data protection.
- Loss of competitive advantage
- Customers and partners expect a secure environment. Not patching regularly can erode trust and make an organization less attractive compared to its competitors.
Why do vulnerabilities remain unpatched?
Despite the risks, many organizations struggle to implement patches due to various challenges, including:
- Resource limitations: Lack of staff and budget to manage updates.
- Complex environments: Heterogeneous systems make it difficult to implement patches uniformly.
- Operational disruptions: The downtime required to apply patches can be costly, especially in critical systems.
- Lack of visibility: Companies often do not have a complete inventory of their IT assets, making it hard to identify which systems need patches.
- Organizational silos: Lack of coordination between teams can result in missed patches.
- Increasing volume of vulnerabilities: The sheer number of discovered flaws can overwhelm IT teams.
Best practices for mitigating risks associated with unpatched software
1. Automate updates
Automating updates reduces the risk of human error and ensures that patches are applied in a timely manner. Automation tools also help maintain compliance with regulations and security standards.
2. Prioritize patches
Not all vulnerabilities are created equal. By focusing efforts on the most critical ones, organizations can minimize their exposure to attacks and maximize efficient use of resources.
3. Establish patch management policies
Defining clear policies for identifying, prioritizing, and applying patches ensures a systematic approach and reduces the likelihood of important updates being overlooked.
4. Implement testing beforehand
Testing patches in a controlled environment minimizes the risk of operational disruptions and ensures that updates do not cause additional issues.
5. Consider managed service providers (MSPs)
MSPs can provide specialized expertise and resources to proactively monitor and manage updates, reducing the burden on internal teams.
Why proactive patch management is crucial
Adopting a proactive approach to patch management is essential for mitigating risks. This includes continuously monitoring threats, applying updates promptly, and ensuring that systems meet security standards.
An effective patch management plan not only protects against security breaches but also enhances operational continuity, strengthens customer trust, and complies with applicable regulations.
Patch management is not just a technical task, but a key element in ensuring security and resilience in the business environment. Ignoring this responsibility can have devastating consequences, but a proactive approach can make the difference between safe operations and a cyber crisis.
Source: Tanium