The Threat is Real by Cisco Talos Threat Intelligence

The Threat is Real by Cisco Talos Threat Intelligence - Supply Chain Attacks

Supply chain attacks are on the rise, and no, we're not talking about the supply chain disruptions that kept many from getting a PS5 in 2020. When we refer to the software supply chain, we're discussing the various code, software, and services that interact with your network in numerous ways.

Bad actors are exploiting this supply chain to propagate malware through a technique known as a supply chain attack. In these attacks, attackers discreetly infiltrate a piece of software or related service, injecting malicious updates that users unsuspectingly download. Consequently, the user deploys malware within their network.

One of the most notorious examples of such an attack was the Log4j incident in 2021. However, these attacks continue to occur frequently. To mitigate the risk, organizations should maintain a software bill of materials and an exhaustive list of all the software and code operational in their environment. Additionally, implementing a zero trust approach to security can offer added protection.

Keywords

Supply Chain Attacks
Malware
Network
Log4j Incident
Software Bill of Materials
Zero Trust Security

FAQ

Q1: What is a supply chain attack?
A supply chain attack involves attackers infiltrating a piece of software or service to inject malicious updates, which users then unknowingly download and deploy within their network.

Q2: Can you give an example of a famous supply chain attack?
Yes, the Log4j incident in 2021 is one of the most well-known examples of a supply chain attack.

Q3: How can organizations protect themselves from supply chain attacks?
Organizations can protect themselves by maintaining a software bill of materials, keeping an exhaustive list of all operational software and code, and implementing a zero trust security approach.