From Awareness to Action: Key Steps to Safeguard Software in Critical Sectors

In an era where digital threats to our critical infrastructure are at an all-time high, understanding the hidden vulnerabilities within software is no longer optional—it’s essential. Our latest report, Beyond the Bill of Materials, reveals a pressing need for resilience against the risks that lie within the software supply chains supporting our most essential systems. In collaboration with the North American Energy Software Assurance Database (NAESAD), this research unearths insights on vulnerabilities, common dependencies, and foreign influence. It offers actionable guidance for organizations that rely on software in sectors like energy, oil and gas, and defense.

Below are key findings which underscore the importance of securing the software supply chain

Uncovering the Hidden Risks

One of the most surprising takeaways from our research is the concentrated risk within a handful of software components. While software products today often rely on an array of third-party elements to function seamlessly, just a small group of these components are responsible for the majority of critical vulnerabilities. This “concentration of risk” means that by targeting specific areas for remediation, organizations can significantly reduce their exposure to cyber threats.

However, not all vulnerabilities are created equal. Our report highlights that certain vulnerabilities are both severe and exploitable by cyber adversaries, making them particularly dangerous for critical infrastructure. Recognizing these key threats and prioritizing them can be a game-changer in building a resilient defense.

The Complexities of Global Code Contributions

Separate findings point to the complexities introduced by global code contributions, especially from adversarial nations. A substantial portion of the critical infrastructure software in use today contains code from developers in regions with differing security standards or political agendas. This widespread reliance on foreign-developed software elements presents a unique and urgent challenge to national security, especially when these components underpin infrastructure like power grids, pipelines, and emergency communication systems.

Moving Beyond Detection to Prioritization

Our report goes beyond simply identifying vulnerabilities. Tools like the Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS), guide organizations in understanding which vulnerabilities are most likely to be exploited and therefore demand immediate action. Combining severity scores with exploit likelihood creates a clear path for prioritization, allowing organizations to act on the vulnerabilities that matter most. This proactive, prioritized approach can help organizations stay one step ahead of cyber adversaries and protect critical operations.

Practical Solutions for Building a Secure Supply Chain

At the heart of these insights is the NAESAD database, a powerful platform designed to help critical infrastructure organizations monitor, manage, and mitigate supply chain risks effectively. By aggregating SBOM data from key products, NAESAD empowers users with a comprehensive view of vulnerabilities, aiding in procurement, third-party risk management, and regulatory compliance. This collaborative approach is especially timely as federal mandates increasingly require organizations to maintain a detailed understanding of the software powering their operations.

Conclusion: The Path Forward for Critical Infrastructure Security

The vulnerabilities in our software supply chains are both concentrated and critical, underscoring the need for immediate and decisive action. By focusing on the specific components identified in our research, organizations can address the most pressing threats to their infrastructure. Our report offers a deeper dive into these insights, providing a blueprint for a more secure software ecosystem.

For those ready to safeguard their infrastructure, Beyond the Bill of Materials is a must-read.

Download the full report to discover how NAESAD can empower your organization with the tools and insights needed to fortify against these evolving risks.

The path to safeguarding critical infrastructure is clear and actionable —and NAESAD is here to help.