Legacy System Security Risks: A Growing Cybersecurity Crisis
Avèro Advisors
By partnering with local governments, we empower their citizens and enrich the lives of everyone in those communities.
Legacy System Security Risks: The Hidden Threat in Your IT Infrastructure
Legacy system security risks are becoming a huge issue. If your organization is still running on legacy systems, here’s a tough truth: you’re sitting on a ticking time bomb. These outdated systems weren’t built for today’s cyber threats, and when you pair them with modern automation tools, things can go from bad to worse—fast.
Cybercriminals love legacy systems. Why? Because they lack modern security features like multi-factor authentication, advanced encryption, and real-time threat detection. That makes them easy targets for ransomware attacks, data breaches, and service disruptions. If that’s not enough to make you rethink your IT strategy, let’s look at what’s at stake.
Why Legacy Systems Are a Security Nightmare
Think of legacy systems like an old building with rusty locks and no security cameras. It might still stand, but it’s not built to keep out modern-day burglars.
The Problem: Security Features Stuck in the Past
Legacy systems were designed when cyber threats were simpler—or in some cases, didn’t even exist. Compare them to today’s tech, and the security gaps become glaring:
That’s why companies relying on outdated infrastructure are constantly playing catch-up, patching vulnerabilities instead of preventing them in the first place.
Real-World Proof: The Damage Is Already Happening
Still not convinced? Consider these recent attacks:
In each case, the core issue was the same—old systems with outdated defenses, making them an easy target.
Where Legacy Systems Fail (And How to Fix Them)
Security gaps in legacy systems aren’t just about missing updates; they go deeper. Here are the biggest risks and what you can do about them.
1. Missing Updates = Open Invitations for Hackers
Legacy systems often run on outdated software that no longer receives security patches. Attackers know this, and they actively search for these vulnerabilities.
If full system upgrades aren’t possible, use virtual patching—a technique that applies security protections at the network level to block exploits without changing the underlying system.
2. Automation Introduces Compatibility Issues
Modern automation tools don’t always play nicely with old systems. Authentication mismatches, unsupported encryption methods, and protocol conflicts create security gaps hackers can exploit.
Before integrating automation, perform security audits to identify weak points and add network segmentation to limit potential exposure.
3. Weak Data Security Leaves You Wide Open
Outdated encryption, lack of compliance with modern regulations, and limited tracking of data access make legacy systems prime targets for data breaches. The DemandScience breach, which exposed 122 million records, is a perfect example of what can go wrong.
Encrypt data both at rest and in transit, and implement role-based access controls (RBAC) to limit who can access sensitive information.
Practical Security Fixes You Can Implement Today
If replacing your legacy system isn’t an option right now, don’t panic. There are still steps you can take to improve security and minimize risk.
Network Isolation: Your First Line of Defense
By separating legacy systems from internet-facing or high-risk environments, you make it harder for attackers to move laterally if they do break in.
Virtual Patching: Security Without System Overhaul
If legacy software can’t be patched traditionally, virtual patching offers a workaround by applying security controls at the network perimeter.
How to do it: Conduct regular vulnerability scans Implement firewall rules that block exploit attempts Continuously monitor for new threats
Stronger Access Controls: Stop Unwanted Logins
Adding multi-factor authentication (MFA) can significantly reduce unauthorized access risks. Even legacy systems can benefit from external authentication layers like RADIUS.
Security Monitoring: Catch Threats Before They Escalate
Continuous security monitoring ensures you detect and respond to threats in real-time. Key components include: Regular security assessments AI-driven vulnerability scanning Detailed audit logs Incident response planning
Case Study: How One County Secured Its Legacy Systems
Avero Advisors recently worked with Grand Traverse County, Michigan, to tackle security gaps in their outdated mainframe system. Here’s what they were up against—and how they fixed it.
The Results?
Don’t Wait for a Crisis to Secure Your Legacy Systems
Legacy system security risks aren’t going away—they’re only getting worse. Every day that critical updates aren’t applied, and security isn’t prioritized, your organization remains vulnerable.
Your Next Steps:
Prioritize Security – Conduct vulnerability assessments and use automated patching tools. Take a Phased Approach – Start with the most critical systems, test security fixes, and document every change. Ensure Operational Continuity – Use virtual machines, standardize security protocols, and create a clear incident response plan.
Legacy system security risks are real, but they’re not unsolvable. The key is acting before attackers do.
We hope you found this information helpful. If you have any feedback or questions or just want to chat about potential optimization strategies, please reach out to us at [email protected] or message us on social media. Our mission is to provide more transparency and access to public sector technology, so we invite you to follow us on social media, LinkedIn, and YouTube and listen to our weekly podcasts for daily Govtech thought leadership.
#Innovation #Technology #LocalGov #PublicSector #GovTech #LegacySystems #Security #Cybersecurity #IT