A complex supply chain is replete with challenges, among them cybersecurity. Even where your IT team is working hard to protect your company’s networks and systems, a third party could be lax in protecting you from cyber crime.
What is a supply chain?
Supply chains are multiparty ecosystems involving many vendors and suppliers who may have access to the IT infrastructure of your business. Increased efficiency and expedited processes are possible thanks to these interconnections. However, these connections also increase the attack surface, giving cyber criminals more possible entry points into your network.
Cyber Supply Chain Risks
Supply chain cyber attacks are on the rise, and hackers are targeting all companies in the supply chain ecosystem, from end-users to software providers to suppliers. A recent survey indicated that of 1500 organizations located in the U.S., UK, Singapore, Switzerland and Mexico, 80% had experienced a data breach caused by a security lapse in their supply chains in the previous 12 months.
Best Practices for Cybersecurity in the Supply Chain
To address cyber risk in the supply chain, here is an overview of some best practices to apply to all your vendors.
1. Every RFP and contract should include security requirements
Details of cybersecurity obligations to be met before doing business with your organization should be provided.
2. Review your current contracts to ensure your vendors have security obligations to you
Once a vendor is accepted in your formal supply chain, you should work with them to ensure they address any vulnerabilities and security gaps. Make it a requirement that they promptly report to your organization any security breaches they discover.
3. Zero Tolerance
Products that are found to be counterfeit or do not meet specifications should be sourced elsewhere.
4. Control component purchases from approved vendors.
Any products in your organization’s supply chain need to have security controls in place. Purchases of components from approved vendors must be prequalified. If purchasing from other vendors, products should be closely inspected before acceptance.
5. Minimize Access
Follow the principle of the least privilege. Impose tight controls on access by service vendors. Use network segmentation to separate third-party vendors from unnecessary critical applications and data. Consider dividing third-party vendors that have access to the organization’s IT network into separate segments based on the services/functions they provide.
Supply chain risk management requires ongoing attention, just as your internal cybersecurity protections do. Remember that your organization is also part of a supply chain, with an obligation to help protect your customers, business partners, vendors and employees from cyber attack.
Consider contacting BSC Solutions Group if you have concerns about your level of cybersecurity protection. We help organizations reduce the risk of data breaches and ransomware attacks that can have financial consequences. Get started with an initial Cybersecurity Assessment followed by a Cybersecurity Strategy that fits the unique needs of your organization and your budget.
