The majority of data Security attacks and vulnerabilities can be found in Software applications and more specifically web software applications.  Major hacker attacks of online systems are becoming more and more commonplace with hackers exploiting vulnerabilities through SQL DB injection attacks, buffer overflows, cross-site scripting, and many more areas.   So it is important for you to protect your business by testing application software for vulnerabilities, and here are some examples of how you can strengthen your business against these attacks.

1. Install and test all new software publications on devices outside of your network such as a single desktop.
2. Use automated remote web application scanners to test for security vulnerabilities prior to software deployment within your network.
3. If the software requires a database, test the database to ensure it has been hardened.
4. Once testing is complete and the software is deployed in your network environment, ensure it is properly setup and configured within your network firewall to protect against potential outside threats.
5. Turn off all automated updates except for security updates.  And depending on your network type, you may either want to test or use a third party to whitelist software security updates before introducing them into your network environment.
6. All system error messages should be displayed internally only.
7. If you develop and code your own in-house software, keep the development area separate from your production network environment.  Test for common vulnerabilities such as software backdoors, malware insertion, coding errors, etc., before deployment of this software.

Follow these steps to ensure you are testing for and removing any potential software application vulnerabilities prior to deployment in your Network environment.  And as always if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to list them below in the comments section.

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