Vulnerability scans are performed on computer systems or networks to identify potential weaknesses. They are a type of security testing that can be used to scan for both known and unknown vulnerabilities. Many organisations use them within security assessments to determine their overall security position. Others perform scans to monitor for new or changed vulnerabilities. Are you using vulnerability scanning as part of your IT security strategy? Whatever the answer, today we tackle some FAQs which may help those who are not to understand why they should.
The key benefits of vulnerability scanning
- Identifies any vulnerabilities before potential cyber-criminals do
- Reveals flaws that are otherwise difficult to find
- Evaluates how effective your IT Security measures are whilst enhancing brand credibility
- Offers protection to your business assets
- Allows for more efficiency when managing resources whilst increasing operational efficiency
- Helps organisations to meet data protection requirements and keep up with security standards
Identify vulnerabilities first
Cyber-criminals are adept at finding known vulnerabilities in systems and more by using automated tools. Once they find something that has not been fixed, they can then use that to gain entry and cause major disruption. Organisations can use the same tactics to uncover flaws and then patch them before anyone can exploit them.
Find hidden flaws
Lots of vulnerabilities are difficult to find but vulnerability scanning can reveal them! Fixing these flaws in a precise manner means that you won’t need to apply patches randomly. It also allows for a priority-based approach, thus potentially saving time and money.
How effective is your IT Security?
Organisations regularly carrying out vulnerability scans can ensure that they have robust security measures in place. Once a scan is complete, a report is typically generated with a score and a risk level assigned to network assets. Using this, organisations can then effectively measure their IT hygiene and prioritise high-risk areas.
Clients, stakeholders and partners know when an organisation takes security seriously. Through a robust security strategy containing regular scans, you can enhance your reputation and credibility.
Protect your business assets
Regular scanning also means that vulnerabilities found in malicious code can be detected. Those who do not scan are in danger of missing possible entry points for cyber-criminals. Be consistent with vulnerability scans and ensure that your business assets are protected.
Manage resources more effectively
Keeping large, complex networks safe requires a high level of resource. Vulnerability scanning gives you an insight into where the exposed areas are. You can then allocate resources in the appropriate manner, thus increasing operational efficiency and potentially saving money.
Meet data protection requirements and keep up with new security standards
Vulnerability scanning requires that organisations adopt the appropriate security and technical measures to protect personal data. GDPR plus certain ISO standards and guidelines require similar measures. Vulnerability scans can therefore be a vital part of an organisation’s efforts to remain compliant. They can also help with the constantly changing security standards in existence. Regular scans allow you to keep track of new vulnerabilities and attack vectors.
Read more about Vulnerability Scanning services from CRIBB Cyber Security.