Using the Internet or Online Library research, find and read the SANS/FBI Top 20 Vulnerabilities. Select one of the vulnerabilities listed and identify the threat group and threat category it warns about.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
The SANS FBI Top 20 Vulnerabilities is a list of the most critical security vulnerabilities that organizations should prioritize to protect their systems and data. This list is compiled by the SANS Institute in collaboration with the FBI and other international security agencies. The vulnerabilities are identified through comprehensive surveys and interviews with developers, senior security analysts, and researchers. The list focuses on the most dangerous software flaws that can allow attackers to gain complete control over software systems, steal sensitive data, or disable the software entirely.
Key Points:
– Compilation and Purpose: The list is created to provide a targeted set of vulnerabilities that need immediate attention. It is designed to help organizations strengthen their security defenses by addressing the most critical vulnerabilities first[3].
– Evolution: Initially released annually, the list is now updated quarterly to reflect the rapidly changing landscape of security threats. This change was made to ensure that organizations have the most current information to protect their systems[3].
– Shift in Vulnerabilities: There has been a notable shift in the types of vulnerabilities, with more being found in applications and databases rather than operating systems. This shift indicates that attackers are targeting higher-level vulnerabilities that can grant them more significant control and access[3].
– Examples of Vulnerabilities: The list includes vulnerabilities such as cross-site scripting (CWE-79), SQL injection (CWE-89), and memory buffer errors (CWE-119), among others. These vulnerabilities are critical because they can be easily exploited and lead to significant security breaches[4].
– Importance of Patching: The list emphasizes the importance of timely patching. Many organizations fail to apply patches in a timely manner, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. For example, vulnerabilities like CVE-2018-13379 and the ProxyShell vulnerabilities (CVE-2021-34473, CVE-2021-31207, CVE-2021-34523) were repeatedly exploited due to lack of patching[5].
Conclusion:
The SANS FBI Top 20 Vulnerabilities list is a crucial resource for organizations aiming to enhance their security posture. By focusing on the most dangerous software flaws, organizations can better protect their systems and data from malicious actors. The list’s evolution and the shift in the types of vulnerabilities highlight the need for continuous monitoring and timely patching to mitigate these threats effectively.
Sources:
– [1] www.linkedin.com
– [2] www.codegrip.tech
– [3] www.esecurityplanet.com
– [4] www.softwaretestinghelp.com
– [5] www.cisa.gov
