Security | Threat Detection | Cyberattacks | DevSecOps | Compliance

February 2024

5 ways Vanta customers saved time and money automating their SOC 2

SOC 2 is a popular compliance framework used to evaluate and validate an organization’s information security practices. By getting a SOC 2 report, you’ll be able to develop a trusting relationship with your customers, unlock new revenue opportunities, and build a strong security posture. ‍ The process of getting your SOC 2 often takes significant time, effort, and resources.

PCI DSS Requirement 8 - Changes from v3.2.1 to v4.0 Explained

In our ongoing series of articles on the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), we’ve been examining each requirement in detail. Today, we turn our attention to Requirement 8: Identify Users and Authenticate Access to System Components. This requirement is built on two fundamental principles User identification and authentication,1) identifying individuals or processes on a system and 2) verifying their authenticity.

Leveraging BoxyHQ's Open-Source SSO for Greater Market Reach and Compliance: MonkeyFit

In the ever-evolving tech landscape, companies face myriad challenges in scaling, security, and compliance. MonkeyFit's journey, as detailed in a comprehensive case study, demonstrates the power of strategic solutions in overcoming such hurdles.

What is Compliance Automation

In recent years almost every company has been utilizing technological solutions like artificial intelligence which has given rise to the importance of Compliance automation. It is a practice to protect the sensitive information of the companies. Hence, Compliance automation software keeps track of the company’s internal systems. Businesses process automation to achieve the main goals of the organizations effectively with the least amount of monitoring.

Steps to Creating a Statement of Applicability (SOA)

A Statement of Applicability (SOA) is a document you draft as part of achieving compliance with ISO 27001 and other ISO standards. The SOA reviews the internal controls you have decided to include in your information security management system (ISMS) and why you selected those controls. Writing a thoughtful, comprehensive SOA is crucial to your ISO 27001 compliance journey.

Risk Management Essentials: How to Operationalize Risk Reporting

This virtual workshop delves into the core of risk management reporting. Led by our panel of industry experts, this session will equip you with the essential skills to not only analyze and report on organizational risks, but also communicate them effectively to leadership teams. Discover how to construct a robust reporting framework and master the art of presenting metrics with finesse.

The Role of Penetration Testing in NIS2 Compliance: Insights from KomodoSec

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, the importance of rigorous and proactive security measures has never been more pronounced. The Network and Information Security (NIS2) Directive, an initiative by the European Union, is set to redefine cybersecurity standards for essential and important entities, emphasizing the need for robust risk management, incident response, and business continuity planning.

Who Owns PCI Controls? Unpacking ZenGRC in Compliance

PCI DSS compliance is crucial for any business that processes, stores, or transmits cardholder data. But who exactly is responsible for implementing and enforcing PCI DSS requirements? This blog post will unpack PCI data security standard controls, who owns them, the penalties for non-compliance, and how a Governance, Risk management, and Compliance (GRC) platform like ZenGRC can help streamline compliance.

Save Time and Steps with Ignyte's Control Inheritance Automation

If you are managing multiple GRC frameworks for multiple environments, then you know how powerful it is to have clearly-defined and repeatable work processes to enable teams to work together efficiently. To enable efficiency within the organization, Ignyte has launched common control provider capabilities within the platform for 100+ customers.

Data Breaches 101: What They Are And How To Prevent Them

A data breach could ruin your business overnight. Imagine customer outrage as hackers leak the private details your company promised to protect. Are you prepared to deal with regulatory fines, lawsuits, costly investigations, disrupted operations, and destroyed trust while cybercriminals profit freely from stolen data? That’s the harsh aftermath companies face today following high-profile breaches.

A04 2021 Insecure Design | OWASP TOP 10

Welcome to our ongoing series on the OWASP Top 10, focusing on A04:2021 - Insecure Design. In this episode, we delve into the world of insecure design, a critical aspect of application security. You’ll learn what constitutes an insecure design and how attackers can exploit these weaknesses. We’ll walk you through real-world examples of insecure design, helping you understand its impact and the potential risks involved.

Streamline compliance management with the Vanta & NinjaOne integration

We’re excited to share that Vanta now integrates with NinjaOne, a leading IT platform for endpoint management, security, and visibility. ‍ This integration offers a comprehensive solution for businesses striving to maintain high-security standards while ensuring compliance with regulations. ‍

FIPS 199 & 200 Compliance: Comparing Security Standards

In the world of government contracting, information security is taken very seriously. There are a dozen different standards for security depending on who you are, what information you handle, and what department you’re working with. We’ve talked about many of them before, such as DFARS, FedRAMP, and CMMC, but there’s yet another to discuss. As you’ve guessed, if you’ve read the title, or as you know from seeing this post, we’re talking about FIPS.

PCI DSS Requirement 7 - Changes from v3.2.1 to v4.0 Explained

Welcome back to our ongoing series on the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements. Having covered the first six requirements in detail, we now turn our attention to Requirement 7. This requirement is a critical component of the PCI DSS that has undergone significant changes from version 3.2.1 to the latest version 4.0. Requirement 7 focuses on implementing strong access control measures.

PCI DSS Compliance - Meeting the Third-Party Vendor Requirements

Today, almost every organization is engaged with a third-party vendor at some level when offering products or services. Take, for instance, an e-commerce business that may not be able to function properly unless multiple third-party integrations are involved, such as CRMs, payment gateways, live chat APIs, or a shipping gateway, to name a few.

Your ultimate guide to security frameworks

Trust is a vital part of any growing business. A part of earning and keeping the trust of your customers is implementing the right security measures to protect their data and your systems from any breaches that could impact them. ‍ By aligning with industry-vetted security frameworks, you’ll be able to build a strong security posture that protects your systems and earns customer trust. There are many security frameworks that could be applied to your infrastructure.

PCI DSS v4 0 Readiness - Are you Ready for Ver 3 2 1 Retirement?

Join us for an insightful webinar hosted by VISTA InfoSec, featuring our esteemed panelist, Nitin Bhatnagar, a certified member of the PCI SSC. This webinar is designed to prepare you for the upcoming retirement of PCI DSS v3.2.1 and the introduction of PCI DSS v4.0. PCI DSS safeguards credit card data. With v3.2.1 retiring and v4.0 launching, businesses must grasp these changes and ready themselves for the shift.

Key considerations when choosing a business ISP

A Business Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a company that offers internet access and related services to businesses. Unlike residential ISPs, business ISPs are tailored to meet the higher demands and unique needs of businesses, such as greater reliability, faster speeds, dedicated support, and enhanced security. The choice of an ISP can significantly impact a company's operational efficiency, communication, and overall success.
Featured Post

Leveraging Threat Intelligence for Regulatory Compliance

The US Government recently announced that state-sponsored Chinese cyber group Volt Typhoon has compromised multiple critical infrastructure organisations' IT networks in the US and is preparing "disruptive or destructive cyber attacks" against communications, energy, transport, water and waste water systems. The announcement, which was supported by national cybersecurity agencies in Australia, Canada, UK, and New Zealand, is a sobering reminder that modern life relies on digital networks. From healthcare, banking, and socialising, to energy, water, local and national government - everything has a digital aspect.

PCI DSS Requirement 6 - Changes from v3.2.1 to v4.0 Explained

Welcome back to our series on PCI DSS Requirement Changes from v3.2.1 to v4.0. Today, we’re discussing Requirement 6, which is crucial for protecting cardholder data. It mandates the use of vendor-supplied security patches and secure coding practices for in-house developed applications. These measures help mitigate vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. The requirement also emphasizes the importance of vigilance in identifying and remediating vulnerabilities.

Cryptographic failures | OWASP TOP 10

In this video, we'll delve into the world of cryptography and explore the ever-evolving landscape of cryptographic failures. We'll start by examining the shift in the OWASP Top 10 from "Sensitive Data Exposure" (A03:2017) to "Cryptographic Failures" (A02:2021), highlighting the growing importance of proper cryptographic implementation in securing sensitive data.

Unlocking Security: MFA vs. Passwords | Navigating Compliance Challenges || Razorthorn Security

Ditching passwords for a more secure future with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)! Explore the realm of technical feasibility and compliance requirements. Discover why it's crucial to go beyond the words and address the true intent of security measures. Join the conversation as we delve into the legal intricacies hashed out in court. Don't miss this insightful discussion on revolutionizing your approach to online security!

ITAR Compliance Checklist

The United States government has established strict regulations to safeguard intellectual property and military superiority. Compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is imperative for companies involved with U.S. defense technologies and data. Failure to comply can lead to severe legal and financial repercussions, as well as reputational damage.

The future of cybersecurity: AI and SIEM working together

Imagine a world where your digital security isn't just a tall wall guarding against intruders but a sophisticated AI sentinel, always learning, always adapting. That's the world we're zooming into when we talk about the convergence of AI and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems. This fusion is not just a fancy addition to the cybersecurity toolset; it's rapidly becoming a necessity for businesses that seek to stay ahead in this grand digital chess game against cyber threats. You should consider Exploring the Essentials of SIEM for Business Security further to help you understand better.

Using Vanta and AWS for secrets management and encryption

This blog is part of a series about how to use Vanta and AWS to simplify your organization’s cloud security. To learn more about how to use Vanta and AWS, watch our Coffee and Compliance on-demand webinar. ‍ Amazon Web Services, or AWS, is one of the most popular cloud providers for organizations today — providing one of the most flexible and secure cloud environments available.

HIPAA Compliance in the Age of AI - A Comprehensive Guide

The healthcare landscape is undergoing a transformative journey as it intersects with the mighty realm of artificial intelligence (AI). This comprehensive guide navigates the intricate dance between compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the increasing integration of AI in healthcare. In the evolving tapestry of medical practices, AI emerges as a pivotal player, influencing patient care and administrative processes.

Striking the Right Balance: Compliance vs. Real Cyber Risks | Navigating Organizational Priorities

In our latest exploration of cybersecurity challenges, we delve into the delicate balance organizations must strike between compliance efforts and the real cyber risks they face from the outside world. It's a common pitfall for organizations to develop a higher tolerance for compliance risks, often channeling significant resources and funds into demonstrating adherence rather than actively managing and mitigating specific threats.

5 Strategies for Protecting the Public and Private Sectors from Cybersecurity Threats

The proliferation of technology in the present age, while undeniably a win for innovation and modern convenience, has unfortunately been paralleled by an upsurge in cyber threats that present a multifaceted challenge to both businesses and individuals. As people become more reliant on digital platforms for everything from commerce to communication, the potential for cyberattacks will only escalate.

ITAR Compliance: 8 Essential Facts for Business Regulations

When choosing to take up government contracts, most businesses face one of the common compliance frameworks for security. They need to climb the mountain to achieve compliance with a framework like CMMC, FedRAMP, or maybe something like HIPAA if they’re in the healthcare space. Relatively few need to comply with a more esoteric – and higher-intensity – framework known as ITAR. What is ITAR, and what do you need to know if you’re a business that needs to use it? Let’s dig in.

Automate more of your compliance program with custom tests

Today, we’re launching multiple customization improvements to Vanta’s automated test capabilities, previously announced at VantaCon in December. With Custom Tests, you now have the ability to adjust Vanta’s pre-built tests as well as create new tests from scratch with new logic. ‍ Custom Tests empower you to gather evidence across your systems and use Vanta’s automation to continuously monitor and alert you when items fall out of compliance.

What is Cloud as a Service? Exploring Definitions, Current Trends, and Future Horizons

In the rapidly evolving landscape of IT infrastructure, businesses are constantly faced with the critical decision of choosing between on-premises and cloud solutions. The allure of cloud computing, with its promises of scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency, often leads organizations to assess the financial implications of their choices meticulously. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the complexities of assessing on-premises vs.

ISO 27002: Information Security Controls Explained

In the race to execute digital transformation strategies, the rear-view mirror never fails to shake off the looming cyber threats that are a significant stumbling block to any organizational objectives. Today, nearly 48% of organizations are experiencing more cyberattacks than the previous year.

Vulnerability A03 : Injection - OWASP TOP 10

Welcome to our latest video on the OWASP Top 10, focusing on Vulnerability A03: Injection. This video is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of injection vulnerabilities, which are among the most common and dangerous security risks in web applications. In this video, we will explore the concept of injection vulnerabilities, their various types, and how they can be identified. We will also look at real-world examples to illustrate the potential impacts of these vulnerabilities when they are exploited.

SOC 1 vs SOC 2: Everything you need to know about the SOC attestations

Service organizations often undergo SOC (Service Organization Control) attestation to assure clients and stakeholders of the effectiveness of their internal controls. Two prominent frameworks within the SOC domain are SOC 1 and SOC 2, each designed to address specific facets of a service organization’s controls. Read on to learn how to compare SOC 1 vs SOC 2 attestations.

Safeguarding Sensitive Data: The Vital Role of Cybersecurity in Business Law Firms

In an era marked by digital transformation and increasing reliance on technology, cybersecurity has become a critical concern for businesses across all sectors. However, for law firms specializing in business law, the need to protect sensitive client information and maintain confidentiality is paramount. As custodians of highly confidential data, including intellectual property, financial records and sensitive legal documents, business law firms face unique cybersecurity challenges and must implement robust measures to safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches.

Navigating Authority to Operate: FISMA or FedRAMP?

Navigating Authority to Operate: FISMA or FedRAMP? Decades ago, the government stood on its own. While it would often contract out with individuals and companies for services, there was always a barrier between third-party operations and government operations to prevent intrusion, infiltration, or compromise. Over the years, though, society has grown more and more complex.

Xalient achieves ISO 27001:2022 Recertification

In a significant achievement, we are thrilled to announce our successful transition to the ISO 27001:2022 standard whilst also undergoing recertification. This recertification is the pinnacle of Information Security Management. The recognition by BSI in December 2023, with auditors acknowledging our commitment as “up there with the best of them,” underscores our dedication to providing the highest level of service to our customers.

Customer Corner: How Apree Health Gained Container Visibility and Achieved Compliance

Join David Quisenberry, Senior Manager of Information Security, and Cat Schwan, Security Team Lead, to learn how Sysdig’s powerful runtime insights empower Apree Health to identify, visualize, and eliminate Kubernetes vulnerabilities, threats, and misconfigurations in real time, and how automated evidence gathering and reporting helped them achieve both SOC 2 and HITRUST compliance. Interested in learning more about Sysdig Secure?

Adapting to Legislative Demands: Insights on Cyber Security Compliance in Critical Infrastructure

Welcome to Razorwire, the podcast dedicated to exploring the complex and evolving world of cyber security legislation. I'm your host, Jim, and in today's episode, we delve into the intricate landscape of cyber security legislation with our guests Steve Applegate and Phil Tonkin from Dragos.

Cybersecurity in the Age of Regulation

Cybersecurity breaches are becoming more frequent and more impactful. Adversaries continue to grow stronger, and defenders aren’t always keeping pace. Add in the increasing number of nation-state actors in the threat landscape, and it’s hardly surprising that governments are starting to take a greater role in regulating security. On July 26th, 2023, the U.S.

What is a trust center? And how to use it to demonstrate trust

As your organization grows the demands on the security team increase. Many of these new demands come from prospects and customers doing their due diligence about the security measures your business has in place. Your team is then left struggling to balance a growing number of security questionnaires and customer requests while managing your everyday responsibilities.

The Key Features and Benefits of iDeals Board for Streamlined Board Meetings

Today, the need for efficient and secure communication among board members is more critical than ever. As organizations strive for greater agility and sustainability, the reliance on advanced technologies becomes imperative. iDeals Board emerges as a leading solution, offering a comprehensive suite of features to streamline board meetings and enhance collaboration. This article explores the key features and benefits of iDeals Board, a cutting-edge virtual board software.

The Crucial Role of Network Penetration Testing in Today's World

In an era dominated by technological advancements and interconnected digital landscapes, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical. Cyber threats, attacks, and ransomware incidents continue to rise, targeting organizations of all sizes and industries. In this landscape, network penetration testing has emerged as a vital component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

Streamlining the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)

Nearly four years ago, the Department of Defense released the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). This was created as a complement to NIST SP 800-171, which focused on protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). If you are unfamiliar with what constitutes CUI, the simple way to think of it is to apply the broadest terms of privacy to any information that relates to any government relationship with a company.

Why should OT Companies follow NIS2: Safeguarding Critical Infrastructure in a Digitally Connected Era

The digital transformation of industrial landscapes has brought unprecedented advancements in efficiency and productivity for Operational Technology (OT) companies. But this surge in connectivity exposes critical infrastructure to heightened cybersecurity risks, such as: To address these risks, OT companies should adhere to the guidelines in the European Union’s Directive on Security of Network and Information Systems (NIS2).