configuration: the way a computer or computer system is put together; a specific set and arrangement of internal and external components, including hardware, software and devices.
Source: Dictionary.com
Configuration is Key to Data Security
Did you know that just about every data security related compliance framework contains extensive requirements around configuration of hardware and software controls? Why? Because the way in which hardware or software is configured is about as important as having the device or software itself. For instance, having a firewall is a good thing, but it won’t do any good unless it’s configured to filter traffic between the internet and your computer network in a manner consistent with your security goals.
Some examples of the importance of secure configuration come from Trustwave’s 2018 Global Security Report where testing of thousands of web applications found that 100% were found to have at least one vulnerability. In addition, OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) has security misconfiguration on their top 10 list of the most critical web application security risks for 2017. Lastly, the Verizon 2018 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) recommends routine scans to identify misconfigurations before hackers do. Misconfigured databases, such as those directly connected to the internet and searchable by anyone on the internet, were a notable finding in the report.
Even on brand new computers, the default configuration for the onboard operating system is often not very secure. This is because computer manufacturers often have goals of ease of use, easy setup, or ease of establishing internet-based communications rather than security. As an example of this, I was recently setting up a new computer for my parents. As I was leafing through all configuration settings, I was surprised when I found that one of the default security settings was for the firewall to be turned off. Needless to say, I quickly turned it on.
How to Monitor Your Security Configuration
If you are a business owner or manager busy with running a business, you may not understand or have time to review your computer security configuration settings on a regular basis. For this reason, one of the security services that is included with Wind River Financial’s new Advanced Security Package (ASP) is Security Configuration Monitoring.
This is a service that monitors computer configuration against the relevant PCI Data Security Standard controls. It’s an automated service that detects configuration settings that are non-compliant and may weaken your business’s security posture. It does so on an ongoing basis which is important because sometimes employees intentionally, or unintentionally, change settings on computers on which they are working. It’s important that those responsible for a business become aware when settings are changed that may introduce a risk to the business which is exactly the purpose of this service.
Security Configuration Monitoring is but one of many data security related services that are available as a software agent download as part of Wind River Financial’s ASP. If we have not contacted you about enrolling in this program, you may be hearing from us shortly as it’s being rolled out in phases. If you have not been contacted but would like to get a jump start on it, give us a call or send us an email and we can get you started.
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