How to Proactively Mitigate Third-Party Data Breaches

Dollar Tree, Bank of America, Comcast, and Colonial Pipeline have all been victims of high-profile third-party data breaches, indicative of a pervasive challenge faced by numerous enterprises. According to an article by Risk Management Magazine, these breaches occur when malicious entities exploit vulnerabilities in vendors, suppliers, or contractors to access sensitive information or systems of the victimized businesses’ customers, clients, or partners. Despite increased investments in third-party cybersecurity risk management (TPCRM), such breaches continue to afflict businesses, resulting in substantial direct costs and reputational damage.

Studies reveal that a significant percentage of organizations have experienced third-party-related business interruptions in recent years, with many considering such breaches a major concern. Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, trends suggest a continued prevalence of risks such as software failures, supply chain breaches, account-based attacks, malware infections, unauthorized access, and denial of service attacks.

However, businesses can take proactive measures to mitigate these risks. Understanding the unique challenges of third-party risk management is crucial. One primary challenge is the lack of a complete inventory of third parties with whom data or system access is shared. Additionally, many vendors do not actively participate in organizations’ risk assessment processes, relying instead on certifications that may not adequately address all security concerns.

To manage third-party cyber risks effectively, businesses should enhance their governance processes, prioritize risk reviews, test incident response procedures, isolate access and systems in the event of a breach, and continuously monitor for vulnerabilities. Incorporating risk mitigations into existing processes, conducting thorough vendor assessments, and developing pre- and post-incident plans are also essential steps.

Effective planning before an incident includes mechanisms for quickly identifying the impact of a breach across the organization, enabling swift isolation of affected assets and services. Post-incident, conducting a thorough analysis and implementing corrective measures are crucial for continuous improvement and resilience against future cyber risks. Collaboration with reputable security firms can provide additional expertise and resources in managing and mitigating these risks effectively.