Application security can make or break entire companies these days.
Developers that turn a blind eye to software security issues expose everyone to risk. Huge amounts of sensitive data are stored in business applications, and this data could be stolen at any time. Businesses that underinvest in security are liable to end up with financial losses and a bruised reputation.
Additionally, governments are now legislating and enforcing data protection measures. The European Union’s GDPR, for example, requires organizations to integrate data protection safeguards at the earliest stages of development. Ignoring these requirements can result in substantial penalties.
When end users lose money, they do not care whether the cause lies in application logic or a security breach. Building secure applications is as important as writing quality algorithms. For those who succeed, cost-effective security improvements provide an edge over competitors.
Much of the concern about assuring software is secure can be resolved by following a ready-made solution that provides a structured approach to application security. This is the secure development lifecycle (SDL) — a set of development practices for strengthening security and compliance. Software security specialists recommend integrating these practices into all stages of software development and maintenance.
Following SDL practices offers considerable benefits, including:
- Cost reduction. In SDL, early attention to flaws significantly reduces the effort required to detect and fix them.
- Higher security. In SDL, continuous monitoring for vulnerabilities results in better application quality and mitigation of business risks.
- Regulatory compliance. SDL encourages a conscientious attitude toward security-related laws and regulations. Ignoring them may result in fines and penalties, even if no sensitive data is lost.
Additionally, with SDL, many feel that security approaches become more consistent across teams, and development teams get continuous training in secure coding practices.
This is also a good way to build customer trust and improving internal security applied to in-house tools.
Want to learn more? Tonex offers Secure Software Development Training, a 3-day hands on course where participants learn techniques and guidelines for developing secure software. Best industry practices are covered to prevent security vulnerabilities in web-based, mobile, common business applications, enterprise, defense and embedded software systems.
For more information, questions, comments, contact us.