In 2024, data spills and shadow data are emerging as significant threats. Here’s why you should be worried:
- Fujitsu exposes AWS keys, passwords, and client data for almost a year.
- Big companies struggle to track all their data, leading to unmanaged risks.
- Cybercriminals exploit exposed data for fraud and operations disruptions.
- Proactive data management and enhanced security measures are crucial.
Fujitsu faced significant backlash after it was discovered that AWS keys, plain text passwords, and client data were exposed for nearly 12 months. This wasn’t just a minor oversight; it highlighted a major vulnerability.
Large organizations are often guilty of what’s known as shadow data—untracked, undocumented data stored in places it shouldn’t be. This data can exist in stray code repositories or unauthorized cloud storage, making it a hacker’s paradise.
The consequences of these data spills are dire. Reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and scrutiny from both stakeholders and journalists can torment a company. And let’s not forget the legal and financial repercussions that can ensue.
The risks are clear: Exposed data opens the door for cybercriminals to commit fraud or disrupt business operations. The potential for lawsuits and regulatory fines further pushes companies to tighten their cybersecurity.
Incident response teams frequently see these lapses in data control. Clear guidelines and regular enforcement are essential but often overlooked in the hustle of project timelines.
Code repositories are another common pitfall. Sensitive information like AWS administrative keys and user credentials are often found in publicly accessible GitHub repositories or Amazon S3 buckets. Forgetting to remove these from code can lead to significant vulnerabilities.
GitHub does offer tools like secret scanning and advanced security features. These can help detect and prevent the exposure of sensitive data, making them crucial for maintaining data privacy.
Keeping data private is crucial. Before making any code public, thorough checks should be completed to ensure no sensitive information remains.
Making it easy for security researchers to report vulnerabilities can also help. A dedicated contact form or monitored inbox can provide a direct line for bug bounty hunters and researchers to report their findings.
Larger organizations naturally have more data, increasing the likelihood of accidental exposure. Proactive planning, regular staff education, and the use of automated tools can help manage and mitigate these risks.
Staying proactive and vigilant about data management is key to avoiding the tumultuous consequences of data spills and shadow data.
Source: Techradar