In the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity, even the most robust systems can occasionally falter. This was the unfortunate scenario for CrowdStrike, a leading provider of endpoint protection, threat intelligence, and cyberattack response services. A software error led to a significant “BSoD” incident, highlighting the critical importance of regular and timely patching. In this blog post, we’ll dissect why the CrowdStrike incident occurred, discuss best practices for patch management, and provide actionable advice for small business owners.
What Happened with CrowdStrike?
The CrowdStrike incident was rooted in a specific software error within their Falcon platform, which requires elevated permissions within a system. The error was attributed to a flaw in the code that did not conflict during initial development and testing phases but had an incompatibility with a Windows patch that occurred prior to deployment. This oversight underscores a vital lesson in cybersecurity—no system is immune to errors, even (perhaps especially) if human error is the type involved.
The unfortunate result was that massive numbers of systems crashed and were left with a so-called “blue screen of death” (“BSoD”) and stuck in a reboot loop. This lead to scores of businesses unable to perform required tasks, cancelled flights, and much more.
The Importance of Regular and Timely Patching
Patching is the process of updating software to fix bugs, improve functionality, or address security vulnerabilities. Without regular and timely patching, systems remain susceptible to exploits that can be leveraged by hackers. The CrowdStrike incident serves as a stark reminder that while outdated or unpatched software can lead to severe security breaches, protocols in patch management must always be completely followed.
Best Practices for Patch Management
To mitigate risks and enhance security, small business owners should adopt best practices for patch management. Here are some key steps:
Automate Where Possible:
- Implement automated systems to manage and deploy patches. This reduces the margin for human error and ensures patches are applied promptly while observing correct protocols.
Prioritize Patches:
- Not all patches are created equal. Prioritize patches based on the severity of the vulnerability they address. Critical patches should be applied as soon as possible, while less urgent ones can follow a more deliberate update cycle.
Test Before Deployment:
- Before deploying patches across your entire network, test them in a controlled environment. This helps identify any potential issues that might arise from the new update.
Certified CIO Process for Secure Patching
At our organization, our Network Operations Center (NOC) is primarily responsible for system patches to ensure our systems remain secure and reliable. Here’s how we do it:
Utilize a Pilot Group:
- We first deploy patches to a small group of users within our organization. This pilot group tests the patch in real-world scenarios and provides feedback on any issues or improvements needed.
Wait Before Full Deployment:
- After deploying to the pilot group, we wait a prescribed period to monitor the patch’s performance and behavior. This waiting period allows us to identify and address any unforeseen problems before rolling out the patch more broadly.
Production Rollout:
- Once the patch has proven stable and effective in the pilot group, we proceed with a rollout to the rest of the organization. This phased approach minimizes disruptions and ensures a smooth transition.
Advice for Small Business Owners
Small business owners might feel overwhelmed by the complexities of patch management, Especially in the wake of a scary incident such as CrowdStrike’s Falcon. However, implementing these strategies can help:
- Stay Informed: Follow cybersecurity news and updates to stay abreast of new patches and vulnerabilities.
- Invest in Robust Tools: Invest in reliable patch management tools that automate the process and provide comprehensive reporting.
- Create a Patch Management Policy: Develop a clear policy outlining how patches are identified, prioritized, tested, and deployed. Ensure all employees are aware of and adhere to this policy.
- Seek Expert Help: If you lack in-house expertise, consider partnering with a managed services provider (MSP) who can handle patch management for you.
What We Can Take Away From It All
The CrowdStrike incident serves as a crucial lesson in the importance of diligent and proactive patch management. By understanding the incident’s root causes and adopting best practices, small business owners can significantly enhance their IT readiness posture. Implementing a structured approach to patch management, as exemplified by Certified CIO patch management processes, will mitigate risks and ensure your systems remain secure and efficient.
Ready to take control of your cybersecurity? Start by implementing these patch management strategies today! If you need some assistance, the expert team at Certified CIO can help you. Your data—and your peace of mind—depend on it.