In the previous article we discussed what's EOL, the vulnerability implications of EOL for the product and why it's recommended for businesses to use software with continual updates, and enhanced security features to keep pace with evolving productivity and cybersecurity needs.
Now we shifting our focus on how to mitigate the risks if we are unable to update/upgrade/ replace the EOL software.
Securing End-Of-Life (EOL) software is challenging, as it no longer receives security updates, technical support, or patches for vulnerabilities. However, there are steps you can take to mitigate risks if upgrading or replacing the software isn’t immediately possible:
1. Limit Network Access
Isolate the Software: Place EOL software on a separate network segment or VLAN to limit its exposure to external threats. Minimizing its access to the broader network can prevent malware or attackers from moving laterally across your systems.
Use Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Set up firewalls to restrict inbound and outbound traffic, allowing only essential connections. Implement IDS or intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to detect suspicious activities targeting the software.
2. Apply Access Controls and Permissions
Restrict User Access: Limit access to the software to only those who absolutely need it. Implement role-based access control (RBAC) to prevent unauthorized users from interacting with it.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): If possible, use MFA to add an extra layer of security for users accessing the EOL software.
3. Use Application Whitelisting
Whitelist Trusted Applications: Prevent unknown applications from running by using application whitelisting. This can reduce the risk of malware interacting with your EOL software by only allowing pre-approved programs to execute alongside it.
4. Regularly Monitor and Audit Logs
Enable Detailed Logging: Increase logging to capture all activities around the EOL software. This includes login attempts, file modifications, and network connections.
Monitor for Anomalies: Regularly review logs to spot unusual patterns or signs of unauthorized access. Automated monitoring tools can help flag potential issues promptly.
5. Use Virtualization or Sandboxing
Virtualize EOL Software: Run the software in a virtual machine (VM) or isolated sandbox environment. This helps contain any security issues within a controlled environment, reducing the risk to the main system.
Restore from Snapshots: With virtualization, take regular snapshots of the VM running EOL software so that you can quickly restore a clean version if compromised.
6. Implement Endpoint Security Solutions
Use Endpoint Protection: Enhance protection with antivirus and anti-malware solutions that can detect and block threats targeting older software.
Apply Advanced Threat Protection: For critical systems, consider advanced tools like endpoint detection and response (EDR), which offer real-time threat analysis and response capabilities even on older systems.
7. Back Up Regularly
Create Frequent Backups: Regular backups of data and configurations are essential. In the event of a breach or malware attack, backups allow you to restore operations without significant data loss.
Store Backups Off-Site: Ensure that backups are stored in a secure, off-network location to prevent them from being compromised in case of a security incident.
8. Patch and Update What You Can
Apply Third-Party Patches: For some popular EOL software, third-party vendors offer security patches and updates. This isn’t common, but can be an option for widely used software like Windows 7 or Java SE 8.
Disable Unused Features: If the EOL software has unused features or services, disable them to reduce its attack surface.
9. Plan for Replacement
Develop an Upgrade Timeline: If possible, prioritize replacing EOL software with a supported alternative. Regularly revisit your timeline to ensure the software is not left unprotected indefinitely.
Consider Cloud-Based Solutions: Moving to cloud versions, like Office 365 or Adobe Creative Cloud, can mitigate risks and offer continuous security updates.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk associated with end-of-life software, although moving to supported alternatives remains the best long-term solution.
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