The recent CrowdStrike outage was a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of cybersecurity threats and the critical importance of preparedness. The incident, which caused widespread disruptions to Windows systems due to a faulty update, provides valuable insights for IT professionals and businesses alike. Here are some key lessons learned from this event that can help enhance your organization’s resilience and response strategies.
1. Getting your Software Security Upgrade Right at first Time:
As we have learned from these tragic global outages caused by a “Faulty” Bug in the CrowdStrike “Falcon” Platform that was meant to upgrade their latest Security Applications, these types of upgrades needed to be highly accurate right out of the gate. It means that it requires extensive collaborative effort between the various existing Operating Systems and their associated applications.
2. Having the right Detection tools in place and Countermeasure Response
One of the missing elements of that tragedy was the obvious absence of proper Detection Mechanisms and tools in place to act as a safety preventive measure to protect the existing OS and their Sensors from any external or internal harm widely known as “Endpoint Detection and Response” or EDR.
And to ensure proper handshakes between the new Security Upgrade Batch and the Existing OS, this requires extensive “Test and Validation” efforts centered around “Penetration Testing” to rule out faulty implementation of any type of upgrades.
3. The Importance of having a Robust Plan-B built around “Robust System of Backups/Recovery and Redundancy”
One of the most significant takeaways from the CrowdStrike outage is the importance of having robust Plan B in place as a “safeguard” and Preventive Measure build around having a Robust Redundancy and Backup systems.
As we learned, the overreliance on a single threaded cybersecurity dimension, regardless of its reliability and soundness, can leave an organization vulnerable to all kinds of Cyber Security Threats.
Implementing Systematic and Robust Server-Client based Applications based backup solutions ensures that, in the event of a failure, operations can continue with minimal disruption. Regularly test these backups to ensure they are reliable and up to date.
4. Performing ongoing IT System Audits and Proactive Monitoring
Maintaining a proactive stance on system health through regular audits and monitoring is crucial. This practice helps identify potential vulnerabilities and anomalies before they escalate into major issues. Establishing a routine for comprehensive system checks and real-time monitoring allows for early detection of irregularities, ensuring that swift corrective actions can be taken.
5. Establishing Effective Communication Channels
Effective communication during a crisis is paramount. CrowdStrike’s timely updates and clear instructions were critical in managing the situation and helping users restore their systems quickly. IT professionals should establish strong communication channels with their software providers and ensure they are part of any emergency alert systems. This enables the receipt of timely information and guidance during incidents, facilitating a faster and more coordinated response.
6. Training and Continuous Learning
The cybersecurity landscape is continuously evolving, and so should the skills and knowledge of IT professionals. Regular training sessions and updates on the latest cybersecurity threats and mitigation techniques are essential. Learning from incidents like the CrowdStrike outage helps refine existing protocols and enhances the team’s ability to respond effectively to future challenges.
7. Implementing a Multi-Layered Security Approach
Relying solely on one security solution is a risk highlighted by this incident. A multi-layered security approach, incorporating various tools and strategies, can provide a more comprehensive defense against cyber threats. This might include endpoint protection, network security, and user education to cover all potential entry points for cyberattacks.
8. Preparedness and Incident Response Planning
Having a well-defined incident response plan is critical. This plan should outline the steps to take in the event of a cybersecurity incident, including communication protocols, roles and responsibilities, and recovery procedures. Regularly reviewing and practicing this plan ensures that all team members are prepared to act quickly and effectively when an incident occurs.
Moving Forward
The CrowdStrike outage serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and the ability to adapt quickly to unexpected disruptions.
For IT professionals, it underscores the critical nature of their role in maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses and the need for continuous improvement in practices and protocols.
At Vital Tech Solutions, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate these challenges with confidence.
Our highly dedicated expert team provides comprehensive support and guidance, ensuring that your organization remains resilient in the face of technological disruptions. By implementing the lessons learned from the CrowdStrike outage, we can better prepare for future incidents and safeguard our operations.