5 Approaches for MSPs to Ensure Successful Vulnerability Remediation

In the first week of 2024, internet users discovered 612 new common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs). This number marks a slightly higher frequency than in 2023 when the National Vulnerability Database published 79.18 CVEs per day, totaling 28,902. These security weaknesses function as unlocked doors to digital environments, inviting attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive information, deploy ransomware, disrupt services and more.

Addressing every vulnerability with equal urgency can overwhelm the managed service provider community and consume all their available time. The challenge — and the key to successful remediation — is threefold:

Let's explore the strategies to remediate vulnerabilities.

Effective Vulnerability Remediation: 5 Strategies

1. Prioritize vulnerabilities based on risk. Some vulnerabilities pose a higher risk than others, and understanding this distinction is crucial for effective remediation. The Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS) assigns each vulnerability a score between 0 and 100, reflecting the likelihood of it being exploited in the next 30 days. This allows you to focus your resources on the most critical issues first.

Why is this important? Research shows that only a small fraction of vulnerabilities (2%-7%) are exploited, underscoring the value of EPSS scores. The 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (registration required) noted a staggering 180% year-over-year increase in attacks where vulnerabilities were the primary vector.

EPSS addresses the limitations of traditional vulnerability scoring systems like CVSS. While CVSS provides valuable insights into the severity of vulnerabilities, it doesn't directly predict exploitability. EPSS bridges this gap by leveraging real-world data and machine learning to provide a more actionable risk assessment.

2. Automate scanning and patching. Manual processes are time-consuming and can be error prone. Automation can significantly streamline vulnerability remediation. Implement tools that scan your clients' systems for vulnerabilities on a continuous basis, and ideally also automate third-party patching, ensuring vulnerabilities are addressed promptly. Automating patch deployment to all endpoints simultaneously minimizes the window of exposure to potential exploits.

3. Regularly update and patch systems. Timely patching is one of the most effective ways to mitigate vulnerabilities. Ensure you have a robust patch management process in place. This includes not only operating systems but also third-party applications, which are often overlooked but can be just as high-risk.

Encourage your clients to adopt a regular patching schedule. Explain the importance of applying patches promptly and the risks associated with delays. Use real-world examples to drive the point home. For instance, the WannaCry ransomware attack exploited a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows that had been patched months earlier. Organizations that delayed applying the patch found themselves at the mercy of this widespread attack, which an internal investigation concluded could have been prevented with "basic IT security."

4. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments. Periodic vulnerability assessments are crucial to identifying potential weaknesses before they can be exploited. These assessments should be thorough, covering all aspects of your clients' IT infrastructure. They should include both automated scans and manual reviews to catch issues that automated tools might miss.

Consider conducting these assessments quarterly or whenever there are significant changes to the client's infrastructure, such as the deployment of new applications or the integration of new systems. Regular assessments help you stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure that remediation efforts are up to date.

5. Foster a culture of security awareness. Technology alone isn't enough to protect against vulnerabilities — human behavior plays a critical role. Educate your clients and their employees about the importance of security best practices. Conduct regular training sessions to keep everyone informed about the latest threats and how to respond to them.

For instance, phishing attacks are a common way for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities. By training employees to recognize phishing attempts and respond appropriately, you can prevent many attacks before they start. Encourage clients to implement security policies that mandate regular password changes, multifactor authentication and other best practices.

Vulnerability remediation is a continuous process that requires vigilance, consistency and a proactive approach. By prioritizing vulnerabilities, automating scanning and patching, maintaining regular updates, conducting thorough assessments and fostering security awareness, MSPs can significantly enhance their clients' security posture.