Author: Alex Vakulov

Approximately one-fourth of all downloaded applications (25.3%) are used only once. The primary reason for this is their failure to meet user expectations. Issues such as technical glitches, excessive file size, and confusing user interfaces often lead to app removal. 

It is discouraging to realize that two-thirds of users may never open your app again after just one use. Those who do return are likely to be highly critical. Your aim should not just be to avoid falling into the category of quickly uninstalled apps. It would be best if you also strived to exceed user expectations. 

Diligent software developers must follow secure development practices, industry standards, and regulatory requirements when handling software vulnerabilities. Handling vulnerabilities is a complex, multi-step process that involves various methods and stages. One effective approach to finding vulnerabilities is through Bug Bounty programs.

Preparing for a Bug Bounty Program

Before launching a Bug Bounty program, a company should already have established processes for identifying vulnerabilities. It is crucial to have experience working with third-party organizations for code and process security audits, commonly known as penetration testing. Having experience with red teaming is even better.

Data breaches, system failures, bugs, and website defacement can seriously harm a company's reputation and profits. Typically, companies realize the importance of auditing their infrastructure, evaluating established interaction patterns, and assessing the business logic of their services only after developing security processes or facing urgent challenges. This maturity often stems from the necessity to ensure product or service security and to meet regulatory requirements.

One effective method for conducting an information security audit is through penetration testing (pen test). Companies can either develop this expertise internally or choose a skilled and trustworthy contractor to perform the tests. The contractor would conduct thorough testing and provide detailed penetration reports, complete with recommendations for safeguarding corporate data.

Every organization dealing with information processing eventually faces the challenge of securely storing confidential data and preventing its leakage. The importance of this issue for a company depends on the potential damage a data breach could cause. The greater the risk of loss from a data leak, the more rigorous the protective measures should be. These measures can range from establishing internal policies and installing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) systems to adopting a Zero Trust approach or creating Air Gaps, which involves physically isolating critical network segments from external access.

Isolating secure networks to prevent data exchange with other segments is crucial, particularly for industrial infrastructures and various process control systems like DCS, PLC, SCADA, state-owned companies handling regulated data, and commercial entities involved in innovative projects. However, the concept of an Air Gap is not entirely foolproof. This is mainly because even a fully isolated infrastructure must occasionally interact with the external world. For example, controller firmware needs regular updates, confidential commercial or government data requires refreshing, and outcomes of product designs often have to be presented to the public.

Every business values experienced and talented professionals. However, it is not always feasible to maintain a large in-house team due to constraints on resources and opportunities. The great thing is there are many ways to partner with developers that align perfectly with your project's needs.

Remember, there is no universal team or collaboration method that fits every scenario. Factors like budget, available resources, deadlines, project requirements, size, and tasks all play a role in determining the best way to work together. It is crucial to select the right engagement model to ensure everyone is on the same page and you get the most value for your money.

Over the past several years, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) has gained increased interest from the global information security community. Over the years, several organizations have adopted Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) and experienced considerable security improvements. One such example is Google, which implemented a BeyondCorp initiative embodying ZTA principles. The tech giant removed trust assumptions from its internal network, focusing instead on verifying users and devices for every access request, regardless of their location. This transformation has allowed Google to offer its workforce more flexibility while maintaining robust security. 

We also see relevant guidelines emerging from commercial entities and government bodies. Specifically, a memorandum was released detailing recommendations for US agencies and departments on how to transition to a "Zero Trust" architecture. 

The database management system is chosen depending on the tasks of the business. For example, startups need a quick start with minimal investment. On the other hand, banks need to store data correctly; otherwise, customers may lose their money. Today, I want to talk about how to choose a DBMS for the project, taking into account the company's needs.

Databases for a Newly Created Company

Problem: The business model of many newly launched businesses may change after entering the market. For example, Facebook was initially created as a social networking site for college students. Still, it has since expanded to become a platform for people of all ages to connect with friends, family, and businesses.

Today, the usage of biometric authentication in a corporate environment is discussed quite often. However, at the same time, it is still can be considered new since it is just starting to really gain momentum. As a result, those organizations that are going to explore and use such an authentication system face many incomprehensible nuances, to which various myths are added.

First, let us define the terms and also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of biometric authentication in a corporate environment.