CyCognito Unearths Massive Trove of Personal Identifiable Information in Exposed Cloud and Web Apps

The Perils of Exposed Data: A Wake-Up Call for Businesses

In a recent report by CyCognito, an External Attack Surface Management platform, alarming findings were revealed regarding the vulnerability of public cloud, mobile, and web applications. The analysis, based on 3.5 million assets from CyCognito’s enterprise customer base, including Fortune 500 companies, highlights the staggering number of exposed sensitive data, including unsecured APIs and personal identifiable information (PII). These findings serve as a cautionary tale for businesses that cybersecurity threats continue to evolve and remaining vigilant is crucial in protecting valuable data.

Unveiling Disturbing Vulnerabilities

The report revealed that 74 percent of assets containing PII were vulnerable to at least one known major exploit, with one in 10 assets having at least one easily exploitable issue. Web applications also displayed severe security gaps with 70 percent lacking Web Application Firewall (WAF) protection or an encrypted connection like HTTPS. Shockingly, 25 percent of all web applications lacked both security measures. This highlights a concerning lack of emphasis on basic security protocols, leaving organizations susceptible to cyberattacks.

It was also discovered that the average global enterprise operates over 12,000 web applications, including APIs, SaaS applications, servers, and databases, among others. Of these applications, at least 30 percent, amounting to over 3,000 assets, were found to have at least one exploitable or high-risk vulnerability. This statistic becomes even more disturbing when considering that half of these vulnerable web apps are hosted in the cloud, potentially opening up avenues for attackers to breach confidential data.

Additionally, 98 percent of web applications were potentially non-compliant with GDPR due to a lack of options for users to opt out of cookies. This data privacy regulation violation not only exposes organizations to legal repercussions but also demonstrates a disregard for user rights and security best practices.

The Moving Target of Attack Surfaces

Risk exposure is not a static concept; rather, it is an ever-changing landscape that requires constant attention. CyCognito’s CEO and co-founder, Rob Gurzeev, highlights that the size of a company’s attack surface can vary by as much as 10 percent each month, presenting security gaps that can be easily exploited. This continuous fluctuation emphasizes the importance of maintaining full-scope visibility of all assets within an organization’s attack surface to identify and address potential risks.

A Call to Action: Protecting the Digital Shadow

The alarming findings of this report are a wake-up call for businesses across industries. It is now clear that organizations can no longer afford to neglect their digital shadow, which encompasses the unknown and unmanaged risKS of their systems. An organization’s digital shadow extends far beyond what they perceive to be their attack surface, making it crucial to prioritize comprehensive visibility of all assets.

Furthermore, businesses must ensure the implementation of necessary security protocols to protect sensitive data. This includes adopting robust Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) and encrypting connections using HTTPS. It is also essential to conduct regular vulnerability assessments and address any vulnerabilities promptly to prevent potential cyberattacks.

Philosophical Considerations: The Ethics of Cybersecurity

The findings of this report not only raise technical concerns but also raise broader philosophical questions regarding cybersecurity and the ethical responsibilities of organizations. In today’s interconnected world, the protection of personal data has become a central concern, and organizations must recognize their role in safeguarding sensitive information.

Additionally, the report’s revelation that companies are potentially non-compliant with GDPR due to lack of user opt-out options for cookies speaks to the importance of respecting user privacy rights. Organizations should prioritize user consent and seek to comply with data protection regulations to build trust and maintain a responsible digital presence.

Editorial: A Wake-Up Call for Organizational Security

CyCognito’s report should serve as an eye-opening wake-up call for organizations of all sizes and industries. It underscores the urgency for businesses to invest in robust cybersecurity measures and allocate necessary resources to protect their digital infrastructure.

While technology has provided invaluable advancements and opportunities, it has also exposed organizations to new threats. In this ever-evolving digital landscape, relying on outdated security practices is no longer sufficient. Businesses must adapt and prioritize security as a fundamental aspect of their operations.

The report also highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and proactive risk assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Organizations must take a holistic approach to cybersecurity, encompassing not only their immediate attack surface but also their digital shadow.

Ultimately, cybersecurity is not a one-time investment but an ongoing process that requires continuous efforts and vigilance. Businesses must prioritize cybersecurity measures, not only to protect their own interests but also to maintain the trust of their customers and safeguard the data of individuals who entrust them with their information.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must stay ahead of the curve by investing in cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, and adapting their practices to align with evolving regulations. Only then can businesses hope to navigate the risks presented by the digital age.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author, “,” and do not necessarily reflect the views of OpenAI or its employees.