7 Open Source Security Tools Too Good To Ignore
CSO Online, Thursday, June 27th, 2024
These must-have open-source tools help CISOs and their teams scan for vulnerabilities, analyze protocols, run forensics, and support threat intelligence and encryption.
It has been almost 40 years since Richard Stallman wrote his manifesto defining open-source software. Since then, the computer security world has embraced his vision - at least for some software - and come to rely heavily upon it. The first tools that professionals choose are often open-source options because they come with the assurance and backing of a broad community. This code is part of the foundation that supports a secure and reliable internet.
Lately, scandals like the XZ Utils have given users pause. Is openness a dangerous vector for attacks? Are there other problems waiting? Defenders point out that while openness can make some attacks easier, it's also the only reason independent reviewers can spot problems. Similar shenanigans in a proprietary stack could go undiscovered for much longer.