The Palo Alto Networks report indicates alarming security risks as 26% of Linux systems and 8% of Windows systems are operating on end-of-life (EOL) software. A survey of 1,800 corporate networks revealed 39% of registered IT devices lacked active endpoint security, with 32.5% operating outside IT management. Such environments risk undetected attacks on unprotected devices, exemplified by the cohabitation of low-security devices with high-value assets on the same network segment.
Moreover, the report emphasizes insufficient visibility and network segregation, leaving approximately one-third of devices unmanaged. The persistence of unpatched zero-day vulnerabilities further exacerbates the issue, with experts pointing to basic security flaws and configuration mistakes in high-permission devices like firewalls and routers. Vulnerable network edges are often overlooked, as most equipment employs weak default credentials, creating significant attack surfaces, as noted by industry leaders.
To improve security, experts advise minimizing exposure points and actively managing software inventories, while integrating risk-based controls for patching and segmentation. The ongoing challenge lies in the low prioritization of security upgrades in business contexts, where aging systems remain neglected until significant incidents arise. Ultimately, a concerted effort is required from security leaders to balance costs and enhance the overall security posture.
👉 Pročitaj original: CIO Magazine
