Low-code and no-code (LCNC) application development and robotic process automation (RPA) are revolutionizing business and IT. They’re helping companies move faster and build highly customized software solutions. Yet, all these gains also come with some potential pain points, primarily because citizen developers usually aren’t equipped to bake in security. Gartner analysts predict that most new applications (70%) will soon be developed with the help of low-code and no-code tools. Forrester researchers report that 87% of enterprise developers already use low-code tools for some of their work, and the market for low-code development platforms could hit $50 billion by 2028.
The takeaway? As LCNC tools move into the mainstream and low-code application platforms’ (LCAPs) supply chain risks grow due to a proliferation of open-source components and tools, it’s critical to rethink coding and security practices. Organizations that fail to address these risks often wind up with blind spots and a broader attack surface that can stretch across a vast supply chain.
Upgrade Your Security Posture
Updating your organization’s overall strategy and security technology is crucial to reflect today’s environment. Open-source and third-party LCNC components are everywhere, and IT migrations can magnify the problem. Tools specializing in LCNC security can help identify vulnerabilities and close the gaps. This shift in perspective calls for comprehensive evaluations of the security tools in use and their efficacy in safeguarding against the unique threats posed by LCNC platforms. Often, traditional security measures are not equipped to handle the rapid deployment and iteration cycles associated with LCNC development environments.
Proactive measures such as regular vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and adopting advanced security frameworks can significantly mitigate risks. Leveraging machine learning and AI-driven solutions can also aid in identifying patterns and anomalies that could indicate potential security breaches. Moreover, integrating security tools within the LCNC development pipeline ensures that security is threaded throughout the entire development process rather than being an afterthought. This continuous monitoring and adaptation to emerging threats can fortify the overall security posture and provide a robust defense against potential attacks.
Address Governance and Security
Establishing clear guidelines for application development, approval, and deployment is essential in managing security risks. Create controls to ensure that only correct configurations are used. This mitigates the risk of introducing vulnerabilities through misconfigurations. Evaluation processes should also be established for components used in LCNC apps and RPAs. Governance frameworks must prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring that every stage of the LCNC development lifecycle adheres to stringent security norms. Implementing automated compliance checks can help in the early detection of deviations from established security standards.
Additionally, governance should involve the regular auditing of apps and components to identify and rectify any security lapses. Having a documented approval and deployment workflow ensures that any modifications or additions to the LCNC ecosystem are scrutinized for potential security implications. This structured approach not only enhances security but also fosters a culture of responsibility and diligence among developers and stakeholders.
Reassess Access Controls
Updating role-based access controls (RBAC) to better reflect the use of LCNC tools is a critical step. Possible misuse or abuse of applications and sensitive data by citizen developers and outsiders needs to be curbed effectively. Implementing strict RBAC ensures that only authorized personnel have access to certain data or application functionalities. This restricts potential entry points for malicious actors and minimizes the risk of insider threats. Advanced access control measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and zero-trust security models should be considered for enhanced protection.
Furthermore, regular audits of access logs can help detect any unusual activity, allowing for swift action before any damage occurs. Integrating least privilege principles, where users are granted the minimum levels of access necessary to perform their job functions, can further bolster security. This ensures that even if access credentials are compromised, the potential impact is contained and limited.
Enhance Training
Low-code and no-code (LCNC) application development, along with robotic process automation (RPA), are transforming business and IT landscapes by enabling rapid creation of customized software solutions. However, these advantages come with challenges, mainly because citizen developers often lack the expertise to implement robust security measures. Gartner analysts predict that 70% of new applications will soon involve low-code and no-code tools. Forrester research indicates that 87% of enterprise developers already utilize these tools to some extent, and forecasts show the low-code development market reaching $50 billion by 2028.
So, what’s the main takeaway? As LCNC tools become mainstream, the risks associated with low-code application platforms (LCAPs) are increasing, particularly due to the rising use of open-source components and tools. This trend necessitates a reevaluation of coding and security practices. Organizations that ignore these risks may inadvertently create blind spots and expand their attack surfaces, which can lead to vulnerabilities across an extensive supply chain. Addressing these emerging challenges is crucial to reap the full benefits of LCNC technology while maintaining robust security.
