Modern CI/CD pipelines have emerged as one of the most lucrative cyberattack targets because they exist in the heart of software delivery operations. By gaining access to the pipeline, the hackers can make modifications to code, exfiltrate credentials, distribute updates, and cause damage to numerous downstream users at the same time. This makes the pipeline much more valuable than an individual endpoint or account.
The main reason why hackers are increasingly going after CI/CD pipeline systems is because they allow for scaling attacks. Rather than compromising one individual or endpoint, the attack on the build and deployment processes will compromise entire applications, internal systems, and even customers' systems in the case of a software-driven business. This way, the CI/CD pipeline system acts as a trust mechanism.
Why are Pipelines so Valuable?
CI/CD pipelines typically have plenty of sensitive information. The latter includes access tokens, API keys, deployment tokens, source code, build scripts, and configuration files. Moreover, the CI/CD pipelines are directly connected to cloud services, repositories, testing environments, and production systems. The abundance of access options makes it a very high-impact target.
The attacker always looks for a valuable target that allows them to gain some sort of advantage. An infected pipeline will give them access beyond the traditional security measures as the malicious code will be delivered via an update process. This poses much more risk compared to malware delivered to one machine.
Common Issues
One of the most common issues in CI/CD environments is over-trust. Build systems are granted too many permissions so they can operate faster. Passwords can be re-used across multiple environments. Third-party libraries can be included without verification. Logs and artifacts can expose sensitive information that needs to be protected.
Another issue relates to the lack of visibility. While security operations might be keeping an eye on endpoints and cloud workloads, they may neglect the software delivery process itself. Without proper oversight of the pipeline, any suspicious modifications will only be noticed after the malware is distributed. Pipeline security becomes essential to software supply chain protection.
How Organizations Can Help Themselves
Pipeline protection means implementing proper access controls, secure management of secrets, code signing, validation of dependencies, and separation of duties. Build and deployment systems should be given minimum permissions necessary. Credentials should be kept safe and updated regularly. All activities within the pipeline should be logged and analyzed for signs of malicious behavior.
The main takeaway here is treating the pipeline as the core infrastructure. After all, if an attacker gains control over it, he can manipulate everything created by the pipeline.
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