In our previous article, we looked at the people behind modern cyber threats and how cybercrime has evolved into a highly organised global industry. While understanding who the attackers are is essential, it is also critical to explore how they gain access to systems.
Every piece of software a business depends on, from email platforms to payment systems, plays an important role in daily operations. Although these tools may appear secure, they can sometimes contain hidden flaws known as vulnerabilities. These weaknesses may result from coding errors, outdated settings or simple oversight, and if left unresolved, can give cybercriminals the opportunity they need to break in.
Just as a slightly open window can compromise the security of a well-protected building, even a small technical weakness can put an entire system at risk.
This article explains what software vulnerabilities are, why they matter and how businesses can manage them effectively to reduce risk and strengthen long-term security.
A software vulnerability is a weakness or flaw in a system that can be exploited by someone with harmful intent. These gaps in security can appear during development, through incorrect system settings or when software is not kept properly updated. Some vulnerabilities are introduced by accident, while others may arise over time as systems become more complex or outdated.
Vulnerabilities come in many forms. Some are relatively minor and may pose little immediate risk. Others are far more serious, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data or take full control of a system. The level of risk depends on several factors, including how easily the vulnerability can be exploited and what kind of information or access it exposes.
These weaknesses are not limited to a single type of technology. They can affect everything from operating systems and business applications to cloud platforms, internet browsers and network devices like routers and firewalls. As digital environments grow more interconnected, vulnerabilities in one area can affect several others, increasing the potential impact.
Vulnerabilities may begin as small technical oversights, but they can lead to serious consequences. For cybercriminals, these weaknesses often provide the easiest route into a system. Instead of trying to break through well-defended areas, attackers usually look for the simplest entry point, which is often an existing flaw that has not been fixed.
In certain situations, attackers exploit zero-day vulnerabilities, which are flaws that have not yet been patched or even identified by the software provider. This gives cybercriminals a head start and puts additional pressure on security teams to act quickly once the issue becomes known.
Once access is gained, the outcome depends on the nature of the vulnerability and the systems involved. In some cases, attackers may be able to view sensitive data or monitor internal activity. More serious flaws can allow them to take control of critical systems, install malicious software or disrupt business operations.
The impact of an attack can extend far beyond the technical damage. Businesses may suffer financial loss, disruption to services, reputational harm or penalties from regulators. Trust from customers and partners can also be difficult to rebuild after a security incident.
Managing this growing risk is becoming more challenging. According to DeepStrike, more than 21,500 Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) had already been reported by mid 2025, marking a 16-18% increase compared to the same period in 2024. At the current pace, it has been projected that the total could exceed 50,000 by the end of the year. This means security teams are now facing more than 130 new vulnerabilities each day, and attackers are moving faster than ever to exploit them.
For these reasons, it is essential to address vulnerabilities promptly to reduce risk and maintain strong, reliable security across your systems.
Vulnerability management is an ongoing process that involves identifying, assessing and fixing weaknesses before they can be exploited. When carried out consistently, it helps reduce risk and strengthen the overall security of your systems.
It can be useful to think of vulnerability management as a form of routine maintenance. Locks are checked, alarms are tested and minor issues are resolved before they turn into more serious problems. In the same way, regular attention to your digital environment helps prevent small flaws from turning into major threats.
For businesses, managing vulnerabilities effectively means putting the right processes, tools and habits in place. The following steps provide a practical foundation:
By building these steps into everyday business operations, organisations can reduce their exposure to threats and improve their ability to respond quickly and confidently when new challenges arise.
Software vulnerabilities are a part of every digital system, but they do not have to become a risk. With the right processes in place, businesses can detect weaknesses early, respond effectively and reduce the likelihood of serious incidents.
By treating vulnerability management as an ongoing responsibility, organisations can strengthen their defences, protect key systems and minimise disruption. A proactive approach not only reduces risk but helps you stay prepared as the digital landscape continues to evolve.
In our next article, we will explore the role of incident exercising and how regular testing can improve your organisation's ability to respond to cyber threats.
Vulnerability management is the process of finding and fixing weaknesses in your software and systems before cybercriminals can take advantage of them.
Software vulnerabilities often result from coding errors during development or from systems not being properly set up or updated.
Best practices include keeping systems up to date, scanning regularly for known issues, limiting unnecessary access to critical systems and training employees to spot risks early.