3 Common Security Mistakes Developers Make in Their SDLC

The systems development lifecycle (SDLC) is a process used by developers to create and deploy software applications. The SDLC provides a framework for security, quality assurance, and project management throughout the software development process. Security is of paramount importance in the SDLC, as developers must ensure that their applications are secure from attacks.

Quality assurance is also critical, as developers must ensure that their applications meet customers’ expectations. Project management is essential to the success of the SDLC, as it helps developers track their progress and ensure that they meet their deadlines. By following the SDLC, developers can create high-quality, secure software applications that meet customers’ expectations.

When it comes to developing software, the security of the final product should be a top priority. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Security is often an afterthought, which can lead to vulnerabilities and exploits. 

3 Most Common Security Mistakes That Developers Make When It Comes to Cybersecurity

When it comes to developing software, the security of the final product should be a top priority. Security should be integrated into every stage of the SDLC, from initial planning to post-deployment. Here are three common mistakes developers make when it comes to security in their SDLC.

1. Not Using Software Security Tools to Prevent Cyberattacks

PreEmptive icons 8 1

The first common mistake many developers make is failing to use the proper software security tools to prevent cyberattacks. They often try to develop their own tools or use free ones that are ineffective. This can lead to vulnerabilities in the code, which hackers can exploit.

Using software security tools can help developers find and fix vulnerabilities in their code, making it more difficult for hackers to capitalize on them. These tools can also help automate the process of checking and fixing vulnerabilities in the code, saving time and resources.

Different software security tools have varying roles in the SDLC. Some help identify potential security risks, some write secure code, and others test code for vulnerabilities. In-app protection tools assist in securing the app post-development. It is crucial to prioritize security at every stage of the SDLC to ensure that risks are appropriately mitigated and that the final product is secure.

There are many different software security tools available that can help prevent attacks. These tools can help find and fix vulnerabilities in the code. They can also help monitor the system for suspicious activity and block attacks.

PreEmptive offers a variety of  in-app protection tools that can be used throughout the software development lifecycle to secure code, aid in app hardening. and mitigate vulnerabilities. PreEmptive tools are designed to work with a variety of programming languages and platforms, making them versatile for developers. Whether a developer is looking to protect mobile apps, web apps, or desktop apps,  PreEmptive tools can help them secure the code and prevent vulnerabilities from arising.

2. Failing to Use Source-Code Analysis Tools

PreEmptive icons 9 1

The second mistake developers often make is failing to use source-code analysis tools. These tools can help identify vulnerabilities in the code and provide recommendations for fixing them. Many developers are not  aware of these tools or do not use them properly. This can lead to serious security issues that could otherwise be avoided.

Source-code analysis tools can be used to find a variety of issues, including buffer overflows, SQL injection, and cross-site scripting. They can also help find vulnerabilities in third-party libraries. By using these tools, developers can find and fix vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them.

Source-code analysis aims to improve the security of an application by identifying potential vulnerabilities during the development process. Security issues can often be found in the code itself, so it makes sense to look for them early on.

Source-code analysis can be used at different stages of the SDLC. For example, it can be used to identify potential security risks during the requirements-gathering phase. During the design phase, it can also be used to ensure that security is built into the system, and it can be used during the testing phase to find any vulnerabilities that may have been introduced during development.

Once the source code is analyzed, the findings can be used to improve the security of the application. For example, if a potential vulnerability is found, the code can be fixed to prevent it from being exploited. Alternatively, if a security issue is found in a third-party library, the application can be redesigned to avoid using that library. The application can then be submitted to the  in-app software protection tools offered by PreEmptive for app hardening.

3. Not Doing Security Testing in All Phases of the SDLC

Testing

The third mistake that many developers make is not doing security testing in all phases of the SDLC. Security testing should be done throughout the entire process, from initial planning to post-deployment.  Security testing can help find and fix vulnerabilities in the code. It can also help ensure that the application is configured correctly and meets all security requirements.

Security testing can be done manually or with automated tools. Automated tools can help speed up the process and find more issues than manual testing. Security testing should be done regularly, even after the application has been deployed.

In most cases, security testing is treated as an afterthought, to be done right before the app goes live. Security testing in the earlier stages of development can help find and fix issues before they become a problem. Security testing should be done throughout the entire SDLC to ensure that the application is secure.


Conclusion

Cybersecurity threats are increasing in number and sophistication every day. Developers who want to stay ahead of the curve need to use the latest software security tools to prevent cyberattacks. While developers can make many potential mistakes in their SDLC, we’ve highlighted the three most common ones. Implementing security within the SDLC is critical to protecting applications from cyberattacks and data breaches.

PreEmptive offers high-quality, highly flexible, smart application protection, including app hardening, to a wide variety of industries, protecting and securing applications for a broad range of platforms, including .NET, Java/Android, JavaScript, and iOS.  Take a look at PreEmptive’s solutions today and see how they can help improve the application security posture.