The Indian Securities and Exchange Board (SEBI) recently took a significant step to enhance software security by incorporating software bill of materials (SBOM) mandates under its Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Framework (CSCRF).
These requirements, aimed at Regulated Entities (REs), focus on improving transparency, tracking vulnerabilities, and mitigating risks within the software supply chain.
Let's explore the crucial guidelines regarding SBOMs and how they can be managed effectively.
Key SBOM mandates for regulated entities
To strengthen software security and resilience, SEBI requires Regulated Entities to integrate SBOM practices into their operations. The SBOM rules apply to both new and existing software, as well as legacy systems.
Here's what REs need to know regarding SBOM procurement:
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New software acquisitions: Any new software product or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) application related to core and critical business activities must come with an SBOM at the time of procurement.
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Existing critical systems: REs must secure SBOMs for all critical systems within six months of the CSCRF issuance.
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Ongoing updates: Every time software is upgraded or modified, the SBOM must be updated to reflect these changes.
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Legacy systems: For proprietary or legacy systems lacking SBOMs, RE boards must provide documented approval with a clear risk management plan.
SBOM content requirements
The SBOM must contain detailed information to help organizations track the integrity and security of their software.
This includes:
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Supplier and license details for each software component
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Cryptographic hashes and data on transitive dependencies
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Encryption methods and update frequency
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Known unknowns, such as incomplete dependency graphs
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Access control measures and error-handling mechanisms
Why SBOM adoption is crucial for Indian enterprises
The implementation of SBOMs brings tangible benefits to software management and security such as the following:
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Enhanced transparency: By gaining visibility into software components, versions, and licenses, organizations can make better-informed security decisions.
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Vulnerability tracking: SBOMs enable efficient tracking of vulnerabilities, ensuring that REs can monitor patch status and respond quickly to potential risks.
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Supply chain risk mitigation: SBOMs help prevent the risks associated with open source and third-party dependencies, a necessity in the wake of high-profile incidents like Log4j and SolarWinds.
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Streamlined auditing: SBOMs ensure that only authorized dependencies are used, simplifying the audit process and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
How Sonatype simplifies SBOM compliance
Navigating the complexities of SBOM mandates can be daunting for enterprises, especially with the added pressure of regulatory compliance.
Sonatype's expertise in software composition analysis (SCA) and SBOM management can streamline the process, helping Indian enterprises comply with the SEBI Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Framework.
Here's how Sonatype solutions align with SEBI's requirements:
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Automated SBOM generation and management: Sonatype SBOM Manager generates and maintains SBOMs following Indian standards, ensuring updates as software evolves or upgrades.
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Vulnerability detection and remediation: Sonatype Lifecycle enables organizations to monitor vulnerabilities across their software supply chain. It offers real-time detection and fixes, ensuring no risks are overlooked.
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Audit and reporting capabilities: With built-in auditing and reporting, Sonatype solutions offer the transparency needed to validate third-party dependencies, track risks, and maintain SBOM accuracy.
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Support for legacy systems: Sonatype can help with legacy systems lacking SBOMs, providing risk management strategies that meet regulatory standards.
Ensuring compliance and security with Sonatype
As software supply chains continue to evolve, compliance with SEBI's SBOM mandates will be critical for maintaining security and resilience.
Sonatype remains committed to supporting Indian enterprises as they navigate these requirements, offering comprehensive solutions that not only ensure compliance but also enhance software supply chain security.
By partnering with Sonatype, Regulated Entities can meet CSCRF's SBOM requirements with confidence, securing their software ecosystem for today and the future.
