Supply chain attacks: why hackers target vendors and third parties

I do not have access to real-time information, including news transcripts. Therefore, I cannot incorporate specific content from “Face The Nation With Margaret Brennan” aired on February 23, 2025.

However, I can provide you with a general article about supply chain attacks, focusing on why hackers target vendors and third parties. You can then integrate the relevant news context yourself.

Why Hackers Love Supply Chains: Targeting the Weakest Link

Imagine this: a hacker wants to break into a heavily fortified castle. Instead of attacking the front gate directly, they find a small, overlooked entrance used by a food vendor. This is the essence of a supply chain attack.

Hackers love supply chains. Why? Because they offer an easier path to their ultimate target: your data.

Understanding the Appeal of Supply Chain Attacks

Think of all the different vendors and third parties your company interacts with:

Software providers
Cloud service providers
Marketing agencies
Even your cleaning crew!

Each one represents a potential entry point for hackers. Here’s why they are so appealing:

1. Wider Attack Surface

Large companies invest heavily in cybersecurity. Smaller vendors often lack the resources for robust security measures, making them easier targets.

2. Access to Valuable Data

Vendors often have access to sensitive data from their clients. This could include financial information, customer data, or even proprietary code.

3. Trust as a Weapon

Companies trust their vendors. Hackers exploit this trust by infiltrating a vendor’s system and then using that access to launch attacks on their clients.

Real-World Example: The SolarWinds Attack

The 2020 SolarWinds attack is a prime example of a devastating supply chain attack. Hackers infiltrated SolarWinds, a widely used IT management software provider. This allowed them to distribute malicious code to thousands of SolarWinds’ clients, including government agencies and Fortune 500 companies.

Protecting Your Company from Supply Chain Attacks

So how can you protect your company from becoming the next victim?

1. Vet Your Vendors Carefully

Don’t just focus on price. Ask potential vendors about their security practices:

Do they have a dedicated security team?
What measures do they take to protect your data?
Do they have a plan for responding to security incidents?

2. Limit Access to Sensitive Data

Only provide vendors with the information they absolutely need to do their job.

3. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for hackers to gain unauthorized access, even if they have stolen credentials.

4. Stay Informed About Potential Threats

Keep up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities. Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow security experts on social media, and participate in relevant online forums.

5. Train Your Employees

Your employees are your first line of defense. Train them on basic cybersecurity hygiene, such as recognizing phishing emails and avoiding suspicious links.

Conclusion

Supply chain attacks are a serious threat to businesses of all sizes. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to mitigate them, you can help protect your company from becoming the next victim.