Risks of Russian Software for Business: Identification and Avoidance
Ukrainian companies continue to face challenges with Russian software, posing significant data and national security risks.
Despite the full-scale invasion, some Ukrainian companies still use Russian software, such as 1C (also known as Business Automation Framework – BAS) and Directum. This creates significant risks for data security and national security. Intecracy Group’s media, referencing InBase materials, emphasizes the importance of recognizing these threats and the necessity of transitioning to safer alternatives.
The primary danger lies in the potential for Russian software developers, and by extension, Russian special services, to gain access to confidential information of Ukrainian enterprises. This applies not only to seemingly unimportant data but also to personal data of Ukrainians, which could be used by the enemy for criminal purposes. Ukraine’s CERT-UA regularly records cyberattacks linked to Russian hackers, highlighting the relevance of this threat.
How to Identify Russian Software?
Determining the origin of software is not always easy, as developers may conceal their ties to the Russian Federation. However, there are key indicators to watch for:
- Check the developer’s website: look for .ru domains, Russian office addresses, or phone numbers.
- Search for information about the company and its owners on Google and LinkedIn (in Ukrainian, English, or Russian).
- Analyze job postings: advertisements on Russian platforms (e.g., HeadHunter) indicate a connection to the Russian Federation.
- Use specialized platforms like Vkursi.pro or the Russian resource “Chikko” to verify companies.
For Ukrainian businesses and the Intecracy Group audience, this information is valuable for several reasons:
- Data Protection and National Security: Avoiding Russian software is crucial for safeguarding confidential company data and contributes to Ukraine’s national security.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity: Reducing reliance on potentially vulnerable or compromised software increases a business’s overall cyber resilience amidst ongoing cyberattacks.
- Reputation and Ethical Responsibility: Discontinuing the use of Russian products upholds a company’s reputation and prevents indirect financial support of the aggressor.
Source: InBase