Staggering Cost of Vulnerable Software Supply Chains

The total cost of software supply chain cyberattacks to businesses will exceed $80.6 billion globally by 2026, up from $45.8 billion in 2023, according to a new study from Juniper Research. This growth of 76% reflects increasing risks from absent software supply chain security processes, and the rising complexity of software supply chains overall.

The new study highlights the need for greater emphasis on the software elements of the supply chain as a critical security vulnerability. The study analyzed how both shifts in wider cybersecurity processes, and the mindset around the management of the software supply chain are needed to address these risks. The study also examines the importance of software supply chains across several verticals, including, financial services, government, automotive, and healthcare, making the study vital reading for key stakeholders in those high-risk industries.

“The software supply chain has been neglected over the years as a source of risk, leading to a situation where organizations face significant issues if they cannot change the way they operate,“ said Nick Maynard, report author and Head of Research at Juniper Research. “As software supply chains become more complex, the problem becomes exponentially more complicated, requiring immediate attention to resolve, through regulations, SBOMs (Software Bills of Materials), embedded security, and cybersecurity solutions.“

BlackBerry, a seasoned security vendor, commented on the study. “Enhancing the security of software supply chains is critical for national security and for building a trusted digital world,“ said Arvind Raman, CISO at BlackBerry. “BlackBerry welcomes this study from Juniper Research, which outlines why software supply chain security practices must be adopted by all industries, and we are pleased to be recognized for our best-in-class security solutions that address this market need. BlackBerry has long been a champion of built-in security and a pioneer of cybersecurity, which is why we have earned the trust of organizations around the world.“