Secure Code Signing for DevOps & IT Security: Roadmap & Implementations

Before the coronavirus pandemic, there was minimal traffic on the web, but since the Internet gained popularity, there has been an immense threat to users while exploring different interfaces.

In the interconnected world, software reigns supreme, playing a vital role in our personal and professional lives. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, software has become the backbone of countless operations.

But, this software-driven landscape has its dangers. The exponential increase in cyber attacks necessitates a vigilant approach to verifying the authenticity of software before downloading it. It is where code signing assumes a critical role.

While code signing offers numerous advantages, its implementation is full of risks. This article will delve into the significance of code signing, the obstacles commonly encountered, and strategies to overcome these challenges.

By understanding the importance of code signing and navigating its complexities, we can fortify the digital realm and safeguard against malicious threats.

Overcoming Challenges with the Code Signing Certificates

Code signing is a powerful cryptographic method that serves as a vital tool in ensuring the authenticity of software. By digitally signing applications, software, or embedded firmware with a private key, developers can demonstrate that the code originates from a trusted source and has remained unaltered.

The absence of code signing, or the failure to verify code signatures during software downloads, exposes users to significant risks associated with downloading software from malicious sources.

Unfortunately, we have witnessed numerous risks materializing over the past decade, with special code signing attacks impacting renowned vendors such as Adobe in 2012, D-Link in 2015 and 2018, and ASUS through the Shadowhammer incident in 2019.

What is the Role of Code Signing?

We exist in a society driven by code, where software permeates every aspect of our existence. From the devices we rely on to the fundamental infrastructure of our communities, software permeates every aspect of our existence.

In digital structures, trust cannot be assumed. Ensuring the authenticity of software has become an imperative task. From the software delivered to end-users to the code and containers operating within an environment. The need to digitally sign and verify the genuineness of every component has reached a critical juncture.

Employing code signing helps instill confidence in products. You can assure users and stakeholders that their software is legitimate. Guarantee that it has not been tampered with. Code signing is a valuable security measure.

Problems of Getting a Code Signing Certificate

Despite the evident importance of implementing secure code signing, organizations often encounter expected issues that hinder their efforts:

With remote work becoming more prevalent, organizations must ensure that code signing. It remains accessible to dispersed developer teams while protecting them from potential hacking threats. Balancing accessibility and security is of utmost importance.

Efficient implementation of code signing processes is crucial to balance development speed and the necessary security measures. Please optimize these processes to ensure development speed and productivity are maintained.

Code signing certificates hold significant value in underground markets, making them attractive targets for sophisticated attacks. Organizations must implement robust measures to protect these certificates from falling into the wrong hands.

Embedding the code signing process seamlessly within existing software development lifecycles. It also presents a challenge for organizations adopting DevOps methodologies. Integrating code signing into these workflows requires careful planning and coordination.

Then, organizations can safeguard their software, protect end-users, and maintain trust in the digital ecosystem.

Understand the Risks of Recent Code Signing Attacks

Recent code signing attacks have highlighted the critical importance of managing reputational risks associated with software. Whether you are a software consumer or a software vendor, investing in the trustworthiness of your digital brand is crucial.

Here are some notable attacks in the digital signing world that serve as a reminder of the potential risks:

Registered Attacks of 2019

Shadowhammer (Reported for Signing Breach):

A prominent manufacturer of laptops and mobile phones unknowingly distributed malware to thousands of customers through a sophisticated software supply chain attack named “Operation ShadowHammer.”

This attack compromised two code signing certificates, enabling the distribution of signed malware through the company’s Live Update Utility. As a result, backdoors were inserted into over 1 million devices.

Registered Attacks of 2021

Codecov (Reported for Supply Chain Attack):

Attackers manipulated a script in Codecov, a widely-used code coverage tool, to extract credentials to their server. One of Codecov’s customers confirmed that their CI pipeline utilized the compromised component, exposing a private signing key used to sign their products.

BLISTER (Reported for Certificate Abuse):

Researchers uncovered a widespread malware campaign that exploited valid code signing certificates issued by Sectigo. Using these certificates allowed the malware to evade security defenses and deliver payloads to compromised systems.

Netfilter (Reported for Supply Chain Attack):

Microsoft admitted to digitally signing a driver named “Netfilter” which was widely circulated in the gaming community. Malicious actors submitted drivers for certification through the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program. The Netfilter driver established communication with Command and Control IP addresses in China.

Registered Attacks of 2022

Lazarus Group (Reported for Certificate Abuse):

The Lazarus Group, a North Korean state-sponsored hacking group known for its involvement in the 2014 Sony Pictures compromise, targeted Mac users.

They executed a widespread social engineering campaign via LinkedIn, disguising a signed executable as a job description. Code signing certificates have become favored for advanced persistent groups (APTs), including APT 27, APT 41, and the Lazarus Group.

Lapsus$ (Reported for Certificate Theft):

The extortion group Lapsus$ stole 1 terabyte of data from an American multinational technology company, including two code signing certificates used to sign drivers and executables. Shortly after the leak, security researchers discovered various hacking tools and malware components signed with the stolen certificates, including the infamous Cobalt Strike.

DiceyF (Reported for Malware Campaign):

Kaspersky researchers uncovered a “DiceyF” hacking group that targeted online gambling platform development studios and IT recruitment organizations.

DiceyF pilfered code signing certificates to sign malware digitally, distributing the signed malware via software distribution servers. While the primary targets were in Hong Kong and the Philippines, there were also instances in China and Vietnam.

These examples demonstrate the potential risks associated with code signing. Organizations must prioritize implementing robust security measures and remain vigilant in safeguarding their digital signing certificates to mitigate the threats posed by malicious actors.

Essential Steps to Implement Secure Code Signing:

Organizations can successfully establish robust measures despite the challenges in implementing secure code signing practices. It can be done by following these essential steps:

Securing Private Keys:

The protection of private keys used for code signing is paramount. These keys provide the crucial authentication stamp for the code, and if compromised, they can be misused by hackers to sign and distribute malicious code. Storing private keys in insecure locations, such as developer workstations or build servers, poses significant risks.

To ensure the security of private code signing keys, storing them in certified hardware security modules (HSMs) is recommended.

Additionally, maintaining an inventory of keys and centralizing their management is essential for a standardized and highly secure approach.

Safeguard the Operations for Signing:

While storing private keys in HSMs is a significant step, determined hackers may still attempt to gain unauthorized access. In such cases, they can execute a “software supply chain attack” by submitting malware to be signed and distributed. It makes it challenging to detect such attacks.

Securing signing operations involves allowing only authorized users to sign and approve code, adding an extra layer of protection against potential network breaches.

Organizations should define roles, separate duties for authorized users, establish and enforce code signing policies, and diligently track signing activities to achieve this. Implementing separate code signing processes during development and testing can also enhance security.

Security Checks that are Integrated with DevOps:

Integrating security checks, including code signing into DevOps workflows is vital to address the need for fast and frequent software delivery. Striking a balance between security requirements and minimizing disruptions to developer workflows is crucial.

To make code signing seamless for developers and prevent friction, organizations should formalize a code signing process that aligns with the existing software development lifecycle.

Choosing a solution that allows developers to sign code from anywhere and integrate it directly with existing DevOps tools can facilitate smooth integration without impeding productivity.

Continuous Monitoring and Auditing of Compliance:

Implementing secure code signing practices is an ongoing effort that requires monitoring and audit compliance. Regular assessments ensure teams adhere to established procedures and avoid reverting to old habits.

As certificates expire, algorithms weaken, and threats evolve, the security team should regularly review and update practices.

Monitoring and auditing compliance involves tracking code signing requests, authorizations, and signatures. Maintaining a comprehensive log of crucial usage and following certificate lifecycle management best practices for issuing, renewing, and revoking keys are essential for effectively managing code signing practices.

Optimizing Code Signing Practices

Implement secure code signing practices effectively to follow a systematic approach. Here are some key steps to consider:

Conduct a Comprehensive Inventory Assessment:

Begin by conducting a thorough inventory assessment of your code signing landscape. Identify where your code signing keys are located, who owns them, and how they are utilized. This inventory will clearly understand your existing infrastructure and allow for better management of your code signing assets.

Secure Private keys with a Certified HSM:

To ensure the utmost protection of your private keys, store them within a certified hardware security module (HSM).

These modules offer advanced security features and provide a controlled environment for generating and storing keys. With private keys in an HSM, you can sign the code securely without moving the keys outside the hardware.

Centralize Key and Certificate Management:

Avoid the complexity of disparate signing tools and workflows by centralizing the management of your code signing keys and certificates.

Store and generate private keys securely, enabling centralized visibility and user control. This centralized approach streamlines key management processes and enhances overall security.

Choose a Flexible and Scalable Solution:

Select a code signing solution that offers flexibility and scalability to accommodate evolving use cases. Assess whether a hardware, software or cloud-based solution aligns best with your specific requirements.

Look for a solution that seamlessly integrates into your existing infrastructure and provides robust support for your deployment needs.

The Significance of Secure Code Signing

In today’s software-dominated landscape, code signing is a critical safety measure. It plays a pivotal role in establishing trust between users and software providers by ensuring that downloaded software originates from a legitimate source. Moreover, secure code signing is vital for software providers to uphold their reputable brand image.

However, implementing secure code signing practices is a complex task. As the threat landscape evolves with increasingly sophisticated attacks, merely acquiring a code signing key is no longer sufficient.

Effective code signing necessitates meticulous planning and comprehensive safeguards at every stage. Achieve secure code signing with the following crucial steps:

Comprehensive Planning

Establishing secure code signing practices with careful planning is paramount. It involves evaluating your organization’s needs, identifying potential risks, and formulating a robust strategy. Conducting a thorough risk assessment will enable you to design a practical digital signing framework aligning with your security objectives.

Rigorous Authentication and Authorization

A robust authentication and authorization process is vital to maintain the integrity of code signing operations. It includes implementing strong access controls and multifactor authentication mechanisms. By strictly regulating access to code signing keys and granting authorization only to trusted individuals, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized activities of digital signatures.

Secure Key Storage and Management

Preserving code signing keys is of utmost importance. Storing them in secure locations such as certified hardware security modules (HSMs) is highly recommended.

HSMs provide additional layers of protection against unauthorized access and ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the Ating. A centralized key management system will streamline the process and enhance overall security.

Continuous Monitoring and Updates

Maintaining a proactive approach to code signing security is crucial. Regularly monitor code signing activities, including key usage, to detect anomalies or suspicious behavior.

Stay informed about industry best practices and emerging threats to keep your code signing practices current. Regularly update code signing certificates, algorithms, and policies to stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities.

These steps can establish a robust digital environment. Implementing secure code signing practices protects end-users from malicious software. It bolsters the trust and reputation of software providers in an increasingly interconnected world.

Roadmap to Secure Code Signing to Safeguard the Digital World

Overcoming Challenges with the Code Signing Certificates

What is the Role of Code Signing?

Problems of Getting a Code Signing Certificate