Vulnerability Metrics

Vulnerability Scoring

Vulnerability scoring is a method used to assess and quantify the severity of security vulnerabilities in software or hardware systems. This process helps prioritize remediation efforts by evaluating the potential impact and exploitability of each vulnerability.

Key Vulnerability Scoring Systems:

1. Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS):

   • Provides a numerical score reflecting the severity of vulnerabilities.

   • Considers factors like exploitability, impact, and the environment.

2. Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS):

   • Predicts the likelihood of a vulnerability being exploited in the wild.

   • Aids in prioritizing vulnerabilities based on real-world exploitation risks.

3. Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE):

   • Standardizes identification of vulnerabilities.

   • Facilitates information sharing and management of vulnerabilities.

4. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE):

   • Identifies common software and hardware weaknesses.

   • Helps in understanding and mitigating potential vulnerabilities.

Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) Base Score

• Description: The CVSS base score is a metric used to assess the severity of vulnerabilities. It considers various factors such as exploitability and impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

• Usage: Used by security professionals to prioritize responses to vulnerabilities.

• References: CISA Vulnerability Summary, CISA SSVC Guide

Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE)

• Description: CVE is a standardized list of publicly disclosed cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

• Usage: Facilitates sharing of vulnerability information and improves security response.

• References: CISA CVE Overview, CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog

Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE)

• Description: CWE is a list of common software and hardware weaknesses that can lead to vulnerabilities.

• Usage: Helps developers and security professionals understand and mitigate common weaknesses.

• References: MITRE CWE, CISA Vulnerability Summary

Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS)

• Description: EPSS predicts the likelihood of a vulnerability being exploited in the wild within a given timeframe.

• Usage: Assists in prioritizing vulnerabilities based on exploitability.

• References: FIRST EPSS, CISA SSVC Guide

References:

• CISA CVSS Overview

• FIRST EPSS Overview

• MITRE CVE

• MITRE CWE

• https://www.imperva.com/learn/application-security/cve-cvss-vulnerability/