Vulnerability Management Faces Challenges Amid Rising Backlogs

Organizations are grappling with significant challenges in managing their cybersecurity vulnerabilities, according to a recent report by Hackuity. The study highlights a troubling trend: the gap between vulnerability exposures and the available resources to address them is widening rapidly. Security leaders recognize the growing backlog of vulnerabilities, but the fragmented nature of their tools and processes is hindering effective management.

Many organizations utilize multiple tools to detect vulnerabilities, averaging around four detection systems. The most common among these are cloud or container configuration audits, utilized by 85% of respondents. This diverse array suggests comprehensive coverage but also complicates visibility and the consistent prioritization of threats. The mean time to remediate (MTTR) critical issues currently stands at an average of four weeks, a timeframe that can severely impact security posture.

Organizations that have established formal workflows and automation processes tend to respond more swiftly to vulnerabilities. However, a significant number still depend on manual workflows that require extensive triage efforts. Over half of the responding organizations assign remediation tasks to their cybersecurity or Security Operations Center (SOC) teams. This approach often leads to quicker response times, as these teams are better positioned to interpret findings in the context of ongoing threats.

While 97% of organizations have remediation Service Level Agreements (SLAs) tied to the severity of vulnerabilities, actual remediation times often exceed expectations. This discrepancy highlights the difficulties organizations face in keeping pace with the increasing volume of vulnerabilities. Prioritization methods vary significantly; 43% of respondents still adhere to compliance-driven models, which are easier to measure and frequently mandated. In contrast, about a third employ risk-based approaches that account for exploitability, asset value, and potential business impact.

A key factor in effective vulnerability management is the integration of threat intelligence. Approximately four in five organizations enhance their decision-making processes using external data, such as active exploits or alerts from the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). The most effective use of threat intelligence is observed in organizations that have implemented higher levels of automation and well-defined workflows.

Automation is proving to be a critical differentiator in the speed and efficiency of vulnerability management. 56% of organizations report having automated aspects of their vulnerability management processes, while others operate with moderate or basic levels of automation. Those with high automation levels frequently achieve faster remediation times, experience fewer false positives, and report greater confidence in scaling their operations.

“The pressure teams are under is palpable, and what’s most concerning is the knock-on effect this has on the organizations and the well-being of the teams,” noted Sylvain Cortes, VP of Strategy at Hackuity. He emphasized that failure to manage vulnerabilities effectively can lead to missed alerts, financial penalties, and overall inefficiency in resource utilization.

Teams with limited automation face additional hurdles, including spending excessive time validating findings, concerns about wasted efforts, and an increased risk of burnout. The rising volume of vulnerabilities poses a substantial challenge for those relying on manual workflows. A noteworthy 65% of organizations have fully adopted Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM), indicating a commitment to ongoing assessment and real-time prioritization of vulnerabilities.

The transition to a Vulnerability Operations Centre (VOC) model is still evolving; just over half of organizations report full implementation, while others are in the process of transitioning. Those with formalized and automated workflows demonstrate the most progress in vulnerability management. Respondents identify enhanced automation and improved prioritization as the primary benefits of advanced vulnerability management or CTEM platforms, with real-time visibility and continuous assessment following closely.

The pressure on security operations is palpable, with 56% of respondents noting increased strain on staff resources. Others point to difficulties in prioritizing issues, time lost to false positives, and slower incident response rates. The impact on business operations is significant; half of the organizations are upgrading their security tools in response to heightened exposure levels, and a similar proportion indicates that leadership is scrutinizing internal processes more closely.

Despite the pressing need for improved vulnerability management, security leaders face numerous practical constraints. Operational limitations and budget pressures are major challenges, cited by 43% and 41% of respondents, respectively. Additional barriers include technology complexity, resistance to change, and a shortage of skilled personnel. While there is consensus that automation reduces human error and enhances efficiency, progress remains slow due to limited resources. Notably, 60% of respondents acknowledge that vulnerability management does not receive the same level of attention as other security initiatives, further hampering investment in essential processes and tools.