Salesforce is one of the most trusted and widely-used CRMs across the globe. From tracking sales to managing marketing, companies heavily rely on the platform while keeping gigabytes of data on the server. These days, data breaches in different systems are a pressing issue, and Salesforce is no exception. Even though Salesforce has taken measures to improve data security, threat actors find gaps and exploit information.
As static resources deal with uploading content, including codes and files, the risk of potential cyberattacks increases. But how do static resources lead to cyber threats? Let’s dive deeper and find out.
What Are Static Resources in Salesforce and Why Are They Used?
The Visualforce page showcases dynamic content whose values modify depending on the responses of users. However, there is a need for static content as well, where the values do not change with respect to other components. Such content is called static resources. It can be an image, style sheet, JavaScript file, etc. These resources are usable only inside a Salesforce org, which implies hosting other websites or applications here is not a possibility.
Static resources are used for uploading files, as getting all related files into one directory hierarchy and using that .jar or .zip archive is easier. There is no need for in-depth coding to reference resources in page markup; you can simply use the $Resource global variable, and everything will be done.
To make sure that your CSS file identifies images, you can create an archive and upload it as a static resource. As it is a static resource containing a style sheet and image, one can see the image.
Why Are Open-Source Digital Assets So Popular?
In Salesforce, open-source assets are uploaded as static resources, and these assets help the site function better. There are many reasons why developers opt for open-source digital assets even after knowing that they are an easy target for attackers, some of which are described below.
1. Higher Speed and Flexibility
When it comes to speed, nothing can beat open-source assets. It has excellent community versions to start with and produces results directly. With the right team, you can get started and scale faster.
Another big advantage of open-source projects is flexibility. It is readily available, as you do not have to wait for licenses, and developers can immediately start their work. Moreover, the learning curve is also reduced with this kind of technology.
2. Better Security With Transparency
The security of open-source assets is a concern for many. However, the increased transparency of the source code makes it more secure. As the source code is open to all, several white hat professionals can easily review the codes and ensure their security.
3. Reduced Costs
Open-source software is known for its cost-effectiveness. Enterprises do not have to manage license renewals and can utilize the same expenses for other valuable work. Even though the environment is inexpensive, it does not compromise on quality or capability.
However, the software may not be completely free, and many are introducing closed and open components. Still, most components in open-source assets are free, and it can be a great option to explore for those with a budget constraint.
4. Open to Innovations
With the emergence of big data, cloud computing, and other technologies, the software world is creating a pathway for innovation and efficiency. In open-source assets, the professionals in the community continuously help to enhance product quality.
Developers now use various resources that are available for free, and utilize them to improve their work. Customizability and a limitless collaboration scope in open-source assets create the space for more innovative ideas.
Potential Threats to Salesforce Data Security With Static Resources
Before using open-source libraries or software and uploading files as static resources, you should also consider the risks associated with it. The codes are visible to all, and anyone can modify them. Though its accessibility to the public makes it powerful, it can be a potential danger as well. The risks include:
- Inadequate Verification: Quality assurance and testing in open-source systems are doubtful. It is unclear whether highly qualified experts will analyze and review the code. Thus, the inadequate verification of code can put your system in danger.
- No Proper Support: You can rarely find technical assistance in open-source software. Updates and security patches may not be readily available as there is no proper support team. The dependency on the community is also not fruitful, and by the time you get a response, hackers might have access to your system.
- More Accessibility and Code Vulnerability: As everyone has access to the source code, hackers get a chance to manipulate it the way they want. An open-source software product provides attackers with sufficient vulnerability details. They act as project contributors and input malicious code that can greatly impact the security of your system.
Ways to Prevent Data Breaches in Salesforce
There is no denying that static resources could lead to cyberattacks. But the question here is: how can you prevent it? Take a look at ways to mitigate data breaches in Salesforce below.
1. Leverage Salesforce’s Security Tools
Salesforce offers numerous methods to minimize the risk of cyberattacks. You can utilize multi-factor authentication to ensure the right person accesses the account. There is a Health Check tool to display the high-priority risks so that you can fix it on time. Salesforce Shield also offers an additional layer of security to your system with its encryption and event monitoring capabilities.
2. Invest in Cybersecurity Solutions
Cybersecurity solutions, like virus scanners, have become a necessity to ensure complete protection from threats. In Salesforce, there are extremely low levels of security when it comes to file and URL uploads. Therefore, you require a powerful virus scanning tool that eliminates vulnerabilities in no time and ensures complete protection of your cloud solution.
3. Perform Regular Audits and Updates
Auditing helps in analyzing whether everything is working fine or not. If you find any changes that are suspicious, you can immediately address the issue. Checking the login history also allows you to verify that the authorized user is getting account access.
Along with regular audits, doing data backups is crucial. No one wants to lose their valuable data, but in case a cyberattack or downtime occurs, a data backup will be especially valuable.
4. Enable Security Controls
Setting up permission sets is another way of maintaining data security in Salesforce. The more you tighten security controls, the less vulnerable you are to attacks. Even though organizations can have a lot of employees, not all may have the same level of responsibilities. Therefore, it becomes important to offer the right set of permissions to the right users. This ensures that your data is not compromised by unauthorized access.
Summary
Static resources are an essential part of Salesforce, but you cannot ignore the threats associated with them. Content uploaded to Salesforce may have Trojans, ransomware, viruses, and various other malware, which can put your organization’s data and trust at risk. Hence, the best way to utilize static resources and still keep data safe is to go for tools that evaluate vulnerabilities and seal off gaps leading to cyber threats.
