Cyber Brief: Credential abuse, patch discipline and resilience

Today’s cyber reporting highlights how credential abuse, delayed patching and gaps in resilience testing continue to shape cyber risk across organisations. Rather than relying on novel techniques, attackers are exploiting weaknesses that emerge through everyday operational pressures and incomplete follow-through.

Credential abuse continues to bypass perimeter controls

Security reporting today reinforces that compromised credentials remain one of the most effective ways for attackers to gain access to environments. In several incidents reviewed, valid accounts were used to authenticate successfully, allowing activity to blend into normal behaviour and delaying detection.
Weak access reviews and limited monitoring of privileged accounts were common contributing factors. Once inside, attackers were able to move laterally or access sensitive systems without triggering immediate alerts.

Why it matters
Strong identity governance and monitoring reduce attacker dwell time and limit impact.

Source
The Register

Delayed patching increases exposure to known exploits

Industry reporting highlights that known vulnerabilities continue to be exploited where patching is delayed due to operational constraints. In multiple cases, systems remained exposed weeks after fixes were available, providing attackers with predictable entry points.
The reporting reinforces that patch availability alone is not enough. Clear ownership and prioritisation are critical to reducing exposure.

Why it matters
Timely patching reduces exposure to exploitation and prevents avoidable incidents.

Source
Infosecurity Magazine

Resilience testing remains inconsistent across organisations

UK-focused reporting today highlights that while many organisations have documented response and recovery plans, fewer test them regularly. Limited rehearsal and unclear dependencies continued to delay restoration during incidents.
The reporting shows that resilience is built through practice, not documentation alone.

Why it matters
Regular testing improves response confidence and shortens disruption.

Source
Computer Weekly

Today’s Key Actions

1. Review high-risk and privileged accounts
2. Strengthen monitoring for credential misuse
3. Prioritise remediation of known vulnerabilities
4. Validate patch ownership and timelines
5. Exercise response and recovery plans

Secarma Insight

Today’s themes underline a familiar pattern. Cyber risk often increases through small gaps in identity, patch discipline and preparedness rather than major technical failures. Organisations that maintain consistency across these areas are better positioned to respond effectively and recover with confidence.

Get in touch with us to prioritise your next steps and strengthen your security posture.