How to Use a SAST Scanner – Source: securityboulevard.com

The pressure is on for organizations to deploy applications faster than ever before. Users and clients are hungry for new, innovative and accessible technologies, and businesses continue to embrace digital transformation to keep up with user expectations. The rise in application deployment also means that source code security has become more critical than ever, as vulnerable source code can leave organizations open to attacks, data loss and financial damage.

A recent study by Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that the cost of cybercrime will reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. One way to help prevent security vulnerabilities in source code is by using a static application security testing (SAST) scanner, which analyzes source code before it is compiled and identifies exploitable security vulnerabilities.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how a SAST scanner works, why you need one and the top tips that all security and DevSecOps teams should know when deploying SAST scanners.

What is SAST and How Does it Work?

SAST is a method of evaluating the security of an application by analyzing its source code without actually executing the code. SAST can be performed at any stage of the development process, even before the application is deployed or run, therefore mitigating potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

One of the main differences between SAST and other security testing methods is that it focuses on the code itself rather than the application’s behavior. It identifies potential vulnerabilities and security issues that may not be visible when the application runs such as SQL injection attacks, cross-site scripting (XSS) and improper input validation.

Another difference is that SAST is typically performed by developers or security professionals rather than end users, which allows for a more in-depth analysis of the code and the ability to fix any issues.

50 Shades of Testing: White Box Vs. Black Box

First up, white box testing. Also known as clear box, glass box or structural testing, white box is a method of evaluating the internal structure and function of an application’s code. The tester has access to the source code and can see how it’s structured and how it functions. Developers typically do this type of testing as part of the development process, and it can help identify issues with the code itself, such as logic errors or security vulnerabilities.

One of the benefits of white box testing is that it provides a more in-depth look at the code than black box testing and can help identify issues that might not be apparent from an external point of view. It’s like taking your car to the mechanic and getting a full service–you’re more likely to catch any problems before they become bigger issues.

On the other hand, we have black box testing. This method evaluates an application from an end user’s perspective without requiring any knowledge of the internal structure or function of the code. The tester doesn’t have access to the source code and can only interact with the application through its user interface. You can use the black box method to test the functionality of an application and ensure that it behaves as expected from the user’s perspective. Black box testing provides a more realistic representation of how the application behaves in real use cases. It’s like testing a car by driving it on the road–you get a feel for how it handles and performs under actual driving conditions.

White Box Testing

Pros:

• Provides a more in-depth look at the code.
• Helps identify security vulnerabilities and logic errors in the code.
• Typically integrated into the development workflow by developers.

Cons:

• May not be an entirely realistic representation of the application’s behavior in the real world.
• May not identify user experience issues or functional errors that can only be detected by interacting with the application through its user interface.

Black Box Testing

Pros:

• Provides a more realistic representation of the application’s behavior and usage in the real world.
• Can help identify user experience issues or functional errors.
• It is often completed by independent testers or quality assurance professionals, which can help ensure objectivity.

Cons:

• May not provide an in-depth look at the code.
• May not identify issues with the code itself, such as security vulnerabilities or logic errors.
• May require more time and resources to set up and execute, as it involves interacting with the application through its user interface rather than analyzing the code directly.

Do I Really Need A SAST Tool?

The short answer is yes, you do. Here are some benefits of using a SAST tool.

• Enhanced code quality: By identifying and fixing vulnerabilities in the source code, SAST tools can help improve the overall quality of the code and make the application more stable and easier to maintain.
• Improved developer efficiency: SAST tools can automate many of the tasks involved in security testing, which improves developer productivity and efficiency by freeing up their time to focus on other tasks.
• Enhanced security posture: Organizations can use SAST tools to improve their overall security posture and reduce the risk of security incidents. This helps protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of customers.
• Cost savings: If you fix vulnerabilities before deployment, you can save on the costs of remediation and recovery from security incidents.

Some common use cases for SAST tools include:

• Ensuring compliance with security standards: Many organizations have strict security standards, such as PCI DSS or HIPAA. SAST tools can help identify any issues that may violate these standards.
• Improving the security of custom-developed applications: Many organizations develop custom applications in-house, and these applications may not have the same level of security as commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products. SAST tools can help improve the security of these custom applications by identifying and fixing vulnerabilities.
• Supporting agile development processes: SAST tools can be integrated into the development process, allowing developers to perform security testing as they work. This is especially useful in Agile development environments focusing on rapid iteration and delivery.

1. Define your goals

Before using a SAST scanner, defining what you’re trying to accomplish is essential. Do you want to identify and fix security vulnerabilities in your code? Or improve the overall quality of your source code? Understanding your goals will help you choose the right tool, set up your scan effectively, and hit the ground running.

2. Choose the right tool

There are many different SAST scanners on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Choosing a tool that meets your needs and fits your budget is important. Consider factors such as the programming languages it supports, the vulnerabilities it can identify, and whether it integrates with your existing development tools.

3. Set up your scan correctly

Proper setup is key to getting the most out of your SAST scanner. You’ll need to configure the scan to run on the correct codebase, set the appropriate level of sensitivity, and exclude any files or directories you don’t want to include in the scan.

4. Review the results carefully

A SAST scan will generate a list of potential issues identified in your code. You’ll need to review these results carefully and prioritize the most critical issues. Remember that not all red flags will be actual vulnerabilities–some may be false positives that you can safely ignore.

5. Fix issues as soon as possible

Act fast after the SAST scan has identified possible issues. The longer you wait, the more risk you expose your organization to.

6. Use the tool regularly

SAST scanners are most effective when used regularly as part of your development process, which ensures that any newly introduced issues are identified and addressed quickly.

7. Use the tool in conjunction with other testing methods

SAST scanners are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to testing the security and quality of your code. Consider using other testing methods, such as dynamic application security testing (DAST) or penetration testing, to complement your SAST scans.

8. Keep your tool up to date

Like any software, you should regularly update your SAST scanner with the latest version.

9. Educate your team

Ensure all team members know the importance of secure code and how to use the SAST tool effectively. Consider offering training or hosting regular reminders to keep security at the forefront of their minds.

10.Document your process

Creating a clear and documented process for SAST tool usage ensures your team works efficiently and consistently and can serve as a reference for any new team members.

Fortifying Your Source Code: The Benefits of Using a SAST Scanner

In today’s digital landscape, it’s impossible to overstate the importance of secure source code. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve and the pressure to deploy applications at high-speed increases, your organization is always open to attack.

With the help of SAST scanners,  you can elevate your security efforts and protect your source code, assets and infrastructure.