A maintainer's guide to vulnerability disclosure: GitHub tools to make it simple

Handling security vulnerabilities in open source projects can be streamlined and stress-free with the right tools and processes, as discussed in a guide for maintainers. The process begins with enabling GitHub's Private Vulnerability Reporting (PVR), which allows security researchers to submit vulnerabilities securely and directly. To address reported issues, draft security advisories offer a private workspace for maintainers to collaborate on fixes without alerting potential attackers. For vulnerabilities with broader implications, requesting a Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) identifier ensures industry-wide tracking and recognition. Once a vulnerability is resolved, publishing a security advisory is crucial to inform users, guiding them on how to protect themselves and update affected software. Post-publication, maintainers should continue notifying users through various channels and utilize tools like Dependabot for automated alerts to ensure ongoing protection. By implementing these practices, maintainers contribute to a more secure open source ecosystem.