Secure at every step: What is software supply chain security and why does it matter?

In the context of software development, the concept of a software supply chain encompasses everything that contributes to and affects code, including dependencies, development processes, and infrastructure components. The prevalence of open-source code in today's software environments introduces significant security risks, as vulnerabilities in third-party dependencies can expose applications to compromises. While direct supply chain attacks are rare, the main challenge lies in managing and patching unpatched software to mitigate risks. GitHub offers tools such as Dependency Graph and Dependabot to help developers manage and secure their dependencies by identifying vulnerabilities and automating updates. The article highlights the importance of understanding and monitoring the software supply chain to enhance security and encourages developers to participate in a webcast exploring these issues further.