[ISM] Root cause analysis:

In resolving vulnerabilities, software developers perform root cause analysis and, to the greatest extent possible, seek to remediate entire vulnerability classes.

[SSDF] Identify patterns and systemic root causes (SSS-04-07-02)

Over time, analyze root cause data to identify recurring patterns, such as inconsistent adherence to secure coding practices. Document insights in a developer-accessible wiki, implement automated detection mechanisms to flag similar issues in the future, and update manual processes where necessary. This approach enhances vulnerability prevention by addressing systemic issues across development practices.

[SAMM] Define and utilize advanced defect metrics (SSS-04-07-02-01)

Develop unified metrics to measure security defects across the organization, including the number and severity of defects identified, time to detect and resolve, and windows of exposure for active vulnerabilities. Track regressions or reopened issues and monitor verification activity coverage to ensure comprehensive testing. Introduce metrics for accepted risks and security incidents caused by undocumented defects. Generate periodic reports (e.g., monthly) for stakeholders such as engineers, managers, and security officers. These reports provide actionable insights to refine security strategies, such as enhancing training programs or strengthening verification processes. Regularly share key technical findings and remediation strategies with other teams through knowledge-sharing sessions to reduce the recurrence of vulnerabilities and promote organization-wide learning.

Operations

ID Operation Description Phase Agent
SSS-04-07-02-01-01 Record root causes and lessons learned Continuously document root causes identified during vulnerability analyses and track recurring patterns, storing them in a searchable knowledge base. Post-deployment Security team, Development teams
SSS-04-07-02-01-02 Define and collect advanced defect metrics Establish metrics such as defect severities, time to detect (TTD), time to resolve (TTR), and defect regressions to quantify organizational security performance. Development Security team, Risk management team
SSS-04-07-02-01-03 Analyze patterns and automate detection Regularly analyze defect metrics and root causes to identify trends, such as secure coding practices not consistently followed, and implement automated detection mechanisms. Deployment Security team, DevOps team

References

Industry framework Academic work Real-world case
Information Security Manual (ISM-1909)
NIST Secure Software Development Framework (RV.3.2)
OWASP SAMM: Software Assurance Maturity Model (I-DM-2-B)