How should I respond to a vulnerability disclosure?

I just received a vulnerability disclosure from a researcher. What should I do next?

First, acknowledge the researcher’s report promptly. Thank them for their effort in helping improve your security.

How do I assess the severity of the vulnerability?

You can assess severity by considering the impact, exploitability, and the affected systems. Use a standard like CVSS.

Should I inform my users about the vulnerability?

Yes, if the vulnerability affects users directly, it's important to communicate transparently about the issue and any steps being taken.

What if I can't fix the vulnerability immediately?

If immediate fixes aren't possible, inform the researcher and your users about the timeline for a resolution and any mitigations.

Are there any best practices for handling these disclosures?

Yes, establish a clear policy for vulnerability disclosures, maintain open communication, and ensure timely updates throughout the process.