Ensure Your SBOM Enhances Compliance With Our Guide

Failing to comply with software licensing agreements can cost you. This is one of many arguments – particularly in the financial realm – that motivate organizations to be in compliance  – and a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) is an increasingly important tool for that goal.

It’s relatively easy for an organization to obtain unlicensed software, according to UpCounsel, a legal platform that operates a network of independent lawyers. Many employees unknowingly use unlicensed software and some don’t realize it’s illegal to use and copy software that the company hasn’t licensed, the company said.

UpCounsel has warned that breaching license agreements can expose organizations, their executives, and their directors to legal liability. The use of unlicensed software poses a financial risk to organizations, and copyright owners may take legal action against officers and directors when it is evident that they were aware of or supported the use of unlicensed software.

Security and risk management leaders must familiarize themselves with the benefits of an SBOM. An SBOM can aid in managing software vulnerabilities and guaranteeing compliance with license agreements.

Aligning Your SBOM for Compliance With the Executive Order

In May 2021, Executive Order 14028 was released to enhance the cybersecurity of the nation. One of the mandates stated that software manufacturers who provide products to the federal government must produce an SBOM for each item. Though this ruling currently applies solely to federal contractors, experts anticipate that most enterprises will follow suit in implementing SBOMs as a standard procedure for bolstering software supply chain security and meeting compliance requirements.

How can organizations be sure to align their SBOMs with the executive order? Read our guide for best practices on ensuring your SBOM helps position you for compliance.