In today’s hyper-connected business environment, organisations are only as secure as their weakest link — and more often than not, that link lies within the supply chain.
Whether it’s a software vendor, logistics provider, or cloud service partner, third-party suppliers introduce a complex web of cyber security risks. A single vulnerability in one of these external relationships can open the door to data breaches, ransomware attacks, or operational disruptions that ripple across the entire organisation.
The hidden risks in your supply chain
Many organisations focus heavily on internal security controls but overlook the broader ecosystem they operate in. Here’s why that’s a problem:
Third-party breaches are on the rise
According to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), Australia recorded 527 data breach notifications in the first half of 2024, the highest since 2020. A growing number of these incidents are linked to third-party providers, including cloud and software vendors.
Visibility is limited
You can’t protect what you can’t see. Without a structured risk assessment, it’s nearly impossible to gauge the security posture of every supplier.
Compliance pressure is growing
Frameworks like ISO 27001, NIST, and the Essential Eight increasingly require organisations to demonstrate due diligence in managing third-party risks.
Why security risk assessments matter
A robust security risk assessment helps organisations to:
Identify and prioritise high-risk vendors
Understand the scope of access to sensitive data and systems
Evaluate supplier security controls and incident response capabilities
Make informed decisions about onboarding, contracting, and ongoing monitoring
However, manual or ad hoc approaches are no longer sufficient especially as supply chains grow more complex and regulatory scrutiny intensifies.
How Nexon helps you get protected, and stay protected
At Nexon, we help organisations take a proactive, structured approach to third-party risk management through our Cyber Security Services.
Our team works with you to:
- Conduct comprehensive third-party risk assessments aligned to industry standards
- Implement continuous monitoring of supplier security posture
- Provide actionable insights and remediation plans
- Support compliance with regulatory and governance frameworks
Whether you’re onboarding a new vendor or reviewing your existing supply chain, Nexon’s cybersecurity experts help you reduce risk, improve resilience, and build trust with your stakeholders.
A proactive imperative
Cyber security is no longer a defensive function — it is a business enabler. By investing in proactive safeguards today, organisations protect not only their data but also their reputation, customer confidence, and operational continuity.
The question is not if a cyber incident will occur, but whether your organisation is prepared to withstand it. Proactive resilience, guided by expert advisory, ensures the answer is yes.
Understand the impact of third-party cyber risks and how Nexon empowers your organisation to stay protected.
References:
*
Verizon: Data Breach Investigations Report, 2025
More articles to explore
