Define some of the major risks you would have to guard against as a Security TPM at Swiggy. Create a threat analysis framework.

Question Analysis

The question asks you to identify and define major security risks that a Security Technical Program Manager (TPM) would face specifically at Swiggy, a food delivery platform. Additionally, you are asked to create a threat analysis framework to manage these risks. This involves understanding the unique aspects of Swiggy's operations, including customer data handling, payment processes, and real-time order tracking, to pinpoint potential vulnerabilities. The question tests your ability to assess security risks in a specific business context and to implement a structured approach to mitigate those risks.

Answer

Major Risks Faced by a Security TPM at Swiggy:

1. Data Breach:

   • Customer Data: Unauthorized access to sensitive customer information, including personal details and payment information.
   • Vendor Data: Compromise of vendor data which could lead to competitive disadvantages or operational disruptions.

2. Payment Fraud:

   • Unauthorized transactions or theft of payment information during the order process.

3. Supply Chain Attacks:

   • Compromise of third-party vendors or partners that integrate with Swiggy’s platform.

4. Service Disruption:

   • DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks that could disrupt service availability.

5. Insider Threats:

   • Malicious or negligent actions by employees or contractors that could lead to data leaks or system compromise.

6. Application Vulnerabilities:

   • Exploitation of vulnerabilities in Swiggy's mobile and web applications, leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation.

Threat Analysis Framework:

1. Identify Assets:

   • Catalog all critical assets including customer data, transaction systems, application servers, and network infrastructure.

2. Threat Identification:

   • Identify potential threats for each asset using threat intelligence and historical data. Consider both external threats (e.g., hackers) and internal threats (e.g., disgruntled employees).

3. Vulnerability Assessment:

   • Conduct regular assessments to identify vulnerabilities in systems and applications. Use tools like vulnerability scanners and penetration testing.

4. Risk Assessment:

   • Evaluate the potential impact and likelihood of identified threats exploiting vulnerabilities. Use a risk matrix to prioritize risks.

5. Mitigation Strategies:

   • Implement security controls to mitigate identified risks. This could include encryption, access controls, network segmentation, and incident response plans.

6. Monitoring and Review:

   • Continuously monitor systems for signs of security incidents using SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) tools. Regularly review and update the threat analysis framework to adapt to new threats.

7. Training and Awareness:

   • Conduct regular training sessions for employees and partners to raise awareness about security best practices and potential threats.

By following this framework, a Security TPM at Swiggy can systematically manage and mitigate security risks, ensuring the protection of both company and customer data.