CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) is a standardized system for identifying known vulnerabilities in software and hardware. Each CVE entry has a unique identifier (e.g., CVE-2024-12345) and describes a specific security flaw that can be exploited by attackers. CVEs are essential for IT security as they provide a shared language for vulnerability management, communication, and response.
How does CVE work?
CVE entries are managed by the MITRE Corporation in coordination with global partners, including software vendors, CERTs, and security researchers. Once a vulnerability is discovered, it is evaluated and published with:
- A CVE ID (e.g., CVE-2024-07890);
- A brief description of the issue;
- References to more detailed advisories or patches;
- Sometimes a CVSS score indicating severity.
CVEs enable fast, structured, and vendor-neutral responses to security flaws across technologies.
Why is CVE important?
Without a central CVE system, organizations would rely on inconsistent or vague vulnerability information. CVEs offer:
- Faster risk evaluation: immediately identify relevant vulnerabilities.
- Prioritized patching: based on severity and potential impact.
- Consistent communication: shared language for IT, vendors, and customers.
As software complexity and interdependence grow, CVEs are crucial for maintaining strong cybersecurity hygiene.
CVE and RiskStudio
RiskStudio automatically scans your supplier ecosystem for known CVEs. It shows which vendors are affected by serious vulnerabilities, whether fixes are in place, and what the risk level is. When a critical CVE is published, you get an immediate alert — including impact context and guidance on what actions to take. With RiskStudio, you move from awareness to action — quickly and across your entire supply chain.
