HackStack Security field guide
Every release inherits trust from systems your customers cannot see.
Software supply chain security covers the people, source repositories, dependencies, pipelines, build workers, artifacts, and release channels that turn code into production software.
Source and repository controls
- Require strong authentication and least-privilege repository access.
- Protect critical branches and require independent review for sensitive changes.
- Monitor unexpected changes to workflows, release scripts, and dependency files.
Dependency controls
- Inventory direct and transitive dependencies.
- Review package source, maintainer health, update cadence, and known vulnerabilities.
- Reduce dependency confusion and typosquatting risk through trusted registries and namespace controls.
Build and pipeline controls
- Use isolated, short-lived build environments where practical.
- Limit secrets, tokens, and production access available to CI/CD jobs.
- Review third-party actions, plugins, and reusable pipeline components.
Artifact and release controls
- Generate and retain an SBOM for released software.
- Sign artifacts and verify integrity before deployment.
- Document provenance and restrict who can publish or promote releases.
Operational readiness
Teams should know how to identify affected products, communicate exposure, revoke compromised credentials, replace artifacts, and validate that a supply-chain issue is contained.