Why Implementing security.txt is The right thing to do

In the intricate world of cybersecurity, clear communication channels between security researchers and website owners are crucial. This is where security.txt comes into play, acting as a beacon for ethical hackers and researchers who discover vulnerabilities. By implementing a security.txt file on your website, you not only streamline the reporting process but also show your commitment to cybersecurity. In this blog post, we will explore what security.txt is, why it’s important, and how you can implement it on your website.

What is security.txt?

Security.txt is a proposed standard for websites to provide a clear and accessible way for security researchers to report security vulnerabilities. Similar to robots.txt, which guides web crawlers, security.txt directs ethical hackers on how to contact the website’s security team.

Why Should Companies Implement security.txt?

1. Encouraging Responsible Disclosure

Many security researchers use security.txt to determine if they should report a bug to a company. The presence of this file indicates that the company is open to receiving and handling security reports responsibly. Unfortunately, there are still instances where researchers face legal action for reporting bugs. Having a security.txt file shows that your company values responsible disclosure and is more likely to handle submissions appropriately.

2. Leading by Example

The Dutch government has announced plans to implement security.txt on all their websites by the end of 2024. This proactive step highlights the importance of transparency and responsibility in cybersecurity. Governments worldwide should follow this example, demonstrating their commitment to security and setting a standard for private sector companies.

How to Implement security.txt on Your Website

Implementing a security.txt file is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Create the File:
   • Open a text editor and create a new file named security.txt.
2. Include Essential Information:
   • Add the following information to your file:makefileCopy codeContact: mailto:[email protected] Encryption: https://example.com/pgp-key.txt Acknowledgments: https://example.com/hall-of-fame.html Preferred-Languages: en, nl Policy: https://example.com/security-policy.html Hiring: https://example.com/careers.html
3. Save the File:
   • Save the file and ensure it is named security.txt.
4. Upload the File:
   • Place the security.txt file in the .well-known directory of your website. The path should be: https://example.com/.well-known/security.txt.
5. Verify the Implementation:
   • Check if the file is accessible by navigating to https://example.com/.well-known/security.txt.

For a more detailed guide and to generate your own security.txt, visit securitytxt.org.

Additional Resources

For Dutch speakers, the Digital Trust Center offers a comprehensive explanation of security.txt on their website: Digital Trust Center.

Conclusions to implement security.txt

Implementing a security.txt file is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your website’s security posture. It signals to security researchers that you are open to receiving vulnerability reports and committed to handling them responsibly. By adopting this practice, you join the ranks of forward-thinking organizations and governments that prioritize cybersecurity.

At SecDesk, we encourage all our clients to implement security.txt and lead by example in the digital world. Contact us today to learn more about securing your digital assets.