Disclosure of Security Vulnerabilities

Book excerpt: Much debate has been given as to whether computer security is improved through the full disclosure of security vulnerabilities versus keeping the problems private and unspoken. Although there is still tension between those who feel strongly about the subject, a middle ground of responsible disclosure seems to have emerged. Unfortunately, just as we’ve moved into an era with more responsible disclosure, it would seem that a market has emerged for security vulnerabilities and zero day exploits. Disclosure of Security Vulnerabilities: Legal and Ethical Issues considers both the ethical and legal issues involved with the disclosure of vulnerabilities and explores the ways in which law might respond to these challenges.