In a recent episode of Dark Reading Confidential, the spotlight was on the impending funding expiration for the CVE Program in April 2026. The consensus among industry veterans is clear: we are not adequately prepared to confront the challenges this poses. Trey Ford from Bugcrowd, along with security expert Adam Shostack and CVE historian Brian Martin, engaged in a candid discussion to outline what an ideal future for the CVE Program should entail and the steps needed to reach that goal.
The CVE Program, which stands for Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures, plays a pivotal role in cybersecurity by providing a standardized method for identifying and categorizing vulnerabilities across different software systems. This program, maintained by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), has been instrumental in promoting transparency and facilitating the timely resolution of security issues.
However, the impending expiration of federal funding for the CVE Program raises concerns about its sustainability and long-term effectiveness. Without adequate resources, the program’s ability to fulfill its vital function of cataloging and tracking vulnerabilities could be compromised, leaving organizations and users at greater risk of cyber threats.
During the Dark Reading Confidential episode, Trey Ford, Adam Shostack, and Brian Martin emphasized the need for a proactive approach to address the challenges facing the CVE Program. They underscored the importance of envisioning a future where the program is not just sustained but enhanced to meet the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
So, what would a “good” future for the CVE Program look like? According to the experts, it would involve increased collaboration between government agencies, security researchers, and technology vendors to ensure comprehensive coverage of vulnerabilities. This collaborative effort would enable faster identification, reporting, and mitigation of security flaws, ultimately strengthening the resilience of digital systems against cyber threats.
To realize this vision, the experts proposed several key strategies. One essential aspect is securing sustainable funding for the CVE Program beyond the current expiration date. This would require a concerted effort from both public and private sectors to allocate resources effectively and ensure the program’s continuity.
Moreover, the experts highlighted the significance of promoting greater transparency and accountability within the cybersecurity community. By encouraging organizations to promptly disclose vulnerabilities and share threat intelligence, the industry can collectively bolster its defenses and stay ahead of malicious actors.
In addition, enhancing the accessibility and usability of the CVE database was identified as a crucial step toward improving the program’s impact. Making vulnerability information more readily available to security professionals and developers can streamline the patching process and mitigate risks more efficiently.
As the discussion concluded, it became evident that the future of the CVE Program hinges on our ability to adapt, collaborate, and invest in cybersecurity resilience. By heeding the advice of industry experts like Trey Ford, Adam Shostack, and Brian Martin, we can pave the way for a more secure digital ecosystem that safeguards critical infrastructure and data from cyber threats.
In the face of funding uncertainties and evolving threat landscapes, the resilience of the CVE Program rests on our collective commitment to fortifying cybersecurity practices and prioritizing the protection of digital assets. Let’s heed the call to action voiced in Dark Reading Confidential and work towards a future where the CVE Program thrives as a cornerstone of cybersecurity excellence.