Low-Code Security: Best Practices for Enterprise Applications

Low-Code Security: Best Practices for Enterprise Applications

Low-code platforms make app development faster, but they also introduce unique security risks. Here's what you need to know to secure your low-code enterprise apps:

• Top Security Challenges: Open access, authentication issues, API vulnerabilities, and configuration errors.

• Key Threats: Data leaks, credential misuse, and third-party integration risks.

• Best Practices:

  • Start with security-by-design during development.

  • Use role-based access control (RBAC) to manage user permissions.

  • Implement encryption (AES-256, TLS 1.3) for data protection.

  • Conduct regular security testing (SAST, DAST, SCA).

  • Monitor apps with real-time alerts and automated tracking.

Quick Comparison: Mendix vs. OutSystems Security Features

Low-code platforms are reshaping enterprise app development, but security can't be an afterthought. Implement these practices to protect your apps and data.

Security Throughout Development

Building Secure Apps From Day 1

Start integrating security measures as soon as development begins. Security should be woven into every stage of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Here's how to approach it step-by-step:

By embedding these practices into your workflow, you'll build stronger, more secure applications from the ground up.

Security Testing Methods

To catch vulnerabilities before they become a problem, use a mix of automated and manual testing. Many modern low-code platforms support a variety of testing methods, making it easier to secure your applications.

Here are some of the most effective testing approaches:

• Static Application Security Testing (SAST): Examines source code and components during development to catch issues early.

• Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST): Tests applications in real-time to find vulnerabilities in running environments.

• Software Composition Analysis (SCA): Checks third-party components and dependencies for known security flaws.

These methods ensure vulnerabilities are addressed before they can impact production.

Finding and Fixing Vulnerabilities

Once testing identifies vulnerabilities, it's crucial to address them quickly and systematically. Follow these steps to manage and resolve issues effectively:

1. Vulnerability Assessment
   Perform regular scans and maintain a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) [2] to identify weak points in your system.

2. Risk Prioritization
   Focus on the most critical vulnerabilities first. Set clear thresholds for alerts to avoid being overwhelmed and ensure critical issues get immediate attention [5].

3. Remediation Process
   Use a structured approach to fix vulnerabilities based on their priority:

Keep applications secure over time by continuously monitoring activity and logging potential threats [4]. Pair this with regular security training for your development team to ensure everyone stays informed and proactive.

User Access and Security

Setting Up Role-Based Access

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) is the backbone of secure user management in low-code enterprise apps. It limits access based on roles, reducing unnecessary data exposure.

"Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) is a method for restricting network access based on the roles of individual users. RBAC allows employees to access only the information they need to do their job." - Frontegg [6]

For example, Kubernetes demonstrates this well: a 'Developer' can manage pods within specific namespaces, while a 'Cluster Admin' has full control over the entire cluster [6]. Strong role management naturally leads to stronger login and authentication practices.

Enterprise Login Standards

Enterprise applications require secure and reliable authentication methods. Implementing Single Sign-On (SSO) in Mendix apps using SAML or OIDC enhances security while simplifying user access. Adding Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) further protects your system.

Steps to implement SSO:

• Use SAML or OIDC modules

• Configure Identity Provider (IdP) settings and token management

• Ensure secure cookie handling for sessions

"The SAML module can be used to give end-users access to your Mendix application based on their identity in your Identity Provider (IdP)." [7]

External User Security

Managing external user access requires balancing security with ease of use. Prioritize measures that protect sensitive data without complicating user experience.

"By making sure every application is authenticated and authorized before it is provided fine-grained access, and by keeping a record of data lineage for future auditing, enterprises can reduce the risk of LCNC frameworks." - Manav Mital, CEO, Cyral [8]

Always apply the principle of least privilege to external user accounts. Regular security audits and penetration testing are essential for identifying and addressing potential vulnerabilities [1].

Data Security Standards

Data Encryption Methods

Strong encryption is key to protecting sensitive data, whether it's stored or being transmitted. Techniques like AES-256 and TLS 1.3 are widely used for this purpose. Many low-code platforms simplify the use of advanced encryption algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman), making them accessible to businesses[9].

Encryption alone isn't enough - organizations must also follow privacy regulations to ensure comprehensive data protection.

Meeting Privacy Laws

Low-code platforms come equipped with tools that help businesses comply with privacy regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA. For instance, Mendix, an EU-based platform, adheres to GDPR by offering features such as cloud data encryption, ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27701 certifications, and stringent data processor controls[10].

Key compliance measures include:

• Data Classification: Organize data by sensitivity and regulatory requirements to apply the right security controls.

• Access Logging: Keep detailed records of data access and changes to prove compliance during audits.

• Data Retention: Set up automated policies for retaining and securely disposing of data in line with regulations.

Beyond compliance, securing APIs is critical for protecting interconnected systems.

API and Integration Security

In December 2024, Chinese state-backed hackers exploited a compromised API key at BeyondTrust to breach the US Department of Treasury's systems[11]. This incident underscores the importance of robust API security.

"You cannot be efficient if [you have] multiple products, multiple technologies, that are actually not connected. […] You need one solution. Consolidate - and only then [can you] be actually efficient and effective with your cloud security program." - Assaf Rapport, Wiz Co-founder and CEO[11]

To ensure API integration remains secure, use HTTPS with valid SSL certificates to encrypt traffic, authenticate requests with JSON Web Tokens (JWT), and continuously monitor APIs to track all active endpoints[11].

Security Risks with Low-Code and No-Code Application Development Platforms

Platform Security Tools

Low-code development comes with its own set of challenges, and having a platform with strong, built-in security tools is essential.

Mendix Security Tools

Mendix provides multi-layered security through its Runtime and Cloud infrastructure, ensuring applications and data remain protected. It combines model-based safeguards within its Runtime and infrastructure-level defenses in the Cloud. Here's a breakdown of its key security features:

Mendix also collaborates with HackerOne for vulnerability disclosure and shares security advisories through Siemens ProductCERT [12].

"As a bank, we were looking for an option where we could deploy low-code apps on our own, fully-managed infrastructure. At that time, Mendix was the only low-code provider that supported this wide range of deployment options." [14]

OutSystems, another major player, offers its own set of enterprise-focused security tools.

OutSystems Security Tools

OutSystems ensures enterprise-level protection with automated defenses and real-time threat monitoring. It operates a dedicated CSIRT and SOC, equipped with advanced monitoring technologies [13][16]. Key features include:

OutSystems generates native code, offering enhanced security control and visibility [15]. The platform also scales automatically while maintaining its security standards.

Platform Security Comparison

Both Mendix and OutSystems excel in security, but their approaches differ. Here's a side-by-side look:

"Cybersecurity is a key ingredient for trust from our customers. It is also the basis for sustainable success and a strong ecosystem." [12]

With the global average cost of a data breach hitting $4.45 million in 2023 [1], selecting a platform with strong security features is more critical than ever. Both Mendix and OutSystems have proven their ability to deliver in enterprise environments, with OutSystems powering six times more B2B and B2C applications than its closest competitor [15].

Security Monitoring and Response

Effective security monitoring and quick response are critical for maintaining the integrity of low-code platforms. Beyond using platform security tools, organizations need continuous monitoring and well-defined response protocols to guard against potential data breaches.

App Activity Tracking

Low-code platforms offer centralized tracking that simplifies monitoring compared to older methods. Here are key areas to focus on:

Mendix Cloud continuously monitors application health by tracking metrics like container memory and disk usage, database CPU utilization, and microflow health checks. Issues are categorized into severity levels - OK, WARNING, and CRITICAL - allowing for immediate prioritization and action [18].

Live Security Alerts

Real-time alerts are a cornerstone of threat detection. Mendix supports this through built-in notifications and custom configurations. Features include:

• Email Alerts: Notifications for status changes [19].

• Webhook Integrations: For handling custom alerts [19].

• Automated Heartbeat Monitoring: Checks performed every few minutes [18].

"The platform is simple and highly intuitive, so anyone can use it." - Ajit Singh, Chief Product Manager - CARAT LANE [1]

A Zenity customer, for example, identified and resolved 80,000 vulnerabilities in just three months. This included fixing hard-coded secrets and addressing sensitive data leaks [17]. Once an alert is triggered, following a standardized response process is essential to mitigate risks effectively.

Security Response Steps

"Incident response involves the standardization and implementation of a set of processes, policies and procedures used to triage and respond to a variety of security incidents. Simply stated, incident response is about having a plan in place to identify and handle cyberthreats before they cause more significant damage." - Tony Thompson from Swimlane [20]

Key steps in responding to security threats include:

1. Immediate Containment: Quickly isolate affected systems and revoke any compromised credentials to prevent further damage.

2. Investigation and Analysis: Review logs and document findings to determine the scope and impact of the breach. Swimlane customers, for instance, have automated phishing analysis and response processes, often within the first eight hours of implementation [20].

3. Recovery and Remediation: Keep detailed documentation of low-code applications and their security configurations [3]. This speeds up recovery and helps prevent similar issues in the future.

These steps form the backbone of a comprehensive security strategy, ensuring a proactive approach to safeguarding low-code platforms.

Conclusion

Low-code platforms are reshaping how businesses develop enterprise apps. With the market estimated at $25.8 billion [21], ensuring strong security measures is more important than ever.

Key Security Focus Areas

Securing low-code platforms requires addressing multiple aspects. Here's a quick breakdown:

By focusing on these areas, businesses can create a safer environment for low-code app development.

Steps for Secure Implementation

A structured approach is key to integrating security effectively:

1. Assessment Phase: Identify any security gaps in your current setup. By 2029, 80% of companies are expected to rely on low-code for critical applications [21].

2. Integration Strategy: Roll out security measures in phases to improve both efficiency and outcomes.

3. Monitoring and Maintenance: Use continuous monitoring and schedule regular audits to keep threats at bay.

If your internal team lacks the expertise or bandwidth, bringing in specialists can help ensure a smooth and secure transition.

Expert Assistance

"Deployd's expertise in low-code recruitment and seamless migrations saved our team time, money, and stress" [21].

Collaborating with security experts can make a big difference. They can:

• Offer tailored advice for low-code security

• Help implement platform-specific protections

• Provide ongoing support to maintain security standards

With 70% of new business applications now built on low-code platforms [21], adopting these security measures is crucial. From secure design principles to real-time monitoring, these strategies lay the foundation for a strong, dependable low-code environment.