Train Developers in Application Security Concepts and Secure Coding
Description
Ensure that all software development personnel receive training in writing secure code for their specific development environment and responsibilities. Training can include general security principles and application security standard practices. Conduct training at least annually and design in a way to promote security within the development team, and build a culture of security among the developers.
Implementation Checklist
Tool Recommendations
Security awareness training platform with simulated phishing, interactive training modules, and compliance reporting
KnowBe4 · Per-user subscription
Adaptive security awareness and behavior change platform with targeted training based on real threat data
Proofpoint · Per-user subscription
Application security platform with SAST, DAST, SCA, and developer training for secure software development
Veracode · Per-application subscription
Threats & Vulnerabilities (CIS RAM)
Threat Scenarios
Developer Introduces Injection Vulnerability Due to Lack of Training
ConfidentialityA developer writes code vulnerable to SQL injection because they were never trained on parameterized queries or input validation in their specific development framework.
Insecure Deserialization Flaw from Untrained Developer
IntegrityA developer implements object deserialization from untrusted input without sanitization because they lack training on deserialization attacks, enabling remote code execution.
Vulnerabilities (When Safeguard Absent)
Developers Lack Secure Coding Knowledge
Without application security training, developers are unaware of common vulnerability patterns in their specific frameworks and languages, systematically introducing preventable security flaws.
No Security Culture Within Development Teams
Absence of security-focused developer training means security is treated as an afterthought rather than an integral part of the development process, resulting in insecure-by-default code.
Evidence Requirements
| Type | Evidence Item | Collection Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Configuration screenshots or exports showing protection controls enabled | Captured quarterly |
| Document | Procedure documentation for protection measures | Reviewed annually |
| Record | Training completion records and compliance rates | Tracked continuously, reported quarterly |
| Document | Training content and curriculum documentation | Reviewed annually |
| Document | Governing policy document (current, approved, communicated) | Reviewed annually |