Compliance audits are critical to maintaining trust and ensuring your organization’s application security meets industry standards. You can generate detailed reports that satisfy regulatory and organizational requirements by leveraging SAST (Static Application Security Testing) and DAST (Dynamic Application Security Testing) tools.
This blog by TRIOTECH SYSTEMS explores the steps, best practices, and expert tips to create effective audit compliance reports.
Steps to Create SAST and DAST Compliance Reports
Step 1: Understand Audit Requirements
Before diving into report generation, it’s essential to understand the specific compliance frameworks applicable to your organization. Common standards include:
- OWASP Top 10: Ensures critical web application vulnerabilities are addressed.
- PCI DSS: Relevant for organizations handling credit card data.
- GDPR: Protects personal data and privacy in the EU.
- ISO 27001: Focuses on information security management systems.
Step 2: Configure SAST and DAST Tools for Compliance
Ensure your tools are properly configured to meet compliance benchmarks:
SAST Configuration:
- Enable checks for vulnerabilities outlined in OWASP Top 10 or other relevant standards.
- Include secure coding guidelines specific to your industry.
DAST Configuration:
- Simulate real-world attack scenarios.
- Focus on web application vulnerabilities, such as SQL Injection or Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).
Automating these configurations ensures consistent compliance reporting.
Step 3: Structure Your Compliance Report
A well-organized report improves readability and ensures critical details are not overlooked. Use this structure:
1. Executive Summary
- Brief overview of scan results.
- Key vulnerabilities and their compliance implications.
2. Detailed Findings
- Categorize vulnerabilities by severity.
- Map each vulnerability to specific compliance standards (e.g., OWASP A1 – Injection).
3. Compliance Gaps
- Highlight areas of non-compliance.
- Provide actionable recommendations.
4. Remediation Plans
- Include timelines for addressing vulnerabilities.
- Recommend prioritized fixes for high-risk issues.
Step 4: Cross-Reference Results with Compliance Standards
Map each finding to its relevant compliance standard. For instance:
- SQL Injection (Critical): Violates OWASP A1, PCI DSS 6.5.1.
- Outdated Libraries (Medium): Non-compliant with OWASP A9.
This mapping not only ensures audit readiness but also simplifies the review process for auditors.
Step 5: Ensure Report Readiness for Auditors
Make the report audit-friendly:
- Use clear, non-technical language where possible.
- Provide supporting evidence, such as scan logs or remediation screenshots.
- Highlight steps taken to resolve past vulnerabilities.
Tools and Strategies for Efficient Compliance Reporting
- Automated Reporting Tools: Use SAST/DAST platforms with built-in compliance reporting features.
- Dashboards: Track remediation progress and generate compliance snapshots.
- Templates: Create standardized report templates for recurring audits.
Conclusion: Streamline Compliance with TRIOTECH SYSTEMS
SAST and DAST compliance reporting doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding requirements, configuring tools, and structuring reports effectively, you can ensure audit success.
At TRIOTECH SYSTEMS, we provide tailored application security solutions and expert guidance to help you meet compliance standards confidently.
Let us support your security and compliance goals. Get in touch with us!
You might also like:
How to Report SAST and DAST Results to Key Stakeholders
How SAST & DAST Detect OWASP’s Top 10 Vulnerabilities
