What is a software supply chain attack?

A software supply chain attack occurs when attackers compromise a trusted software component — such as an open-source dependency, build tool, or repository — to inject malicious code into downstream applications. These attacks exploit the trust between developers and their tools, often going undetected until it's too late.

Supply Chain Attacks vs Traditional Code Vulnerabilities

Unlike traditional vulnerabilities that exploit known weaknesses (e.g., CVEs), supply chain attacks target the software development process itself. Instead of finding flaws in your code, attackers infiltrate dependencies or tools, introducing malicious changes that bypass conventional security measures.

Socket Solves the Complete Dependency Problem

Vulnerable Dependencies

Accidentally introduced (by maintainer)
Okay to ship to production, if low impact
You have time to fix it
Reactive, by definition

Malicious Dependencies

Intentionally introduced (by attacker)
Never okay to ship to production
Needs to be found before installation
Requires a proactive approach

Detect and block software supply chain attacks

Socket detects traditional vulnerabilities (CVEs) but goes beyond that to scan the actual code of dependencies for malicious behavior. It proactively detects and blocks 70+ signals of supply chain risk in open source code, for comprehensive protection.

Known malware

Possible typosquat attack

NPM Shrinkwrap

Git dependency

HTTP dependency

Suspicious Stars on GitHub

Protestware or potentially unwanted behavior

Unstable ownership

AI-detected potential malware

Obfuscated code

20 more alerts →

We help security teams work more efficiently

Cut through the noise and focus on real threats.

Get actionable alerts for the supply chain risks that matter. Socket highlights risky dependencies directly within the developer workflow.

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