Authored by: Bryan Lachapelle, President & CEO
Modern operations run on outside tools. Customer support? Handled by a chatbot app. Project timelines? Synced through cloud platforms. Even payroll, security, and reporting are all tied into third-party software.
But here's the catch: every app you plug in is another possible way into your system.
In 2024, more than one-third of all known data breaches came from third-party connections. Not internal systems. Not your team’s mistake. But something you brought in to help.
Let that sink in.
This post breaks down the hidden risks of outside apps and gives a simple, no-BS checklist to vet them - before they create a mess.
Why These Apps Are a Must-Have
Nobody’s building their own software from scratch anymore. It takes too long and costs too much. That’s why most shops rely on third-party tools - to save time and get features that would take a whole dev team months to build.
Used right, they boost efficiency. They help small crews do big work.
But they’re not without risk.
The Risks Nobody Talks About
Plugging a third-party app into your system is like hiring a subcontractor. Sure, it helps lighten the load - but if they’re careless, it’s your name on the line.
Here’s what can go wrong:
Security Gaps
Even a small plug-in can be hiding malicious code. Once it’s in, it can poke holes in your network, steal data, or mess with production.
Privacy Trouble
Just because an app says it's secure doesn’t mean your data stays put. Some vendors store info in other countries, or share it with partners, without a heads-up.
If that breaks a data law? Your company’s on the hook.
Downtime and Dollars
If a third-party system crashes - or doesn’t play nice with your setup - it can drag down workflows, delay jobs, or leave gaps in security that cost you money.
Before You Connect It, Check It
Use this checklist before bringing any third-party tool into your world. Treat it like a job interview - if it doesn’t meet the standard, it doesn’t get the job.
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Check Credentials: Look for industry-standard certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC 2. Ask for test results or a security audit. A good vendor won’t mind showing their homework.
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Verify Data Encryption: Make sure data is locked down both in transit and at rest. Ask if they use TLS 1.3 or stronger.
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Review Access Controls: Only the right people should get access. Look for tools that support OAuth2 or similar protocols. Short token lifespans and tight permission rules are a must.
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Monitor Everything: They should log all activity and notify you of suspicious behavior. You should be able to monitor it too, on your end.
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Look at Version History: They need a clear plan for updating their tools without breaking yours.
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Check Usage Limits: If too many requests can crash their system, you’ll want rate limits and safe failover built in.
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Audit Rights: Your contract should give you the right to review their security setup. No secrets.
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Know Where Your Data Lives: Ask about data storage and legal jurisdictions. Keep it local when possible.
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Ask About Backups: What happens if they go down? Is your data safe? Is there a plan?
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Understand Their Supply Chain: If they rely on open-source components, make sure those are regularly patched and maintained.
Don’t Just Plug It In - Make It Work for You
No tool is 100% risk-free. But with smart vetting and clear contracts, the right systems can run quietly in the background and keep your shop moving.
Think of this not as a one-and-done task, but an ongoing part of your ops checklist.
Need a hand? That’s where we come in.
Our team lives at the intersection of operations and IT security. We help manufacturing and construction companies in Niagara build safer systems, spot weak links, and make smart tech decisions - without needing to learn a new language or hire a full-time team.
Let’s make sure every app works for you, not against you. Reach out today and let’s take the weight off your shoulders.
