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What the UK’s New Software Security Code Really Means

If you sell or build software in the UK, you’ve just been handed a new benchmark to hit. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has introduced a new Software Security Code of Practice. It’s voluntary—for now—but if you’re a CTO, CISO or technical leader in a SaaS business, vendor firm, or IoT provider, it’s already showing up in audits and RFPs.

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What is the Software Security Code of Practice?

It’s a new government-issued benchmark outlining what “good security” should look like for organisations that develop or distribute software in the UK. The goal: make software less vulnerable, by design. 

It borrows from best practice frameworks like the EU Cyber Resilience Act and NCSC guidance, and it sets the bar across four domains: 

  • Secure development 
  • Build environment protection 
  • Secure deployment and maintenance 
  • Customer communication 

What Are the Real Risks?

UK businesses are increasingly reliant on SaaS, but many vendors don’t fully secure their development environments. Common weak points include: 

  • Outdated or unmonitored build pipelines 
  • Third-party dependencies with known vulnerabilities 
  • Poor developer training and lack of secure coding practice 
  • Missing disclosure processes or security update plans 

Even if you’re “doing your best”, that may not meet the new bar. If you’re asked to demonstrate secure-by-design practices, can you? 

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4 Steps to Align with the Code

1. Use a Secure Development Framework

Start with NCSC-backed frameworks. Ensure developers are trained, third-party components are reviewed, and security testing is part of every release. 

2. Harden the Build Environment

Your dev pipeline should be monitored and access-controlled. Assume it’s a target. 

3. Formalise Maintenance & Vulnerability Disclosure

Make it easy for users to report vulnerabilities. Communicate clearly on patching, support windows, and end-of-life timelines. 

4. Prepare for Scrutiny

Whether it’s an auditor, client, or procurement team—be ready to show how your security practices align to these principles. 

Why It Matters to Your Firm

Complying with the Code isn’t just good hygiene—it’s becoming a market requirement. Boards and buyers are increasingly treating voluntary codes as de facto standards. 

FoxTech can help. Our team audits secure development lifecycles, stress-tests your build pipeline, and helps embed cyber by design. 

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