Vulnerability clause: Copy, customize, and use instantly
Introduction
A vulnerability clause outlines the responsibilities and measures to identify, report, and address security vulnerabilities in software, systems, or processes. It establishes accountability and ensures proactive risk management, particularly in agreements involving technology or sensitive data.
Below are vulnerability clause templates tailored to various scenarios. Copy the one you need, customize it, and add it to your contract.
Standard vulnerability clause
This clause provides a balanced approach to addressing vulnerabilities.
The parties agree to identify, report, and address vulnerabilities in the software, systems, or processes provided under this agreement. Each party will take reasonable measures to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with industry standards for security.
Vulnerability disclosure clause
This clause sets procedures for reporting vulnerabilities.
Any vulnerabilities discovered in the software or systems must be reported to the other party within [insert timeframe]. Both parties agree to collaborate to resolve reported vulnerabilities promptly and effectively.
Vulnerability testing clause
This clause requires regular testing for vulnerabilities.
The providing party agrees to conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing on the software and systems delivered under this agreement. Test results must be documented and shared with the receiving party upon request.
Vulnerability indemnification clause
This clause shifts liability for vulnerabilities.
The providing party indemnifies the receiving party against all damages, costs, and losses resulting from security vulnerabilities present in the delivered software or systems, provided the receiving party has not contributed to the issue.
Vulnerability resolution timeline clause
This clause establishes timeframes for resolving vulnerabilities.
The providing party agrees to address any identified vulnerabilities within [insert timeframe] of discovery. High-severity vulnerabilities must be resolved immediately or mitigated through alternative measures.
Vulnerability responsibility allocation clause
This clause allocates responsibility for addressing vulnerabilities.
The parties agree to share responsibility for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities. The providing party will address vulnerabilities in the delivered systems, while the receiving party will ensure a secure operating environment.
Vulnerability notification clause
This clause ensures third parties are informed.
The responsible party agrees to notify any impacted third parties of identified vulnerabilities within [insert timeframe], including details of the issue and remediation steps taken.
Vulnerability third-party compliance clause
This clause ensures third-party vendors meet security standards.
The providing party guarantees that all third-party vendors involved in the development or maintenance of the software or systems comply with industry best practices for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability monitoring clause
This clause requires ongoing monitoring for vulnerabilities.
Both parties agree to implement continuous monitoring systems to detect and respond to vulnerabilities in real time. Monitoring reports will be reviewed quarterly to ensure compliance with security standards.
Vulnerability escalation clause
This clause outlines the process for severe vulnerabilities.
In the event of a critical vulnerability, the responsible party must notify the other party immediately and escalate the issue to senior management. Remediation efforts must begin within [insert timeframe].
Vulnerability regulatory compliance clause
This clause ensures adherence to legal requirements.
Both parties agree to comply with all applicable regulations concerning the identification, reporting, and resolution of vulnerabilities, including data protection laws and cybersecurity frameworks.
Vulnerability patch management clause
This clause mandates timely updates.
The providing party agrees to release and apply patches to address known vulnerabilities within [insert timeframe]. The receiving party must apply the patches promptly to maintain system security.
Vulnerability bug bounty clause
This clause incentivizes identifying vulnerabilities.
The providing party will implement a bug bounty program, rewarding individuals or entities for identifying and reporting vulnerabilities in the software or systems under this agreement.
Vulnerability audit clause
This clause mandates independent assessments.
The providing party agrees to conduct annual third-party audits to identify and address vulnerabilities in the software or systems. Audit findings and remediation plans must be shared with the receiving party.
Standard vulnerability clause
The parties agree to identify and address vulnerabilities in the software or systems provided under this agreement. Both parties will implement measures to minimize risks and follow recognized industry standards for cybersecurity.
Vulnerability escalation process clause
For vulnerabilities deemed critical, the responsible party must immediately inform the other party and initiate an escalation process. This process includes notifying senior representatives and implementing interim mitigation within [insert timeframe].
Vendor responsibility clause
Any third-party vendors involved in the development, maintenance, or hosting of systems under this agreement must comply with the agreed-upon security standards and provide regular vulnerability assessments.
Joint vulnerability management clause
Both parties will collaborate to identify, manage, and resolve vulnerabilities, sharing responsibilities based on their respective roles. The providing party will address software issues, while the receiving party ensures a secure environment for operation.
Incident response clause
In the event of an exploited vulnerability, both parties agree to follow a documented incident response plan, addressing the issue within [insert timeframe]. All associated findings must be shared for transparency.
High-severity vulnerability clause
Vulnerabilities classified as high-severity must be acknowledged within [insert timeframe] and resolved or mitigated immediately. Failure to do so may result in termination of specific obligations under this agreement.
Vulnerability ownership clause
The providing party is solely responsible for remediating vulnerabilities in the delivered systems, while the receiving party retains responsibility for securing integrations and user access.
Data-centric vulnerability clause
Any vulnerability that could compromise personal or sensitive data must be prioritized for resolution. The responsible party must notify the other within [insert timeframe] and comply with relevant data protection laws.
Security updates clause
The providing party will ensure regular security updates and patches are released to address vulnerabilities. The receiving party must implement these updates within [insert timeframe] of release.
Cross-border vulnerability clause
Vulnerabilities affecting cross-border systems must comply with local cybersecurity regulations in all relevant jurisdictions. The parties will collaborate to ensure consistent and compliant remediation efforts.
Cyber insurance clause
The providing party must maintain cyber insurance to cover potential damages caused by unresolved vulnerabilities. Evidence of such insurance must be provided upon request by the receiving party.
AI-specific vulnerability clause
For systems using AI components, the providing party agrees to conduct specialized assessments for vulnerabilities unique to AI algorithms and ensure mitigation strategies are in place.
Open-source vulnerability clause
Any open-source components included in the software must be regularly scanned for vulnerabilities. The providing party agrees to replace or patch affected components promptly to maintain system security.
Continuous vulnerability monitoring clause
The providing party will continuously monitor systems for vulnerabilities using recognized tools and methodologies. Any identified issues must be addressed within [insert timeframe], depending on severity.
Independent vulnerability audit clause
The providing party agrees to undergo independent vulnerability audits annually and share results with the receiving party. Identified risks must be addressed in accordance with industry best practices.
Notification of attempted exploit clause
The responsible party must immediately notify the other party of any attempted exploitation of a vulnerability and provide detailed logs and a remediation plan within [insert timeframe].
Compliance-based vulnerability clause
All vulnerabilities must be managed in compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks, including [insert regulations]. Non-compliance will be treated as a breach of this agreement.
Pre-deployment vulnerability clause
Prior to deploying any software or system, the providing party will ensure all known vulnerabilities are resolved and certify compliance with agreed security standards.
Remediation timeframe clause
The providing party must remediate all identified vulnerabilities within [insert timeframe] based on their criticality. Critical vulnerabilities must be addressed immediately, while low-risk issues can follow a longer timeline.
Shared environment vulnerability clause
In shared environments, both parties agree to secure their respective areas and jointly manage vulnerabilities that could affect the other party’s systems or data.
Zero-day vulnerability clause
The providing party must establish a process for addressing zero-day vulnerabilities, including immediate notification to the receiving party and interim mitigation within [insert timeframe].
Cross-system vulnerability clause
For systems integrating with third-party platforms, both parties agree to assess vulnerabilities arising from these connections and coordinate remediation efforts to minimize risks.
Training and awareness clause
The providing party will provide periodic training on vulnerability management to all relevant personnel and share documentation of identified risks and mitigation strategies with the receiving party.
Multi-party vulnerability clause
In agreements involving multiple parties, each party agrees to implement vulnerability management measures and report identified issues to all stakeholders promptly.
Supply chain vulnerability clause
The providing party must ensure all vendors and subcontractors adhere to the agreed security standards and address vulnerabilities in components supplied for this agreement.
Liability for unresolved vulnerabilities clause
The providing party accepts liability for damages resulting from vulnerabilities that remain unresolved beyond the agreed remediation timeframe, including costs associated with data breaches or operational disruptions.
Embedded device vulnerability clause
The providing party will ensure that all embedded devices used in delivering services under this agreement are free of known vulnerabilities and comply with industry-standard security protocols.
Vulnerability reporting clause
The receiving party agrees to notify the providing party of any discovered vulnerabilities in the provided systems or services within [insert timeframe], facilitating a coordinated response.
Third-party vulnerability clause
The providing party is responsible for ensuring that all third-party software or systems integrated into the agreement comply with agreed security standards and address identified vulnerabilities promptly.
Escalation for unresolved vulnerabilities clause
Any vulnerabilities not addressed within [insert timeframe] will be escalated to senior management, and a formal action plan will be provided to the receiving party.
Critical systems vulnerability clause
The providing party will prioritize identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in critical systems that directly impact the fulfillment of the agreement’s objectives.
Vulnerability assessment schedule clause
Both parties agree to conduct joint vulnerability assessments every [insert frequency] and implement any required measures to mitigate identified risks within the agreed timeframe.
Data integrity vulnerability clause
The providing party must monitor for vulnerabilities that could compromise data integrity and ensure immediate remediation to prevent unauthorized alterations or loss.
Patch management clause
The providing party agrees to implement a comprehensive patch management policy, ensuring that vulnerabilities identified through software updates are resolved within [insert timeframe].
Incident follow-up clause
Following any vulnerability-related incident, the providing party must conduct a post-incident review and share findings, including root cause analysis and preventive measures, with the receiving party.
Custom-built software vulnerability clause
For custom-built software provided under this agreement, the providing party must certify that it has undergone rigorous vulnerability testing and provide documentation to the receiving party.
Regulatory vulnerability compliance clause
All vulnerability management practices must comply with applicable regulations, including [insert regulations]. Non-compliance constitutes a breach of this agreement.
Vendor-specific vulnerability clause
The providing party must maintain a registry of vulnerabilities reported by its vendors and demonstrate effective remediation for any issues affecting the agreement’s deliverables.
Vulnerability impact threshold clause
Vulnerabilities with an impact exceeding the agreed threshold, as defined in [insert document], must be addressed within [insert timeframe] or result in financial penalties as outlined in this agreement.
Cloud environment vulnerability clause
For services hosted in cloud environments, the providing party must ensure compliance with cloud-specific security protocols and address vulnerabilities unique to such infrastructure.
Operational continuity clause
Vulnerabilities that threaten operational continuity must be prioritized for resolution, with updates provided to the receiving party at regular intervals until fully mitigated.
Vulnerability disclosure timeline clause
The providing party agrees to disclose any identified vulnerabilities affecting systems or services under this agreement within [insert timeframe], along with a detailed remediation plan.
Vulnerability testing certification clause
The providing party must provide certification confirming that all systems and software have undergone vulnerability testing and meet industry security standards prior to deployment.
Mutual vulnerability reporting clause
Both parties agree to notify each other of any discovered vulnerabilities within their respective systems that could impact the fulfillment of this agreement within [insert timeframe].
Priority vulnerability clause
Critical vulnerabilities, as classified by [insert standard], must be addressed within [insert timeframe], while lower-priority vulnerabilities must follow the agreed resolution schedule.
Responsibility for inherited vulnerabilities clause
The providing party assumes responsibility for resolving inherited vulnerabilities in any third-party components or legacy systems utilized under this agreement.
Vulnerability review milestone clause
Regular reviews of identified vulnerabilities will be conducted at pre-determined milestones, and both parties must mutually agree on remediation actions for unresolved issues.
Escrow for unresolved vulnerabilities clause
In cases where critical vulnerabilities remain unresolved beyond the agreed timeframe, a financial escrow may be established to cover potential damages or corrective measures.
End-of-life vulnerability clause
The providing party agrees to replace or upgrade any end-of-life software or hardware that poses a vulnerability risk under this agreement within [insert timeframe].
User-induced vulnerability clause
Both parties acknowledge shared responsibility in preventing vulnerabilities caused by user errors, requiring training or updated protocols as needed.
Cross-system vulnerability clause
Any vulnerabilities resulting from integrations between the parties’ systems must be addressed cooperatively, with costs shared as per the terms outlined in [insert section].
Security patch schedule clause
The providing party will adhere to a fixed schedule for applying security patches to prevent recurring vulnerabilities, ensuring minimal disruption to services.
Reporting tools clause
The providing party must provide access to vulnerability reporting tools for the receiving party to independently monitor compliance with security standards.
Post-termination vulnerability support clause
Upon termination of this agreement, the providing party will continue to provide vulnerability support for any systems or software deployed during the contract for a period of [insert timeframe].
Regional compliance vulnerability clause
Vulnerability management practices must align with regional security regulations specific to [insert region], and non-compliance will be treated as a material breach.
Breach-triggered vulnerability audit clause
Any security breach attributed to an unresolved vulnerability will trigger an immediate audit of the providing party’s systems, with costs borne as outlined in [insert section].
Third-party component vulnerability clause
The providing party must ensure that all third-party components integrated into their systems are free of known vulnerabilities, with periodic checks and updates provided to the receiving party.
Vulnerability testing access clause
The receiving party is granted access to conduct or oversee independent vulnerability testing of the systems or software provided under this agreement, with prior written notice.
Vulnerability risk assessment clause
The providing party must deliver a detailed vulnerability risk assessment report for all critical systems before the commencement of services and at regular intervals thereafter.
Remediation cooperation clause
Both parties agree to cooperate fully in the remediation of vulnerabilities, sharing relevant information and resources to expedite resolution while maintaining confidentiality.
Retrospective vulnerability clause
The providing party will review and address vulnerabilities in any previously delivered systems or services that may affect ongoing contractual obligations.
Time-bound vulnerability resolution clause
All identified vulnerabilities must be resolved within [insert timeframe], with extensions granted only upon mutual agreement and documented justification.
Proactive vulnerability disclosure clause
The providing party must proactively disclose any potential vulnerabilities identified during internal audits, even if no direct threat is currently detected.
Custom vulnerability standards clause
The parties agree to define and adhere to a custom set of vulnerability classification and resolution standards, documented in [insert section].
Vendor chain vulnerability clause
The providing party is responsible for managing and addressing vulnerabilities within their vendor or supplier chain that impact systems or services under this agreement.
Vulnerability escalation clause
Unresolved vulnerabilities classified as high-risk will be escalated to senior management within both parties, with expedited resolution timelines enforced.
Non-compliance penalty clause
Failure to address vulnerabilities within the agreed timeframe will result in financial penalties, as outlined in [insert section], or termination of the agreement for material non-compliance.
Vulnerability metrics clause
The providing party must include vulnerability metrics, such as resolution timeframes and recurrence rates, in periodic performance reports shared with the receiving party.
Managed vulnerability services clause
The providing party agrees to utilize a third-party managed vulnerability service provider to ensure compliance with the highest security standards.
Warranty for vulnerability-free systems clause
The providing party warrants that all systems and software delivered under this agreement are free of known vulnerabilities at the time of delivery.
Force majeure and vulnerabilities clause
Vulnerabilities arising from force majeure events, such as natural disasters or unprecedented attacks, will be addressed collaboratively, with revised timelines agreed upon in writing.
Predictive vulnerability management clause
The providing party must implement predictive analytics tools to identify potential vulnerabilities in advance, reducing the likelihood of exploitation and ensuring system integrity.
Regulatory compliance vulnerability clause
The providing party ensures that all identified vulnerabilities are addressed in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including [insert specific regulations].
Shared vulnerability database clause
Both parties agree to maintain a shared, encrypted vulnerability database, documenting identified issues, resolution status, and potential impact.
Vulnerability coordination clause
Both parties agree to appoint designated representatives to coordinate vulnerability identification, reporting, and resolution processes for improved efficiency.
Third-party vulnerability notification clause
The providing party must notify the receiving party of any vulnerabilities identified by third-party security vendors or regulators that could impact contractual obligations.
Critical systems protection clause
Vulnerabilities in critical systems must be prioritized and addressed immediately, with real-time updates provided to the receiving party until resolution is complete.
Continuous vulnerability monitoring clause
The providing party must employ continuous monitoring solutions to detect and resolve vulnerabilities in real time, minimizing exposure to risks.
Cross-party vulnerability audit clause
Both parties agree to periodic cross-party vulnerability audits, with findings shared openly and remediation steps collaboratively planned.
Zero-day vulnerability clause
The providing party will notify the receiving party within [insert timeframe] of any zero-day vulnerabilities affecting the systems or services provided under this agreement.
Vulnerability incident review clause
Post-resolution, the parties will conduct a formal review of the vulnerability incident, documenting root causes, resolution steps, and preventive measures.
Multi-layer vulnerability clause
The providing party must address vulnerabilities across all layers of the system, including hardware, software, and network components, ensuring comprehensive security.
API vulnerability clause
All APIs provided under this agreement must undergo regular security testing to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, with results documented and shared.
Mobile application vulnerability clause
Mobile applications developed or integrated under this agreement must meet industry-standard security benchmarks and be free from vulnerabilities at deployment.
Intellectual property vulnerability clause
The providing party is responsible for ensuring that no vulnerabilities exist in systems that could expose proprietary or intellectual property under this agreement.
Vulnerability insurance clause
The providing party agrees to maintain cyber liability insurance to cover damages arising from unresolved vulnerabilities impacting the receiving party.
Vendor-specific vulnerability clause
The providing party must ensure that any third-party vendors involved in delivering services under this agreement adhere to strict vulnerability management protocols, including timely reporting and resolution.
Risk-based vulnerability prioritization clause
Vulnerabilities will be assessed and prioritized based on their potential impact and likelihood of exploitation, with the most critical issues addressed within [insert timeframe].
Encryption vulnerability clause
The providing party guarantees that all systems and data exchanges under this agreement are protected against vulnerabilities related to encryption protocols and key management.
Training and awareness vulnerability clause
Both parties agree to implement regular training programs for employees to recognize, report, and mitigate vulnerabilities within their scope of responsibilities.
Public disclosure of vulnerabilities clause
The providing party will not publicly disclose any vulnerabilities discovered in systems or services under this agreement without prior written consent from the receiving party.
Supply chain vulnerability clause
The providing party must conduct due diligence on all supply chain components to identify and address vulnerabilities that could impact the services or products provided under this agreement.
Penetration testing vulnerability clause
Both parties agree to conduct periodic penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities, with results documented and shared for collaborative remediation.
Service-level agreement (SLA) vulnerability clause
Any unresolved vulnerabilities affecting performance metrics defined in the SLA must be resolved within [insert timeframe] to avoid penalties or service credits.
Legacy system vulnerability clause
The providing party will ensure that any legacy systems included in the scope of this agreement are evaluated and secured against known vulnerabilities.
Shared responsibility vulnerability clause
Both parties agree to share responsibility for identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, with clear communication channels established for reporting and resolving issues.
Data-specific vulnerability clause
Any vulnerabilities discovered in systems processing sensitive or proprietary data must be resolved immediately, with documented proof of resolution provided to the receiving party.
Continuous improvement vulnerability clause
The providing party commits to continually improving their vulnerability management processes and incorporating feedback from audits, reviews, and incident analyses.
Industry standards compliance clause
All systems and services under this agreement must comply with [specific industry standards, e.g., NIST, ISO 27001] for vulnerability management and mitigation.
Notification escalation clause
If a vulnerability remains unresolved beyond the agreed timeframe, the issue must be escalated to executive-level representatives of both parties for resolution.
Environmental vulnerability clause
The providing party agrees to address vulnerabilities arising from changes in the operating environment, such as new integrations or updates, within [insert timeframe].
Automated vulnerability scanning clause
The providing party must implement automated scanning tools to continuously identify vulnerabilities in systems and services under this agreement, providing regular reports to the receiving party.
Emergency patching vulnerability clause
In the event of a critical vulnerability, the providing party agrees to apply emergency patches or mitigations within [insert timeframe] to prevent exploitation.
Partner network vulnerability clause
Both parties agree to evaluate and address vulnerabilities within their respective partner networks that could indirectly affect the performance or security of this agreement.
Dependency vulnerability clause
The providing party must assess and remediate vulnerabilities in any third-party dependencies or software libraries utilized in delivering services under this agreement.
Coordinated vulnerability disclosure clause
Both parties agree to participate in a coordinated vulnerability disclosure program, allowing time for remediation before any public or external reporting.
Vulnerability testing approval clause
All vulnerability tests conducted on shared systems or services must be pre-approved by both parties to prevent unauthorized disruptions.
Zero-trust architecture clause
The providing party must adopt a zero-trust security model to minimize vulnerabilities by enforcing strict access controls and verifying all connections.
Post-resolution verification clause
After resolving a vulnerability, the providing party agrees to conduct verification tests to ensure the issue has been fully addressed and documented.
Geographic vulnerability management clause
Vulnerabilities specific to certain geographic regions, such as regulatory requirements or localized threats, must be identified and mitigated under this agreement.
API vulnerability clause
The providing party must ensure that all APIs used in delivering services are tested and secured against common vulnerabilities, such as injection attacks and insecure authentication.
Time-bound vulnerability clause
Any vulnerability identified during the agreement term must be remediated within [insert timeframe] to maintain compliance with the terms.
Confidential vulnerability clause
Details of vulnerabilities discovered during the contract period must remain confidential between the parties, with no external disclosure permitted without prior approval.
Third-party review vulnerability clause
Both parties agree to engage an independent third party to perform annual vulnerability assessments, with results shared and acted upon collaboratively.
Incident response vulnerability clause
In the event of a vulnerability-related security incident, both parties agree to follow a jointly established incident response plan to minimize damage and address root causes.
Cross-party training clause
Both parties will collaborate on cross-party training initiatives to improve vulnerability detection and response capabilities, ensuring consistent standards.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.