Vendor Security Assessment Is Broken. Here's What's Replacing It.
Network Intelligence News, Saturday, October 10th, 2026
Network Intelligence argues annual questionnaire-based vendor assessments are giving way to continuous, evidence-based third-party risk programs.
Network Intelligence argues that annual, questionnaire-only vendor security assessments capture a single moment, rely on unverified self-attestation, rarely revisit risk tiers and leave fourth-party risk largely invisible.
Modern programs instead combine continuous monitoring with evidence-mapped, risk-tiered assessments, using certification short-circuits and adaptive follow-ups to reduce vendor fatigue without lowering rigor.
The post notes that vendor oversight is now a compliance obligation under frameworks such as India's DPDP Act and that vendor access is part of an organization's real exposure surface.