Which activity defines the procedures for addressing vulnerabilities discovered after software release?

The activity that defines the procedures for addressing vulnerabilities discovered after software release is centered around an effective external vulnerability disclosure response. This involves establishing a structured process for receiving, assessing, and acting upon vulnerability reports that come from users, security researchers, or the public.

When software is released, it may face unforeseen security challenges that were not identified during the initial development cycles. An external vulnerability disclosure response plan ensures that there are clear channels for reporting these vulnerabilities. It also specifies how the organization will investigate these reports, communicate findings to relevant stakeholders, and deploy fixes or patches in a timely manner.

Additionally, having such procedures in place is crucial for maintaining user trust and safeguarding systems against potential exploitation of discovered vulnerabilities. This approach fosters collaboration between the software provider and the community, allowing for a proactive stance toward security challenges even after the software has been deployed.