Which data source is recommended for a vulnerability scanner that requires constant updates on new vulnerabilities?

The recommended data source for a vulnerability scanner that requires constant updates on new vulnerabilities is the National Vulnerability Database (NVD). NVD is a comprehensive repository that provides detailed information about known vulnerabilities in various software and hardware products. It is built on the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) list, which provides a unique identifier for each vulnerability.

The NVD offers additional context beyond the CVE entries, including severity metrics based on the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), references, and impact scores. This rich data source helps ensure that vulnerability scanners can effectively identify and assess risks based on the latest vulnerability data. Since the NVD is regularly updated, it provides the necessary resources for organizations to stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities, making it a critical tool for ongoing security assessments.

While CVE provides the identifiers for the vulnerabilities, it does not include the supplementary information that the NVD offers. OWASP focuses more on guidance for web application security and risk mitigation strategies rather than a database of vulnerabilities. MITRE is the organization behind the CVE system, but its resources do not directly serve the same purpose in terms of constant updates as the NVD does. Thus, the NVD is the most suitable option for ensuring