Zero-trust involves believing that no user or application should be granted automatic trust. It encourages organizations to verify every access while treating every user or application as a potential threat. Zero-trust is a great starting point for businesses that want to build formidable cybersecurity. It can adapt to the complexity of the modern work environment, including a hybrid workplace, and protect people, devices, applications, and data regardless of where they are located.
However, zero trust should not be mistaken for a solution or a platform, regardless of how security vendors market it to you. You can’t just buy it from a security vendor and implement it with the click of a button. Remember these three principles when implementing zero trust:
1. Continually verify
You should strive to implement a “never trust, always verify” approach to security by continuously confirming the identity and access privileges of users, devices, and applications. Consider implementing strong identity and access (IAM) controls. They will help you define roles and access privileges, ensuring only the right users can access the correct information.
2. Zero-trust: Limit access
Misuse of privileged access is one of the most common reasons for cyberattacks. Limiting access ensures that users are granted minimal access without affecting their day-to-day activities. Here are some standard security practices that organizations have adopted to restrict access:
- Just-in-time access (JIT) – Users, devices or applications are granted access only for a predetermined period. This helps determine the time one has access to critical systems.
- Principle of least privilege (PoLP) – Users, devices or applications are granted the least access or permissions needed to perform their job roles.
- Segmented application access (SAA) allows users to access only permitted applications, preventing malicious users from gaining access to the network.
3. Assume a breach and maximize cybersecurity
Instead of waiting for a breach, you can take a proactive step toward cybersecurity by assuming risk. That means treating applications, services, identities, and networks—both internal and external—as already compromised. This will improve your response time to a breach, minimize the damage, improve your overall security, and, most importantly, protect your business.
We are here to help
Achieving zero-trust compliance on your own can be daunting. However, partnering with a cybersecurity service provider can ease your burden. Leverage our advanced technologies and expertise to implement zero trust within your business without hiring additional talent or bringing on other tools yourself.
Your strategy should involve layering multiple defensive methods, such as firewalls, intrusion prevention and detection systems, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and more, to build a security fortress that’s hard to crack. At Cyology Labs, we understand that security is not a one-size-fits-all approach, so we offer tailored solutions to your unique needs. Contact us for a free consultation at www.CybersecurityMadeEasy.com
