In the digital transformation era, hybrid work environments have become the norm. This shift has brought forward many benefits, but it also presents unique challenges, particularly in securing and managing digital identities and access.
Fortunately, organisations have a powerful solution – identity and access management (IAM). IAM solutions are designed to ensure that each user is given access to the applications and resources needed to do their jobs, while protecting business assets from unauthorised access.
Whether you’re an IT professional entrusted with this responsibility or a business leader striving to enhance operational efficiency in a hybrid work environment, there are several crucial measures you can take to establish an effective and secure IAM system.
Understanding the importance of IAM
IAM is a solution that encompasses the procedures, technologies, and rules utilised to administer digital identities and control access to systems and information within a company. It is a vital element of any organisation’s IT infrastructure, guaranteeing that the appropriate individuals access the correct resources at a suitable time.
IAM systems identify, authenticate, and authorise individuals or groups using a web application, system, or network. This is done through a series of policy-driven controls and technologies. The “identity” part ensures one person has one digital identity within the system, while the “access management” part controls what this identity can do within the system.
In the context of organisational security, IAM plays a pivotal role. As businesses become more digitised and hybrid work environments become commonplace, an organisation’s network parameters have expanded beyond physical offices. Employees may be logging in from various locations and devices, and each entry point can be a gateway for cyberthreats if not properly managed.
IAM systems also provide a clear audit trail of user activities, which is invaluable for detecting unusual behaviour that could indicate a security breach. They also assist in regulatory compliance by providing a mechanism for demonstrating that data protection rules are being adhered to.
The security risks of hybrid work environments
The shift to remote or hybrid work environments, while necessary and beneficial in many ways, has also presented a unique set of security risks. Privilege access management (PAM), for example, may be a great tool for granting and denying a user access to specific systems, but it is a double-edged sword if the proper controls are not in place.
Below are some of the security risks that come with hybrid work environments:
Over-provisioned users
Organisations may grant employees more access than they need to ensure seamless operations. This over-provisioning potentially exposes sensitive data and resources to misuse or cyberthreats. Following the principle of least privilege (PoLP) is crucial, providing only the necessary access to carry out assigned tasks.
Unsecured personal devices
Employees working remotely often use personal devices for work. These devices may lack necessary security measures like antivirus software, firewalls, or updated operating systems, making them easy targets for malicious hackers. Organisations must implement robust policies for using personal devices and provide guidelines on maintaining their security.
Public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities
Many individuals working remotely frequently use public Wi-Fi connections, known for their lack of security. This makes it simple for cybercriminals to intercept data sent over these networks. To minimise this threat, organisations should recommend the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) when accessing company resources via public Wi-Fi networks.
Shadow IT
Shadow IT involves the use of software applications and services without the IT department’s knowledge or approval. This practice is common in remote work settings, where employees may use unsanctioned tools to collaborate or complete tasks. However, these tools may not meet the organisation’s security standards, leading to potential vulnerabilities. Companies need to educate employees about the risks of shadow IT and establish software usage controls.
Inconsistent software updates
Keeping software and systems updated is crucial for security. However, ensuring that every device is running the latest software versions in a hybrid work environment can be challenging. Delayed or skipped updates can leave devices vulnerable to known security flaws. Automated update policies can help address this issue.
Steps to Strengthen IAM with Hybrid Workforces
In the face of evolving security risks presented by hybrid workforces, organisations must adopt proactive and comprehensive strategies. Here are some key steps to bolster your IAM in a hybrid work setting:
Enforce zero-trust architectures
Zero trust is a security strategy that operates on the uncompromising principle: “never trust, always verify.” It considers every access request as potentially harmful, regardless of where it originates or what resources it tries to reach, making it particularly suited for hybrid work environments.
To effectively incorporate a zero-trust architecture, the first step is to identify sensitive data and assets. This includes everything from customer data to intellectual property. Once these have been identified, the next step is to map out transaction flows. Understand how users interact with data and assets, what systems they pass through, and what vulnerabilities might exist within these interactions.
Building a zero-trust model involves implementing strict access controls, enforcing multi-factor authentication, and ensuring data communications are encrypted. Furthermore, continuous monitoring and analytics are crucial for identifying potential threats and improving the system’s effectiveness over time. By assuming a breach can occur at any time, you’re better prepared to prevent, detect, and respond to them.
Regularly review and update access privileges
Access privileges aren’t static; they should be dynamic and reflect each user’s current role and responsibilities. Regular reviews are crucial to maintaining security, ensuring the right people have the right access, and minimising the risk of unauthorised access.
An effective audit involves a comprehensive sweep of all Active Directory accounts, checking who has access to what. This process should cross-verify the necessity of each access privilege, scrutinising whether each user genuinely needs the access they have. If not, those privileges should be promptly revoked. Regular audits help identify over-provisioned users and reduce potential attack vectors.
Educate employees about security best practices
Employees are often the weakest link in an organisation’s security chain, primarily because of their limited understanding of best practices. Organisations can empower employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate common threats by implementing regular training programs. These initiatives enhance security and foster a culture of awareness and vigilance among the workforce.
Effective security training should be comprehensive and engaging, covering critical topics such as recognising phishing attempts, using secure Wi-Fi connections, avoiding the use of unsanctioned IT (shadow IT), and understanding the risks of oversharing information online. Regular updates and refresher courses can maintain high levels of awareness and vigilance among employees, fostering a culture of security mindfulness.
Leverage AI and ML for advanced threat detection
AI and machine learning are transforming various facets of business, including IAM. These technologies can process large volumes of data, recognise patterns, spot irregularities, and forecast potential threats using historical data and current inputs.
They can pinpoint questionable activities that might otherwise be overlooked, such as atypical login times, multiple unsuccessful login attempts, or irregular data access behaviours. Moreover, they can automate the response to detected threats, such as sending alerts, securing accounts, or initiating incident response procedures, thereby increasing the speed and effectiveness of your security strategies.
Utilise IAM for your hybrid workforce
Strengthening IAM with hybrid workforces is a multifaceted task that requires the integration of advanced technologies, regular audits, employee education, and a fundamental shift towards a zero-trust mindset. By implementing these steps, organisations can create a robust, secure, and efficient hybrid work environment.
