By: Dilip Panjwani, Global Head of the Cybersecurity Technology Office and CoE, LTIMindtree

Zero-trust models are becoming increasingly popular as businesses seek ways to protect their data, applications, and networks from cyber threats. The proliferation of connected devices and applications moving to clouds has triggered the need to implement Zero-trust models. The global zero-trust security market was valued at USD 19.8 billion in 2020 and is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.2% from 2021 to 2028¹.

The transformation to zero-trust brings significant opportunity for enterprises to modernize their aging security infra and become future-ready. By implementing the zero-trust model, organizations can better comply with regional regulations by applying the concept of least privilege – granting only the minimal access necessary to do the job. President Biden took one of the critical decisions in implementing the zero-trust model. In 2021, the executive order on improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity directed federal agencies to advance toward zero-trust architectures for their enterprise networks. However, many enterprises have failed to implement the zero-trust model and still rely on the traditional security model.

Weaknesses of the traditional security model

The traditional security model is reactive rather than proactive. It assumes that threats can be stopped at the perimeter and that users can be trusted with access to resources. However, in today’s environment, this approach is no longer practical. A proactive, zero-trust approach is needed to ensure that every resource and user is verified and authenticated before being granted access to sensitive information. Here are some weaknesses of the traditional security model, especially in today’s environment.

Perimeter-based security

The traditional security model is based on the idea of a strong perimeter defense. It assumes that everything inside the network is safe and trustworthy, while anything outside is a potential threat. This approach is no longer effective in today’s environment because threats can originate inside and outside the network.

Over-reliance on passwords

Passwords have been the primary method of authentication in the traditional security model. However, passwords are often weak and easily guessed and can be stolen through phishing attacks or data breaches. Multi-factor authentication is becoming increasingly important to supplement passwords as a security measure.

Lack of visibility and control

The traditional security model often relies on perimeter-based security devices such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems. However, these devices provide limited visibility and control over the network. Attackers can bypass these devices using advanced malware and social engineering techniques.

Trust-based access

In the traditional model, users can access resources based on their role or position within the organization. Once granted access, they are trusted to use those resources responsibly. Trust-based access can create vulnerabilities, as insiders can intentionally or unintentionally compromise security.

Slow response time

The traditional security model typically relies on manual processes for detection and response. This can result in a slow response time to security incidents, which can increase the impact of the attack.

Zero-trust is an innovative security model that eliminates the concept of a trusted network. It focuses on individual device authentication and access to resources while also leveraging data analytics to identify suspicious activity or behavior. By implementing this model, businesses can better protect their networks and applications from cyber-attacks.

Getting started with zero-trust

• To get started with zero-trust, organizations should assess their existing security infrastructure to determine any gaps or vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. This assessment should include exploring ways to strengthen user authentication processes, such as multi-factor authentication or biometric verification for logging in and accessing sensitive systems.
• Additionally, businesses should consider investing in data analytics software to monitor user activity for abnormal patterns that may indicate malicious intent.
• Finally, organizations should ensure they have clear policies regarding employee access to business systems and data that are regularly enforced to ensure compliance with zero-trust principles.

With these steps taken care of, businesses will be well-equipped to implement the zero-trust model and ensure their networks’ safety from threats inside and outside the organization’s perimeter.

Factors to consider before implementing a zero-trust approach

Before implementing the zero-trust strategy, businesses should consider several important factors.

Implementing Digital Trust

Digital Trust comprises Identity Verification and Access Governance in a zero-trust Model. Implementing MFA for verification and regular recertification process for auditing privilege access ensures that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized access.

Assuming Breach in Applications

One of the zero-trust principles is to assume a breach in an environment, hence performing regular vulnerability assessment or penetration testing. For applications and having a cyber defense resilience service to perform. Risk/Threat/Vulnerability management defends the application portfolio of an enterprise.

Device Management

End-user devices or any other device that accesses the network must be monitored. In a zero-trust model, patching, clean-up, and enforcing rigorous authentication methods can help improve security posture.

Challenges of implementing zero-trust

• One of the biggest challenges of implementing a zero-trust model is the complexity. The traditional security approach is based on one set of rules that apply to all users, but in a zero-trust model, each user has their own set of rules for access and authentication. This requires more work from IT teams as they must design and deploy multiple sets of policies to ensure that only the right people have access to the right resources.
• Another challenge is ensuring that all devices connecting to the network are secure; this means implementing rigorous endpoint security measures such as antivirus software and firewalls.
• Furthermore, since it relies heavily on identity management solutions like multi-factor authentication (MFA), these must be appropriately managed.
• Lastly, non-traditional methods like machine learning and analytics can help detect malicious activities but require additional time and resources to implement correctly.

Impact of a zero-trust model on a security posture

The adoption of a zero-trust model can have a significant impact on an organization’s security posture. By taking a proactive approach to security, organizations can reduce the risk of data being exposed by malicious actors inside and outside the organization.

• A zero-trust model gives organizations greater visibility into their environment, allowing them to quickly identify potential threats and take steps to mitigate them.
• Additionally, the zero-trust model shifts the focus from reactive security measures towards proactive ones, which can lead to better long-term protection for an organization.
• Furthermore, with a zero-trust model in place, organizations gain improved control over user access and identity verification processes. This further reduces the risk of malicious actors gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or systems. Implementing a zero-trust system also simplifies ongoing security management processes by reducing complexity and streamlining operations.
• Ultimately, embracing a zero-trust model can transform an organization’s security posture into more secure and resilient.

Conclusion

As technologies are emerging, businesses need a new security model that can effectively adapt to the complexity of modern business operations. Zero-trust models are becoming increasingly popular among businesses to enhance security. These models can work in the hybrid setup and protect people, apps, and devices wherever they are located. Additionally, by investing in the right tools and technologies, businesses can gain better visibility into their systems and networks without sacrificing performance or scalability. The zero-trust model is simple to implement and can be tailored to the specific needs of each business.

References

The global zero-trust security market, Grand View Research: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/zero-trust-security-market-report