Why Your Zero Trust Framework Isn't Working

  • October 9, 2024

As cyber threats evolve, many organisations are turning to Zero Trust frameworks, believing that they provide an impenetrable defence. However, as AppOmni CTO Brian Soby highlights, most companies are falling short in fully realising the potential of Zero Trust, leaving critical vulnerabilities exposed. Here’s a breakdown of why your Zero Trust framework might not be working and how to improve it.

 

Overreliance on Perimeter Security

Many organisations continue to focus primarily on securing the network perimeter, which is an outdated approach. While protecting the perimeter is important, this strategy overlooks the internal threats that can be just as damaging. A true Zero Trust framework should operate on the principle that no user or device, internal or external, can be trusted without continuous verification.

Simply put, relying on perimeter defences alone leaves a major security gap. Zero Trust requires the constant validation of all users, devices, and applications, ensuring that access is only granted based on strict identity verification and not merely location or network presence.

 

Insufficient Monitoring of SaaS Applications

One of the most overlooked aspects of cybersecurity in a Zero Trust model is the monitoring of SaaS applications. Many businesses underestimate the risk associated with these cloud-based services, often neglecting to enforce proper access controls and monitoring for potential vulnerabilities.

Without continuous oversight of these applications, cybercriminals can exploit gaps in security, gaining access to sensitive data. A strong Zero Trust approach includes ongoing monitoring and strict access controls across all SaaS platforms to protect critical information and prevent breaches.

 

Failure to Integrate Security Across Systems

Zero Trust frameworks often fail when organisations treat their security systems as isolated silos rather than an interconnected ecosystem. When different security tools and systems don’t work together, it creates gaps that hackers can exploit.

To be effective, Zero Trust requires a coordinated defence strategy where tools and systems are integrated and work together to provide comprehensive protection. By aligning all security systems within the organisation, businesses can create a unified front, minimising vulnerabilities and ensuring that their Zero Trust framework functions as intended.

Zero Trust is a powerful concept, but its effectiveness relies on implementation. Organisations need to move beyond perimeter security, prioritise SaaS application monitoring, and integrate security measures across their entire infrastructure. By addressing these common gaps, companies can build a more resilient Zero Trust framework capable of withstanding today’s sophisticated cyber threats.

Reference:

https://theconversation.com/australias-gender-pay-gap-has-hit-a-record-low-but-we-still-have-work-to-do-236894

 

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