Guy Hawkridge
Head of IT Security
October 10, 2024
- Zero trust is a security mindset and methodology which assumes that everything is a threat.
- Security threats are ever changing. Zero Trust methodology states the safest way to protect your business is to restrict all user access to essential access only.
- Internal IT can rapidly detect and respond to cybersecurity threats.
From podcast to blog – in our first written instalment of Simplified Complexity we break down what is meant by Zero Trust security.
Despite not being a new concept, Zero Trust security is highly relevant in today’s hybrid working environment. Indeed, the US National Security Agency/Central Security Service (NSA/CSS) recently released guidelines that recommend adopting Zero Trust security models. Additionally, a global survey conducted by Statista found 42% of respondents have plans to adopt a Zero Trust strategy, while 72% have already done so or will do in the future. Making Zero Trust a useful term to get your head around.
What is Zero Trust Security?
The basic principle of Zero Trust security is to trust nothing at face value and to verify everything that can be. Zero Trust security architecture assumes that a breach is inevitable or has already occurred or has likely already occurred. So, it constantly limits access to only what is needed and looks for anomalous or malicious activity.
The core principles of Zero Trust
- Verify Explicitly– Everything should be authenticated and authorised based on all available data points including; user identity, location and device.
- Limited Access – Ensure only users who need access, have access. Minimise access to Just Enough Access (JEA).
- Assume Breach – Minimise breach radius and reduce movement by segmenting access. Verify end-to-end encryption and use analytics to get visibility, drive threat detection, and improve defences.
Where should Zero Trust be applied?
Enterprises can achieve Zero Trust by verifying every user, validating every device, and limiting access. It should be implemented as close to the source of attacks as possible. Solving this challenge is simple, applying Zero Trust on every potentially risky activity on the employee’s computer, focusing on the highest-risk actions. These include actions that are most susceptible at that point in time. Learn more about the current threats circulating the digital landscape in our summary of the HP Wolf Security Threats Insights 2024 Report.
One example of a security solution that incorporates Zero Trust principles is HP Sure Click Enterprise offered in HP’s Wolf Enterprise Security portfolio. HP Wolf Security applies application, isolation, and capability to eliminate threats and prevent attackers from accessing sensitive information even if they comprise the device. Click here to learn more about Zero Trust with HP Wolf Enterprise Security
Why is Zero Trust Important?
While it’s great the pandemic accelerated many organisations digital transformation, it meanwhile resulted in increased cybercrime. Thus, since 2020, cyber-attacks have risen by 400%. Utilising Zero Trust security is advantageous in reducing the pressure on system and organisation controls (SOCs) and incident response by removing most malware before it can infect the device. This ensures fewer alerts, less device remediation and amplified user productivity, all while saving you the time and money that would have otherwise been spent on detection and response.
How does Zero Trust Security benefit businesses and organisations?
- Improves and strengthens your security procedures.
- Cost and time-effective.
- Does not impact employees’ productivity or workflows.
- Reduces pressure on security operations.
- Adapts to changing, modern threats.
- Can be built from existing implementations for smooth implantation.
In conclusion, Zero Trust security is what it says on the tin. A modern, adaptable, and efficient approach to address the ongoing challenges of security in our current technological environment.
For more information download the Zero Trust with HP Wolf Enterprise Security white paper.
DOWNLOADCybersecurity FAQs
What is a Zero Trust security model and how to implement it?
The Zero Trust Security Model is a cybersecurity framework that operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” This assumes that threats could be both external and internal, meaning that no user or device should be trusted by default. To implement, identify gaps in protection by evaluating current security measures. Identify critical assets and how users interact with these. Monitor for suspicious behaviour, respond to instances as they occur.
Common cybersecurity threats and how to mitigate them?
The most common and dangerous cybersecurity threats are Phishing, Ransomware Attacks, Insider Threats and Data breaches. You can mitigate these cybersecurity attacks by implementing solutions such as Zero Trust security models, endpoint protection, and automated threat detection.
What is endpoint security and why is it important?
Endpoint security refers to the practice of securing end-user devices (endpoints) from cyber threats. End-user devices act as entry points for attacks, making them prime targets for hackers looking to exploit vulnerabilities. Endpoint security solutions protect these devices by detecting and preventing malicious activities in real time, ensuring that every endpoint remains a secure part of your network.
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