How to Have A Zero Trust Security Model?

2019 could be in the record books for the number of cyber crimes that took place. There were constant headlines of ransomware, malware, trojans and phishing incidents. The businesses of all sizes suffered severely.

Businesses of all sizes are suffered severely. The cybercrimes are only increasing in frequency, revenue impact and sophistication every day.

If you remember last spring when a new strain of ransomware called RobbinHood hit the data networks in Baltimore resulted in network downtime — it cost the firm approximately $18.2 million in revenue. Juniper Research has found that cybercrime has resulted in a minimum $2 Trillion damage in the last five years. 

In this scenario, not having enough knowledge about your network security equates to extreme risk. Whether you’re an IT developer, business owner, or someone who can be potentially impacted by cybercrime, you must have at least a cursory understanding of cybersecurity.

3 Approaches to Adopt the Zero Trust Security Model

Admitting that you’re vulnerable is the first step to resolving the problem. Our capabilities to defend against cybercrime are also improving in 2020. Organizations these days are spending more on advanced security strategies to safeguard against sophisticated threats.

One such strategy is “Zero Trust,” which incorporates technology, services, people, processes into a cohesive approach. It includes multiple layers of defence and commits to the concept called “never trust, always verify.”

Zero trust means that granting no access to the organization’s network without verification. This type of security approach is essential to save your company from advanced security threats.

Four core tenants in this approach can help you implement a Zero Trust security model. We’ve discussed them below:

Physical Security

Physical security adds the first layer of defence. The physical data center, whether on-premises or in the cloud, is the epicentre of customer data. This is also the primary defence against cyber theft.

It would be best if you gave equal priority to all data centers that you or your cloud service provider is managing.

Apply consistent security standards across all physical assets. This includes active monitoring and controlling access to all facilities. We can prepare an approved access list. Plus, secure environmental elements such as power, cooling, and fire suppression.

Logical Security

Logical security comprises of different layers of technical configurations and software. It helps in creating a secure and stable foundation.

You can apply logical security to the network, storage and hypervisor layers and aim to find as much as possible support throughout each layer. Also, be sure to consult with your cloud provider ahead of time and make sure your logical security is appropriately handled.

Understanding Processes

If the people managing the system don’t understand how to work within the controls and measures made to protect the systems, the solution will ultimately fail.

Quite simply, you wouldn’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a home security system, but then leave the keys to your house on the front door.

Employee background checks, security and compliance training, regular access reviews, annual penetration testing against your infrastructure, and frequent patching schedules for all systems — these are key to having the right process in place.

Embrace the Zero Trust Security Model

In 2019, there were several malicious insiders taking advantage of valid credentials and posing significant damage to the companies. These all seems to grow daily, which is why companies want to adopt Zero Trust strategies.

A Zero Trust strategy in your organization can reduce many of the vulnerabilities that are left behind by technology implementations. As we get into 2020, it’s essential to acknowledge that cybercrime will only increase in numbers, impact and sophistication. 

At GRIP I.T., we can help you with a Zero Trust strategy approach that matches your current I.T. environment. Do you want to know more about the Zero Trust security model and how we can help your company? Get in touch with our team.