The rapid adoption of hybrid work environments has led to an endpoint explosion as businesses accelerate access to applications and resources for remote workforces. With 20% of companies reporting a security breach due to a remote worker, burgeoning endpoints represent a clear and present danger to hybrid enterprise security. The rise in incidents is due to three emergent realities of the hybrid workplace:
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Unmonitored user access to critical data
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Insufficient remote management and protection infrastructure
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Lack of workforce training
Simple, comprehensive measures to consolidate endpoints across the organization – from central management to perimeter entry – can minimize intrusions and address crises efficiently. Here are actions to take across the three areas to fortify your systems against unsecured user vectors and manage the endpoint explosion.
Visibility and authentication: securing user access at the perimeter
Security measures at points of user entry are the first line of defense. Consistent and effective Identity and Access Management (IAM) relies on clear vision of all processes, access attempts, and transparent authentication procedures, such as:
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Mapping all endpoints into core systems. Administrators need to have a comprehensive view of active entry points at all times. Endpoints per user can be limited to prevent access attempts from unregistered devices
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Standardizing collaboration and communication software. Fewer platforms simplify security protocol formulation, streamline attack adaptation measures, and accelerate the location of data breaches
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Training AI to reject recurring phishing and other attack patterns. AI security programs learn with every attempted intrusion, freeing human labor to devise contingencies for faster response times
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Implementing secure password policies. Prevent common password weaknesses and mistakes with standardized practices, and enforce regular password changes
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Consolidating Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) software. Deploy a single MFA mechanism for all users at every level. Fragmented deployments of different software products complicate security practices for each type
Consider centralized deployment of cloud-native solutions like Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) software, which provides integrated connectivity and security based on user identity and access history. Many solutions offer data analytics and process visibility, easing administration and maintenance.
Detection and response: identifying and expelling intrusions
Tracking access traffic within your data architecture prevents successful intrusions from proceeding further. Security measures based on Zero Trust principles and centralized oversight of internal processes maximize the chance of early detection and expulsion. Actions to take include:
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Establishing challenge points at every resource directory. Continuous authentication pressure maximizes the chance of detecting intruders unfamiliar with internal security protocols
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Compartmentalizing traffic through Active Directories and AD forests. Flag entry attempts by users to resource domains outside their purview
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Classifying data and restricting employee access based on credential security levels. Alert administrators when attempts to access data beyond a user’s security clearance are detected
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Automating responses with Network Detection and Response (NDR) software. The compromised endpoint must be located and fortified against similar attacks, while NDR software hunts down and expels the threat. Post-attack analytics can capture learnings and drive protocol adjustments
Training and education: instituting workforce vigilance
CISOs report 58% of employees do not follow access security guidelines and procedures. Enforcing security compliance within the workforce is a vital component to balance accessibility with security. Leaders should focus on measures to enhance stakeholder communication and cohesion, such as:
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Reframing security as an enterprise-wide concern in communications at all organizational levels, emphasizing remote worker training
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Issuing security warnings and reminders at every stage of data access and processes
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Creating direct channels to administrators and security teams, with the provision of specialist guidance as and when incidents occur
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Simulating frequent user interactions with security systems from perimeter to directory. Identify common points of user error to design automated contingency procedures and tailor education efforts
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Improving technical staff soft skills to better communicate and collaborate with employees regarding security best practices
Once effective remote management practices have been implemented, tighten HR protocols and policies for working from home, remote collaboration, and asynchronous input. Accountability for security compliance should only be passed to employees after company due diligence has been conducted.
Fortifying all your endpoints is a major undertaking, and it’s easy to miss crucial aspects unique to your enterprise. Expert advisory is recommended for effective and customized endpoint security.
Overwhelmed by the endpoint explosion? Wavestone can help organize and fortify your endpoints to your security needs.
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