AI and human behavior demand zero trust security measures now

TLDR:

• Zero Trust security approach requires continuous verification of identity and authorization for every access attempt.
• AI and machine learning play a key role in enhancing Zero Trust security.

Chris Novak, Senior Director at Verizon Cyber Security Consulting, highlights the significance of adopting the Zero Trust security approach to address human vulnerabilities in cybersecurity. The Biden administration’s National Cybersecurity Strategy emphasizes the need to mitigate cyber threats due to geographically dispersed and complex systems.

The Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report identifies the human element in breaches, emphasizing the critical need for Zero Trust security measures. The report highlights the need for monitoring and controlling access to sensitive data and systems with stringent access controls and continuous verification.

Ashish Khanna, Senior Director at Verizon, discusses the challenges in transitioning to a Zero Trust model and the importance of understanding application vulnerabilities. The report recommends establishing a baseline of current capabilities, mapping potential risks, and assessing maturity levels for successful Zero Trust implementation.

AI-driven solutions can authenticate and authorize users based on behavior and contextual factors, allowing access only when necessary. Khanna emphasizes the role of AI in enhancing automation for cybersecurity objectives, such as automated penetration testing to validate identities.

By integrating Zero Trust, AI, and comprehensive training, organizations can fortify their cybersecurity defenses, reducing the risk of breaches due to human factors and enhancing overall security posture.