Identity threat detection and response (ITDR) is becoming a crucial aspect of cybersecurity as organizations increasingly rely on remote workers and cloud-based applications. With more business-critical data accessible outside the traditional network perimeter, the risk of data breaches due to stolen credentials and compromised accounts is on the rise. According to the “2023 ForgeRock Identity Breach Report,” unauthorized access accounted for 49% of all data breaches.
To address this growing concern, organizations can consider adopting ITDR as part of their overall cybersecurity strategy. ITDR is a deployable tool or cybersecurity strategy that aims to improve security around identity-focused infrastructure. It includes products and strategies that identify, analyze, quarantine, and eliminate or remediate suspicious activity targeting identity systems. By identifying vulnerabilities on the attack surface before attacks occur, ITDR helps organizations protect their identity-based systems.
The adoption of ITDR varies based on the maturity and size of an organization’s security team. However, there are some common actions that organizations should consider when implementing ITDR. These actions include analyzing and correcting current permissions and configurations, implementing multifactor authentication (MFA), deploying privileged access management (PAM), monitoring platforms like Microsoft Active Directory (AD), detecting potential identity threats in real time, and remediating security gaps and misconfigurations.
Organizations should adopt ITDR because it complements their existing identity and access management (IAM) frameworks. While IAM policies and procedures control user access to applications and data, they do not completely address identity challenges. ITDR provides visibility into possible misuse of credentials and escalation of privilege activities. It also helps identify and prevent or remediate security gaps introduced by IAM and PAM implementations.
ITDR can also complement endpoint detection and response (EDR) deployments. While EDR tools monitor endpoints for cyber threats, ITDR tools monitor user activity and access management logs. By examining identity systems for possible attacks and isolating affected systems, ITDR enhances overall threat detection and incident response capabilities.
However, there are challenges associated with ITDR adoption. ITDR tools and strategies can strain an organization’s IT budget. Therefore, organizations must carefully evaluate vendor offerings and select a tool that aligns with their requirements. It is also important to obtain senior management buy-in and establish formal programs to ensure the successful implementation of ITDR capabilities. Regular review of system logs and performance-related records is crucial to ensure that the ITDR system is working effectively.
To establish an ITDR strategy and program, organizations should build upon their existing IAM policies and procedures. Deploying tools and strategies that detect misconfigurations and enhance IAM enforcement can make the overall ITDR program more effective. Continuous threat monitoring for suspicious account activity, integrated with an existing security information and event management (SIEM) system, is another important step. This integration allows for timely alerts and automated responses to mitigate threats.
Organizations should also develop an incident response plan specifically tailored to address identity-based threats. This plan should outline how to handle stolen credentials, account takeover, and privilege escalation incidents. Additionally, organizations should invest in employee training and awareness programs to educate users on how to spot and respond to suspicious identity-related activity.
In conclusion, as organizations navigate the challenges of remote work and cloud-based applications, identity has become the latest perimeter in cybersecurity. Adopting ITDR as part of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy can help organizations protect their identity-based systems and effectively respond to identity-related threats. By implementing ITDR tools and strategies, organizations can enhance their overall threat detection and incident response capabilities, ultimately safeguarding their valuable data.