Security experts emphasize the importance of continuously analyzing and protecting the attack surface in order to prevent cyberattacks. This involves keeping track of all assets that are accessible via the internet, such as IoT devices, cloud-based infrastructure, web applications, and firewalls. As the number of connected assets increases, so does the risk of potential cyber threats.
The dynamic nature of the external attack surface poses a significant challenge for security professionals. They must constantly monitor which assets are accessible online and stay informed about any security vulnerabilities that may arise. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) need to have a keen understanding of potential weaknesses and misconfigurations and have a team in place to address any identified threats effectively.
However, the sheer complexity of the attack surface raises the question of where to begin securing the IT infrastructure. Effective protection requires a multi-tiered approach to External Attack Surface Management (EASM), which involves assessing the actual risks posed by vulnerabilities. This iterative process can be broken down into four key steps.
The first step in EASM is to identify and classify all assets that are connected to the internet. This task can be particularly challenging for larger organizations with multiple subsidiaries and a growing shadow IT presence. Shadow IT refers to unauthorized software applications or cloud services used by employees without the knowledge or approval of the IT department. To gain a comprehensive overview of all relevant assets, security professionals must regularly conduct automated scans of the external attack surface. This process goes beyond traditional asset discovery and vulnerability scanning to uncover any overlooked areas of potential risk.
In addition to identifying all assets, EASM also involves categorizing them and assigning them to the appropriate business units or subsidiaries within the organization. This ensures that security measures are tailored to the specific needs of each department. Furthermore, EASM strategies aim to address “blind spots” in the attack surface, such as forgotten cloud assets or obsolete and poorly configured IT and IoT infrastructure.
By taking a proactive approach to External Attack Surface Management, organizations can better safeguard their IT assets and minimize the risk of cyberattacks. Regular monitoring and assessment of the attack surface allow security teams to stay ahead of potential threats and respond quickly to any vulnerabilities that may emerge. Ultimately, a comprehensive EASM strategy is essential for maintaining a secure and resilient IT infrastructure in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.