In the realm of cybersecurity, the ability to recognize patterns and interpret them correctly has always been crucial. This holds true even more so in the world of Software as a Service (SaaS), where identity is defined by access credentials.
Imagine a scenario where someone gains access to a Vice President of Sales’ credentials within an organization. Suddenly, that individual has the power and privileges of the VP Sales, and any actions taken using those credentials are attributed to the VP Sales. However, it could be anyone behind the screen – from the VP Sales themselves to a disgruntled employee or even a malicious threat actor.
The key to unraveling the truth behind identities and their intentions lies within the data access patterns of SaaS applications. By analyzing audit logs that track interactions with the application and its assets, security professionals can uncover patterns and anomalies that may indicate threats.
One common problematic pattern is that of the “That’s a problem?” user. These individuals may unknowingly engage in risky behavior such as excessive sharing of sensitive information or logging in from suspicious locations. In such cases, real-time education and remediation can help mitigate these risks.
On the other end of the spectrum are users who are fully aware of security risks but choose to ignore them, known as the “Oh, come on – nothing’s going to happen” user. Mitigation strategies for these individuals involve undoing their actions and sending them security education messages that emphasize compliance with safety principles.
Moving on to more malicious threat actors, the “Let’s take advantage” user is someone who seeks to exploit their access for personal gain. Their data access patterns may include exporting large amounts of sensitive data or sharing it with external parties. Business contextual information can help differentiate between the genuine user and an imposter who has acquired access credentials.
Lastly, there are users categorized as the “They’ll be sorry” user, whose actions are driven by revenge or retaliation. These individuals may delete data assets, modify them unexpectedly, or share sensitive information publicly. Rapid detection and reaction are essential in dealing with such users, along with alerting relevant teams like InfoSec and HR.
By identifying these distinct user profiles through their data access patterns and responding appropriately, organizations can significantly enhance their SaaS security posture. Utilizing tools to collect and analyze data access information is vital in staying one step ahead of potential threats in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
In conclusion, deciphering end user data access patterns is key to maintaining a strong SaaS security posture in today’s digital age. By understanding the various profiles of users and their behaviors, organizations can proactively safeguard their systems and data from potential risks.