Principles of Zero Trust

Zero Trust (ZT) is a cybersecurity model that assumes no user, process, or system is trusted inside or outside the network. It requires rigorous, ongoing identity verification for every person and device active on a network. Its key principles include:

• Verify Identity and Access: Ensure that every user and device is authenticated and authorized before granting access. This includes using multi-factor authentication (MFA) and continuously validating identities.
• Least Privilege Access: Limit user and device access to only what is necessary for their role or function. This minimizes the potential impact of a breach by reducing the scope of access.
• Network Segmentation: Divide the network into smaller, isolated segments to contain potential threats and prevent lateral movement within the network.
• Monitor and Analyze Activity: Continuously monitor network and user activity to detect and respond to suspicious behavior. Implement robust logging and analytics to understand patterns and anomalies.
• Encrypt Data: Use encryption for data both in transit and at rest to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.
• Assume Breach: Design security measures with the assumption that breaches will occur. This includes having plans for detection, response, and recovery.
• Dynamic Access Control: Adapt access controls based on real-time risk assessments, contextual factors (like location or device state), and evolving threat landscapes.
• Comprehensive Visibility: Gain a complete view of the network and systems to understand where sensitive data is, who has access to it, and how it is being used.
• Endpoint Security: Implement strong security measures on all endpoints (e.g., computers, and mobile devices) to ensure they meet security standards before accessing network resources.
• Policy Enforcement: Develop and enforce security policies consistently across all devices, users, and applications to ensure compliance and reduce risk.

These principles should be architected and implemented through technology, process, data, and governance to provide a robust ZT security position.

DM me if you would like to discuss this in more detail.

Reference:

National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST Special Publication 800-207