Managing Third-Party Access Risks in Critical Infrastructure

Executive Summary

The rise of external users in critical infrastructure is presenting unrecognized risks and challenges for organizations. As suppliers, contractors, and research partners become integral to operations, outdated identity and access management (IAM) systems are leading to security gaps and operational inefficiencies. With nearly half of all users being external and a reliance on multiple cloud applications, it's critical for businesses to adapt their IAM strategies to safeguard sensitive data effectively.

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Key Insights

The Growing Role of External Users

• External users now constitute almost 50% of those accessing enterprise systems, highlighting a shift in user demographics.
• This expansion complicates access management, as many organizations still primarily focus on internal employees and customers.

Challenges with Current IAM Systems

• Existing IAM frameworks are often improvised, outdated, or too rigid to accommodate new complexities.
• Such limitations can result in significant security vulnerabilities and compliance risks in critical infrastructure settings.

Reliance on Cloud Applications

• Organizations in critical infrastructure rely on an average of 90 cloud applications, leading to more points of access for potential threats.
• Over 60% of data within these applications is sensitive, making rigorous access management imperative for protecting vital information.

Navigating the New Identity Landscape

• The evolving identity landscape necessitates a rethinking of IAM strategies to incorporate the unique needs of external users.
• Adaptation is key to minimizing risks and ensuring the secure operation of critical infrastructure.

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