Zero Trust Devices are critical in the Zero Trust Security (ZTS) paradigm, which fundamentally shifts the traditional approach to network security. Rather than assuming that entities within the network are trustworthy, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.”
Federal agencies and the nation’s critical infrastructure—such as energy, transportation systems, communications, and financial services—depend on IT systems to carry out operations and process essential data. But the risks to these IT systems are increasing, including insider threats from witting or unwitting employees, escalating and emerging threats from around the globe, and the emergence of new and more destructive attacks. As part of a robust cybersecurity strategy, organizations must secure their Zero Trust Devices to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate threats at the hardware level.
Addressing Supply Chain Risks and Hardware Security
As per GAO’s recommendation, establishing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy and performing effective oversight with regards to mitigation of global supply chain risks and possible malicious hardware is of the utmost importance, further emphasized by section 889(b) directive. Tackling this challenge requires complete visibility into Zero Trust Devices and hardware assets, regardless of their characteristics and the interface used for connection. Attackers take advantage of security “blind” spots, often through Human Interface Device (HID) bad USB devices or physical-layer network implants. These challenges are also addressed by the Comply-to-Connect framework and various Zero Trust Devices security guidelines.
Enhancing Security with Hardware-Based Zero Trust Devices
Implementing Zero Trust Security and securing your network assets at the hardware layer by using a field-proven solution developed by Sepio will be the first step in strengthening your cybersecurity posture. A Zero Trust Security Platform ensures that only authorized Zero Trust Devices operate within your infrastructure, mitigating supply chain risks and preventing hardware-based cyber threats.
Key Challenges in Zero Trust Security
Total visibility is required to account for all of the agencies’ IT/OT/IoT assets – Knowing what you have, verifying what you own and only then trusting it. Spoofed devices, physical layer implants, “hiding” in the physical layer, or impersonating as legitimate devices while sharing the same logical identification are hard to identify using existing technology. Rogue wireless access points, which can be exploited for attacks both in enterprise environments and remote work setups, further highlight the importance of securing Zero Trust Devices at the hardware level.
Zero Trust Hardware Access
Sepio’s Zero Trust Security Platform uses a unique algorithm based on physical-layer fingerprinting, augmented by Machine Learning techniques. This approach allows Sepio to discover and report all devices—including rogue and unauthorized Zero Trust Devices—enforce usage policies, deliver Zero Trust Risk Insights, and provide device scoring, all within the framework of Zero Trust Security.
By enabling organizations to gain full visibility into their Zero Trust Devices, a stronger cybersecurity posture and true Zero Trust Hardware Access (ZTHA) methodology can be achieved, with key highlights such as:
- Asset visibility
- Policy management
- Device risk scoring
- Risk insights & actionable playbook
- Embedded Device Threat intelligence database
- Extensive device hunting, IR & Forensic features
- Fully integrated with popular orchestration & automation products
Main Benefits of Sepio’s Zero Trust Security Platform
Complete Visibility of All Devices
With all devices and anomalies detected, enterprises benefit from an improved overall cybersecurity posture. Gaining full visibility into all Zero Trust Devices, from endpoint peripherals to connected IT/OT/IoT devices, Sepio leverages unique physical-layer visibility and hardware fingerprinting technology to enhance security in line with Zero Trust Security principles.
Full Control Through Predefined Policies
Enterprise-wide policies ensure compliance with regulations and industry best practices. With predefined templates, no baselining or whitelisting requirements, and no need for a clean environment start, Sepio provides fast and easy implementation for securing Zero Trust Devices.
Rogue Device Mitigation (RDM)
Threat mitigation upon the discovery of rogue or threatening devices is a critical aspect of Zero Trust Security. Integrations with existing security platforms such as NACs and SOARs for mitigation and remediation enhancements.
Gain Control Over Your Zero Trust Devices and Mitigate Risks
Take control of your hardware security with Sepio’s patented technology. Gain full visibility, enforce Zero Trust Security Platform policies, and prevent rogue device threats before they compromise your organization.
Schedule a Demo today and see how Sepio can safeguard your IT network.
Read the Zero Trust Hardware Access Solution Brief (pdf)