Data Centers Security

Data Center Security

Data center security is essential for safeguarding data centers—the backbone of modern organizations. These facilities house shared IT operations and critical equipment such as routers, servers, and application delivery controllers. With sensitive data, intellectual property, and other vital information stored within, data centers are frequent targets for cyber attacks, hackers, and state-sponsored actors.

The Evolution of Data Centers and Their Security Risks

Most modern data center infrastructures have evolved from on-premises physical servers to virtualized infrastructure and cloud-based solutions. This shift means data centers, whether physical or cloud-based, are highly attractive targets for cybercrime. Top cloud vendors like Microsoft, Amazon, Google, IBM store and manage massive amounts of sensitive information, making them lucrative targets for cyber attacks.

A successful attack on a data center can cost organizations an average of $4 million. Consequently, implementing a robust security solution is crucial for preventing data breaches and other security incidents.

Why Is Cyber Security Crucial for Data Centers?

Data centers are often physical locations, making them susceptible to hardware-based attacks like those carried out by rogue devices. These devices can be introduced through insider threats, whether intentional or accidental. Employees and subcontractors pose significant risks due to their access to sensitive data and critical infrastructure. Supply chain attacks can also introduce compromised hardware.

Poorly implemented security policies and outdated security solutions leave data centers vulnerable to attacks through manipulated hardware or firmware vulnerabilities. Additionally, existing devices within the IT/OT infrastructure may contain flaws, coding errors, or incomplete testing that expose data centers to further risk.

Cloud Security Challenges

Finally, cloud data centers are becoming increasingly popular. Unauthorized personnel can potentially access cloud data centers from anywhere, increasing exposure to cyber attacks. The use of personal devices lacking proper security measures amplifies these risks. Phishing attacks, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and ransomware attacks are common threats to cloud environments.

The repercussions of a data breach extend beyond financial losses. Reputational damage can lead to significant business losses, with 36% of the total breach cost stemming from lost business opportunities.

How Rogue Devices Exploit Vulnerabilities

Rogue devices are peripherals manipulated to perform malicious actions. These devices can execute various malware attacks, including ransomware and data breaches. They exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, often bypassing security solutions that identify them as legitimate human interface devices (HIDs) like keyboards or mouse (preventing USB Attacks).

Network implants and spoofed device attacks occur on the Physical Layer (Layer 1), which traditional security tools like Network Access Control (NAC) and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) fail to monitor.

Key Features of Sepio’s Assets Risk Management

Sepio offers an advanced solution to address the unique challenges faced by modern data centers. Here are some key features:

  • Comprehensive Asset Visibility: Sepio enables the complete physical layer visibility of all connected assets on your network. This includes devices connected via USB or network interfaces.
  • Hardware-Based Risk Assessment: The platform assesses the risk associated with each hardware asset. Identifying potential vulnerabilities and threats from malicious devices (Hardware Cyber Security).
  • Real-Time Risk Management: Sepio provides robust risk management capabilities for all hardware assets. It detects and mitigates risks in real-time, ensuring your infrastructure remains secure (Asset Risk Management).
  • Detection and Mitigation of Malicious Assets: The solution detect and mitigate risks from malicious assets in enterprise environments. It covers a wide array of devices, ensuring comprehensive protection.
  • Blocking and Control Options: Sepio can block each USB port, disabling risky assets immediately upon connection. This real-time blocking capability plays a crucial role in preventing potential security breaches (Preventing USB Attacks).
  • Policy Configuration: Users can easily configure granular policies tailored to their specific needs or opt for Sepio’s default settings. These policies help manage and control the usage of USB and network interfaces effectively.
Sepio's Discovered Assets
Sepio’s Discovered Assets

The Importance of Data Center Security

As data centers transition into hybrid and cloud environments, the need for effective data security and cybersecurity solutions has never been higher. Sepio’s platform delivers unparalleled visibility, risk assessment, and real-time protection to combat emerging threats.

Ready to see how our data center security can protect your critical infrastructure? Schedule a demo today to explore real-time risk management, asset visibility, and robust protection features tailored to your organization’s needs.

Download Data Centers Solution Brief
July 24th, 2020