Attack Surface Management: Securing Corporate Networks in a Post-COVID World

Attack Surface Management: Securing Corporate Networks in a Post-COVID World

In 2024, companies are expanding into cloud platforms and software as a service (SaaS) tools at an unprecedented rate, leading to an explosion in the attack surface. As digital transformation accelerates, so does the need to secure every endpoint and connection. I recently spoke with Jess Bern, a senior analyst at Forrester, who shared insights on how attack surface management has become a non-negotiable focus for cybersecurity teams.

As more companies rely on services like Platform as a Service (PaaS) and SaaS, the challenge of defending the perimeter of the corporate network has shifted towards managing the boundaries of the cloud. This article explores why attack surface management is essential, the importance of SaaS location management, and new strategies for securing the modern digital landscape.

The Expanding Attack Surface in a Post-COVID World

With the rapid adoption of cloud-based services and remote work post-COVID, organizations now face a more complex attack surface than ever. As Bern notes, “Companies are managing endpoints across locations, devices, and users like never before, leading to greater risks if these points aren’t protected adequately.” SaaS location management is crucial to track where sensitive data and connections lie, which is especially vital for SaaS applications hosted on third-party servers outside the traditional corporate firewall.

As reliance on these hosted cloud computing solutions grows, organizations must confront risks such as:

• Increased entry points for attackers as employees access corporate networks from diverse devices and networks.
• Vulnerable third-party services that provide opportunities for attackers to gain access to sensitive data.
• Unsecured access points due to outdated or misconfigured systems and a lack of central control over SaaS environments.

Key Security Measures: From Zero Trust to New Security Tools

To effectively manage and secure the attack surface, cybersecurity experts are increasingly focusing on zero trust principles, a method that demands verification of every connection regardless of its origin. Zero trust has gained traction post-COVID, as traditional network perimeters become irrelevant in cloud environments. As Bern explained, “Zero trust essentially redefines perimeter defense—it brings security closer to the data by enforcing strict controls over who can access what, and from where.”

To defend this perimeter of the cloud boundary, companies should consider these strategies:

1. Enforce Zero Trust Network Access

Zero trust network access (ZTNA) is now a foundation for secure cloud use. This strategy mandates secure access controls, ensuring that each user or device is vetted continuously.

2. Implement Attack Surface Management Tools

Organizations are turning to attack surface management tools, which offer continuous monitoring and proactive threat detection. Tools like Keepnet Labs’ Phishing Simulator and Threat Intelligence help identify weak points, assess potential threats, and actively manage risks across diverse digital assets.

3. Prioritize Security Awareness Training

Employees remain a critical line of defense against cyber threats. Security awareness programs, like Keepnet Labs’ Security Awareness Training, educate employees on security protocols and best practices, building a human firewall that strengthens the organization’s overall defense.

The Role of SaaS Location Management in Reducing Risk

As cloud and SaaS adoption grows, location management for these applications becomes increasingly vital. Understanding where each SaaS application resides and which users are accessing it helps organizations track and mitigate risks related to data exposure and regulatory compliance. Without knowing where data resides or how it is managed, companies are vulnerable to attacks that exploit these unknowns.

Bern emphasized that “SaaS location management gives companies a clear picture of where data and applications are hosted, which can help reduce potential exposure points and ensure compliance with global data privacy regulations.” This is especially relevant in industries with strict compliance standards, like healthcare and finance, where data breaches can have severe consequences.

Proactive Vulnerability Management: The First Line of Defense

Beyond tracking access and location, vulnerability management is critical. Proactively finding and fixing vulnerabilities keeps attackers at bay, especially in complex cloud-based systems. Essential steps include:

Regular vulnerability scanning and patching: Identify and mitigate software vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them.

Ongoing employee training: Enhance knowledge of phishing attacks through tools like Keepnet Labs’ Phishing Simulator and Vishing Awareness Training.

Continuous attack surface monitoring: Implement tools to detect and manage potential threats, even as new vulnerabilities emerge across the digital ecosystem.

New Tools and Services: A Growing Need for Attack Surface Management Solutions

The recent surge in demand for attack surface management has led to the development of a new category of tools designed to monitor and protect digital assets proactively. Companies are looking beyond traditional perimeter defenses, investing in solutions that give them full visibility into the evolving risk landscape. This category includes:

• Advanced threat intelligence tools, like Keepnet Labs’ Threat Intelligence, which provide real-time data on emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
• Simulated phishing and social engineering attacks through platforms like Keepnet’s Phishing Simulator, enabling companies to identify weaknesses and train employees on handling real-world attacks.
• Comprehensive human risk management tools, such as the Keepnet Human Risk Management Platform, that allow organizations to track and manage security behaviors and improve security culture.

Wrapping Up: The Imperative of Proactive Attack Surface Management

In today’s hyper-connected world, managing the attack surface is no longer optional—it’s essential. As companies rely more on cloud-based services and SaaS applications, they must be vigilant about each digital touchpoint, from internal vulnerabilities to external services. As Jess Bern highlighted, staying one step ahead in cybersecurity requires a proactive stance that includes zero trust, location management, security awareness training, and a deep understanding of evolving threats.

With advanced tools like those from Keepnet Labs, companies can continuously monitor, manage, and respond to security risks, strengthening their cloud perimeter defenses and securing their corporate networks.

Editor's Note: This blog was updated on November 14, 2024.