Human versus Non-Human Character in SaaS

In the rapidly evolving landscape of SaaS security, the emphasis has traditionally been on human users. However, a critical aspect often overlooked is the management of non-human entities accessing these systems. While human-centric security measures like MFA and RBAC are well-established, non-human entities such as integrations, service accounts, and API keys present unique challenges that require attention.

Understanding Non-Human Access

Non-human access to SaaS applications can take various forms, from integrations like Calendly interfacing with calendars to data sharing between applications like SwiftPOS and Power BI. Despite being initiated by humans, these integrations and data transfers involve non-human entities that require authentication, authorization, and monitoring.

Challenges in Securing Non-Human Accounts

Securing non-human accounts is not straightforward. Each application may have its approach, leading to inconsistencies in managing these accounts. While human accounts are typically monitored for behavior anomalies, non-human accounts often operate unnoticed, accessing systems during off-peak hours and utilizing broad permissions that pose significant security risks.

Mitigating Risks Associated with Non-Human Accounts

To address these challenges, organizations must implement robust security measures tailored to non-human entities. This includes utilizing SaaS Security Posture Management (SSPM) platforms in conjunction with Identity Threat Detection & Response (ITDR) solutions to monitor and manage non-human accounts effectively.

Ensuring Comprehensive Security

Non-human accounts should receive the same level of scrutiny as human accounts, with organizations maintaining a unified inventory and applying consistent security policies. This involves restricting access based on IP addresses, avoiding broad permission sets, and implementing continuous monitoring for anomalous behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while human-centric security measures remain essential, organizations must also prioritize the security of non-human entities accessing SaaS applications. By implementing tailored security measures and leveraging advanced monitoring solutions, organizations can effectively mitigate the risks associated with non-human access, ensuring the integrity and security of their SaaS environments.