Enhancing Security: The Synergy of Privileged Access Governance (PAG) and Privileged Access Management (PAM)

Effectively managing privileged accounts is critical. For Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), integrating Privileged Access Governance (PAG) with Privileged Access Management (PAM) offers a comprehensive strategy for securing sensitive data and systems. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the interplay between PAG and PAM, examines the regulatory drivers for their adoption, and discusses how these solutions strengthen your organization’s security posture.

The Critical Interplay between Privileged Access Governance and Privileges Access Management

Privileged Access Management (PAM) plays an essential role in controlling and monitoring access to critical systems and data. It ensures that privileged accounts are used both appropriately and securely. However, PAM alone may not fully address all aspects of privileged account security. To achieve complete security efficiency, precise control over who accesses these systems is necessary. Here, Privileged Access Governance (PAG) significantly enhances PAM by adding layers of oversight and governance. Throughout the lifecycle of privileged accounts, consistent tracking is essential to identify and address any policy violations, thereby preventing the emergence of orphaned accounts that could pose security risks. Implement workflows for approval and remediation is important to ensure any issues with privileged accounts are promptly addressed. Regular reconciliations should also be conducted to verify that users maintain only the access rights necessary for their roles, thereby enhancing overall security.
Together, PAG and PAM provide a holistic approach to security, addressing both operational control and strategic oversight.

Regulatory Imperatives for PAG and PAM

Numerous regulations mandate stringent management of privileged accounts to protect sensitive information and ensure accountability. Key regulations include:

1. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Requires measures to protect personal data, including secure management of privileged access.
2. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Mandates strict access controls for healthcare data.
3. Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX): Imposes requirements on financial institutions to safeguard financial data integrity.
4. Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS): Demands rigorous controls to protect cardholder data.

PAG is designed to meet these regulatory requirements by providing comprehensive governance over privileged access, ensuring compliance through detailed audit trails, regular access reviews, and continuous monitoring.

10 Best Practices for Implementing PAG with PAM:

1. Adopt a Zero Trust Model: Assume no one is trusted by default and continuously verify all access requests.
2. Manage Access and Entitlements in Multi-Cloud/Hybrid IT: Consider all IaaS access as privileged access
3. Implement Access Reviews and Recertification: Manage access dynamically across employee transitions and regularly align privileges with job requirements..
4. Implement Approval Workflows: Align privileged access grants with identity governance policies.
5. Continuous Monitor and Audit: Track privileged account activities in real time to detect and respond to anomalies.
6. Optimize costs and productivity: Establish consistent Access-Governance Processes, eliminate redundant tasks, and reduce unnecessary expenses (like unnecessary license fees_.
7. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen security with multiple verification methods for privileged accounts.
8. Simplify Compliance and Governance: Centralize policy and administration to facilitate compliance with regulations.
9. Streamline User Experience: Simplify the user experience by consolidating access management tools.
10. Regular Training and Awareness: Educate employees on the importance of PAG and best security practices.

Using Privileged Access Management (PAM) technologies in conjunction with a Privileged Access Governance (PAG) platform helps organizations ensure all privileged users gain and maintain the appropriate level of access. This integrated approach not only enhances security but also ensures compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. By leveraging advanced solutions like those offered by WALLIX, CISOs can effectively safeguard sensitive information, mitigate risks, and demonstrate a commitment to robust cybersecurity practices.

For more information on how WALLIIX can help your organization implement effective PAG and PAM solutions, visit WALLIX PAM & WALLIX PAG