Insights into the Vital Role of Data Security Posture Management

3 min read
(February 1, 2024)

In a recent discussion between Yotam Segev, Co-founder and CEO of Cyera, and Dorene Rettas, Co-Founder for Cyber Security Tribe, the conversation explored the complex challenges and innovative solutions necessary to protect digital assets in today's data-driven business landscape. The volume of data generated, consumed, copied, and stored is projected to reach more than 180 zettabytes by 2025, an increase of 181.25% since 2020, providing a daunting task for organizations to manage. 


Highlighting the Data Security Challenge

Rettas set the stage by highlighting recent discussions with CISOs that focused on the amount of 'scattered' data within organizations. Many security leaders have spoken of business units moving at such a pace that makes it difficult to know what data they have, who has access and where it's moving. Without a proper classification and tagging framework in place, it opens up significant vulnerabilities and manual processes simply don't work. 

Understanding the Data Landscape

The discussion revealed a crucial need for a comprehensive understanding of the organizational data landscape. Segev discussed the transformative potential of automated discovery and contextualization. This approach not only speeds up processes but also facilitates accurate, data-focused conversations across different business units, enhancing the effectiveness of data security efforts.

He emphasized the challenges associated with inventorying and comprehending the vast and constantly evolving data landscape. With data growing exponentially, it has become essential to leverage advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to manage this overwhelming amount of information. The importance of automatic discovery and contextualization, which can accelerate data understanding and fortification across enterprises was emphasized.

Role of Data Security Posture Management (DSPM)

The pair discussed the vital role of Data Security Posture Management (DSPM). Going beyond traditional detection methods, DSPM emerged as a guiding light, providing a comprehensive view of data and enabling professionals to effectively identify and address risks. This represents a paradigm shift in cybersecurity strategies.

DSPM plays a crucial role in delivering comprehensive data visibility and control. It goes beyond detection by offering context-driven insights, empowering cybersecurity professionals to proactively address risks and align security strategies with evolving threat landscapes.

Addressing Alert Fatigue and ZTNA Integration

The pervasive challenge of alert fatigue across security operations in the industry was reviewed. In this context, it became imperative for security solutions to not only decrease the number of alerts but also provide them with contextual information and this enhancement enables security teams to optimize resource allocation by focusing on the most crucial data vulnerabilities.

The conversation explored the deep connection between Data Security and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), with a focus on the role of data within these frameworks. This perspective signifies a shift, spotlighting the need for a meticulous and comprehensive approach to understand and fortify data—an aspect that has often been overlooked in previous security frameworks.

Segev accentuated the integration of Data Security with ZTNA architectures. Data's critical role within ZTNA can't be overlooked and the conversation underscored the need for a comprehensive understanding and protection of data—a pivotal factor frequently missed in traditional security paradigms.

Streamlining Implementation and Future-proofing Strategies

Addressing administrative concerns around implementing new security solutions, the dialogue focused on the significance of seamless deployment and configuration. Streamlining these operational intricacies, the conversation heralded a transformative era where resources are redirected towards strategic risk mitigation.

Ultimately the need to know what data you have, who is accessing your data and where it’s moving is critical in today’s environment. At one time, blocking data was the biggest concern, but internal data is the most valuable asset. The need to have full visibility into all interactions with it and safeguard that data has become critical for all organizations. Regardless of size or industry, data is the at risk. Whether through insiders or external threats, having better controls in place is necessary. 

In essence, the conversation encapsulated a pivotal shift in cybersecurity's focus— from shielding infrastructure to prioritizing an all-encompassing understanding and fortification of data. These insights underscored the critical integration of advanced solutions within the security ecosystem, propelling enterprises towards resilience and competitive excellence in an increasingly data-centric future.