Introduction to Zero Trust
As technology advances, it’s more crucial than ever that security is enforced among all networks, systems, and devices. This is where zero trust comes from, which is a security model that authenticates everyone every time regardless of whether or not they are within the network [1]. The difference between traditional security and zero trust is that traditional security trusts any user and device within a network, while zero trust does not trust anyone/anything even if they are within the network [1]. One of the disadvantages of traditional network security systems is that they trust anyone inside the network, which means that once hackers get access to the network, they are left unchecked to have access to whatever they want [1]. Although this may have been effective at one point, it’s much harder to maintain security now with the traditional security approach, because data is often spread across multiple vendors [1]. Therefore, zero trust security offers better security which reduces costs associated with data breaches [1].
Additionally, zero trust has significant importance for sectors like federal health IT solutions, where sensitive patient data must continuously be protected. Furthermore, a zero-trust approach is even more essential in healthcare due to the complexity of healthcare systems and medical devices [2]. Overall, by leveraging zero trust, organizations can enhance authentication and authorization processes, ensuring that only trusted users and devices access critical systems, devices, and data.
Zero Trust Enforces Strict Verification Policies
One of the core components of zero trust is the emphasis on continuous authentication and authorization. This is different from traditional security methods which often just rely on users inputting a static password once or granting access to users and devices depending on whether their location is within the network. However, with zero trust, every attempt to access data is authenticated and authorized, simply because there is zero trust regarding whether or not the user or device has the authority to access sensitive systems and data. Furthermore, zero trust also considers the user’s identity, what the user is requesting access to, where they’re requesting access from, and the overall context of their request. This means that even if an attacker gains access from a trusted location, they will still need to go through an extensive verification process.
In sectors like government health technology and federal health IT solutions, this policy is crucial to protecting sensitive patient data. For instance, VA health IT contracts require compliance with rigorous standards so that veterans’ health records are protected. Zero trust helps to mitigate the risks of data breaches and unauthorized access. This is also important due to workers who access systems remotely or from unsecured locations. Essentially, zero trust ensures that only authorized personnel and users access data.
Zero Trust Reduces Reliance on Traditional Security Networks
Traditional security networks often overlook potential insider threats. This is because they assume that any device within the network or in the appropriate location can be trusted. However, this often leads to security breaches because hackers can easily get past traditional security measures and then don’t have additional authorization and authentication processes that they need to get past. Therefore, zero trust is crucial because it acknowledges and prepares for threats within the network. This enforces a model of authenticating and authorizing users and devices regardless of whether or not they are within the network.
In the context of DHA digital transformation initiatives, adopting zero trust practices ensures that healthcare professionals within federal agencies adhere to protecting sensitive patient data. For instance, each user, whether a contractor or a provider, is only granted access to relevant information needed to perform their duties. Furthermore, zero trust ensures that any changes to permissions are made in real-time, which reduces the possibilities of cyberattacks, and ensures that even if a hacker accesses a part of the network, they won’t be able to access everything without additional authentication and authorization.
Importance of Transitioning to Zero Trust
Zero trust technology presents a crucial shift toward true authentication and authorization, which is crucial for sectors like federal health IT and government healthcare. By implementing zero trust, healthcare providers can ensure compliance with various regulations that protect patient data, and can reduce security risks compared to traditional security models. As cyber threats continue to advance, zero trust provides a proactive approach that decreases vulnerabilities and ensures that everyone works toward protecting sensitive patient data.
HITS
HITS provides healthcare management services & works with doctors to develop health informatics tools that promote safe and secure care. We take pride in our services and settle for nothing other than 100% quality solutions for our clients. Having the right team assist with data sharing is crucial to encouraging collaborative and secure care. If you’re looking for the right team, HITS is it! You can reach out to us directly at info@healthitsol.com. Check out this link if you’re interested in having a 15-minute consultation with us: https://bit.ly/3RLsRXR.
References
- https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/security/glossary/what-is-zero-trust/
- https://healthtechmagazine.net/article/2024/07/how-implement-zero-trust-without-disrupting-clinical-workflows
