PAM refers to systems and processes that manage and monitor access to critical resources by privileged users and non-human entities.
Description
Privileged Access Management (PAM) is a comprehensive approach to managing and securing access to sensitive systems and data by privileged accounts, which include both human users and non-human identities such as applications, services, and automated processes. In the context of Non-Human Identity Management, PAM is essential for controlling how non-human entities interact with critical infrastructure, databases, and applications. Non-human identities often have elevated privileges that, if compromised, can lead to significant security risks. PAM solutions typically incorporate features such as session recording, access controls, and auditing to ensure that all privileged activities are tracked and compliant with organizational policies. By implementing PAM, organizations can mitigate risks associated with these powerful accounts, facilitate the principle of least privilege, and enhance overall security posture against threats like insider attacks and credential theft. Effective PAM solutions help ensure that only authorized non-human identities can access sensitive resources, thereby protecting critical business operations.
Examples
- Automated scripts accessing databases with elevated permissions.
- Third-party applications connecting to cloud services using service accounts.
Additional Information
- PAM solutions often integrate with identity management systems.
- They can provide real-time alerting and reporting on privileged access activities.