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Inherent risk is more than just a concept – it’s the reality

So, whether in your personal life or business, every activity involves some level of risk, and you just have to consider it. Of course, the bigger the potential reward or value of your aim, the greater the risk usually is. Nevertheless, the main takeaway is that, regardless of the risk’s scale, it is unavoidable.

The key, then, is to learn how to manage and minimize the risks commonly associated with the activities you perform by first recognizing that these risks even exist and then understanding their magnitude. This is where the concept of inherent risk comes into play.

What is inherent risk?

In basic terms, inherent risk is the natural risk associated with any process or activity before you add any controls or safety measures. So, to measure inherent risk is to assess how risky something is on its own, without any safety nets in place. Once you recognize the scale of a given inherent risk, you can then determine how much you can reduce that risk with the appropriate controls, policies, and resources.

To measure inherent risk, an organization needs to go through a thorough process that involves risk identification (discovering activities that could pose risks) and risk evaluation (determining how serious the potential impact could be), examining the risks in their raw form. Once you’ve established this baseline, you can decide where to add new controls and policies to manage the inherent risks effectively.

Does the term “inherent audit risk” ring a bell?

If so, that’s because inherent risk is one of the key components of overall audit risk. Audit risk is a term that usually refers to the risk that the company’s financial statements can be materially misstated and the auditor fails to detect these misstatements, leading to a misleading audit opinion. Audit risk consists of three elements:

  • Detection risk: The risk that the auditor’s procedures will fail to identify a mistake in the financial statements.

  • Control risk: The risk that the company’s own controls won’t identify or prevent mistakes in its financial statements.

  • Inherent risk: The risk of mistakes caused by the nature of the business or industry before any controls are put to use.

Knowing about these risks helps auditors plan and carry out their work more effectively, so they can give a trustworthy opinion on the company’s financial statements.

Which industries have high inherent risk?

Generally speaking, industries that are heavily regulated tend to face higher inherent risks. For example, the financial services sector is quite exposed due to its need to navigate market fluctuations, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity threats. Similarly, the oil and gas industry contends with environmental regulations, geopolitical uncertainties, and various operational hazards. The IT and cybersecurity sector also grapples with rapid technological changes, intellectual property issues, and persistent cybersecurity threats.

But it’s not just these high-profile sectors. Most industries, whether it’s agriculture, travel, healthcare, or any other field, deal with their own sets of inherent risks. What’s important is to recognize these risks in your daily processes and have strategies in place to address them effectively.

Inherent risk vs. residual risk

There’s another key term in risk management that pairs with inherent risk—think of it as the yang to inherent risk’s yin—and that’s residual risk. Simply put, residual risk is the level of risk that remains after you’ve applied controls or mitigating measures. In other words, it helps you gauge how much of the inherent risk you’ve reduced or eliminated, and how much is still left to address.

So, to sum it up quickly, inherent risk is the natural level of risk before you do anything to prevent it, while residual risk is what’s left after you’ve taken steps to manage the inherent risk.

Popular inherent risk examples

Risk is part of almost everything we do, so the examples of inherent risk are practically endless. But when it comes to managing risk in a business setting, there are a few key areas that really stand out. Here are some important ones to keep an eye on:

  • Insufficient audit processes: Without thorough audits, companies may fail to identify internal weaknesses or compliance issues, putting their whole operation at risk.

  • Security incidents caused by human error: Mistakes made by employees, such as mishandling sensitive data or falling for phishing scams, can lead to significant security breaches, resulting in financial losses and damage to the company’s reputation.

  • Management’s failure to uphold operational standards: Without the right processes from management, things can get pretty disorganized. This often leads to poor-quality work, reduced productivity, and non-compliance with industry regulations.

  • Financial interactions between related businesses: The value of an asset in financial transactions between related parties, like subsidiaries or affiliates, might be reported incorrectly, leading to financial discrepancies and compliance issues.

All online activities are inherently risky

No matter what you do online, there’s always some risk involved. This is especially important for businesses to keep in mind. When you’re running a company with dozens or even hundreds of employees, all using company accounts and accessing company resources, you’re dealing with many different types of inherent risk. People make mistakes—they click on malicious links, use weak passwords, or share credentials in ways they shouldn’t (like on sticky notes or via email).

So, how can you mitigate such risks? One option is to use NordPass Enterprise. It’s more than just an encrypted password manager—it’s a cybersecurity solution that helps you manage access to company resources, enforce strong password policies across your organization, give your employees tools to securely share data, and even check if their information has been compromised in a data breach.

If you want to reduce the risks that come with modern business, give NordPass Business a try and see how it can enhance both your cybersecurity and productivity.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Understanding Censorship: Exploring Banned Social Media, Content Filtering, and Internet Access Restrictions Worldwide

Social media and communication apps form the core of how people connect, engage, and keep up-to-date in a more connected world. However, it’s not a secret that some governments were more than willing to clamp down on these platforms with reasons such as national security, public order, or cultural preservation. These can bring a great deal of inconvenience to the lives of the residents, as well as travelers, who may be cut off from familiar channels of communication and sharing information. Some of the notable banned social media platforms and apps across different countries around the world are reviewed in the following section.

1. Reddit

  • China: Reddit is blocked in China, along with many other social media platforms.
  • Iran: Reddit has faced restrictions in Iran, although users may find ways to access it via VPNs.

2. X.com (formerly Twitter)

  • Countries China, North Korea, Russia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan.
  • Reason: X.com is a real-time communication platform. Because of this, it has been instrumental in organizing protests and getting news items out quickly. For this reason, its use has been blocked by governments that strictly regulate information and freedom of speech.

3. Facebook

  • Countries: China, Russia, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan
  • Reason: Facebook is one of the biggest social networks in the world, and authoritarian governments see it as a threat because it can help people organize, spread criticism, and share information that the government doesn’t like or approve of.

4. Instagram

  • Countries: China, Russia, Myanmar, Guinea, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan
  • Reason: Instagram is more than just a place to share photos and videos; it’s where people connect, express themselves, and stay updated. But in some countries, governments block it because they’re worried about the influence of Western culture or the spread of political ideas they don’t agree with.

5. YouTube

  • Countries: China, Ethiopia, Guinea, Eritrea, Yemen, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan
  • Reason: YouTube has tons of videos, some of which can be seen as politically sensitive or not fitting with the culture in certain countries, leading these governments to ban it.

6. Telegram

  • Countries: Guinea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Oman, UAE, Iraq, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Thailand
  • Reason: Telegram is popular for its encrypted messaging and channels, which can be used to organize protests or share information anonymously, making it a target for bans in countries with strict control over communications.

7. WhatsApp

  • Countries: Myanmar, Guinea, Oman, UAE, Qatar, Iran, Turkmenistan
  • Reason: WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption and widespread use for both personal and group communication make it a common target for censorship in regions with strict communication regulations.

8. TikTok

TikTok has faced increased scrutiny and outright bans over privacy and security concerns around the world. The US Congress passed legislation, sending to the president a defense bill that could force ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, to divest from the application or face a national ban due to concerns about the app’s handling of data and its alleged links with the Chinese government, which could be utilized for espionage or other forms of surveillance. Other countries have also taken steps to ban or restrict the use of TikTok, especially on government devices. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand have barred TikTok from official phones for security reasons. The European Union and the UK have joined in putting restrictions on its use on government devices. An international debate is still heating up with concerns over data privacy and security, including the influence of foreign technology on domestic affairs.

In addition, there is a country like North Korea, where both apps and content are heavily restricted. This includes a broad range of content, from foreign news and social media platforms to entertainment and educational resources, all tightly controlled to maintain a highly regulated digital environment.

9. Roblox:

  • China: Banned because it might spread anti-communist propaganda and unregulated content.
  • Jordan: Restricted due to worries about bad language and violence.
  • Guatemala: Banned because it’s considered unsafe for kids

10. Twitch:

  • Iran: Blocked on July 4, 2022, restricting access for Iranian Internet users.
  • China: Blocked due to strict internet censorship and control over online content.
  • Russia: Limited access or blocked in response to regulatory and political pressures.

Banned Content Beyond Apps

In addition to the outright ban of certain apps, some countries impose restrictions on specific types of content across all media, including the internet. This can include:

  • Political Content: Many countries restrict content that is critical of the government or that might inspire political dissent. For example, in China, content related to the Tiananmen Square protests or the Hong Kong independence movement is heavily censored.
  • Cultural Content: Content that is perceived as offensive to local customs, religions, or values is often restricted. This can include anything from depictions of alcohol consumption to certain sexual content.
  • Historical Content: In some countries, certain interpretations of historical events are banned. For instance, Holocaust denial is illegal in Germany and other parts of Europe.
  • Foreign News: In an effort to control the narrative, some governments restrict access to foreign news sources, especially during times of political unrest.

The Impact on Travelers

For travelers, these restrictions can be a frustrating surprise, especially when trying to use their favorite social media or messaging apps. It’s important for travelers to know what to expect in terms of internet access in the countries they’re visiting. Sometimes, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help get around these blocks, but even VPNs can be restricted or illegal in some places.

The Role of Content Filtering

Besides blocking specific apps, there are other ways to limit what you can see online, such as content filtering. Content filtering works by blocking certain types of content based on predefined categories, like adult material, gambling sites, or other topics considered inappropriate. This means that even if a website is accessible, specific pages or types of content can be restricted to prevent access. Content filtering is often used by schools, workplaces, and parents to control what users can view online, making it a useful tool for managing internet use and ensuring it aligns with certain guidelines or policies. Some organizations use solutions like SafeDNS for web filtering and app blocking to manage and control internet access according to their specific needs and policies.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) play a big role when it comes to content filtering. Since they can implement web filtering at the network level, they’re in a position to influence what all their users can and can’t access online. But it’s not just about blocking bad stuff—it’s about offering added value to their services.

SafeDNS steps in with flexible, secure solutions for ISPs that want to up their game on network protection. These tools let ISPs offer cool features like parental controls, so families can keep an eye on what’s being accessed on their home network. It’s a service that builds trust and boosts customer loyalty, making it a win-win for ISPs.

SafeDNS also helps ISPs stay on the right side of the law. If the government says to block certain sites or apps—like TikTok, 1xBet, or crypto exchanges—SafeDNS has them covered. With AI and machine learning in the mix, SafeDNS gives ISPs top-notch content classification and filtering, keeping them compliant with regulations and meeting customer demands.

The digital divide caused by social media bans and content restrictions brings up bigger global issues around control and freedom. Countries with strict internet rules use these measures to control the flow of information and shape cultural norms. For travelers and locals, this means dealing with a digital world where familiar apps and websites might be off-limits.

These challenges can actually lead to some practical solutions for travelers. Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check out the local internet rules and maybe download any important apps or content you’ll need. Using a VPN can help you safely access blocked sites and services. You can also switch to local social media or messaging apps that are still available. By staying up-to-date with the local digital scene, you can adapt and stay connected. This approach not only helps you navigate current barriers but also gives you a better understanding of how technology interacts with governance and culture, enriching your view of digital freedom and connectivity worldwide.

About SafeDNS
SafeDNS breathes to make the internet safer for people all over the world with solutions ranging from AI & ML-powered web filtering, cybersecurity to threat intelligence. Moreover, we strive to create the next generation of safer and more affordable web filtering products. Endlessly working to improve our users’ online protection, SafeDNS has also launched an innovative system powered by continuous machine learning and user behavior analytics to detect botnets and malicious websites.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Ransomware: A Critical Threat to Financial Services

Financial institutions are prime targets for ransomware attacks due to the vast amounts of sensitive customer information they hold. The consequences of these attacks can be devastating, resulting in operational disruptions, financial losses, and long-term damage to reputation and trust.

The Impact of Ransomware on Financial Institutions

Ransomware attacks can have far-reaching effects on financial institutions:

  1. Operational Disruption:
    • Halted Operations: Ransomware can halt production lines, disrupt supply chains, and cause quality control issues. This can lead to significant downtime and the production of defective products or services.
    • Essential Services Disrupted: Critical services may become inaccessible, affecting customers and stakeholders.
  2. Sophisticated Attack Methods:
    • Double and Triple Extortion: Modern ransomware attacks often involve not just the encryption of data but also the threat of releasing sensitive information (double extortion) or adding additional demands even after the initial ransom is paid (triple extortion).
    • Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks: Attackers may also use DDoS attacks to overwhelm and disable online services, adding another layer of disruption.
  3. Economic and Reputational Damage:
    • Undermining Economic Stability: Ransomware attacks on multiple financial institutions can undermine local, regional, and even national economic stability, eroding confidence in the financial system as a whole.
  4. Loss of Customer Trust: Financial institutions rely heavily on customer trust. A successful ransomware attack can cause lasting damage to the institution’s reputation and erode the trust customers place in them.
    • Loss of Trust: Customers and partners may lose trust in an organization following a ransomware attack.
    • Long-term Brand Damage: The organization’s reputation may suffer long-term harm, affecting its competitive position in the market.

The Rising Cost of Ransomware

The threat of ransomware is increasing:

The financial impact of ransomware attacks on the financial services sector is growing:

  • High Incidence of Attacks: In 2024, 65% of financial services organizations were hit by ransomware.
  • Increasing Recovery Costs: The average cost to recover from a ransomware attack in this sector increased to $2.58 million in 2024.

Data Encryption: Approximately 76% of ransomware attacks result in data encryption, adding to the complexity and cost of recovery.

Ransomware Containment: Implementing measures to quickly contain and mitigate the impact of an attack once it occurs.

Given the significant impact that ransomware attacks can have on government organizations, it is crucial to take steps to prevent these attacks. Here are a few steps that organizations can take to protect themselves:

1. Implement robust cybersecurity measures:

Government organizations should implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and anti-malware software. Regularly updating software and operating systems can also help reduce the risk of attacks.

2. Conduct regular employee training:

Regular training for employees can help reduce the risk of successful phishing attacks, which are a common method of ransomware delivery.

3. Regularly backup data:

Regularly backing up critical data and storing backups in a secure location can help ensure that data is recoverable in the event of a ransomware attack.

4. Implement multi-factor authentication:

Multi-factor authentication can help reduce the risk of unauthorized access to systems and data, even if credentials are stolen.

5. Develop an incident response plan:

Developing an incident response plan can help organizations respond to a ransomware attack quickly and effectively, minimizing the impact on the organization. A ransomware containment solution is a critical component of such a plan.

Is Your Organization Protected?

Given the increasing threat of ransomware, it’s crucial for organizations to assess their current cybersecurity posture and ensure they are prepared to defend against and respond to these attacks.

Think your organization is protected from the growing ransomware threat? Find out for sure by conducting a thorough review of your cybersecurity measures and updating your strategies to stay ahead of evolving threats.

About Bullwall
BullWall is a fast-growing international cybersecurity solution provider with a dedicated focus on protecting critical data during active ransomware attacks. We are the only security solution able to contain both known and unknown ransomware variants in seconds, preventing encryption and exfiltration across all data storage types.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

The State of Zero Trust Architecture Adoption Among Enterprises: A 2024 Perspective

Let’s talk about Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), the cybersecurity strategy that has become as popular in boardrooms as it is in IT departments. In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, ZTA has emerged as a game-changer, a buzzword, and—importantly—a necessity. But like all revolutionary concepts, its adoption is anything but straightforward. So, let’s dive into the current state of ZTA adoption among enterprises, explore the strategies organizations are deploying, examine the challenges they face, and highlight the undeniable benefits. And, of course, we’ll take a close look at how Network Access Control (NAC) fits into the ZTA puzzle.

The Promise of Zero Trust: What’s Driving Adoption?

Zero Trust Architecture is based on a simple but radical principle: trust no one, verify everyone. Unlike traditional security models that assume everything inside the network is safe, ZTA assumes that threats could be anywhere—inside or outside the network. This model shifts the focus from perimeter-based security to a more granular approach where every user, device, and connection is continuously validated.

The surge in ZTA adoption is driven by a few key factors:

  1. Increased Sophistication of Cyber Threats: Ransomware, phishing, and insider threats are more prevalent and dangerous than ever. Traditional defenses are proving inadequate against these evolving threats, making ZTA an attractive alternative.
  2. Workplace Transformation: The rise of remote work and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies has blurred the lines of the traditional network perimeter. ZTA’s model, which doesn’t rely on perimeter defenses, is ideally suited for this new environment.
  3. Regulatory Pressure: Compliance standards, such as the GDPR, CCPA, and others, increasingly emphasize data protection and security. ZTA helps organizations meet these stringent requirements by providing more robust and adaptable security frameworks.

Strategies for ZTA Adoption: How Are Enterprises Getting There?

While the benefits of ZTA are clear, adopting it is a journey, not a switch. Here’s how enterprises are navigating this path:

  1. Phased Implementation: Many organizations are taking a phased approach, gradually implementing ZTA principles across their infrastructure. This typically starts with identifying and securing critical assets before expanding to broader systems and networks.
  2. Identity and Access Management (IAM): At the heart of ZTA is the concept of least privilege, which necessitates strict IAM policies. Enterprises are investing in robust IAM solutions to control who has access to what, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive information.
  3. Microsegmentation: Microsegmentation divides the network into smaller, isolated segments. This reduces the attack surface and limits the movement of potential threats. Organizations are using this technique to implement ZTA, ensuring that even if a breach occurs, the damage is contained.
  4. Continuous Monitoring: Continuous assessment and monitoring of users and devices are essential to ZTA. Enterprises are deploying advanced monitoring tools to detect anomalies in real-time, enabling them to respond swiftly to potential threats.

The Challenges: What’s Standing in the Way?

Despite its advantages, ZTA adoption isn’t without hurdles. Here are some of the most significant challenges:

  1. Complexity: Implementing ZTA can be complex, especially for large organizations with legacy systems. The transition requires a fundamental shift in how security is approached, which can be a daunting task.
  2. Cost: The initial cost of implementing ZTA can be high, involving investments in new technology, training, and potentially overhauling existing systems. While the long-term benefits are substantial, the upfront investment can be a barrier for some enterprises.
  3. Cultural Resistance: ZTA requires a change in mindset, not just among IT teams but across the entire organization. This can be met with resistance, particularly in companies where security protocols are deeply ingrained in the corporate culture.

The Benefits: Why Move to ZTA?

The benefits of moving to a Zero Trust Architecture are compelling:

  1. Enhanced Security: By continually validating users and devices, ZTA significantly reduces the risk of breaches, protecting sensitive data from both external and internal threats.
  2. Adaptability: ZTA is adaptable to the changing threat landscape and the evolving needs of the business. Whether it’s integrating new technologies or expanding remote work capabilities, ZTA provides a flexible framework.
  3. Regulatory Compliance: ZTA helps organizations meet regulatory requirements by providing a robust security posture that is aligned with data protection laws.

Network Access Control (NAC): The Missing Piece of the ZTA Puzzle?

Network Access Control (NAC) plays a critical role in ZTA by ensuring that only authenticated and authorized devices can access the network. In a ZTA environment, NAC serves as the gatekeeper, enforcing access policies and providing visibility into who and what is on the network. It’s like the bouncer at an exclusive club—no one gets in without meeting the criteria.

Moreover, NAC supports the continuous validation principle of ZTA by monitoring devices throughout their session, ensuring they remain compliant with security policies. If a device becomes compromised, NAC can isolate it, preventing potential threats from spreading across the network.

In essence, NAC is not just a complementary tool in ZTA but a foundational component that enables organizations to enforce the stringent access controls that ZTA demands.

Conclusion: The Future of ZTA

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the adoption of Zero Trust Architecture is not just a trend but a necessity. Enterprises that embrace ZTA will be better equipped to face the challenges of the modern threat landscape, protect their assets, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements. While the journey to full ZTA implementation is complex and fraught with challenges, the benefits far outweigh the costs.

For those on the fence about ZTA, consider this: In a world where threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, can you afford not to trust anything—or anyone—without verification?

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

Just-In-Time Admin Access for Windows: Extend Time-Based Admin Privileges

According to a recent report, breaches involving admin accounts have increased by 17% from 2023[1]. Moreover, approximately 45% of ransomware attacks targeted specifically admin accounts in 2024[2]. 

These statistics highlight that administrator accounts are prime targets for hackers, as gaining access to such accounts grants full control over administrative actions, including user management, file access, and app installation, posing significant security risks.

just-in-time privileged access management
Privileged Access Management with Just-in-Time Admin Access for Windows  

Traditional administrative access methods are often inadequate in addressing these risks. The lack of automation can result in users retaining extended admin access, which increases the potential for security breaches.

Furthermore, sharing admin credentials among multiple users escalates the issue, heightening the risk of malware attacks and data breaches, and compromising sensitive organizational information.

This underscores the need for a robust privileged access management solution, such as Scalefusion’s Just-In-Time Admin Access feature. This blog will explain what Just-In-Time Admin Access entails and highlight the key capabilities of this feature.

What is Just-In-Time Admin Access?

Scalefusion offers privileged access management with the Just-In-Time Admin Access feature. This feature ensures that users operate with standard privileges, offering a secure way to access temporary admin privileges only when necessary. It significantly reduces the risks associated with excessive user privileges by providing elevated access only when required, maintaining security while minimizing potential threats.

Just-In-Time Admin Access enables users to obtain temporary access to launch applications in admin mod, on managed Windows devices. This feature ensures that users operate with elevated privileges securely and only when necessary, allowing them to perform essential tasks without prolonged admin access.

Key Features of Just-In-Time Admin Access for Windows Devices

1. JIT Admin Configuration

JIT admin configuration allows IT admins to configure:

a. Duration of Admin Privilege

IT admins can specify the duration (in minutes) during which the user can access the applications in elevated mode. Once the duration ends, the app will be automatically closed. Admin can set the duration from 5 to 60 minutes.

b. Allowed number of Requests per Day

IT admin can enable this setting to allow users to elevate the applications with admin privileges by entering other admin’s credentials. Users will be able to elevate applications using only the Scalefusion account if the admin credentials are not available

c. Enforce Request justification text

Administrators can make it compulsory for Windows device users to enter the reason for requesting access to any application with elevated access.

d. Enforce active internet connection

If this setting is enabled, a Windows device user must have an active internet connection to access any application in admin mode

e. Allow users to elevate using other Admin credentials

IT admin can enable this setting to allow Windows users to elevate the applications with admin privileges by entering other admin’s credentials. If the admin credentials are not available, users will be able to elevate applications using only the Scalefusion Account.

f. Configure Disclaimer Note

IT admins can enter a disclaimer note for users that is displayed on the JIT Admin screen to notify them when the set duration ends.

2. Log and Activities

a. Monitor Admin Access and Collect logs

Admins can configure whether logs monitoring the number of times critical operations and applications were started/stopped with admin privileges, should be captured and synced to the dashboard.

3. Elevation Scope

Elevation scope enables IT admins to set a limit of access elevation. It allows them to configure the following settings:

a. Configure Accounts That Can Request Admin Access

IT admins can configure whether all non-admins accounts or specific accounts on the device can request to access the application in elevated mode. If the admins select ‘Specific Accounts’, they must provide the names of user accounts to whom they want to grant access.

b. Select Applications that can be Run as Administrator

Administrators can select which applications should run as an administrator. They can choose from three options:

  • ‘All Allowed Applications’ enables all applications specified in the Select Apps section of the Device Profile.
  • ‘All Applications’ permits any application on the managed device to be run as an administrator.
  • ‘Specific Applications’ restricts administrative access to particular applications. Admins must add the application names by clicking “Add Application” and providing relevant details such as the app name and version.

c.  Override Duration of Admin Privilege

Admins can specify the duration (in minutes) after which the admin privileges will be automatically revoked, automatically closing the app. This setting overrides the duration of admin privileges configured as a part of JIT Admin Configuration. The time duration ranges between 1 to 1440 mins.

4. JIT Admin Access Summary

JIT Admin Access summary provides IT admins with the following details:

a. Device Summary

The device summary offers a comprehensive overview, detailing the total number of devices with Just-In-Time (JIT) Admin configuration applied, the count of standard users on these devices, and the number of admin users. This summary provides clear visibility into the user distribution and administrative access across the configured devices.

b. Request Summary

Request Summary gives IT admins an overview of the number of admin requests made during a single day and the total number of admin requests made during the last 60 days.

c. Device Overview

With the device overview section, admins can access a consolidated tabular view of the name of devices where the configuration has been applied, the serial number of devices, the number of requests received from the device today, the total number of admin requests received from the device, the name of the configuration applied to the device.

5. Activity Logs

Activity logs enable admins to view activities done by the users on the device, during their elevation from standard to admin user. Apart from the device name and serial number, activity logs include the names of users requesting JIT Admin Access, the files accessed, the start and end time of the JIT admin activity (indicating when the user was elevated to admin and when they were downgraded back to a standard user), and the justification text entered by the user when requesting JIT admin access.

6. Recommendations

The recommendations section offers a summarized view of the admin accounts available on the devices. It includes the names and serial numbers of JIT-configured devices, the total number of users and admins on each device, the number of managed admins, and the name of the JIT Admin configuration applied.

Optimize User Privilege Escalation for Windows with Scalefusion OneIdP

Scalefusion OneIdP provides organizations with robust identity and access management capabilities. It allows organizations to gain full control over user privilege elevation by offering time-based admin access, preventing users from obtaining extended admin access, securing data, and maintaining system integrity.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Scalefusion
Scalefusion’s company DNA is built on the foundation of providing world-class customer service and making endpoint management simple and effortless for businesses globally. We prioritize the needs and feedback of our customers, making sure that they are at the forefront of all decision-making processes. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive customer support services, and place emphasis on customer-centric thinking throughout the organization.

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