Common Problems in Privileged Access Management
Introduction
Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions are essential for securing privileged accounts, which are a prime target for cyberattacks. However, many organizations struggle with implementing PAM effectively due to various security gaps and operational challenges. This article explores five common PAM challenges I have faced.
Challenge 1: Invisible Privileged Accounts
The Problem
- Many privileged accounts, such as service accounts and shadow admins, exist outside the PAM system.
- Service accounts are often created without proper documentation, making them hard to track.
- Shadow admins are standard users with unintended high privileges.
The Risk
Since these accounts remain undetected, they do not receive PAM protection, making them easy targets for cyberattacks.
The Solution
Automated account discovery can identify all privileged accounts and ensure they are properly onboarded into PAM.
Challenge 2: Password Rotation Disruptions
The Problem
- PAM rotates passwords to prevent credential theft, but service accounts often have hardcoded credentials in scripts.
- When PAM rotates the password, it breaks automated processes that depend on those credentials.
The Risk
To prevent disruptions, organizations avoid rotating service account passwords, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The Solution
Automated dependency mapping ensures that all related scripts and processes are updated when passwords are rotated.
Challenge 3: Admins Bypassing PAM
The Problem
- Some administrators extract passwords from PAM and log in directly to resources, bypassing PAM protection.
- This negates the benefits of PAM controls like session recording and vaulting.
The Risk
If an admin’s credentials are compromised, attackers can gain direct access without PAM detecting the breach.
The Solution
Enforcing PAM-only access ensures that privileged accounts cannot connect to resources outside PAM. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds another layer of security.
Challenge 4: Securing PAM Access Itself
The Problem
- PAM is a high-value target for attackers.
- If an attacker gains access to PAM itself, they can control all privileged accounts in the organization.
The Risk
If PAM credentials are stolen, an attacker can escalate privileges and move laterally across the network.
The Solution
MFA enforcement for PAM access ensures that only authorized users can log in to PAM, even if credentials are compromised.
Challenge 5: Unprotected Privileged Accounts
The Problem
- Some privileged accounts take months or years to onboard into PAM.
- Others remain outside PAM permanently due to complex dependencies.
The Risk
These accounts remain vulnerable to credential theft and lateral movement attacks.
The Solution
Provide real-time monitoring and adaptive access controls for all privileged accounts, including those outside PAM.
Conclusion
Traditional PAM solutions are not enough to fully protect privileged access. Organizations must address these common challenges to secure their privileged accounts effectively. By discovering hidden privileged accounts, enforcing MFA and access controls, preventing unauthorized access, and providing real-time monitoring, organizations can strengthen their security posture and protect their most valuable assets.