The process of identifying, analyzing, and reducing the attack surface of an organization’s digital infrastructure.
Description
Attack Surface Management (ASM) is a proactive approach in cybersecurity that focuses on discovering and managing the various points where an unauthorized user can attempt to enter or extract data from a system. These points, known as the attack surface, include all hardware, software, and network components that are accessible from outside the organizational perimeter. ASM involves continuous monitoring, vulnerability assessment, and risk analysis to understand current exposure levels. Organizations utilize automated tools to scan their systems, identify weak spots, and prioritize remediation efforts. By doing so, they can reduce the likelihood of successful attacks, such as data breaches or ransomware incidents. For example, a financial institution may use ASM to detect unsecured APIs that could be exploited by hackers. Additionally, ASM helps organizations stay compliant with regulations by ensuring that their security posture is robust against emerging threats.
Examples
- A multinational bank using ASM tools to regularly scan for vulnerabilities in their online banking platform.
- A healthcare provider implementing ASM to secure patient data by identifying misconfigured cloud services.
Additional Information
- ASM is vital for organizations adopting cloud services, as it helps in managing new risks associated with cloud environments.
- Integrating ASM with other security frameworks, like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), enhances overall security posture.