In the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity, Australia’s Essential Eight framework has been a cornerstone for organisations aiming to fortify their defenses against cyber threats. However, as the digital realm evolves, particularly with the shift towards cloud computing and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) applications, the limitations of the Essential Eight have become increasingly apparent. This blog delves into the critical areas where the Essential Eight falls short and showcases how Evisent transcends these guidelines to offer comprehensive cybersecurity solutions.
The Essential Eight: A Foundation with Gaps
The Essential Eight Maturity Model, developed by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), provides a baseline of cybersecurity strategies aimed at mitigating the risk of cyber attacks. Despite its intentions, recent analyses and incidents have highlighted significant gaps in its coverage, particularly concerning cloud and SaaS environments.
- Cloud and SaaS Oversight: The Essential Eight’s guidance remains predominantly tailored towards on-premises networks, with scant attention to the intricacies of cloud and SaaS security. This oversight is critical in an era where SaaS applications account for 70% of all software used by businesses, each containing sensitive data that requires stringent protection.
- Limited Scope on Modern Threats: While the framework includes vital security measures like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), it lacks comprehensive directives for configuration management, identity security, third-party app integration management, and resource control. These elements are crucial for securing modern digital infrastructures and data stored in the cloud.
Evisent: Elevating Cybersecurity Practices
Recognising the Essential Eight’s limitations, Evisent has developed an advanced cybersecurity approach that addresses the critical areas omitted by the framework. Evisent’s solutions are designed to provide robust protection in today’s cloud-centric work environment, ensuring businesses are safeguarded against contemporary cyber threats.
- Comprehensive Cloud Security: Evisent offers specialised security measures for cloud and SaaS applications, including sophisticated configuration management to prevent data exposure due to misconfigurations and identity security posture management (ISPM) to secure user identities and permissions.
- Integrated Third-Party App Security: Understanding the risks associated with third-party app integrations, Evisent implements stringent controls to monitor and manage the permissions granted to these applications, safeguarding against potential vulnerabilities.
- Enhanced Resource Control: Evisent ensures that sensitive company resources stored in SaaS applications are protected with robust security measures, preventing unauthorised access and ensuring data integrity.
Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Cybersecurity
As Australian organisations navigate the complexities of the digital age, the Essential Eight serves as a starting point for cybersecurity. However, to effectively counter the sophisticated and evolving cyber threats, a more comprehensive approach is necessary. Evisent’s advanced cybersecurity solutions go beyond the Essential Eight, offering the necessary breadth and depth of protection to secure modern digital landscapes.
In embracing Evisent’s approach, businesses can ensure they are not only compliant with baseline security standards but are also equipped to defend against the multifaceted threats of today’s cyber environment.
Evisent not only adheres to the foundational principles of the Essential Eight but also pioneers in addressing the critical cybersecurity areas it overlooks, ensuring Australian businesses are fortified against the digital threats of today and tomorrow.
