Key points for managing secure access of third-party vendors: - Ensure all vendor user IDs are named accounts. - Ensure there are no unnamed vendor IDs and shared generic accounts in order to minimize the risk of traceability and accountability factors. - Provide access to vendor accounts only on need-to-know basis along with authorized approvals. - Ensure privileged access to vendor accounts is reviewed on a periodic basis to identify if any unauthorized accounts. - Ensure wireless network is separated into different segments (Corporate and Guest networks). - Have secured transfer lines (SFTP) for sharing of confidential and sensitive between vendor and client.

To manage third-party access risks in remote work, implement strict access control policies. Use role-based access control (RBAC) to limit permissions based on the principle of least privilege. Require multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all third-party access. Conduct regular security audits to monitor third-party activities and ensure compliance with your security policies. Set clear data handling guidelines to control how third parties access, share, and store sensitive information. Implement VPNs for secure remote connections and encryption for data transmission to protect your network from potential vulnerabilities.

Having the principle of least privilege and zero trust. Are two things that comes to mind. It's always mindful to not use any crack software on office devices or avoid plugging in any other device to that device.

We leverage a SASE framework that integrates Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB). All third-party remote sessions undergo continuous authentication, context-aware policy enforcement, and secure VPN-less access. Regular audits, real-time traffic inspection, and adaptive segmentation ensure ongoing compliance and threat mitigation.

Internal VPN needs to be provided to the 3rd party vendor as an additional application for them to access internal network for monitoring purpose

As there is an increased Risk in the Network Security due to the Distributed working Model , I would suggest to use SASE Architecture (Secure Access Service Edge) a Centralised framework which bundles with the below Layers. 1. CASB (Cloud Access Security Broker) 2. ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access) 3. FWaaS (Firewall as a Service) SASE simplifies the Network Infrastructure by merging Networking and Security services into a Unified Architecture.

Adopt a "Zero Trust" mindset: Continuously verify every access request, checking identity, device security, and need for access. Limit vendors to only what they need using segmentation, secure APIs, or VLANs. Enforce strict security standards for third-party devices, like vetted hardware and up-to-date software. Use encrypted file transfers (e.g., SFTP) for sensitive data. Monitor behavior for anomalies and conduct regular audits. Automate permissions to reflect changing roles or project completions. Include vendors in your incident response plan, and provide clear, regular training to align them with your security standards.

Third party vendors should have read only access to only the data that they require and only thru an API Any third party vendor devices that are required to connect to our network will have a separate VLAN Any other access should be thru a secure device that has been vetted by our device management software, to include strict group policy, hardware root of trust, anti malware, current operating system updates, etc

1.Access Control: Limit third-party access to necessary data using least privilege and role-based permissions. 2.Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Require MFA for all remote access. 3.Third-Party Risk Management: Regularly assess third-party security and include protective clauses in contracts. 4.Secure Connections: Use VPNs and encrypt sensitive data. 5.Monitoring: Continuously monitor and log third-party access. 6.Incident Response: Have a clear plan for addressing breaches involving third parties.

With an (almost) fully remote team at Securafy, managing third-party access risks is something we take very seriously. We stick to a few core practices: granting only the minimum access needed, using multi-factor authentication, and ensuring any third-party access is temporary and closely monitored. But it’s not just about policies, we invest heavily in cybersecurity training for our team, so everyone understands the risks and how to spot potential threats. We’re also constantly upgrading to the best tools on the market to stay ahead of evolving risks. For me, it’s about creating a culture where security is second nature, it’s not just IT’s job; it’s everyone’s responsibility.