
Details
Inadequate rotation of non-human identity credentials increases the risk of unauthorized access. If credentials remain unchanged for extended periods, they become more vulnerable to compromise through various attack vectors.
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SecureBank prides itself on its robust security measures. However, they overlook the importance of regularly rotating their non-human identity credentials. The same API key for their core transaction processing system has been in use for over three years. A sophisticated hacking group, through a long-term reconnaissance mission, manages to intercept this key during a routine data transfer. Over the next few months, they slowly and methodically drain funds from high-value accounts, carefully staying below detection thresholds. By the time the breach is discovered, the hackers have siphoned off over $50 million. The incident not only results in massive financial loss but also severely damages SecureBank's reputation and leads to increased regulatory scrutiny.
Mitigation Strategies
- Implement automated credential rotation processes
- Use short-lived tokens or certificates where possible
- Monitor and alert on credential age and usage patterns
Best Practices
- Set up a regular schedule for credential rotation
- Use secrets management systems that support automatic rotation
- Implement proper key versioning and rollover procedures
References
Related Risks
Inadequate deactivation or removal of non-human identities when no longer needed....
Learn More about Improper OffboardingLearn more about Improper OffboardingUnintended exposure of sensitive non-human identity credentials to unauthorized parties....
Learn More about Secret LeakageLearn more about Secret LeakageNon-human identities are granted more permissions than necessary for their intended functions....
Learn More about Excessive PermissionsLearn more about Excessive PermissionsNon-human identities communicate over insecure channels or without proper encryption....
Learn More about Insecure CommunicationLearn more about Insecure Communication