Security "Bits"

While enterprise security teams have had their hands full battling an increasing number of more sophisticated ransomware attacks, phishing attacks are on the rise with the easing of pandemic-related restrictions.

In fact, just this past week Microsoft warned of a widespread credential phishing campaign that leverages open redirector links in email communications as a vector to trick users into visiting malicious websites while effectively bypassing security software.

Secure Web Gateways (SWGs), software for controlling access to websites and SaaS not managed by corporate IT, have evolved from hardware appliances installed on premises, to software running on end user devices with varying degrees of interaction with the security provider’s hosted infrastructure. But the details on how the software interacts with the security provider’s infrastructure makes all of the difference with respect to performance, security, and ease of management. The Bitglass SmartEdge SWG architecture uniquely addresses these concerns in several ways.

Gartner recently published the 2021 Strategic Roadmap for SASE Convergence, outlining the migration to a Secure Access Services Edge (SASE) architecture. In it, the document acknowledges that the transition to a complete SASE model will take time. Beyond the practical challenges that come with refresh cycles, staff expertise, and the maturity of SASE offerings to truly harness the collective power of a converged architecture; it reflects a broader point of guidance: teams need to develop a three- to five-year roadmap for SASE. That guidance coincides with a period when organizations are beginning to plan for their future after one of the most disruptive global periods in recent history.

Imagine that you just purchased a brand new car featuring all of the latest bells and whistles. You're excited to take advantage of speed camera detection and try out the heated seat backs and armrests. Unfortunately, when you go to turn your car on, nothing happens. If the vehicle doesn't work, then what's the point of having it and all of its exciting features? Ideally, you want something that provides the latest bells and whistles but also performs as promised whenever you want. This is equally true for cloud security solutions.