As companies continue to rely on digital technology to operate their businesses, the importance of secure access to sensitive data is more important than ever. Traditional access management methods based on user credentials and static permissions are no longer enough to protect company assets from cyber threats. That's where session-based access management (SBAM) comes in. In this article, we'll explore what SBAM is, why companies need it, and best practices for implementing it.

What is Session-Based Access Management?
SBAM is a form of access control that grants temporary access to users for a specific session, instead of providing permanent access through static credentials. This approach provides an additional layer of security and control, as access is only granted for a specific period of time and under specific conditions.

Why Companies Need Session-Based Access Management?
SBAM can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches caused by compromised user credentials. By granting access for a specific session, organizations can ensure that only authorized users have access to sensitive data, and access is revoked as soon as the session ends. SBAM also provides a more granular level of access control, allowing companies to tailor access permissions based on specific needs.

Best Practices for Implementing Session-Based Access Management

Use Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an essential component of SBAM. It provides an additional layer of security by requiring users to provide more than one form of authentication before granting access. This can include something the user knows, such as a password, something the user has, such as a mobile phone, or something the user is, such as a biometric.

Implement Role-Based Access Control
Role-based access control (RBAC) is a method of access control that grants permissions based on a user's job function or role in the organization. Implementing RBAC in conjunction with SBAM can help ensure that users only have access to the data they need to perform their job functions.

Monitor and Audit Access
Monitoring and auditing access is critical for detecting and responding to security incidents. SBAM solutions provide real-time monitoring and reporting capabilities, enabling organizations to identify and respond to security incidents more quickly.

Use Session Timeouts
Session timeouts are a critical component of SBAM. They automatically log out users after a certain period of inactivity, reducing the risk of unauthorized access if a user leaves their device unattended.

Regularly Review and Update Access Policies
Access policies should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they align with business needs and evolving security threats. This includes reviewing user roles and permissions, as well as access policies themselves.

Conclusion
Session-based access management provides a more granular and secure approach to access control, granting temporary access to sensitive data for specific sessions. By implementing SBAM in conjunction with MFA, RBAC, session timeouts, and regular policy reviews, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. With the right approach and best practices, companies can effectively secure their data against the ever-evolving threat landscape.