Hacking Network Security Cybersecurity Credentials Zero Trust Innovation

New Year, New Way to Prevent Credential Harvesting

Randall Fort
Randall Fort
a digital lock with a network of digital locks behind it

In today's digital age, where nearly every aspect of our lives is online, the security of personal and sensitive information has become paramount. One significant threat that continues to loom over the cybersecurity landscape is credential harvesting. Hackers and cybercriminals employ various techniques to acquire usernames, passwords, and other authentication details, putting individuals and organizations at risk. In the battle against this ever-evolving menace, QWERX's dynamic machine authentication solution emerges as a powerful and innovative defense mechanism.

Understanding Credential Harvesting

Credential harvesting, also known as credential theft, involves the unauthorized acquisition of login credentials. There are many solutions on the market that aim to secure user credentials like passwords. At QWERX, we are most concerned with the vulnerability of static SSH certificates that authorize a device to access a network. Once attackers gain access to these credentials, they can compromise accounts, steal sensitive data, and wreak havoc on both individuals and organizations.

The Threat Landscape

The prevalence of credential harvesting poses a significant threat. Static certificates used to authenticate devices to a network are issued once and then left on the machine like a sitting duck for months or years. Attackers are well aware of this vulnerability; as technology advances, cybercriminals continue to refine their tactics, making it crucial for cybersecurity solutions to evolve in tandem.

Dynamic Machine Authentication

QWERX's innovative approach to dynamic machine authentication provides a robust defense against credential harvesting. Unlike traditional static authentication methods, QWERX's Enterprise Security Perimeter (QESP) solution adapts to the dynamic nature of cyber threats, enhancing security measures and minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Key Features:

  1. Ephemeral Keys: QESP eliminates static digital credentials (certificates and keys), which are the routine entry point for unauthorized network access. Instead of using static credentials to authenticate, this technology utilizes dynamic, ephemeral keys, which are generated locally and disappear immediately after authentication. There are no credentials stored to be stolen or misused.

  2. Continuous Verification: QESP enforces continuous verification of every single device on a network. Zero Trust? The QWERX  approach "mistrusts" all devices, all the time until they are authenticated. The verification process cycles repeatedly without end.

  3. Real-Time Monitoring and Response: QESP provides real-time monitoring of attack attempts, allowing for immediate response to suspicious behavior. This proactive stance ensures that potential threats are rejected before they can even begin.

Conclusion

As credential harvesting continues to be a prominent threat in the digital landscape, the need for advanced and adaptive security solutions is more crucial than ever. QWERX's dynamic machine authentication solution stands out as a beacon of innovation, providing a robust defense against credential harvesting and bolstering the security defenses of enterprise organizations. With its' patented Ephemeral Key Infrastructure technology, QWERX sets a new standard for dynamic and proactive cybersecurity measures in the permanent struggle against cyber threats.
Randall Fort

Randall Fort

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Randall Fort has extensive executive experience in both public and private-sector organizations. Prior to joining QWERX, Randy was at defense contractor Raytheon from 2009-2020, serving in senior executive positions, including Director of Programs Security and Director of Strategic Growth, Business Development & Strategy. From 2006-2009, Fort served as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence & Research, managing the production of all-source intelligence analysis for the Secretary of State and other senior officials; he was also the Department’s first head of cyber policy, chairing the Cyber Policy Group, which he established. Before returning to government service, Fort served in senior positions at Goldman Sachs from 1996-2006, including as Chief of Staff to the firm’s president and chief operating officer, and as Director of Global Security. From 1993-1996 he was Director of Special Projects for TRW. Fort’s private sector experience was preceded by 11 years of additional government service, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Functional Analysis & Research from 1989-1993; Special Assistant to the Secretary for National Security, and Director of the Office of Intelligence Support at the Department of Treasury from 1987-1989; and Deputy Executive Director of the President’s Foreign Intelligence Advisory Board at the White House from 1982-1987. Fort holds a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University. He was also a Henry Luce Scholar from 1980-1981, serving as a research assistant to a member of the Japanese Diet (parliament).

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