Cybersecurity Strategies for a Cloud-Based Online Retail Organization
Analyze scenarios related to wireless, mobile, and cloud infrastructures, as well as disruptive technologies, to determine cybersecurity strategies.
Purpose
The purpose of this assignment is for you to engage in defining a mitigation strategy for a web server attack from within a cloud-based WAN. You will apply biometrics or cryptography as part of the solution.
Assignment Instructions
You are a cybersecurity specialist working for an online retail organization that houses their network and all servers and data in the cloud. The CEO is concerned about the web servers being hacked since they are public facing, and if they are hacked, possible access gained to sensitive customer and employee data. Assume the attack to be similar to the one performed in your lab. For this assignment, make the following assumptions:
The organization has an outward facing website that allows customers to view and purchase their products. The web server housing this website is in the organizations demilitarized zone (DMZ). The DMZ uses a single firewall system. Users place orders and pay using PayPal or a credit card.
Other servers on the cloud-based network house several databases. One holds all customer personal and sensitive information. The second database holds employee personal and sensitive information. There is some encryption of these databases for data at rest, but not for data in transit and data in use (while data is being processed).
Also, on the internal network are an email server, print servers, and application servers.
Discuss potential vulnerabilities in this system.
Discuss in more detail the following:
Biometric Authentication
Discuss biometric-based authentication types that are relevant in this cloud-based system
Select a type of biometric-based authentication you would recommend for this system and justify your recommendation
Addition of Encryption for data in transit and data in use (while processed)
Discuss why there is an emerging need for encrypting data in use in a cloud environment.
Provide a description of homomorphic encryption and provide a justification as to why it should be deployed in this scenario to protect data in use.
Conclusion Paragraph
Cybersecurity Strategies for a Cloud-Based Online Retail Organization
Potential Vulnerabilities in the System
In the scenario presented, the online retail organization faces several potential vulnerabilities due to its reliance on cloud infrastructure and public-facing web servers. Key vulnerabilities include:
1. Web Server Exposure: The web server is located in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) and is publicly accessible, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in the software or configurations.
2. Single Firewall Dependency: Relying on a single firewall system for security may present weaknesses, especially if it is not properly configured or updated to defend against new threats.
3. Inadequate Data Protection: While the organization encrypts data at rest, the lack of encryption for data in transit and data in use increases the risk of interception or unauthorized access during transmission and processing.
4. Insufficient Authentication Mechanisms: If only traditional username and password authentication methods are employed, the system is vulnerable to brute force attacks and credential stuffing.
5. Social Engineering Risks: Employees may be susceptible to phishing attacks that could compromise sensitive information or access credentials.
Biometric Authentication
Relevant Biometric-Based Authentication Types
Biometric authentication uses unique biological traits for identity verification. In this cloud-based system, several types of biometric authentication could be implemented:
1. Fingerprint Recognition: Scanning fingerprints for access control can be effective for both employees and customers, particularly in mobile applications.
2. Facial Recognition: This technology can be integrated into the website for user authentication, providing a seamless experience for customers during login and transactions.
3. Iris Recognition: Iris recognition provides a high level of accuracy and security and can be utilized in administrative functions requiring enhanced security.
4. Voice Recognition: This method can authenticate users via voice commands, allowing for secure transactions without requiring physical interaction.
Recommended Biometric-Based Authentication
Given the nature of the online retail organization, I recommend implementing facial recognition technology as the primary biometric-based authentication method.
Justification:
- User Convenience: Facial recognition allows for quick and easy access without requiring users to remember passwords or PINs.
- Integration with Mobile Devices: Many customers use mobile devices equipped with cameras capable of facial recognition, making this method both widely accessible and user-friendly.
- Security Enhancement: It significantly reduces the risk posed by stolen passwords since biometric traits are much harder to replicate than traditional credentials.
- Fraud Prevention: Facial recognition can help validate user identities during transactions, thus reducing instances of fraudulent purchases.
Addition of Encryption for Data in Transit and Data in Use
Need for Encrypting Data in Use
As organizations increasingly rely on cloud services, there is a growing need to protect data not just at rest but also in transit and in use. Encrypting data in transit protects sensitive information during transmission over networks. However, encrypting data in use—while it is being processed—addresses vulnerabilities that arise when data is exposed to potential threats during computation or analysis.
With cyber threats becoming progressively sophisticated, protecting data in use mitigates risks associated with unauthorized access or data leakage during processing stages, thereby enhancing overall security posture.
Homomorphic Encryption
Homomorphic encryption is an advanced form of encryption that allows computations to be performed on encrypted data without requiring decryption. This means sensitive data can remain encrypted while still being processed, ensuring privacy and security.
Justification for Deployment:
1. Data Privacy: Homomorphic encryption ensures that sensitive customer and employee information remains confidential, even while being actively processed.
2. Compliance Requirements: Many regulatory frameworks mandate stringent protection of personal data. Using homomorphic encryption helps the organization comply with such regulations while maintaining operational efficiency.
3. Secure Data Sharing: In scenarios where third-party services may need to analyze data (e.g., analytics or reporting), homomorphic encryption allows sharing of encrypted data without exposing raw sensitive information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing the cybersecurity vulnerabilities inherent in a cloud-based online retail organization requires a multi-faceted approach that includes robust biometric authentication and comprehensive encryption strategies. By implementing facial recognition as a primary method of authentication and adopting homomorphic encryption for protecting data in use, the organization can significantly enhance its security infrastructure. These measures would not only safeguard sensitive customer and employee information but also foster trust and confidence among users, ultimately contributing to the organization's long-term success.