Updated July 16, 2023

First, let’s define what we mean by a data-centric approach. In simple terms, a data-centric approach means that an organization’s security strategy is focused on protecting the data itself rather than just the devices or networks that access it. This involves implementing technologies and policies that enable organizations to identify, classify, and control access to their sensitive data, regardless of where it is stored or how it is accessed. By taking a data-centric approach, organizations can better protect their sensitive data from internal and external threats, including unauthorized access, theft, and data breaches.

Now let’s consider how a data-centric approach helps to implement Zero Trust Data Security. Zero Trust is a security model that assumes that all network traffic, whether inside or outside the network perimeter, is untrusted. This means that access to data is not granted based on the location of the user or the device they are using, but rather on the user’s identity, the sensitivity of the data, and the context in which the data is being accessed. Zero Trust Data Security takes this concept a step further by applying the Zero Trust model to the protection of sensitive data. This means that access to sensitive data is only granted to users who are authorized to access it, based on the user’s identity, role, and level of clearance.

A data-centric approach is essential to implementing Zero Trust Data Security because it enables organizations to identify and classify their sensitive data, and to control access to that data based on its sensitivity. This involves using tools such as data classification, data loss prevention, and data rights management to ensure that sensitive data is only accessed by authorized users, and to prevent unauthorized access or exfiltration of that data. By applying the Zero Trust model to data protection, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and other security incidents.

Another key advantage of a data-centric approach to implementing Zero Trust Data Security is that it enables organizations to monitor and audit access to their sensitive data more effectively. By implementing tools that provide visibility into who is accessing sensitive data, when, and why, organizations can quickly identify and respond to any suspicious activity. This not only helps to prevent data breaches and other security incidents, but it also enables organizations to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA.

In summary, a data-centric approach is essential to implementing Zero Trust Data Security. By focusing on protecting sensitive data rather than just the devices or networks that access it, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and other security incidents. This involves using tools such as data classification, data loss prevention, and data rights management to ensure that sensitive data is only accessed by authorized users, and to prevent unauthorized access or exfiltration of that data. By applying the Zero Trust model to data protection, organizations can take a more proactive and holistic approach to cybersecurity, and ensure the safety of their sensitive data in today’s ever-evolving threat landscape.

For more information on NextLabs and Zero Trust, check out the following resources:

• Blog Post: What is Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)?
• Blog Post: What is Zero Trust Data Protection?
• Blog Post: NextLabs and ZTA
• Video: ZTA and Data-Centric Security
• Expert Q&A: Why is ZTA Important?
• Expert Q&A: How ZTA can be strengthened with ABAC
• Whitepaper: NextLabs and the Zero Trust Architecture