In today’s business landscape, cybersecurity is more critical than ever. The rise of remote work, cloud computing, and partnerships with third-party vendors means companies must adopt advanced tools and frameworks to protect their data and systems. Tools like Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) offer businesses the ability to safeguard sensitive information, reduce risk, and maintain their operations.

Here’s how businesses can leverage modern tools to mitigate threats and build trust with partners and customers. 

The importance of securing third-party access

Collaborating with third-party vendors, contractors, and partners is important for business growth. But granting these external parties access to systems can expose an organization to significant risks, including data breaches and unauthorized access. 

Modern cybersecurity tools like ZTNA help businesses address these challenges by providing granular control over access permissions. For example, ZTNA allows a company to:

• Reduce third-party risk: Grant access to specific internal applications – rather than the entire network.
• Hide sensitive applications: Ensure authorized users and devices cannot see or access restricted resources.
• Minimize insider threats by regulating access.

With these measures, companies can more confidently collaborate with third parties and maintain control of their digital assets.

Zero Trust Network Access

ZTNA is a pillar of modern cybersecurity. The “never trust, always verify” principle means no user or device is granted access without strict authentication and authorization.

ZTNA offers several advantages for businesses:

Granular access control: Unlike traditional VPNs that provide broad access once a user is connected, ZTNA restricts access to specific applications and data. This reduces the attack surface and limits the potential damage of a breach.

Support for hybrid work: With remote and hybrid work models now normal, ZTNA allows employees and contractors to securely connect to applications from anywhere without compromising security. Even major technology companies, such as Google and Apple, who last year issued return-to-office mandates, still allow their employees to work from home two days per week. 

Improved security posture: ZTNA ensures sensitive applications and resources are invisible to unauthorized users. Even if attackers breach the network, they can’t see or access restricted areas without proper credentials.

Other cybersecurity tools for businesses

Beyond ZTNA, businesses can use a range of modern tools to strengthen their defenses.

Identity and Access Management (IAM) systems ensure that only authorized users can access specific systems, applications, and data. These tools often include Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), where users are required to verify their identity through multiple methods (often a password plus mobile code).

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions monitor endpoints like laptops, phones, and servers for suspicious activity. They use real-time analytics, detecting and responding to threats before they escalate.

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools help prevent sensitive information from being shared or accessed inappropriately (e.g. employees sending confidential files to external email addresses).

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) combines network security and connectivity into a cloud-based service, integrating tools like ZTNA, SD-WAN, and secure web gateways.

Threat intelligence platforms gather data about emerging cyber threats, helping businesses stay ahead of attackers. Writing for Forbes, Dipesh Ranjan says, “Overall, the need for a threat intelligence platform is growing for both government agencies and businesses in today’s digital landscape. By providing actionable insights and helping organizations stay ahead of emerging threats, a threat intelligence platform can play a critical role in protecting organizations from the growing threat of ransomware attacks and other malicious activities from threat actors.”

Maintaining security and privacy with third parties

It’s important to balance collaboration with security. Here are some best practices when working with external vendors and partners:

Conduct thorough assessments before granting access to a third party. This includes viewing their policies, certifications, and history of handling sensitive data.

Enforce least-privilege access, giving external users access only to the resources they need for their specific role (e.g. a contractor working on a marketing campaign doesn’t need access to financial records). 

Include cybersecurity requirements in contracts, specifying how data will be handled, who will have access, and what will happen in case of a breach.

Monitor and audit activity to ensure compliance with security policies. Tools like ZTNA and IAM can help track who accessed what, when, and from where.

Implement breach protocols, including steps to contain the breach, notify stakeholders, and prevent recurrence.

Why businesses need modern cybersecurity frameworks

Modern, sophisticated threats make it clear that traditional perimeter-based defenses aren’t sufficient. 

Tools like ZTNA and SASE allow businesses greater flexibility, whether supporting remote work, integrating new cloud services, or onboarding third-party vendors.

Real-time monitoring and analytics offered by EDR and threat intelligence platforms allow organizations to detect and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage.

With regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA enforcing strict data protection requirements, modern cybersecurity tools allow organizations to meet compliance standards and avoid costly penalties.

By demonstrating a commitment to robust cybersecurity, businesses can build trust with their customers, partners, and stakeholders.

Last word

Using these tools and following best practices for maintaining security and privacy, businesses can reduce risk, enhance resilience, and safeguard their valuable assets. Modern cybersecurity solutions not only address the limitations of traditional security models but enable companies to collaborate securely with third parties, support hybrid workforces, and respond to ever-evolving threats.