Rethinking Privileged Access Management in a Cloud-Driven World

Today, organizations face increasingly complex challenges in securing critical assets. The adoption of cloud technologies, hybrid work environments, and the rise of sophisticated cyber threats have fundamentally changed how security is approached, particularly in managing privileged access. Privileged access management (PAM) has emerged as a crucial cybersecurity strategy, especially as identity-based attacks become more frequent.

The necessity of PAM is clearer than ever. According to the Verizon's "2023 Data Breach Investigations Report" (DBIR), 82% of breaches now involve the human element, including stolen credentials, phishing, misuse, or human error. Attackers know that compromising privileged accounts — those with elevated permissions — can provide direct access to an organization's most sensitive data. This makes a well-implemented PAM strategy essential to protect against external and internal threats.

The New Threat Landscape: Identity Attacks on the Rise

Cybercriminals are increasingly focusing on identity systems and privileged credentials, exploiting vulnerabilities created by the shift to cloud services and remote work. Attackers are no longer just targeting networks — they're zeroing in on identity and access control systems.

Key statistics from Verizon's 2023 DBIR reveal the urgency:

Securing privileged access is no longer just precautionary; it's necessary. Without a robust PAM strategy, companies expose themselves to significant financial, reputational, and operational risks.

Why Traditional Security Models Fall Short

Traditional security models struggle to keep up with modern cyber threats for several reasons:

In contrast, PAM solutions offer granular control, limiting the attack surface by helping ensure only authorized users access critical systems. PAM also provides necessary visibility to monitor how privileged accounts are used, which is vital in defending against modern threats.

Privileged Access Management: A Critical Layer of Defense

PAM is more than just a tool; it's a foundational component of any robust identity and access management (IAM) strategy. PAM solutions secure, monitor, and manage privileged accounts and access rights. These privileged accounts, which offer elevated access to sensitive systems, are prime targets for attackers.

Modern PAM solutions protect against both external and internal risks. Insider threats are especially prevalent in sectors like healthcare and finance, where internal breaches can result in massive financial losses and regulatory penalties. According to Verizon's report, 35% of breaches in these industries are caused by insiders, underscoring the need for robust monitoring and control of privileged access.

PAM solutions provide real-time visibility into who is accessing critical systems and whether those actions are authorized. Advanced auditing features track privileged activity, making it easier to detect misuse or suspicious behavior. This level of monitoring is essential for regulatory compliance and effective cybersecurity.

The Customer-Centric Evolution of PAM

The complexity of modern IT environments has driven the evolution of PAM. As cloud adoption grows, organizations need PAM solutions that can secure hybrid infrastructures. A one-size-fits-all approach is no longer sufficient — organizations require flexible solutions that secure access across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.

User involvement has been a key factor in shaping today's PAM solutions. By incorporating direct feedback from real-world users, security providers can ensure their solutions meet actual needs, evolving alongside the threats they are designed to combat.

The Future of PAM: Integrated and On-Demand Solutions

As cyber threats evolve, so must the solutions designed to counter them. The future of PAM lies in integrated, on-demand platforms that provide seamless security across an organization's infrastructure. With global cybercrime costs projected by Verizon to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the demand for agile, cloud-ready PAM solutions will only grow.

Future PAM solutions will likely focus on reducing complexity and manual workloads, incorporating automation and faster deployments. This will enable organizations to maintain strong security without overwhelming IT teams.

Closing Thoughts: The Critical Role of PAM in Cybersecurity

At its core, cybersecurity is about managing risk while enabling organizations to innovate and grow. In today's cloud-driven world, securing privileged access is no longer optional — it is a vital component of any comprehensive security strategy.

As cyber threats evolve and attackers increasingly target privileged credentials, the role of PAM has never been more important. Organizations that fail to implement strong PAM strategies risk exposing their most sensitive data to both external and internal threats. With the right PAM approach, businesses can protect their assets, ensure compliance, and stay ahead of emerging threats in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

By Jason Moody, Global Product Marketing Manager, One Identity

About the Author

Jason Moody serves as the global product marketing manager for One Identity’s privileged access management solutions. In this role, he crafts and implements strategic programs, equips the sales team with effective solutions campaigns, and engages with customers and analysts to promote thought leadership. Jason is deeply passionate about security frameworks that drive organizational transformation, foster innovation, and deliver successful solutions.

Before joining One Identity, Jason developed security and management strategies for software and devices at SailPoint and Dell, collaborating with partners such as Microsoft, Google, ServiceNow, and Ama