How PAM deployment improves resistance to ransomware attacks

Ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with cybercriminals effectively exploiting security vulnerabilities and access to high-privileged accounts to take over key systems and cause maximum damage. One of the most effective ways to protect against such threats is to implement Privileged Access Management (PAM). It’s a solution that controls access to privileged accounts and makes it significantly more difficult for attackers to navigate the IT infrastructure.

The role of privileged accounts in ransomware attacks

Privileged accounts, with advanced administrative privileges, have access to strategic resources such as servers, databases and business systems. In the context of ransomware attacks, they play a key role, enabling, among other things:

Access to critical data – seizing such accounts allows criminals to gain access to protected information and disrupt critical systems.
Spreading threats – by using seized accounts, cybercriminals move around systems, increasing the reach of their attack.
Concealment of activities – accounts with broad privileges can be used to hide traces of unauthorized activity, attacks on a system or disabling security systems, delaying the response to an incident.

How does PAM strengthen protection against ransomware?

Privileged Access Management manages access to privileged accounts, controls their use and provides protection against unauthorized activities. By implementing PAM, organizations can:

Minimize the attack surface – instead of maintaining active privileged accounts, access is granted dynamically, only for the duration of specific tasks.
Isolate critical systems – PAM segments and restricts access, preventing attackers from easily moving into the infrastructure.
Automate password management – regular, automatic password changes reduce the risk of unauthorized use.
Monitor activity – PAM provides detailed insight into user activities and generates alerts in case of suspicious operations.
Implement the principle of least privilege – with PAM, users have access only to the resources they need to perform their tasks.

Practical tips for ransomware protection

To effectively protect against attacks, it is worth taking the following actions:

Identify all accounts with high privileges and centralize their management.
Grant access only for specific tasks.
Regularly change passwords to strong, unique combinations.
Monitor and record the activities of privileged users.
Restrict access to critical resources according to the principle of least privilege.
Educate employees so they can recognize phishing attempts and other forms of threats.

PAM solutions in practice – the example of Delinea Secret Server

Systems such as Delinea Secret Server support real-time management of privileged access.

Dynamic access granting – the solution automates the process of granting and revoking privileges, in accordance with security policies.
Session recording and analysis – provides detailed insight into user activities and response to unauthorized operations.
Integration with other systems – Delinea works with SIEM solutions, for example, allowing even more effective protection of IT infrastructure.

Investing in PAM is not only protection against ransomware, but also a significant step in building a comprehensive security strategy. Combined with the right processes and training, implementing PAM allows organizations to minimize risk and increase resilience to future threats.