4.4 Zero Trust Models

Zero Trust Models

A Zero Trust model is a security framework that assumes no one inside or outside the network can be trusted by default. Instead, every access request is verified and authenticated before being granted.

• Process: In a Zero Trust architecture, all users, devices, and applications are treated as untrusted, even if they are inside the corporate network. Access to resources is only granted after rigorous authentication, authorization, and continuous monitoring.

• Key Principles:

  • Never trust, always verify: Every request for access is continuously verified, regardless of the source.

  • Least privilege: Users and devices only have access to the resources they need, minimizing potential attack surfaces.

  • Micro-segmentation: Resources are segmented into smaller, isolated parts to reduce the risk of lateral movement by attackers.

• Application in Blockchain: Zero Trust models can be applied in blockchain systems to ensure that no user, node, or participant is trusted by default. It can help secure wallets, smart contracts, and even mining operations, where continuous verification of identity and actions is crucial.