Zero trust means the application does not assume that a user, device or network location is automatically safe. Every sensitive action is checked against identity, role, context and policy.
Controls that matter
| Control | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MFA | Reduce account takeover risk | Require verification for admin access |
| RBAC | Limit what roles can do | Finance can approve invoices, not edit code |
| Audit logs | Track sensitive actions | Record exports, approvals and permission changes |
Identity is the center of business security
Zero trust becomes practical when identity, device, permission and action sensitivity are evaluated together. Business applications need this at the workflow level, not only at the network perimeter.
- Use SSO and MFA for privileged roles.
- Separate read, draft, approve and admin permissions.
- Log sensitive exports, permission changes and client-facing communication.
- Review dormant accounts and unused roles on a fixed schedule.