Austin Gadient, CTO and co-founder of Vali Cyber, is leading the charge in developing cutting-edge security solutions for Linux systems and hypervisors through the ZeroLock Platform. Hypervisors, also known as virtual machine monitors, play a critical role in modern computing by enabling a single physical computer to support multiple virtual machines, much like a cargo ship carrying numerous containers. These software layers isolate VMs from physical hardware and each other, making them a crucial piece of security infrastructure.
Unfortunately, attacks against hypervisors, known as “hyperjacking,” are on the rise. In 2020, there were only two reported attacks, but by 2022, the number had skyrocketed to over 1,000. Even renowned organizations like MITRE are not immune to these threats, highlighting the need for robust security controls. Gadient shares some effective measures for protecting hypervisors, including EDR and runtime security, multi-factor authentication, firewalls, network segmentation, and virtual patching. These solutions work together to significantly enhance security practices and safeguard critical virtual infrastructure.
Endpoint detection and response (EDR) and runtime security continuously monitor endpoints for threats, protecting hypervisors and VMs from post-exploitation activities like ransomware and backdoors. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple verification methods during login. While EDR and MFA were not traditionally available for hypervisors, advancements in technology have made them essential components of comprehensive security measures.
Firewalls and network segmentation, essential security controls for hypervisors, limit attackers’ access to the virtual infrastructure by preventing unauthorized network access. Virtual patching, enabled by solutions like EDR or firewalls, provides a quick and efficient way to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited without requiring system shutdowns or reboots. These controls offer organizations breathing room to address vulnerabilities through the normal patch process while staying protected from potential threats.
Businesses must prioritize implementing robust security controls to reduce the risk of devastating hypervisor breaches in the face of increasing cyber attacks. By adopting the recommended security measures, organizations can strengthen their defense mechanisms, prevent potential security breaches, and protect their critical virtual infrastructure. Forbes Technology Council, an exclusive community for top CIOs, CTOs, and technology executives, highlights the importance of proactive security measures in the face of growing cyber threats.
