Identity Management Day focuses on digital security future

As the fifth annual Identity Management Day approaches, the conversation around digital identities and their impact on cybersecurity management is intensifying. Set to occur on 8 April, this global event will explore the theme of "Existential Identity," focusing on how digital identities, including those of non-human entities (NHIs), are reshaping security protocols at every level. The event is being organised by the Identity Defined Security Alliance (IDSA) alongside key partners IdentityXP and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA), and is co-chaired by Saviynt and Quest Egypt Software.

This 21-hour virtual event will span across three major regions, covering Oceania-Asia, EMEA, and the Americas. Key highlights include a keynote address by Henrique Teixeira, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Saviynt and a former Gartner analyst. The event will also feature panel discussions and educational sessions led by industry leaders from Microsoft, SailPoint, Okta, and others. These sessions will delve into contemporary trends and challenges within identity security, such as AI-driven access, NHIs, and the scaling of Zero Trust models.

Jeff Reich, Executive Director at the IDSA, underscores the urgency of understanding and securing digital identities amidst rapid technological evolution. He notes that according to the "2024 Trends in Identity Security" report, effectively managing and securing digital identities is a top priority for a significant majority of organisations, with 73% ranking it among their top three concerns. This focus on identity management is complicated by the growing prevalence of NHIs—identity markers tied to devices like smartphones, smart TVs, and smart assistants.

Reich advocates for thorough inventory and authentication measures for all identities under control. He also advises caution when engaging with NHIs that fall outside of one's control, emphasising that shared information may be utilised by entities beyond the initial interaction. The overarching message of Identity Management Day is to reconsider the foundations of digital identity and bolster the security that defines our online existence.

Craig Ramsay of Omada, a senior solution architect, emphasizes the increasing relevance of Zero Trust architectures, which pivot on identity as the central element. He argues that a modern identity governance strategy is vital for providing the insights necessary to make informed security decisions. Ramsay also posits that identity security, rather than merely being a technological challenge, acts as an enabler of business transformation and agility, thereby supporting broader digital adoption strategies.

Thomas Müller-Martin, Omada's global partner lead, predicts a strategic shift in 2025 where identity governance will evolve from a compliance-driven focus to a core business strategy. Müller-Martin indicates that embracing AI-driven identity solutions will allow organisations to unlock efficiencies and competitive advantages. He highlights the critical role that automated identity governance plays in enhancing security while simultaneously supporting operational innovation.

The event aims to shape a future where identity governance not only safeguards organisations but also empowers them by enhancing workforce productivity and improving user experiences. As AI continues to redefine the landscape, organisations are encouraged to innovate their approaches to digital identity management to maintain a competitive edge.

Identity Management Day represents a call to action for organisations worldwide to re-evaluate and strengthen their identity security strategies in alignment with these emerging trends and technologies, thus protecting their digital futures.