Securing Machine Identities: Protect your fastest-growing attack surface

Machine identities are multiplying across cloud, DevOps, and AI environments—outpacing human users and increasing risk. Here’s how to regain control.

​Machine identities—also known as non-human identities (NHIs)—are essential to keeping modern systems running. They allow applications and services to connect, communicate, and operate without human involvement. But without oversight, they create opportunities for attackers to exploit.

Today, machine identities outnumber human ones by a ratio of 20 to 1. And 80% of data breaches involve compromised credentials—many tied to machines. As identity sprawl increases across cloud and DevOps pipelines, managing these identities becomes a top priority for reducing risk and improving security posture.

This eBook explores what it takes to bring non-human identities under control. You’ll learn where these identities exist, how attackers take advantage of gaps, and the practical steps you can take to manage credentials, enforce least privilege, and build resilience.