Page 75 - Cyber Defense eMagazine March 2024

Addressing the Challenge of Rogue Devices

In both federal and healthcare scenarios, rogue devices - devices that have been compromised and are
under the control of unauthorized entities - pose a significant threat. PBA addresses this challenge
effectively by:

• Preventing Boot-Up of Compromised Devices: If a device has been tampered with or infected
with malware, PBA can prevent it from booting up, thus stopping the threat in its tracks before it
can infiltrate the network or access sensitive data.

• Enabling Immediate Response: In case a device is flagged during the PBA process, immediate
action can be taken, such as quarantining the device, thereby preventing any potential spread of
the threat.

• Maintaining Device Integrity: Regular PBA checks can ensure ongoing integrity of devices,
making it easier to identify and address any anomalies that suggest compromise.

The application of Pre-Boot Authentication in federal and sensitive commercial applications like
healthcare is more than just a security measure; it’s a fundamental necessity in the digital age. By
providing a robust barrier against unauthorized access, especially in scenarios involving compromised
devices, PBA plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security and protecting sensitive information.
As threats evolve and the landscape of cyber warfare becomes increasingly complex, the implementation
of PBA will undoubtedly become a standard, reinforcing the bastions of our most critical sectors against
the ever-growing tide of cyber threats.

About the Author

Cigent CEO and Co-Founder John Benkert served 20 years in USAF
Intelligence and seven in the NSA, where he received the National Scientific
Achievement Award for technological innovations in data security. He is the
owner of CPR Tools, leading experts in data recovery, forensics, and
destruction since 1987.

Recognizing the vulnerabilities in data security solutions including FDE and
SEDs, Benkert set out to design a more secure approach to data protection
- one that could not be defeated no matter the situation or adversary. He
formed a team of experts in storage, data forensics, and cyber security.
Securing funding from In-Q-Tel, the Cigent team has achieved Benkert’s
vision of developing the most secure data security solution available. He is reachable at
https://www.cigent.com/

Cyber Defense eMagazine – March 2024 Edition 75
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