In information security, overlapping controls, where a single measure serves multiple functions, are both common and intentional.
This approach is a fundamental aspect of the defense-in-depth strategy, which involves implementing multiple layers of security to protect assets.
Benefits of Overlapping Controls
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Enhanced Security: Multiple layers increase the difficulty for attackers to breach defenses, as they must circumvent various measures.
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Redundancy: If one control fails, others remain active to mitigate risks, ensuring continuous protection.
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Comprehensive Coverage: Overlapping controls can address different aspects of security, such as prevention, detection, and correction, providing a more holistic defense.
Potential Drawbacks
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Increased Complexity: Multiple overlapping controls can complicate security management and may lead to challenges in coordination.
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Higher Costs: Implementing and maintaining multiple controls require additional resources, potentially straining budgets.
Strategic Implementation
To effectively incorporate overlapping controls:
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Assess Necessity: Evaluate whether each control adds unique value or merely duplicates existing measures.
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Ensure Compatibility: Confirm that overlapping controls function harmoniously without interfering with each other.
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Regularly Review: Continuously monitor and update controls to adapt to evolving threats and organizational changes.
By thoughtfully implementing overlapping controls within a defense-in-depth framework, organizations can bolster their security posture, ensuring robust protection against a wide array of threats.
