How Non-Human Digital Identities Are Reshaping Cybersecurity in 2024

The digital landscape has evolved far beyond human users. Today, our systems are filled with artificial workers — from automated scripts to intelligent APIs. Let’s explore this transformation and its security implications with real world examples. Let’s break down the key points and look at some recent examples.

What are Non-Human Identities?

Non-human identities are digital entities that interact with systems and data without direct human control. These include:

• Automated systems
• Internet of Things (IoT) devices
• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)
• Service accounts

Why are NHIs Important?

NHIs are essential for daily operations in many businesses. They help automate tasks, process data, and connect different systems. However, they often lack proper security measures, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Consider Tesla’s manufacturing plants, where thousands of automated systems communicate continuously to maintain production lines, manage inventory, and ensure quality control. In October 2024, Microsoft Azure reported that 67% of their cloud service interactions came from automated systems rather than human users.

Major Security Challenges

Ransomware Evolution
The 2024 MGM Resorts attack serves as a stark reminder of…