What is ring-fencing (cyber security)?
Ring-fencing is a security technique that restricts how applications on a device behave and interact with the system. It acts like a sealed-off zone, preventing applications from accessing unauthorised resources like files, network connections, or other programs. This helps contain potential damage caused by malware or exploits that weaponise legitimate software.
- Focuses on application behaviour: Ring-fencing goes beyond simply allowing or blocking applications. It controls what approved applications can do once they’re running.
- Limits access: It restricts applications from accessing sensitive data, the internet (if unnecessary), or interacting with other programs in unauthorised ways.
- Mitigates exploits and malware: By limiting application behaviour, ring-fencing makes it harder for attackers to leverage vulnerabilities or steal data through compromised applications.
- Analogy: Imagine a playground with designated areas for different activities (applications). Ring-fencing ensures programmes (applications) stay within their designated zones and don’t trespass into restricted areas (sensitive data, network).
