Uncategorized - PATECCO GmbH

Key Differences Between Identity Management and Identity Governance

In a world defined by remote work, digital processes, cloud adoption and increasing cyber threats, businesses must ensure that users can access the right systems efficiently, but also that this access remains appropriate and secure. This balance is achieved through two interconnected but distinct practices – Identity Management and Identity Governance. While these concepts are often implemented together as part of a broader identity and access management strategy, they serve very different purposes. Identity Management is concerned with how users get access, whereas Identity Governance focuses on whether users should have that access. Understanding the key differences between the two is essential for organizations aiming to strengthen their security posture and meet compliance obligations. Identity Management – Who gets access and how? Identity Management refers to the processes and technologies that handle the creation, maintenance, and removal of user identities and their access permissions across systems, applications, and data sources. Its main goal is to streamline how access is granted – ensuring that users can quickly and efficiently begin working with the tools they need. Identity Management solutions are designed for operational efficiency. They typically assign access based on roles or attributes (such as department or job function) and automate tasks like provisioning new accounts, updating access when roles change, and deprovisioning users when they leave the organization. While this automation increases productivity and reduces administrative burden, Identity Management systems often provide only basic logging capabilities. They do not typically validate whether access is still necessary or aligned with business policies. Identity Governance – Should they have access? Identity Governance, in contrast, adds oversight and accountability to the access process. Rather than focusing on how access is granted, Identity Governance asks: Should the user have access? Identity Governance provides capabilities that include: Regular access reviews and certifications, policy checks and risk analysis, role management, audit and reporting. Where Identity Management ensures that access is delivered efficiently, Identity Governance ensures that access is monitored, reviewed, and justified. It supports risk management by identifying excessive or unnecessary permissions and helps enforce business rules like segregation of duties. Moreover, Identity Governance offers historical and contextual visibility into access decisions, allowing organizations to answer critical questions during audits or incidents: Who had access to what, when, and why? Different focus, but shared goal Though closely related, Identity Management and Identity Governance differ significantly in their areas of focus: Both play vital roles across the user lifecycle. While Identity Management automates the initial granting of access, Identity Governance oversees the lifecycle from a compliance and business risk perspective. Why Organizations Need Both Implementing only Identity Management without Identity Governance can result in users accumulating access they no longer need – also known as „access creep“ – which increases risk. On the other hand, relying solely on Identity Governance without the automation provided by Identity Management leads to inefficiencies and delays. To properly protect sensitive data, support compliance, and enable business agility, organizations must adopt both. Identity Management ensures access is provided efficiently, while Identity Governance ensures that access remains appropriate and accountable. The difference between Identity Management and Identity Governance is not just a technical distinction. By integrating both practices, organizations can not only enhance operational control but also ensure they meet today’s strict security and regulatory standards – without compromising user productivity. Together, they create a secure, compliant, and well-managed digital environment. Download PATECCO’s free one-pager: Identity Management vs. Identity Governance.

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PATECCO Successfully Releases 2025 United Nations Global Compact Communication on Progress

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

PATECCO team is proud to share the next achievement in our sustainability mission – the release of our Communication on Progress (CoP) 2025 as a part of our ongoing commitment to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). Since joining the UNGC in 2024, PATECCO has fully embraced the Ten Principles in the areas of Human Rights, Labor, Environment, and Anti-Corruption by integrating them into our business strategy, culture, and daily operations. In our current CoP, we highlight our continuous efforts to contribute to the broader goals of the United Nations, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals. PATECCO’s reporting is based on initiatives that: For more information check out our latest United Nations Global Compact Communication on Progress which is now available online. Find out what sustainability means for us and how we are implementing the Ten Principles and advancing the Global Goals.

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PATECCO Achieves Quest Platinum+ Status and Microsoft Accreditation

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

PATECCO is proud to be recognized as Quest Platinum+ Partner – a level that reflects its deep expertise and strategic focus in the field of Identity and Access Management. This partnership status includes the accreditation for Microsoft Platform Management, which significantly enhances PATECCO’s service offering in the areas of Active Directory Management, Identity and Access Management, Identity Governance and Administration, Privileged Access Management. What is the Microsoft Platform Management Accreditation? The accreditation is an official online training with certification designed to equip partners with the technical and sales knowledge required to promote and implement Quest solutions for Microsoft infrastructures. It covers a comprehensive skillset around Active Directory (AD), Microsoft 365, security, and migration. The accreditation focuses on core Quest tools for hybrid IT environments, including Change Auditor, GPOADmin, Security Guardian, On Demand Audit, Migration Manager and other tools for Active Directory, Azure, Microsoft 365 and hybrid environments. These tools help organizations maintain compliance, streamline administrative tasks, and effectively monitor changes and access across hybrid IT infrastructures. How MPM Enhances PATECCO’s Service Portfolio? For PATECCO, this accreditation is more than a credential – it strategically expands its service offering with Microsoft-focused security and management capabilities. This perfectly complements PATECCO’s existing IAM and PAM portfolio, enabling it to integrate transparency, control, and compliance into hybrid Microsoft infrastructures – a key step in building a comprehensive security stack. Thanks to the MPM accreditation, PATECCO can offer comprehensive services such as: Benefits for PATECCO and the Clients With the new accreditation in Microsoft Platform Management and the Platinum+ partner status with Quest, PATECCO further strengthens its position as a leading provider of modern identity and security solutions. The Microsoft Platform Management accreditation brings multiple advantages for the clients: PATECCO’s achievement of the Quest Platinum+ Partner status, along with the Microsoft Platform Management accreditation, marks a significant milestone in its mission to deliver comprehensive identity, access, and security solutions. By combining deep technical expertise with a broader service offering, PATECCO is now better positioned to help clients manage the challenges of modern Microsoft systems.

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What Really Happens When Identity Security Fails?

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

Digital identity is the gateway to your enterprise. When that gateway is left unguarded or poorly secured, the consequences can be immediate and devastating. A single stolen credential can lead to widespread damage such as unauthorized access, regulatory penalties, reputational harm, and long-term financial loss. In our new video, we explore what happens when identity security fails, and how businesses can proactively defend against such threats. The Hidden Cost of Identity Breaches While firewalls and antivirus systems remain important, identity has become the true perimeter in modern cybersecurity. The majority of breaches today – nearly 80% – come from compromised credentials. Once inside, attackers can go undetected for months, navigating systems freely, exfiltrating sensitive data, or even manipulating internal operations. But the consequences aren’t just technical. Companies suffer from legal consequences, regulatory fines, customer distrust, and long-term brand damage. Incidents involving privileged accounts or former employees retaining access are alarmingly common, all stemming from weak or outdated identity controls. Why Gaps in Identity Security Persist? Identity-related risks often emerge from operational blind spots. These include outdated access rights, lack of multi-factor authentication, poor visibility into privileged accounts, and an absence of structured identity lifecycle management. In many organizations, identity governance is still viewed as a compliance task rather than a strategic necessity. This mindset creates vulnerabilities that are easy to exploit. Without real-time monitoring, regular access reviews, or automated provisioning processes, companies leave the door open to unauthorized access – creating significant security gaps that go unnoticed until it’s too late. Moving Toward Proactive Identity Management The good news? Identity-related breaches are preventable. A mature identity and access management (IAM) program, supported by a robust Information Security Management System (ISMS), shifts companies from reactive defense to proactive prevention. Centralized role-based access control, continuous monitoring, and automated identity workflows form the foundation of resilient digital trust. These measures not only reduce the likelihood of a breach – they also enable compliance, protect innovation, and support secure business growth. At PATECCO, we understand that strong identity security is the foundation of long-term business resilience. As an ISO 27001-certified IAM and ISMS provider, we help organizations move beyond reactive compliance toward a proactive, risk-aware security culture. By aligning identity management with strategic goals, our tailored solutions ensure that access is not only secure but also intelligently governed. In this way we support the businesses to protect what matters most while strengthening their competitive position. If your organization is looking for a trusted ISMS partner to enhance your cybersecurity resilience and support scalable, long-term compliance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at info@patecco.com or call +49 (0) 23 23 – 9 87 97 96 . We are here to help you turn information security into a true business advantage.

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From Compliance to Confidence – How ISO 27001 and ISMS Strengthen Enterprise Trust?

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

In the age of advancing digital transformation, marked by growing cyber threats, regulatory pressure, and rising customer expectations, organizations are under increasing scrutiny to protect sensitive information and maintain robust security practices. Simply being compliant is no longer enough – businesses must demonstrate a proactive, transparent, and strategic approach to information security. This is where ISO 27001 and Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) become essential tools – not only for compliance, but for building lasting trust. They provide the structure, processes, and assurance businesses need to shift from a compliance mindset to a proactive, trust-oriented security framework. For companies like PATECCO, this evolution is not optional, but strategic. Why ISO 27001 Matters More Than Ever? ISO 27001 is the internationally recognized standard for information security management. It provides a structured framework to identify, manage, and reduce risks related to information assets, while ensuring ongoing improvement and alignment with business objectives. Achieving ISO 27001 certification proves to clients, partners, and regulators that your organization takes information security seriously – and that it’s willing to adhere to globally accepted standards for protecting data, managing access, and reducing risk exposure. For many companies, ISO 27001 is a required box to check. But for digitally responsible companies, it’s a foundation for long-term trust and business differentiation. ISMS as a Strategic Driver, Not Just a Compliance Tool An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is the engine behind ISO 27001 compliance. It involves not just technologies and policies, but also the people and processes responsible for ensuring continuous security oversight. A well-designed ISMS enables companies to: More importantly, a functioning ISMS fosters a culture of security across the organization, turning compliance into an everyday habit – not a once-a-year exercise. Beyond these core benefits, an effective ISMS also drives proactive risk management by continuously monitoring and adapting to the dynamic threat environment. This agility helps organizations respond swiftly to new vulnerabilities, minimizing potential damage and operational disruption. From Checklist to Business Enabler For many companies, compliance with standards like ISO 27001 is seen as a checkbox requirement – something to achieve for contracts or audits. However, leading organizations now recognize that security maturity is a business enabler. When implemented thoughtfully, an ISMS delivers benefits far beyond risk reduction: In other words, companies that view ISO 27001 and ISMS as strategic assets, but not burdens, are better positioned to lead in the digital economy. Adopting an ISMS positions companies as trusted partners in their industries. Clients, regulators, and business partners recognize the commitment to ongoing security resilience, which can open doors to new opportunities and markets where stringent security standards are a prerequisite. How PATECCO Helps Clients Achieve Information Security Excellence PATECCO supports organizations in building and maintaining strong, compliant, and innovation-ready information security frameworks. By combining deep expertise in Identity and Access Management with its ISO 27001-certified internal processes, PATECCO delivers solutions that go beyond theoretical compliance, helping clients turn security into a tangible business asset. Through a structured, risk-based approach, PATECCO assists clients in establishing Information Security Management Systems that are scalable, auditable, and aligned with international standards. This includes guidance on policy development, process modeling, and integration of technical controls such as Privileged Access Management (PAM) and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM). In 2025, PATECCO further strengthened its position in the ISMS market by expanding its consulting services to help clients not only prepare for ISO 27001 certification but also build a culture of continuous improvement. With a clear focus on aligning security with business goals, PATECCO enables organizations to increase stakeholder trust, ensure regulatory compliance, and build long-term resilience in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. If your organization is looking for a trusted ISMS partner to enhance your cybersecurity resilience and support scalable, long-term compliance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at info@patecco.com or call +49 (0) 23 23 – 9 87 97 96 . We are here to help you turn information security into a true business advantage.

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Are Orphaned Accounts Putting Your Organization at Risk?

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

We live in an increasingly connected world where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and persistent. As a result, identity and access management (IAM) has become a critical priority for organizations of all sizes. One often overlooked security vulnerability is the presence of orphaned accounts – user accounts that remain active even though the associated individual has left the organization or no longer requires access. While they may seem harmless, orphaned accounts can represent a significant security risk if left unmanaged. In this article, we explore what orphaned accounts are, why they pose a threat, and what steps organizations can take to mitigate the risks associated with them. What are orphaned accounts? An orphaned account is a user identity in a system that no longer has a valid owner. These accounts typically arise when employees leave an organization, change roles, or when external vendors or partners complete their projects but their access credentials are not deactivated or removed. These accounts often persist across various systems, including Active Directory, cloud platforms, email servers, and business applications. Why Orphaned Accounts are a security threat Orphaned accounts can serve as entry points for cyberattacks. Because these accounts are not actively monitored or used, they are often overlooked by security teams – making them attractive targets for threat actors. Here are some of the major risks: 1. Unauthorized Access Malicious insiders or external attackers can exploit orphaned accounts to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or critical systems, often without detection. 2. Privilege Escalation Orphaned accounts that previously belonged to high-level users (e.g., administrators, IT personnel) may retain elevated privileges. If compromised, these accounts can be used to move laterally through the network and escalate access. 3. Compliance Violations Regulatory standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and SOX require strict control over user access. The presence of orphaned accounts can lead to compliance breaches, resulting in fines and reputational damage. 4. Audit Failures Inactive accounts can complicate security audits and increase the likelihood of failing internal or third-party reviews. Causes of Orphaned Accounts Orphaned accounts don’t just appear overnight – they are often the result of gaps in processes, communication, or technology. Understanding the root causes behind their existence is the first step toward effectively managing them. From incomplete offboarding to siloed systems and a lack of automation, several factors contribute to the accumulation of these high-risk, unmanaged identities. Identifying these causes helps organizations build more resilient and secure identity management practices. Several organizational challenges contribute to the proliferation of orphaned accounts: Identifying these root causes helps organizations build stronger, more secure identity management practices. How to detect and eliminate Orphaned Accounts Once orphaned accounts are identified as a risk, the next challenge is detecting and removing them before they can be exploited. Fortunately, with the right tools and governance strategies, organizations can gain visibility into inactive or unassigned accounts and take action. This section outlines best practices for discovering orphaned accounts, implementing automated controls, and establishing long-term preventive measures to strengthen your organization’s security posture. Don’t let Orphaned Accounts become a backdoor Orphaned accounts are a silent yet potent threat lurking in many organizations. They may not grab headlines like phishing or ransomware, but their potential for damage is just as severe – if not more, due to their stealthy nature. By proactively addressing orphaned accounts through automation, strong policies, and regular audits, organizations can significantly reduce their risk posture. In the era of Zero Trust and increasing regulatory pressure, visibility and control over all digital identities are no longer optional – they are essential. If your organization is seeking a reliable IAM partner with the capability to act decisively and scale effectively, feel free to reach us out at info@patecco.com or call +49 (0) 23 23 – 9 87 97 96 .

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Are Your Access Controls Strong Enough to Stop Cyber Threats?

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

With the rapid evolution of digital technologies and global connectivity, controlling access to sensitive data, systems, and resources is a foundational aspect of cybersecurity. Organizations of all sizes must implement robust access controls to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, theft, or unauthorized changes to systems. This article explores the key types of access controls, best practices, and technologies needed to protect your assets effectively. What Are Access Controls? Access controls are a set of security measures, policies, and technologies designed to regulate who can access specific systems, applications, data, or physical resources – and under what conditions. They are essential to protecting sensitive information, ensuring operational integrity, and complying with regulatory requirements. At their core, access controls answer three critical questions: Access controls are implemented to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, insider threats, and accidental misuse. They work by verifying a user’s identity (authentication), determining their level of permission (authorization), and logging or restricting their actions accordingly. Essential Access Control Mechanisms to Implement To effectively safeguard sensitive data and critical systems, organizations must go beyond basic login credentials. Implementing a combination of robust access control mechanisms ensures that users only access what they are authorized to – nothing more, nothing less. Rather than relying on a single solution, companies need a layered and strategic approach to access management. Below, we outline the essential access control mechanisms you should implement to build a secure and resilient access management framework. 1. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) One of the most widely adopted frameworks, RBAC assigns access rights based on the user’s role within the organization. This ensures that users only access the information and systems necessary to perform their job functions. 2. Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP) Least privilege is a guiding philosophy that limits user permissions to only what is required for their job – nothing more, nothing less. This drastically reduces the risk of accidental data exposure or abuse of access rights. 3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Even with strong passwords, account compromise is a real threat. MFA adds a critical second (or third) layer of defense by requiring users to verify their identity using something they know (password), have (device), or are (biometric data). 4. Access Logging and Monitoring Monitoring who accesses what – and when – is essential for both security and compliance. Logging provides an audit trail, enabling your organization to detect unauthorized access attempts or policy violations in real time. 5. Timely Deprovisioning and Recertification Access controls are not static. As employees change roles or leave the company, it’s critical to promptly remove or adjust their permissions to avoid unnecessary risk. 6. Network Segmentation and Zero Trust Principles Rather than trusting internal traffic by default, organizations are moving toward zero trust architectures. This model assumes that no user or device is inherently trustworthy – each access request is verified based on context and risk. Access control is far more than just logging in with a password. It’s a dynamic framework that integrates identity, behavior, risk, and business logic to protect what matters most. By combining techniques like RBAC, MFA, Zero Trust and continuous monitoring, organizations can create an environment where access is secure, intentional, and traceable. In times of increasing cyber threats and regulatory pressure, strong access controls are not optional, but essential. If your organization is seeking a reliable IAM partner with the capability to act decisively and scale effectively, feel free to reach us out at info@patecco.com or call +49 (0) 23 23 – 9 87 97 96 .

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Mastering IAM Risk Management – A 5-Step Guide by PATECCO

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

As identity-driven threats continue to grow in frequency and complexity, managing who has access to what – and why – has become a foundational element of enterprise security. Recognizing this, PATECCO has released a focused guide titled “The 5-Step IAM Risk Management Process”, designed to help organizations systematically identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to Identity and Access Management (IAM). The guide outlines a clear, pragmatic five-step process, moving from risk identification to continuous improvement. Rather than offering just theory, it provides actionable strategies for uncovering hidden vulnerabilities such as dormant accounts, excessive access rights, or poor authentication practices. Each step is accompanied by practical tips to help organizations prioritize high-impact risks, implement appropriate IAM controls, and ensure continuous monitoring and response readiness. What sets this guide apart is its emphasis on automation, visibility, and adaptability. It encourages companies to leverage modern IAM tools like Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and automated provisioning to enforce least privilege principles and reduce manual errors. Moreover, PATECCO highlights how proactive monitoring, anomaly detection, and audit trails support not just security but also regulatory compliance with standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOX. Whether you are building an IAM program from the ground up or refining your existing practices, this guide serves as a compact blueprint for aligning identity governance with risk management goals. It’s especially useful for IT and security leaders seeking a scalable, business-aligned approach to safeguarding digital identities. Download the 5-Step Guide for Risk and Opportunity Management:

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PATECCO GmbH Awarded EcoVadis Gold Medal – a Reflection of Sustainable Leadership

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

In an era where corporate responsibility and sustainable development are paramount, PATECCO GmbH proudly announces a significant achievement – the company has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medal by EcoVadis for its sustainability management system. This honor places PATECCO among the top 5% of companies worldwide assessed by EcoVadis in the past year, underscoring its unwavering commitment to responsible and ethical business practices. PATECCO’s recognition with the Gold Medal is grounded in exceptional performance across four key areas: This award is far more than a symbol of past achievements. The gold medal is also a reflection of PATECCO’s deep-rooted corporate culture where sustainability is not an isolated project, but a core element embedded in everyday operations. The company’s success owes much to the collective commitment of its team, which has worked intensely to turn strategic goals into practical and impactful actions. Their shared passion for innovation and responsibility has elevated PATECCO to the forefront of sustainable business leadership. EcoVadis is a pioneering SaaS platform that empowers organizations to comprehensively assess and enhance their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance across entire value chains. The EcoVadis platform’s global reach allows scalability for managing sustainability performance not only within their own operations but also across diverse international supply chains. Through its sophisticated rating system, EcoVadis provides detailed scorecards as well as actionable insights that help businesses drive continuous improvement, while anticipating and addressing advanced risk management features and potential ESG challenges. Moreover, enhanced transparency fosters stronger collaboration with partners, creating a collective force for sustainable business transformation. For PATECCO, the Gold Medal represents more than just recognition. It affirms the company’s commitment to responsible leadership and serves as a catalyst for continued advancement. PATECCO embraces this responsibility with dedication, committing to raising standards even higher, that benefits society and the environment alike. Visit our official EcoVadis Recognition Page online or simply scan the QR code to see: EcoVadis is one of the world’s leading provider of trusted sustainability ratings – and we are proud to be part of this movement. Looking ahead, PATECCO’s vision remains clear: to not only meet but set new benchmarks for sustainable business excellence. By doing so, the company aims to contribute decisively to building a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious global economy. #EcoVadisSuccessStory

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How PATECCO Transformed IAM for a Leading Pharma Company?

Uncategorized / Ina Nikolova

What began as a small consulting engagement grew into a long-term strategic partnership between PATECCO and Bayer Business Services GmbH – the dedicated IT subsidiary of the global life sciences leader, Bayer AG. Bayer, with more than 150 years of innovation in healthcare and agriculture, relies on secure, scalable, and intelligent IT infrastructure to support its global operations. At the heart of this infrastructure is a complex Identity and Access Management (IAM) ecosystem – successfully managed and developed by PATECCO. The Challenge Bayer Business Services GmbH faced the challenge of managing a highly complex and expansive IAM environment. With nearly 300,000 user identities, over 420,000 groups, and approximately 60,000 roles, maintaining secure and compliant access across the organization was a mission-critical requirement. The challenge grew more complex with the need for: To meet these demands, Bayer needed more than a solution provider – it needed a strategic partner with deep IAM expertise and long-term operational capabilities. The Solution Over the course of more than 12 years, PATECCO became Bayer’s trusted IAM managed services provider, consistently delivering tailored solutions and proactive support that addressed the growing complexity of their identity management needs. From day one, PATECCO’s commitment to excellence was evident in every aspect of the collaboration: The Results: This long-term collaboration enabled Bayer Business Services to achieve transformative outcomes across all critical dimensions of identity and access management. By leveraging PATECCO’s deep technical expertise and strategic oversight, Bayer not only stabilized a highly complex IAM environment but also advanced it into a mature and compliant network. Key achievements include: PATECCO’s ability to adapt alongside Bayer’s needs, while providing dependable and proactive IAM services, has made it a true partner in Bayer’s digital journey. Together, they have not only met today’s IAM challenges, they have laid the groundwork for a more secure, scalable, and innovative tomorrow. The story of Bayer and PATECCO is more than an IAM provider-client relationship – it is a testament to what can be achieved through shared values, consistent delivery, and a deep commitment to security and operational excellence.

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