Enhancing Federal Security with Zero Trust MFA for Internal and External Applications

Zero Trust Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an application of the broader Zero Trust security model, which operates on the principle that no entity, internal or external, should be automatically trusted. Instead, trust must be continually earned through strict verification processes. Zero Trust MFA enhances this approach by requiring multiple factors of

authentication from users to prove their identity before they can access resources. This goes beyond traditional security measures, which might rely solely on something the user knows (like a password).

MFA Solutions for Internal Agency Applications

NexGen Technologies has developed a reusable shared Service Provider solution utilizing OneLogin, for robust and secure authentication. This solution authenticates users against an Agencies enterprise identity management solution, such as Microsoft's Active Directory Federation Service (AD FS) or Entra ID.

For example, NexGen implemented a OneLogin based service provider solution that was implemented across over a dozen applications within the Department of the Interior (DOI), which communicates with the DOI’s enterprise identity management solution, AD FS, for authentication using SAML (Security Assertion Markup Language) 2.0. OneLogin acts as a middleman between the application and the enterprise’s identity management solution. The process uses tokens to securely exchange identity information. This setup ensures a single sign-on (SSO) experience, where users can authenticate once and access multiple applications securely. This process ensures that authentication is both centralized and secure, following Zero Trust principles by requiring continuous verification of user credentials.

NexGen's approach aligns with the latest Federal cybersecurity guidelines, ensuring that all access points are secured with phishing-resistant mechanisms. This is critical given the increasing sophistication of cybersecurity threats, particularly in phishing attacks which often serve as entry points for more significant breaches.

MFA Solution for External Agency Applications

For external-facing applications and websites, NexGen Technologies leverages the secure and widely recognized sign-in service, Login.gov, to provide the public with safe access to participating government agency platforms. This integration is a pivotal component of our commitment to enhancing digital trust and security in line with zero-trust and phishing-resistant authentication frameworks. NexGen has implemented Login.gov as a phishing resistant MFA solution for several large mission critical systems, applications, and websites across the DOI. The following summarize benefits of our integration approach:

• Seamless Connectivity: NexGen configures the integration to ensure that Login.gov authentication processes are seamlessly embedded within external facing federal government applications and websites. This involves modifying the web application’s authentication flow to redirect to Login.gov for identity verification.

• System Compatibility: Our technical team ensures compatibility across various platforms by utilizing open standards such as OAuth2 and OpenID Connect for secure, token-based authentication. This allows for a flexible integration with existing government web services and third-party applications.

• Streamlined Login Process: By integrating Login.gov, NexGen provides users a frictionless sign-in experience, reducing the need for multiple passwords and login details while enhancing security. This unified approach also facilitates greater accessibility and usability across government services.

• Support and Accessibility: NexGen supports this integration with a comprehensive user support system to assist the public in navigating the authentication process. This includes accessibility features ensuring that all users, regardless of ability, can securely access the services they need.

Why Zero Trust MFA is Important to the Federal Government

1. Enhanced Security Posture: The federal government manages a vast amount of sensitive data, including personal information, national security data, and critical infrastructure details. Zero Trust MFA for federal applications

   
   
   
   

   minimizes the risk of unauthorized access by ensuring that users are rigorously verified using multiple authentication methods (something they know, something they have, and something they are), which significantly reduces the likelihood of breaches.

2. Compliance with Regulations: Federal agencies are required to adhere to strict cybersecurity standards and regulations, such as those outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Implementing Zero Trust MFA helps meet these regulatory requirements by incorporating robust authentication protocols that safeguard access to sensitive information.

3. Adaptability to Evolving Threats: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, with attackers finding new ways to exploit weaknesses in information systems. Zero Trust MFA provides a flexible and adaptable security framework that can incorporate new authentication methods as threats evolve, ensuring continued protection against a wide array of attack vectors.

4. Reduction of Insider Threats: Zero Trust MFA mitigates the risks associated with insider threats by requiring continuous authentication and verification. Even if an insider has legitimate access credentials, the use of multiple authentication factors can prevent unauthorized actions, adding an additional layer of security.

5. Public Trust and Reliability: By implementing stringent security measures like Zero Trust MFA, the federal government can enhance the public's trust in its digital services. This is particularly important as more citizens interact with government services online, and expectations for privacy and security are high.