Privileged Identity Management (PIM)
Introduction
Privileged Identity Management (PIM) refers to a framework and set of tools designed to secure, control, and monitor access to critical systems and data by users with elevated or “privileged” permissions. These privileged accounts — such as system administrators, database managers, and IT security personnel — have extensive access rights, making them high-value targets for cyberattacks.
PIM is an essential component of Identity and Access Management (IAM) strategies, focusing specifically on the protection and governance of privileged credentials to reduce the risks of internal misuse, external breaches, and compliance violations.
What is a Privileged Identity?
A privileged identity is any user, account, or process that has administrative or elevated rights to access sensitive systems, modify configurations, or control other user accounts. Examples include:
Administrator accounts (Windows, Linux, etc.)
Root users in Unix-based systems
Database administrators (DBAs)
Network and security device managers
Service accounts used for automated system interactions
Because of their access power, these accounts must be tightly controlled and continuously monitored.
Key Components of PIM
Privileged Account Discovery and Inventory
Detects and catalogs all privileged accounts across networks, databases, applications, and cloud platforms.
Access Control and Just-in-Time Privileges
Grants temporary access only when required and automatically revokes it after use.
Supports the principle of least privilege — users get only the permissions they need for specific tasks.
Credential Management
Manages, rotates, and secures privileged passwords and SSH keys.
Eliminates hard-coded or shared credentials.
Session Monitoring and Recording
Records privileged user sessions for auditing and forensic analysis.
Enables real-time monitoring to detect suspicious activities.
Audit and Compliance Reporting
Tracks all privileged actions for compliance with regulations such as ISO 27001, GDPR, HIPAA, and SOX.
Integration with IAM and SIEM Systems
Enhances visibility and security analytics through integration with identity and threat monitoring tools.