3 Challenges of hybrid work, and how identity & access management solves them

Even as an increasing percentage of the workforce works remotely, cyberattacks on organizations continue to surge. 73% of executives viewing remote workers as a heightened security risk. A 2024 report revealed a 104% increase in attempted cyberattacks over the previous year, highlighting the critical need for strong cybersecurity measures.

While the increased adoption of remote and hybrid work models has reshaped the workplace, the bottomline is that it also poses security challenges. Therefore ensuring secure collaboration – whether on-site or remote – requires solutions that protect data, authenticate access and mitigate risks in various environments.

That’s where Identity & Access Management (IAM) comes in with its toolkit designed to safeguard your workspace – whether it’s at the office or remote.

Security Challenges of Hybrid Operations

1. Increased attack surface

With employees accessing resources from various networks and devices, the risk of unauthorised access grows, expanding the attack surface.

2. Access control and data security

Hybrid setups require strict control over access to sensitive data to prevent breaches and regulatory issues.

3. Device and network security

The mix of personal and corporate devices on different networks raises the risk of malware and cyber threats.

Key IAM features for Secure Collaboration

1. Single Sign-On (SSO)

SSO streamlines access to multiple applications with a single, secure login and reduces the need to manage multiple passwords. Akku’s Single Sign-On feature offers one-click access across applications, a single dashboard for quick provisioning, permissions management, and easy revocation of access across all applications.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA strengthens security by requiring a second form of verification beyond just a password. However, implementing MFA can be complex and costly, especially when multiple applications from different providers need a unified platform. Akku offers MFA functionality that’s quick and cost-effective to deploy, with authentication factors including biometrics, SMS, and push notifications.

3. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

RBAC restricts access to specific data and applications based on an employee’s role. This approach limits data exposure to only those who need it, safeguarding sensitive information and preventing accidental leaks or security breaches.

What does IAM ensure?

1. Real-time monitoring and auditing

IAM systems offer real-time visibility into user activities, allowing IT teams to monitor logins, device usage, and detect potential security incidents as they occur. Regular auditing ensures that user access aligns with each person’s current role, preventing privilege creep and enhancing accountability within the organization. In other words, real time monitoring and auditing ensure better decision-making, operational efficiency, breach detection and prevention, and customer satisfaction.

2. Data protection in multi-cloud and hybrid environments

A recent study reported a 75% rise in cloud incidents last year, which explains why IAM is highlighted as a key cloud security trend for 2025, with zero-trust architecture adoption projected to reach 60%, along with advanced access control measures to secure critical systems. IAMs secure collaboration across various cloud services by enforcing consistent access control policies across environments.

3. Improved compliance and data privacy

Compliance with data privacy regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA is essential for organizations handling sensitive information. By employing IAM, organizations can ensure they maintain the highest standards of data privacy and regulatory compliance.

The hybrid work model brings new security challenges, but your organization can stay not just a step but leaps and bounds ahead of every threat simply by adopting an IAM solution. Protect your data, improve your productivity with Akku. Talk to us today to find out more.