Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly critical, especially for large organisations using SAP platforms. SAP systems are used by 99 of the world’s top 100 companies and have more than 280 million cloud users. The complexity and dispersion of these systems - spanning the SaaS model, on-premise solutions and the cloud - make identifying new attack vectors a genuine challenge.
If not properly managed, SAP systems can become an easy target for cybercriminals. Many companies wrongly assume that responsibility for securing SAP applications lies with someone else, which can lead to delays in responding to threats. Regularly applying patches is essential - particularly Security Patches, Functional Patches, and Application and Database Patches. Failure to implement them can result in serious data breaches, loss of critical system functionality, and risk that remains invisible until it is too late.
Vulnerabilities such as “zero-days” are especially dangerous, as they can be exploited by cybercriminals before a fix has even been developed. This is precisely why monitoring SAP systems and responding quickly to potential threats is so important. Using the right tools, such as SAP HANA Security Checklists or SecurityBridge, enables continuous monitoring and optimisation of system security, which is key to combating modern cyber threats.
Fortunately, there are many ways to secure the SAP platform against attacks. It is important that companies do not fall into a false sense of security and actively engage in protecting their SAP platforms.
SAP environments and their impact on security
SAP systems can run in various environments, each of which has a unique impact on their security.
On-premise is the traditional environment, in which companies have full control over all components, providing the highest level of visibility and data protection, although it is costly to maintain.
Cloud encompasses private and public models, which require cooperation with external server providers. The public model offers flexibility and scalability but involves shared resources and data transfer over the Internet, whereas a private cloud provides greater control and customisation.
Hybrid combines on-premise and cloud components, allowing companies to manage their own environment while benefiting from the flexibility and scalability of the cloud. This solution allows control and operating costs to be balanced, adapting to a company’s specific needs.
Domains of SAP security
Given the complexity of SAP systems, several key components support the administrative protection of SAP software:
Identity and Access Management (IAM): Role-based access controls and authentication methods form the foundation of security. Assigning appropriate permissions to employees, such as SAP consultants and managers, minimises the risk of unauthorised access.
Privileged access management: Certain data and tasks require special permissions, granted by IT staff. The principle of least privilege should be paramount here.
Threat detection: Anomalies, logs and intrusion detection systems (IDS) must be monitored in real time. Tools that automatically prioritise data should be used to facilitate processing.
Threat response: Effective response involves integrating SIEM tools, vulnerability management and incident detection into a coherent framework.
Vulnerability management: This includes system hardening through patch management, code analysis and vulnerability scanning. Applying these processes enables fast and effective risk management.
Implementing these measures provides protection against cyber threats and ensures regulatory compliance, minimising the risk of attacks on SAP systems.
Integrating SAP security
Effective protection of SAP systems requires the implementation of integrated security frameworks that account for the unique aspects of each environment. SIEM systems play a key role in ensuring compliance and combating cyber threats across various SAP environments. SIEM tools enable real-time threat detection and response while providing the necessary compliance reports. Integrating IAM standards enables access control and user authentication, regardless of data location or the operations being carried out.
Regular audits and real-time monitoring complement the use of SIEM and IAM, supporting adherence to security policies and alerting administrators to any deviations from established norms. Maintaining operational consistency across different SAP environments results in a coherent and effective protection plan for these platforms.
An integrated approach to SAP security, combining these tools and procedures, provides companies with comprehensive protection for their systems, minimising the risk associated with cyber threats while increasing regulatory compliance.
SAP security checklist
To build a secure SAP environment, organisations should implement the following practices:
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Regularly install SAP patches: every month, following appropriate planning and testing, install patches such as kernel patches, SAP Note Assistant fixes (transaction SNOTE) and support packages.
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Continuous system hardening: regular configuration and strengthening of the system in response to new threats.
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Segregation of duties: minimises the risk of fraud by ensuring no single person controls every aspect of a transaction.
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Establish a real-time threat-response process: allows for immediate action to minimise threats.
SAP patches - the foundations of system security
SAP patches are essential for maintaining the security and performance of the system. There are three main types of patches:
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Kernel Patches: fix critical issues related to the SAP system kernel, affecting the stability and security of the entire environment.
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SAP Note Assistant fixes (transaction SNOTE): enable the rapid deployment of updates and fixes for specific software issues, often without requiring system downtime.
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Support Packs: contain cumulative updates that improve functionality and fix bugs in SAP applications.
Regularly applying these patches not only protects against known vulnerabilities but also ensures the system remains aligned with the latest security standards. Each type of patch fulfils a different role in protecting the system, from fixing critical components to improving application functionality and stability. Proper management of the update process - covering planning, testing and deployment - is essential to keeping SAP systems fully protected against new and emerging threats.
Furthermore, deploying patches should be an integral part of the security strategy of every organisation using SAP. Outdated systems can be an easy target for cybercriminals, which is why maintaining a regular update cycle is essential. Proper patch management ensures that both new and existing SAP applications run without disruption while protecting critical business data.
It is also worth remembering that these patches affect not only system functionality but also have a direct impact on regulatory compliance and long-term risk management within the organisation.
”Secure by Default” - strengthening SAP systems at no additional cost
Implementing the “Secure by Default” principle in SAP systems is an effective and economical way of increasing security. It involves configuring systems to be as secure as possible by default, from the moment of installation. This allows organisations to minimise the risk arising from improper configuration, which can lead to vulnerability to attacks. Implementing this principle, often at no additional cost, enables the automatic hardening of systems, providing protection against a wide range of threats.
This principle includes, among other things, disabling unnecessary functions that could serve as potential attack vectors, and applying advanced security settings from the very start of system deployment. “Secure by Default” is particularly important in the context of a dynamically changing cyber-threat landscape, where incorrect configuration can have serious consequences for data security and business operations. Integrating these practices into everyday IT operations provides better protection with minimal financial and operational outlay.
Segregation of Duties (SoD) - the key to preventing abuse in SAP
Segregation of duties (SoD) is a fundamental element of security management in SAP systems, designed to minimise the risk of abuse and fraud. This principle involves dividing critical functions within business processes among different individuals, preventing a situation in which a single person has full control over every aspect of a transaction. For example, the person approving financial transactions should not also have the authority to create them.
Implementing SoD in SAP systems is essential to ensuring that organisations operate in accordance with security best practice and are protected against the risk of internal threats. SAP systems often have built-in tools that help monitor and enforce SoD rules, enabling effective management of user access and permissions. This allows organisations not only to prevent fraud but also to ensure compliance with legal and audit regulations.
Comprehensive SAP protection with SNOK and SecurityBridge
SecurityBridge, as an advanced platform for monitoring and protecting SAP systems, combined with SNOK’s comprehensive services, creates an exceptionally effective solution for securing SAP environments. SecurityBridge offers tools for proactive threat detection, vulnerability analysis and real-time monitoring, enabling a fast response to security incidents. Thanks to SNOK’s expertise, organisations can not only deploy these tools optimally but also gain full support in managing compliance and optimising security.
SNOK, as an experienced SAP partner, integrates SecurityBridge solutions with the client’s existing infrastructure, ensuring full protection against modern cyber threats. Cooperation with SecurityBridge allows SNOK’s clients to be provided with holistic solutions that not only secure their systems but also support them in meeting regulatory requirements and improving their overall security posture within the organisation.
By combining SecurityBridge’s advanced technology with SNOK’s expert services, organisations can effectively protect their SAP systems, minimising the risk of breaches and maintaining operational continuity. This partnership gives clients peace of mind, knowing that their critical data and business processes are in the best possible hands.
Summary - security as a process, not a product
The security of SAP systems is a complex and dynamic process that requires constant monitoring, updates and user education. A holistic approach that combines regular updates, advanced monitoring technologies, appropriate architecture and compliance management is key to effective protection against increasingly sophisticated threats.
Modern cyber threats are becoming ever more complex and require up-to-date tools alongside a proactive approach to security. Only organisations that implement comprehensive SAP security strategies will be able to effectively protect their assets and data, minimising the risk of attacks and potential losses. Security is not an end in itself, but a fundamental element of the healthy functioning of any organisation, which is why investing in appropriate protective measures is absolutely essential.