SAP system security is a major concern for companies using this powerful business management tool. Too often, we run into inadequate authorization models, resulting in deteriorating governance and high maintenance costs. But what does it really mean to secure SAP and what are the key areas to focus on?

In this article, we will explore the main areas of SAP Security, focusing on application security, authorization management, and protection of custom developments. Let's look at how to address SAP security to prevent future problems and ensure robust governance.

Application security and authorization management

Application security is the first step in protecting the SAP system. A common mistake is to believe that simple user profile management is enough to ensure a secure environment. In reality, designing a robust authorization model is critical to prevent unauthorized access and reduce fraud risks.

There are two main scenarios:

• New SAP projects: If you are implementing a new SAP system, this is the perfect opportunity to get off on the right foot. Defining a Rule-Based Access Control (RBAC) authorization model early on will help you better manage access rights and comply with regulations such as GDPR and SOX. Make sure each role has appropriate and well-defined permissions.
• SAP systems already live: If your system is already live, you can leverage existing data to optimize the authorization model. Periodic review of permissions is essential to maintain control over access and ensure that there are no excess permissions or rights that are no longer needed.

In both cases, it is important to implement a clear and consistent role naming convention. This facilitates user management and reduces system maintenance time.

Segregation of Duties (SoD) Management.

One of the most sensitive aspects of SAP security is the management of Segregation of Duties (SoD). This fundamental governance principle dictates that no one user can have total control over a sensitive business process. In other words, you must segregate responsibilities to reduce the risk of fraud or unintentional errors.

Implementing proper Segregation of Duties means dividing sensitive transactions among several users, ensuring that no one user can complete the entire process alone. At SYSDAT.IT, we support you in all phases of the SoD project:

• Risk definition: Identification of critical areas and transactions at risk.
• Risk Analysis: Assessment of potential SoD violations within the system.
• Remediation: Implementation of corrective actions to eliminate identified risks.
• Mitigation: Creation of alternative controls to mitigate risk where violations cannot be eliminated.
• Continuous compliance: Ongoing monitoring to ensure that authorizations remain compliant over time.

Proper SoD management is essential not only for safety, but also for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring transparency within the company.

Security of custom developments

Another crucial area that is often underestimated is the security of custom developments. Whenever you customize your SAP system with specific code (e.g., in ABAP), it is critical to adhere to secure development best practices.

Insecure custom code can introduce vulnerabilities, rendering your efforts to protect application security in vain. At SYSDAT.IT, we employ a methodology that includes authorization checks built directly into the code, ensuring that every change is aligned with security standards.

Good custom development prevents possible security holes and keeps the SAP system protected, both in terms of permissions and data integrity.

SAP Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC).

To manage security efficiently and maintain compliance over time, a key tool is SAP Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC). SAP GRC offers a range of solutions that help companies integrate risk and compliance management into daily operations, providing greater visibility and control.

With SAP GRC, you can monitor the utility lifecycle, audit business processes, and maintain control over operational risks. This tool simplifies governance and reduces the complexity of security management, ensuring more informed business decisions based on real-time data.

Implement SAP Security solutions to protect your business

Securing an SAP system requires a comprehensive approach and ongoing management of permissions, task segregation, and custom development. Addressing SAP security with a strategic vision not only protects business data, but also helps maintain robust governance and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

If you need support in defining and managing SAP security, contact us. We at SYSDAT.IT are ready to help you implement the best SAP Security solutions to protect your business.

Implementare soluzioni di SAP Security per proteggere il tuo business

Mettere in sicurezza un sistema SAP richiede un approccio globale e una gestione continua delle autorizzazioni, della segregazione dei compiti e dello sviluppo custom. Affrontare la sicurezza SAP con una visione strategica non solo protegge i dati aziendali, ma contribuisce anche a mantenere una governance solida e a ridurre i costi di manutenzione a lungo termine.

Se hai bisogno di supporto nella definizione e gestione della sicurezza SAP, contattaci. Noi di SYSDAT.IT siamo pronti ad aiutarti a implementare le migliori soluzioni di SAP Security per proteggere la tua azienda.