The ATS as an attack target — why securing it matters
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is a treasure trove of personal data — it stores thousands of CVs with names, addresses, phone numbers, employment histories, and often recruiter notes containing subjective candidate assessments. A breach means a GDPR violation with potential fines up to EUR 20 million. Cybercriminals attack ATS systems through stolen recruiter credentials, infected resumes, and software vulnerabilities.
ATS security configuration
Proper ATS configuration encompasses multiple layers. Identity layer: MFA for all users, integration with corporate SSO, automatic account deactivation after 90 days of inactivity. Access layer: roles with precise permissions, bulk data export blocked for regular users. Data layer: encryption at rest (AES-256) and in transit (TLS 1.3), automatic data deletion after the retention period, anonymization in test environments. Monitoring layer: data access logging, alerts for unusual activity.
Choosing a secure ATS provider
When selecting an ATS provider, check certifications: ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II. Verify server location — for GDPR compliance, data should be processed within the EEA. Require a Data Processing Agreement (DPA) compliant with Article 28 GDPR. Check the update and patching policy. Ask about business continuity plans. Verify whether the vendor conducts regular penetration tests.
Cybersecurity for Your Industry
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Best practices for implementation
Effective implementation requires several key steps:
- Risk assessment and inventory — identify assets, threats, and vulnerabilities specific to your organization.
- Policy development — document requirements, roles, and responsibilities.
- Technical controls — deploy tools and configurations proportionate to identified risks.
- Training and awareness — engage employees in protecting organizational security.
- Monitoring and continuous improvement — regularly verify effectiveness and adapt to the evolving threat landscape.
Related terms
Our services
Related services and products
- One Identity Safeguard for Privileged Passwords
- One Identity Safeguard for Privileged Sessions
- One Identity Safeguard Remote Access
Frequently asked questions
Is a cloud ATS more secure than on-premise?
Generally yes — reputable SaaS vendors invest more in security. The condition: the vendor must have certifications (ISO 27001, SOC 2), EEA servers, and a solid DPA.
How often should an ATS security audit be conducted?
Internal review — quarterly. External audit or penetration test — annually.
What to do after detecting a data breach from the ATS?
Immediately block system access, secure logs, notify the DPO. Within 72 hours, report the breach to the supervisory authority. Notify affected candidates.
