Automated workflows often need identities of their own. Service accounts, API clients, workload identities, and integration credentials can become durable access paths, so they should be managed as security-sensitive assets rather than convenient shared logins.
Give each workload its own identity
Where the platform supports it, avoid sharing one broad credential across unrelated workflows. Separate identities make permissions easier to limit and activity easier to investigate.
Use the least privilege the workflow needs
Grant only the actions and resources required for the intended process. Reassess permissions when a workflow changes rather than accumulating access over time.
Keep secrets out of code and routine documents
Store credentials in an appropriate secrets-management facility or platform-provided protected configuration. Avoid committing secrets to source control, embedding them in scripts, or copying them into tickets and general documentation.
Prefer short-lived credentials where practical
When supported, workload identity and short-lived tokens can reduce reliance on long-lived static secrets. Where static credentials remain necessary, define rotation, revocation, ownership, and recovery procedures.
Monitor identity activity
Record authentication, privilege, credential, and material workflow activity where available. Investigate use from unexpected systems, unusual times, or outside the account's intended purpose.
Related knowledge
Continue with Secrets and Credential Management, Security Logging for Business SaaS, and Third-Party Integration Security.
References
This is general security guidance. Specific identity, retention, access-control, and audit requirements may be determined by applicable technical, contractual, privacy, legal, or regulatory obligations.