ThinkMaterial prioritizes the security and privacy of your sensitive research data. Our platform is built with enterprise-grade security at its core, providing comprehensive protections while ensuring compliance with global regulations and industry standards.
Security Architecture
Multi-Layered Security Model
ThinkMaterial implements a defense-in-depth approach with multiple security layers:
graph TD
A[Physical Security] --> B[Network Security]
B --> C[Infrastructure Security]
C --> D[Application Security]
D --> E[Data Security]
E --> F[Access Control]
F --> G[Monitoring & Response]This comprehensive security stack ensures protection at every level from physical infrastructure to user access.
Infrastructure Security
Our platform is built on enterprise-grade infrastructure with robust security measures:
- Cloud Security: SOC 2 Type II compliant cloud infrastructure
- Containerization: Isolated environments with security scanning
- Micro-Segmentation: Network isolation between components
- Automated Patching: Continuous vulnerability management
- Hardened Configurations: Industry best practices for all systems
For on-premise deployments, we provide comprehensive hardening guidelines and configuration assistance.
Network Protection
Multiple layers of network security protect against unauthorized access:
- TLS Encryption: All data in transit protected with TLS 1.3
- Web Application Firewall: Protection against OWASP Top 10 threats
- DDoS Mitigation: Advanced protection against denial of service attacks
- Network Monitoring: 24/7 traffic analysis and anomaly detection
- API Security: Rate limiting, authentication, and encrypted communications
Application Security
Our software development follows secure-by-design principles:
- Secure SDLC: Security integrated throughout development lifecycle
- Regular Penetration Testing: Third-party security assessments
- Dependency Scanning: Continuous monitoring for vulnerable components
- Static & Dynamic Analysis: Automated code security testing
- Bug Bounty Program: Engagement with security researchers
Data Protection
Data Encryption
Comprehensive encryption protects your sensitive research data:
- Encryption at Rest: AES-256 encryption for all stored data
- Encryption in Transit: TLS 1.3 for all network communications
- Key Management: Secure key storage with regular rotation
- Database Encryption: Field-level encryption for sensitive data
- Backup Encryption: All backups protected with encryption
Data Residency & Sovereignty
We provide flexible options to meet regional requirements:
- Regional Deployments: Data centers in North America, Europe, and Asia
- Data Residency Controls: Guarantees on data storage location
- Sovereignty Compliance: Adherence to local data protection laws
- Cross-Border Controls: Restrictions on data movement as required
- Documentation: Transparent data flow mapping
Data Lifecycle Management
Comprehensive policies govern data throughout its lifecycle:
- Classification: Automated and manual data classification
- Retention Policies: Configurable data retention timeframes
- Secure Deletion: Cryptographic deletion when data is removed
- Archiving: Compliant long-term storage options
- Recovery: Point-in-time recovery capabilities
Access Controls
Identity & Access Management
Robust authentication and authorization ensure appropriate access:
- Single Sign-On: Integration with major SSO providers (Okta, Azure AD, etc.)
- Multi-Factor Authentication: Required for all privileged access
- Role-Based Access Control: Granular permission management
- Just-in-Time Access: Temporary elevated permissions with approval
- Privileged Access Management: Enhanced controls for admin accounts
Enterprise Access Features
Advanced capabilities for large organizations:
- Directory Integration: Synchronization with enterprise user directories
- Access Certification: Regular access reviews and attestation
- Delegation: Hierarchical approval workflows
- IP Restrictions: Access limits based on network location
- Session Management: Timeout controls and forced re-authentication
Intellectual Property Protection
Special protections for valuable research IP:
- Data Loss Prevention: Controls preventing unauthorized data export
- Watermarking: Digital watermarking of sensitive outputs
- Usage Audit: Comprehensive tracking of data access and usage
- Attribution: Maintenance of discovery provenance
- Collaboration Controls: Granular sharing permissions
Compliance & Certifications
Industry Certifications
ThinkMaterial maintains key security certifications and attestations:
- SOC 2 Type II: Comprehensive audit of security controls
- ISO 27001: Information security management system certification
- GDPR Compliance: Full adherence to European data protection requirements
- HIPAA Compliance: Available for healthcare-related research
- FedRAMP Moderate: For US government customers (in process)
Industry-Specific Compliance
Additional compliance measures for specialized industries:
- GxP Readiness: Support for pharmaceutical research compliance
- NIST 800-171: Controls for government research
- CMMC Level 3: For defense industry applications
- 21 CFR Part 11: Support for electronic records compliance
- Export Control: ITAR and EAR compliance capabilities
Compliance Documentation
Comprehensive resources to support your compliance requirements:
- Security Whitepaper: Detailed description of security controls
- Compliance Matrix: Mapping of controls to standards
- Penetration Test Results: Summary of security testing
- Access to Audit Reports: Available under NDA
- CAIQ Responses: Standardized security questionnaire responses
Security Operations
Continuous Monitoring
Comprehensive visibility across the platform:
- Security Information & Event Management (SIEM): Centralized logging and analysis
- Intrusion Detection: Real-time threat monitoring
- Behavioral Analytics: AI-powered anomaly detection
- Vulnerability Scanning: Regular automated assessments
- Asset Inventory: Complete visibility of all system components
Incident Response
Robust processes for security incident management:
- 24/7 SOC: Security operations center with continuous monitoring
- Defined Playbooks: Predetermined response procedures
- Customer Notification: Timely communication of relevant incidents
- Forensic Capabilities: Detailed investigation tools
- Post-Incident Analysis: Continuous improvement process
Business Continuity
Ensuring service availability and data protection:
- Disaster Recovery: Comprehensive DR plan with regular testing
- Backup Strategy: Multiple backup approaches with geographical separation
- High Availability: Redundant architecture for critical components
- Recovery Time Objectives: Documented RTOs for different scenarios
- Regular Testing: Scheduled DR exercises and validations
Deployment Options
Cloud Deployment
Our standard SaaS offering with enterprise-grade security:
- Managed by ThinkMaterial in SOC 2 compliant cloud infrastructure
- Regular security updates and patching
- Shared responsibility model with transparent security boundaries
- Geographic region selection for data residency compliance
- Logical tenant isolation with strong security controls
On-Premise Deployment
For organizations with strict data locality requirements:
- Complete platform deployment within your network boundary
- Integration with local identity and security systems
- Compatible with air-gapped environments
- Support for your existing security monitoring tools
- No outbound data transmission requirements
Hybrid Model
Combining the advantages of both approaches:
- Core platform on-premise with selective cloud capabilities
- Customizable data sharing boundaries
- Synchronized security policies across environments
- Consistent experience with flexible deployment
- Transparent security model with clear responsibilities
Enterprise Security Features
Custom Security Controls
Tailored security measures for enterprise needs:
- Custom Encryption: Integration with enterprise key management
- Enhanced Logging: Specialized audit requirements
- Custom Authentication: Integration with proprietary systems
- Specific Compliance Requirements: Controls for unique regulations
- Customized Security Monitoring: Integration with enterprise SOC
Additional Enterprise Safeguards
Extra protections for the most sensitive environments:
- Customer-Managed Encryption Keys: Full control of encryption
- Private Connectivity: Dedicated network connections without internet transit
- Enhanced Background Checks: Additional vetting for support personnel
- Custom Data Processing Agreements: Tailored legal protections
- Security Joint Reviews: Regular security assessment meetings
Security Documentation
Available Resources
We provide comprehensive security documentation:
- Security Whitepaper: Detailed overview of security architecture
- Penetration Test Summary: Results of third-party assessments
- Compliance Certifications: Copies of current certifications
- Security Policies: Overview of core security policies
- Risk Assessment: Methodology and approach
Enterprise Documentation Package
For enterprise clients (available under NDA):
- Detailed Architecture Documents: In-depth technical security information
- Control Matrices: Mapping to specific compliance frameworks
- Threat Models: Analysis of security threats and mitigations
- Third-Party Audit Reports: Complete assessment results
- Security Roadmap: Upcoming security enhancements
Security Assurance
Security Testing
Regular validation of security controls:
- Penetration Testing: Quarterly third-party assessments
- Vulnerability Scanning: Weekly automated scanning
- Red Team Exercises: Annual simulated attack scenarios
- Application Security Testing: Pre-release security validation
- Configuration Audits: Regular review of security settings
Third-Party Risk Management
Comprehensive oversight of our supply chain:
- Vendor Security Assessment: Rigorous evaluation of all providers
- Continuous Monitoring: Ongoing surveillance of third-party security
- Contract Security Requirements: Explicit security obligations
- Service Provider Audits: Regular review of critical vendors
- Fourth-Party Risk Analysis: Extended supply chain visibility
Getting Started with Security
Security Implementation Process
- Security Requirements Review: Assessment of your specific needs
- Architecture Planning: Design of appropriate security controls
- Implementation: Deployment of security measures
- Validation: Testing and verification of controls
- Documentation: Comprehensive security documentation
- Ongoing Management: Continuous security operations
Security Resources
Enterprise Security Contact
For detailed security discussions or custom requirements:
- Contact Enterprise Security Team
- Request Security Documentation
- Schedule Security Architecture Review
Our security team is available to address any specific concerns or requirements you may have regarding the protection of your valuable research data.