Preventing Industry Contagion

APIs and data flows connect us all. One vulnerable organization can compromise the entire ecosystem.

The Contagion Effect

Quick and dangerous spread

A security incident at one HCM organization can quickly spread:

  • Upstream to technology providers and service partners
  • Downstream to clients and their employees
  • Laterally to integrated service providers

This inter-connectedness means that the industry is only as strong as its most vulnerable participant.

Our approach to industry-wide protection

HCM Defender implements a multi-layered strategy to prevent the spread of cyber threats:

  • Unified Standards: We establish baseline security standards that address the specific needs of the HCM ecosystem, creating a consistent security foundation across member organizations.
  • Connection Security: We develop protocols and best practices for securing API connections, data transfers, and integrations between HCM service providers.
  • Collective Defense: Our members benefit from shared threat intelligence, allowing the entire industry to respond quickly to emerging threats before they can spread.

Strength through collaboration

The HCM industry represents one of the most interconnected business ecosystems in the modern economy:

Did you know?

  • The average mid-sized employer connects with 7-12 different HCM service providers
  • HR technology platforms typically maintain 15+ API connections to complementary services
  • Payroll providers exchange sensitive data with numerous financial institutions, tax authorities, and benefits providers

The consequences

  • Security vulnerabilities at one organization can impact dozens of connected partners
  • Client data flows through multiple service providers, creating potential exposure points
  • Credential compromise can enable lateral movement across integrated platforms

The Value of Participation

By joining HCM Defender, your organization becomes part of the solution to industry-wide security challenges. Your participation strengthens not only your own security posture but contributes to the resilience of the entire HCM ecosystem.