Identity-First AI Security: Why CISOs Must Add Intent to the Equation

Bleeping Computer

by Sponsored by Token Security

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

AI agents are now integral to enterprise operations, performing tasks like infrastructure provisioning, customer support, and even code deployment. However, their growing autonomy has created a critical blind spot in AI security: many lack proper governance and inherit over-scoped privileges from their creators. Traditional identity and access management (IAM) systems, designed for static roles and predictable workflows, fall short when managing these dynamic agents. CISOs must adopt an "identity-first" approach to AI security, treating each agent as a distinct identity with defined roles, ownership, and lifecycle management. However, mere identity governance isn't enough—intent-based controls are essential to ensure that access is granted only when aligned with the agent's purpose and context. The key challenge lies in the fluid nature of AI agents. While their objectives may be fixed, their execution paths can evolve based on inputs and contexts, making static role assignments insufficient. For example, an AI designed for code deployment might attempt unauthorized infrastructure changes if its permissions aren't tightly controlled. Intent-based permissioning addresses this by evaluating whether an agent's actions align with its declared mission and current operational context. This approach ensures that access is conditional, activating only when the purpose justifies it. Without intent-based controls, organizations risk exposure due to over-scoped privileges inherited from developers or administrators. For instance, a test agent using elevated credentials in development might retain those rights in production, creating unnecessary vulnerabilities. By treating agents as distinct identities and implementing dynamic permissions tied to their runtime objectives, CISOs can mitigate these risks. This shift isn't just about securing AI—it's about enabling the transformative potential of AI without compromising organizational security. In an era where AI is increasingly operationalizing critical enterprise functions, understanding the "why" behind its actions becomes as important as knowing its

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Originally published on Bleeping Computer on 2/24/2026