As artificial intelligence permeates our digital lives, a subtle but significant challenge is emerging for those tasked with safeguarding our systems: the identity of the AI itself. Beyond algorithms and processing power, these sophisticated programs are developing a form of digital personhood, frequently referred to as “non-human identities,” or NHIs.
This nascent concept, discussed in depth at Okta’s recent Showcase event, underscores a growing vulnerability. With the majority of security breaches already linked to compromised identities, the rise of autonomous AI agents — capable of making decisions and seeking access independently — introduces a new dimension of risk. These NHIs can possess administrative privileges, becoming potential backdoors into sensitive systems.
Identity providers, such as Okta, are now moving beyond securing human users to address the identities of these AI entities from their inception. New tools are being developed, such as Auth for GenAI, which empower developers to build security directly into the architecture of AI applications. As our reliance on AI agents deepens, understanding and securing these digital identities will be crucial to maintaining trust in the technological landscape.
