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Workflow Orchestration Security

A comprehensive analysis of security risks in workflow automation platforms like n8n, Flowwise, and Tines. Learn about critical vulnerabilities, deployment models, and practical security strategies for protecting these powerful but high-risk platforms.

Date

Presented by

Clay Townsend

Location

SecTalks Hobart

Executive Summary

The Core Problem: Aggregation Risk

Workflow automation platforms are force multipliers - they amplify both productivity AND security risk.

Traditional breach:

Single system → Limited damage

Workflow breach:

Single system → ALL connected systems

What's at Stake:

Credentials for AWS, GitHub, databases, SaaS platforms
Proprietary business logic and workflows
API keys and access tokens
Customer data in workflows
AI prompts and training data
Impact multiplication: One compromise = entire infrastructure exposed

Key Research Findings:

  • Cloud self-hosted ≠ "Easy" - you still own 80% of security work
  • Economics favor SaaS below ~50 users, self-hosted above
  • Effort reduction with SaaS: ~55% - significant but not 90%
  • The 180-item checklist doesn't lie - see what you're signing up for
  • Most teams underestimate ongoing maintenance - it's real work forever

Presentation & Resources

What's in the Full Research Portal?

📋 Pre-Deployment Checklists

Line-by-line walkthrough of every security item needed before going live, with time estimates and implementation guidance.

🛡️ Vulnerability Reports

Detailed CVE analysis including exploitation steps, detection indicators, SIEM rules, and mitigation strategies.

📊 Shared Responsibility Models

Complete breakdown of who manages what across infrastructure, application, authentication, monitoring, and compliance.

🔧 Maintenance Guides

Monthly security work required for ongoing operations, including OS patching, vulnerability management, and access audits.

This presentation is based on 2,453 lines of research documentation across 23 detailed markdown files covering every aspect of no-code automation security.

The Bottom Line

Workflow automation platforms are like power tools - incredibly valuable when used correctly, dangerous when used carelessly. Our job as consultants is to provide the safety equipment and training that lets clients use these tools confidently and productively.

Success = Client achieves business value + you can sleep well at night