In today’s digital landscape, robust cybersecurity is an absolute must. With Microsoft 365 becoming increasingly popular, understanding its security features is crucial. Here we’ll delve into a key element: Microsoft 365 Security Defaults.
What Is Happening In March 2024
Microsoft will be turning on Microsoft 365 Security Defaults in March 2024 if they are not already in place. If conditional access policies have been configured, however, they will take precedence.
What are Microsoft 365 Security Defaults?
Think of Security Defaults as a pre-configured security package for your Microsoft 365 tenant. It activates five essential safeguards out of the box, offering baseline protection without complex setup.
The five safeguards are:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step during login, protecting against password breaches.
- Blocking Legacy Protocols: Outdated authentication methods like Basic Authentication are disabled, closing potential security loopholes.
- Admin Privileged Access Management: Stricter controls are applied to administrator accounts, minimizing damage from compromised admin credentials.
- Password Protection: Enforcing strong password policies and preventing weak or reused passwords strengthens user account security.
- Automatic Risky Sign-in Blocking: Suspicious login attempts (e.g., from unusual locations) are automatically blocked, mitigating unauthorized access attempts.
Benefits of Security Defaults:
- Enhanced Security: Provides a solid foundation for your security posture without extensive configuration.
- Reduced Risk: Mitigates common attacks like password spraying and phishing.
- Ease of Use: No complex setup required so ideal for businesses new to security implementation.
- Cost-Effective: Offered at no additional cost with some Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
Things to Consider:
- Customization: Security Defaults might not perfectly align with your specific needs. You can fine-tune or disable them if needed.
- Conditional Access: If you already use Conditional Access policies, they take precedence over Security Defaults.
- Monitoring & Review: Regularly review security logs and adjust settings as your security needs evolve.
Security Defaults are a valuable tool, but remember, they’re just one piece of the security puzzle. Layer them with additional security measures like user education, data encryption, and regular security assessments for optimal protection.
Contact BSC Solutions Group for a review of your Microsoft 365 security settings and other layers of protection to help keep your organization safe from cyber attack.
