Microsoft Combats Cyber Attacks by Implementing Zero Trust

Remote and hybrid work paved the way for new levels of flexibility and agility for organizations. Companies can expand their recruitment efforts and there is a reduced need for commercial office space. However, allowing remote access to corporate data has also introduced a greater degree of risk for data breaches. Zero trust has emerged as one of the leading solutions companies rely on to protect networks and sensitive data.

What Is a Zero Trust Framework?

The old approach to cybersecurity involved creating a perimeter around your network and trusting anyone inside it. The new model treats all users as external actors. The system authenticates and authorizes each request before granting access and assumes a breach as the default. This means every user must undergo rigorous authentication measures, such as the following:

• Multi-factor authentication
• Identity management solutions
• Risk-based authentication
• Biometrics
• Regular password changes

How Does Microsoft Implement Zero Trust for Mobile Security?

Microsoft has implemented a comprehensive security strategy to protect its cloud environment and secure remote work. The tech giant worked directly with Traced Mobile Security to meet its goals and extend protection.

Traced joined the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association and developed Trustd MTD. This technology integrates with Microsoft Entra and Microsoft Azure Active Directory to deliver the following benefits:

• Secure Remote Working: Trustd MTD provides fast access to corporate data from any device. It also monitors user activity and flags suspicious behavior. Multi-factor authentication validates requests, while the system can block requests that don’t meet security standards.
• Data Loss Prevention:Trustd protects data stored in cloud environments by monitoring communication channels and blocking attempts. It uses machine learning to detect patterns that indicate malicious behavior.
• Application Security: It scans applications and blocks threats while also monitoring suspicious activities associated with the user’s identity.
• Reduced Data Breach Risk: Trustd MTD minimizes the risk of data breaches by monitoring user behavior and blocking malicious requests. The system also tracks any suspicious activity related to corporate networks and flags them for further investigation.

Why Is Mobile Security So Important for Organizations?

Organizations must take a zero trust approach to protecting all devices used to access corporate networks and data. This includes devices owned by employees working from home. In the past, companies often overlooked the security of mobile devices, which created vulnerabilities that hackers explored. Thousands of companies learned the hard way that their networks were only as safe as the most unsecured endpoint. It was only a matter of time before that device could provide a gateway to corporate data.

Organizations can reduce the risk of data breaches, malicious attacks, and other digital threats with an effective mobile security strategy. Microsoft’s implementation of Trustd MTD is an excellent example of how companies can leverage this technology to stay secure.

What Are Other Uses of Zero Trust Security in the Microsoft Ecosystem?

Mobile security has generated increased interest over the past few years. The exponential growth in BYOD policies and overall phone use at work played vital roles. However, Microsoft has looked well beyond this to introduce a robust security model across the board. Its efforts include the following examples:

• Conditional access with risk-based authentication
• Microsoft Identity Protection
• Azure Active Directory for identity management

Microsoft’s Advanced Threat Analytics also offers a threat detection solution that continuously monitors user behavior to detect suspicious activity related to network data and identity. It creates a baseline of normal user behavior so that it can quickly identify any changes.

Microsoft also offers Azure Information Protection to encrypt data stored in the cloud. AIP classifies data, determines who should access it, and sets up custom policies for its usage. This helps minimize the risk of data breaches due to malicious actors.

What Additional Measures Can Microsoft Users Take To Secure Corporate Data?

Microsoft has done everything in its power to ensure the security of data that flows through its ecosystem. However, organizations must rely on more than Microsoft to secure their data. There are other potential vulnerabilities they need to identify and address. Consider the following best practices:

• Complete a Thorough Evaluation: Organizations must evaluate their security policies and procedures to identify potential weaknesses. It’s also crucial for organizations to stay up to date on the latest threats and remedies.
• Train Employees: All employees should receive training on zero trust technology and cybersecurity best practices. The training should also cover recognizing phishing emails, malicious downloads, and other common threats.
• Create Strong Passwords: Organizations should require employees to use strong passwords for their devices and accounts. This helps protect data from unauthorized access.
• Implement a Mobile Device Management System: MDM systems give organizations control over employee devices, allowing them to monitor and manage the usage of those devices.

How Cloud Migration Paves the Way for Greater Access to Zero Trust Technologies

Data is becoming increasingly digital, and cloud services are at the forefront of this transformation. Microsoft Office 365 and Azure offer organizations greater flexibility in storing and accessing data. With these cloud-based solutions, organizations can use trusted technologies like Trustd MTD to protect their data.

Cloud migration also reduces the complexity of IT infrastructure, enabling organizations to focus on security instead of managing a complex distributed network. Additionally, cloud-based security solutions are more cost effective than traditional ones.

Ultimately, zero trust security gives organizations the additional means to protect their corporate data from malicious actors. Before they can access these and other cybersecurity solutions, secure data migration to the cloud is critical. Are you ready to start the process for your organization? Contact Cloudficient for a quote today.

With unmatched next generation migration technology, Cloudficient is revolutionizing the way businesses retire legacy systems and transform their organization into the cloud. Our business constantly remains focused on client needs and creating product offerings that match them. We provide affordable services that are scalable, fast and seamless.

If you would like to learn more about how to bring Cloudficiency to your migration project, visit our website, or contact us.