With over 180 million monthly active users, Office 365 is one of the most widely used software packages in the world[1]. The number of built-in security features it has is just as remarkable. It is impossible to cover all of these in one blog, but here are 8 actionable Office 365 security tips to give you additional peace of mind about your cybersecurity:
1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Prevent Office 365 user accounts from being hacked with stolen passwords or other forms of compromised credentials, by establishing a multi-factor authentication protocol. This is easy to set up and simple to use, providing an effective layer of protection.
2. Set Up a Separate User for Administrative Tasks
The administrator of your IT security is usually the primary target for any cybercriminal. Once a hacker has access to that person’s account, they will have access to passwords and the keys to your entire network. Establish a separate user account for administrative tasks to minimize the risk.
3. Verify Your Security Configuration
Run the Office 365 Secure Score security analytics tool to detect any vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure and to ensure your cybersecurity settings are current. You will also receive security improvement recommendations and notifications of software updates.
4. Educate and Train Your Users
Human error is one of the biggest risk factors to your organization’s IT security. To reduce the chance of a security breach, train your users on Office 365 with a focus on its security features. Continue to educate users on the importance of network security and privacy vigilance, to encourage compliance and establish a culture of security.
5. Enable the Device Management Tools Feature
Ensure that users accessing emails and other sensitive data on your network are authorized to do so from their connected devices. You can do this by activating Office 365 device management security options, which require users to enter a PIN to gain access to your network.
6. Store Your Files in OneDrive for Business
Using the cloud to store your data is simple, safe and secure. In the unlikely event that one of your devices is hacked and the data is compromised, no need to fret. As long as that data is also stored in Microsoft’s OneDrive for Business, recovery is possible. OneDrive stores files in different versions, making it easy to roll back to uncorrupted data.
7. Activate the Common Attachment Types Filter
Reduce malware and ransomware attacks and increase your email protection by activating the Common Attachment Types filter. Choose the types of files you do not want to receive, and they will be automatically blocked from your network.
8. Disable Your Email Auto-Forwarding Function
One of the ways hackers get an in-depth picture of the internal workings of your company is by reading your emails. Turning off the auto-forwarding function prevents your emails from being forwarded to any unauthorized persons inside or outside of your organization.
By implementing the protocols mentioned above, you will be securing not only your data, but the data of all of the companies that touch your organization and trust in your security measures. As a Microsoft Gold Partner, CrucialLogics can help. Our team of experts have wide-ranging knowledge of Office 365 and its security features. We understand that today’s cybercriminals are becoming more advanced in their hacking techniques and how important it is to stay one step ahead of them at all times.
Watch our latest webinar or Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you get the most out of Office 365, maximize its security features and secure your IT network infrastructure.
Sources:
[1] Microsoft, Office 365 IT Pros, Office 365 Reaches 180 Million Monthly Active Users, April 2019, https://info.cruciallogics.com/cost-of-the-cloud-heres-what-you-need-to-know
