Three Key Tips for Office 365 Security

Ensuring the security of your Office 365 is a top priority, especially with the increasing threats in the industry. We get asked often "What are the best ways to keep my Office 365 credentials and data safe? Here are three essential tips to ensure a secure Office 365 environment.

Understanding the Need for Strong Security Measures

Threats such as hacked emails and ransomware incidents are becoming more common. Properly setting up Office 365 security basics can prevent many of these issues.

Key Security Tips for Office 365

1. Strong Passwords

The importance of strong passwords cannot be overstated. A robust password policy is crucial. Regularly checking and updating this policy in the Office 365 admin center is highly recommended.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a critical security measure. Despite its importance, many still use Office 365 without MFA, leaving them vulnerable. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring an additional step for verification, such as a text message, email, or phone call. For more information about Multi-Factor Authentication, visit a recent blog where the details of MFA are explained - "What is MFA and why you need it."

3. Backend Monitoring

Office 365 includes built-in monitoring capabilities, but these features are often underutilized. Backend monitoring can alert when someone is elevated to administrator status, prompting confirmation if it was intentional. It can also notify of created forwarding rules or impossible travel (e.g., logging in from different geographic locations within a short timeframe). Setting up backend monitoring is highly recommended.

Bonus Tip: Handling Elevated Actions on Specific Accounts

Elevated actions should be handled on specific accounts. For example, if Jim is the owner of Company A and has administrator privileges, he should not use this account for daily tasks. If his account is compromised, a hacker could access and control all administrator functions. Instead, create a separate account for administrative duties and keep Jim's main account as a normal user.

Ensuring Office 365 is secure requires implementing strong passwords, enabling MFA, and utilizing backend monitoring. Additionally, handling elevated actions on specific accounts can prevent significant security breaches. For more advanced training, sign up for our free CyberHero Training Academy for in-person cybersecurity training for your staff.

For more information on implementing these security tips, feel free to reach out: https://comtechnc.com/contact-us

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