6 Essential Strategies to Safeguard Your Attack Surfaces

The Importance of Safeguarding and Securing the Six Main Attack Surfaces

Email Threats Abound

The prevalence of cyberattacks through email has reached alarming levels, with phishing attacks growing by 61% from 2021 to 2022. Email-based ransomware incidents have also been a significant concern, costing businesses around $2.4 billion in 2021 alone, according to the FBI. To combat these threats, organizations must implement measures such as URL checking, disabling macros, and regular employee education on how to identify phishing emails. As social engineering tactics become increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial to provide constant reminders to employees about their role in protecting the enterprise.

A Broader Definition Of ‘Identity’

Protecting identity across an organization is vital for ensuring the security of systems and data. However, threat actors are growing more creative in bypassing authentication measures, with techniques like phishing attacks and token abuse. Phishing kits readily available on the internet have made it easier and more affordable for hackers to steal credentials. It is crucial to secure not only user identities but also identities associated with cloud access, third-party accounts, and workload identities that often get overlooked during permissions audits. Security teams must adopt a comprehensive approach to securing both human and automated identities.

Endpoints Provoke Concern

Managing a vast number of endpoints within an organization complicates security efforts. Microsoft’s report reveals that, on average, 3,500 connected devices in an enterprise lack endpoint detection and response agent protection. Unmanaged or unpatched devices can serve as entry points for attackers, leading to IP theft and ransomware attacks through compromised user credentials. To defend against these threats, organizations must prioritize improved endpoint visibility and enforce strict security hygiene measures.

IoT Devices Can Create Additional Vulnerabilities

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices across enterprise and consumer environments opens up new avenues for cyber threats. These devices, often running outdated software with well-known vulnerabilities, are attractive targets for hackers. In a study by the Ponemon Institute, 35% of respondents reported that an IoT device was the point of compromise. To mitigate this risk, manufacturers globally, including those in the US, are being recommended or required to improve IoT device security. Organizations must prioritize gaining visibility into all connected devices and proactively addressing known vulnerabilities.

The Conundrum of Cloud

Cloud resources, whether in single, hybrid, or multicloud environments, present unique security challenges. Many organizations struggle to achieve end-to-end visibility across their cloud ecosystems, creating potential security gaps. Microsoft’s research found that 84% of organizations that fell victim to ransomware attacks had not integrated their multicloud assets with their security tooling. Misconfigurations of cloud applications and hidden code-based vulnerabilities can also pose significant risks. Organizations can address these challenges through security strategies that prioritize identity management, closing misconfiguration gaps, and adopting proactive security measures from the start.

Exponential External Exposure

Today’s digital landscape extends far beyond an organization’s internal assets, with multiple clouds, digital supply chains, and third-party ecosystems. This complexity makes it challenging to identify and mitigate risks stemming from external attack surfaces. A Ponemon Institute report from 2020 revealed that 53% of organizations experienced data breaches caused by third parties in the previous two years. To bolster security, organizations must envision these external attack surfaces from an attacker’s perspective, identifying the most likely entrance points. Understanding potential vulnerabilities across the external attack surface allows for more effective defenses.

Strategies for Safeguarding the Six Main Attack Surfaces

Protecting these six main attack surfaces requires both visibility and awareness. Organizations must employ tools and strategies to achieve visibility into their networks, devices, and cloud environments. This includes implementing robust endpoint detection and response agents, regularly monitoring and patching devices, and employing comprehensive identity and access management solutions.

However, visibility alone is not enough. Organizations must also maintain a constant state of awareness regarding emerging threats and trends in the cybersecurity landscape. This necessitates staying informed through accurate and timely threat intelligence. By monitoring seemingly unrelated events and signals, organizations can anticipate and respond to imminent threats proactively.

Editorial: The Imperative of Cybersecurity

The increasing sophistication and coordination among cyber adversaries highlight the urgency for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity. As businesses embrace greater connectivity and digital operations, they must be prepared to defend against a broad range of threat vectors. Safeguarding the six main attack surfaces discussed requires a holistic approach and a proactive mindset.

Organizations cannot afford to overlook any of these attack surfaces, as a single vulnerability can result in severe consequences. Cyberattacks can cause substantial financial losses, reputational damage, and the compromise of sensitive data. Furthermore, the interconnectedness of today’s digital ecosystem means that a security breach in one area can quickly spread and impact other systems and organizations.

As technology advances, so do the tactics employed by threat actors. Organizations must acknowledge that basic security hygiene, although critical, is no longer sufficient to counter evolving cyber threats. To combat skilled adversaries, businesses must invest in advanced security technologies, develop strong incident response capabilities, and prioritize continuous training and education for employees.

Advice for Organizations

Given the dynamic nature of cyber threats, organizations must adopt a proactive and adaptive cybersecurity posture. The following advice can help businesses enhance their security measures in response to the six main attack surfaces:

1. Invest in Comprehensive Cybersecurity Solutions

Organizations should deploy a robust set of cybersecurity tools that provide visibility and protection across all attack surfaces. This includes implementing advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, network security appliances, strong identity and access management solutions, and threat intelligence platforms. Regularly updating and patching software and systems is also crucial in minimizing vulnerabilities.

2. Prioritize Employee Education and Awareness

Regular training and education programs are essential for increasing employee awareness of cyber threats, particularly regarding phishing attacks and social engineering techniques. Employees should receive continuous reminders about best practices for identifying and reporting potential security incidents. By cultivating a cybersecurity-aware culture, organizations can empower their workforce to play an active role in safeguarding the enterprise.

3. Embrace a Zero Trust Security Model

Implementing a zero trust security model can enhance an organization’s ability to protect against sophisticated threats, especially concerning identity and access management. This model assumes that no user or device should be trusted by default, regardless of their location or network connection. Adopting strict access controls, multi-factor authentication (MFA), least privilege principles, and continuous monitoring helps ensure that only authorized individuals can access critical systems and data.

4. Conduct Regular Vulnerability Assessments

Organizations should perform regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify weaknesses across all attack surfaces. This ensures that systems and applications are up to date and properly configured, minimizing the risk of exploitation. By addressing vulnerabilities promptly, organizations can proactively mitigate potential threats before they are exploited.

5. Collaborate with Partners and Third Parties

Given the interconnectedness of today’s digital ecosystems, organizations must collaborate with their partners, suppliers, and third-party vendors to ensure a secure supply chain. Establishing clear security protocols, performing due diligence on external partners, and regularly assessing their security posture can help identify and mitigate potential risks.

6. Stay Informed and Adapt

Cybersecurity threats and trends evolve rapidly, so organizations must stay informed through threat intelligence reports, industry publications, and participation in cybersecurity communities. By continuously monitoring the threat landscape and emerging attack vectors, organizations can adapt their cybersecurity strategies to address new and evolving challenges effectively.

In conclusion, the increasing complexity and sophistication of cyber threats demand a comprehensive and proactive approach to cybersecurity. By prioritizing the safeguarding of the six main attack surfaces and implementing robust security measures, organizations can better defend against threats and protect their valuable assets. It is imperative for businesses to invest in cybersecurity as an integral part of their operations and to continuously evolve their security measures to stay one step ahead of malicious actors.