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Having explored the application, identity, and password security features of Windows 11 in the first part of our journey, we now venture into the realm of hardware and memory protections. Core Isolation, a key player in this space, enhances our defense against malware and attacks by isolating computer processes from the underlying operating system and device. Similarly, Memory Integrity, a component of Core Isolation, serves as a safeguard for critical system processes, leveraging Virtualization Based Security (VBS) to maintain a secure environment. As we delve deeper, we'll uncover how Windows 11 employs exploit protection mechanisms to fortify code, applications, and memory, mitigating the risk of exploitation and ensuring a safer computing experience for users. Core Isolation Core Isolation, a hardware-based security feature, bolsters defenses against malware and attacks by isolating computer processes from the underlying operating system and device, leveraging hardware virtualization. Memory Integrity which is a component of Core Isolation safeguards critical system processes, preventing unauthorized access, by separating them from the operating system. This prevents malware from accessing system processes during an attack. Memory integrity leverages Virtualization Based Security (VBS) which uses windows hypervisor to create an isolated virtual environment that becomes the roof of trust of the operating system which assumes the kernel can be compromised. Memory integrity analyses kernel mode code integrity within isolated environment and determines whether the code is safe or not. It is safe, the code is returned to Windows to run. It as well restricts kernel memory allocations that could be used to compromise the system. Memory integrity can also be managed via GPO or MEM providing multiple administration options for IT administrators. Please note that some programs and drivers might not be compatible with memory integrity which can cause blue screens. Exploit Protection Windows 11 offers a suite of features to fortify code, applications, and memory at the execution level, mitigating the risk of exploitation. Control Flow Guard When applications are loaded into the memory, they are associated a specific size of memory based on multiple factors such as size of code, requested memory, etc. The associated memory might not be in a row but can contain different memory chucks with different addresses. When the application starts to execute code, it calls code located at different memory addresses. In the past threat actors could exploit this behavior by changing the call functions, pointing to a different destination to accomplish their needs. This possibility is mitigated in Windows 11 for applications that are compiled to used CFG. When such application calls the code, CFG verifies that the code location is trusted for execution. If location is not trusted, the application is terminated. Because the application must be developed with CFG support, administrators cannot configure CFG, but application developers must consider compiling applications with CFG enabled. Support for CFG is especially important for applications which are a high risk target such as internet browsers. Data Execution Prevention Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a system-level memory protection feature that allows the operating system to mark one or more pages of memory as non-executable which means that code cannot run for those areas. This helps prevent malware executions as malware usually depends on its ability to insert a malicious payload into memory with the hope to be executed later. If this payload is inserted into no-execute part of memory that payload cannot be executed, DEP will stop and kill the application. By default, DEP protects essential Windows programs and services only. Some applications might have issues with DEP. If that is the case, individual application can be excluded from DEP protection either locally on computer in the System -> Advanced System settings -> Advance (Performance) -> Data Execution Prevention or system admins can as well leverage GPO for DEP exclusions. The exclusions can be made under Administrative Templates\System\Mitigation Options\Process Mitigation Options setting. More on GPO exclusions can be read in the following Microsoft article - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/operating-system-security/device-management/override-mitigation-options-for-app-related-security-policies Address Space Layout Randomization ASLR prevents the exploitation of memory-corruption vulnerabilities by randomizing the base address of a program each time the program is executed, which prevents one exploit to be effective on all machines. The weakness of ASLR is that the entire program is moved as one unit. An example of ASLR can be seen in the photo bellow. Force randomization for images This is a subsection of ASLR where Windows forces a rebase of all DLLs within the process and all DLLs and EXEs when mapping image into the process. This rebasing has no entropy, and locations could be predicted. Force randomization can have an impact on older applications that were built using compilers that made assumptions about the base address of a binary file or have stripped out base relocation information. This can lead to unpredictable errors. Randomize memory allocations Randomize memory allocations (Bottom-up ASLR) adds entropy to relocations, so their location is randomized and therefore less predictable. This mitigation requires Mandatory ASLR to take effect. High-entropy ASLR High-entropy ASLR, which adds 24 bits of entropy into the bottom-up allocation for 64-bit applications making address prediction even harder. Structured Exception Handling Overwrite Protection An exception is an event in a program that interrupts its normal flow, requiring code execution outside the standard path. There are two types: hardware exceptions, initiated by the CPU due to issues like division by zero or invalid memory access, and software exceptions, triggered by applications or the operating system, often due to invalid parameters. Structured exception handling is a method to manage both types of exceptions. It allows uniform handling of hardware and software exceptions, offering full control over exception management, supports debugging, and is compatible across various programming languages and machines. Structured Exception Handling Overwrite Protection (SEHOP) helps prevent attackers from being able to use malicious code to exploit the Structured Exception Handling (SEH), which is integral to the system and allows (non-malicious) apps to handle exceptions appropriately. If applications have issues with SEHOP, exclusions can be configured in GPO under Administrative Templates\System\Mitigation Options\Process Mitigation Options setting. Validate Heap Integrity The heap is a location in memory that Windows uses to store dynamic application data. The validate heap integrity mitigation increases the protection level of heap mitigations in Windows, by causing the application to terminate if a heap corruption is detected. The mitigations include: Preventing a HEAP handle from being freed Performing another validation on extended block headers for heap allocations Verifying that heap allocations aren't already flagged as in-use Adding guard pages to large allocations, heap segments, and subsegments above a minimum size. Heap Integrity Validation is already applied by default to 64-bit and 32-bit applications after Windows Vista. Therefore not a lot of compatibilites issues are expected. Only compatibility issues can arise from Windows XP or earlier applications. In wrapping up our exploration of Windows 11's security features, we've delved into two crucial aspects: application, identity, and password security, as well as hardware and memory protections. The first part of our journey provided insights into how Windows 11 safeguards against cyber threats at the software level, ensuring robust protection for users' digital identities and sensitive information. Transitioning to the second part, we've uncovered the hardware-based security measures embedded within Windows 11, such as Core Isolation and exploit protection mechanisms, which fortify our defense against malware and attacks by isolating processes and strengthening code execution security. Together, these comprehensive security features create a robust defense posture for Windows 11, safeguarding users' digital experiences across all fronts. As we navigate the digital landscape, it's reassuring to know that Windows 11 prioritizes both software and hardware security to ensure a safer computing environment for all users.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the emergence of new security risks necessitates organizations to adopt robust security measures. One such model gaining importance is the zero-trust security model, based on the concept that access should not be granted to any person or device until their safety and integrity are verified. Windows 11 is built on the principles of zero trust, offering a platform that enables hybrid productivity and new type of experiences without compromising security. This article delves into the built-in security features of Windows 11, explaining how they can enhance organizational security at no additional cost. This article has 2 parts where in the first part we will dive into application, identity, and password security features where in the second part we will look at hardware and memory protections. Windows Hello for Business Phishing is still currently the most popular attack method sitting beside stolen credentials. This is one of the reasons that phishing resistant authentication had to be developed. An example is Windows Hello for Business which provides enhanced security through phish-resistant two-factor authentication and built-in brute force protection as well as certificate-based authentication, conditional access policies and enterprise grade security and management. Windows Hello for Business can as well be used to sign into supported websites which reduces the need to remember multiple complex passwords. Windows Hello for Business is considered a two-factor authentication based on the authentication factors: something you have, something you know and something that you are/is part of you. The two-factor authentication method of Windows Hello for Business is created by combining device-specific credential with a biometric or PIN gesture. This credential is tied to your identity provider such as Entra ID or Active Directory and can be used to access apps, websites, and services. Smart App Control Supply chain attacks or simple software downloading can introduce malware to devices which can circumvent traditional security solutions such as signature-based anti-malware solutions. Microsoft came forward with a feature which analyses each application and compares the application against a cloud database to determine its reputation. If an application is known to be safe, it is allowed to run. In case the application is considered to be unsafe or malicious, Windows prevents it from running. In case the application is not in the cloud database or one is working offline, preventing a connection to the cloud database, Windows uses application’s signature as a secondary mean of validation. If application’s signature is valid, application is allowed to run, if the application is unsigned or if the signature is not valid then the application is prevented from running. Smart App Control has 3 operational modes: On, Off and Evaluation. The Smart App Control can only be turned On, on a fresh installation of Windows 11. If Smart App Control is turned Off, the only way to turn it on is by reinstalling Windows 11. When the Windows 11 is freshly installed, Smart App Control will run in Evaluation mode to determine if one is a good fit for it based on the used applications. If Windows determines Smart App Control will prevent you from regular use, then it will automatically turn it off, otherwise it will eventually be automatically enabled. There is one important downside of the Smart App Control apart from that it only works on fresh installations of Windows 11. There is no “overwrite” for Smart App Control. If Windows determines that an application is malicious and blocks it, one cannot remove the block. Turning Smart App Control off is a permanent action which cannot be reversed without resetting or re-installing Windows 11. Although Smart App Control takes Windows Security to the next level, I would still recommend for enterprise environments to use AppLocker or Windows Defender Application Control policies which give more freedom. For enterprise managed devices Smart App Control is automatically turned off unless the user has turned it on first. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen Earlier we saw how endpoint devices are protected when applications are run, now let’s dive into how endpoint devices can be protected from malware being downloaded from the internet as well as users from being tricked by phishing attacks by going to malicious websites. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen can protect users from accessing potentially malicious websites. This is done in 2 steps depending on the confidence: First, a website is analyzed for indications of suspicious behavior. If website is determined to be suspicious, Microsoft Defender for SmartScreen will show a warning page to advise caution. Second, a website is analyzed against a dynamic list of phishing sites and malicious software sites. If a match is found, Microsoft Defender SmartScreen shows a warning to inform the user that the site might be malicious. Similar protection measures are as well taken for file downloads, before files start to be downloaded: First, a file is checked against a list of reported malicious software sites and unsafe programs. If a match is found, a warning is shown to inform the user that the site might be malicious. File is checked against a list of files that are well known and frequently downloaded. If file is not on the list a warning advising caution is shown. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is a very nice out of the box solution for all Windows 11 devices as it adequately protects devices and users from phishing attacks, malware and potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) by analyzing files before they are downloaded as well as URLs before they are accessed. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen also supports enterprise management either via GPO or MEM. Company administrators can configure settings in a stricter way so that users cannot bypass Microsoft Defender SmartScreen warnings additionally enhancing security of the organization. Phishing Protection Passwords are still the weakest link of identity security as they can be phished. Another superb feature of Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is Enhanced Phishing Protection which prevents you from writing your work/school account password (credentials) into a malicious site. If such action occur it will as well request that you change the password as it was potentially compromised. If you reuse your credentials on other sites or apps, Enhanced Phishing Protection will warn you and prompt you to change your password. A similar warning as seen in the photo bellow, will be received if you type your credentials into an application such as Notepad or Microsoft 365 Office application. Enhanced Phishing protection adds an additional layer of protection to Windows identities making more difficult for them to be phished or compromised. The solution can be managed both via GPO and MEM. In today's fast-changing digital world, keeping our stuff safe from new online dangers is super important. Windows 11 is all about making sure our computers stay safe while we work and play. We've covered the first part of how Windows 11 keeps us safe, looking at things like keeping bad applications out and making sure that our identities are not compromised. Next up, we'll dig into how Windows 11 protects our computer's insides, like its hardware and memory. Stick around to learn more about how Windows 11 keeps us safe from cyber trouble while we use our computers every day.

Windows Firewall is a crucial Windows feature that is often neglected and only looked at when additional ports need to be opened for new software. However, the recent Outlook vulnerability (CVE-2023-23397) highlighted that relying solely on network firewalls for protection can be risky, as assessing and configuring the hundreds of network firewalls in an organization can be a challenging task. In this article, we will discuss the importance of Windows Firewall and how organizations can leverage it to create a robust first line of defense. Default configuration By default, Windows Firewall assumes that threats to an organization originate externally, and thus blocks connections to Windows devices unless they are specifically permitted, while outgoing connections are permitted unless they are specifically blocked. However, in the case of CVE-2023-23397, a malicious email downloaded to Outlook creates a TCP/445 connection from the device to the attacker’s server, which originates from the device itself and is not blocked by Windows Firewall by default. This is just one example of how attackers can exploit default Windows Firewall configurations, emphasizing the need for cybersecurity engineers to be familiar with and harden Windows Firewall configurations. What Windows Firewall offers Windows Firewall allows us to configure rules for specific Programs/Services using Protocol type and Port number, a combination of both, or predefined rules. During rule creation, we can also specify which IP destinations are included or excluded from the rule, allowing us to limit communication to a specific group of devices, among other things. Mitigating CVE-2023-23397 Focusing on securing the Domain profile in Windows Firewall, by default, a firewall rule called Core Networking - Group Policy (NP-Out) allows TCP/445 connections to any destination, relying on traditional network firewalls to secure the perimeter. However, a quick and easy solution is to modify the rule so that SMB connections are only allowed to networks containing domain controllers, file servers, and printing infrastructure. After doing so, configure the domain profile of Windows Firewall to block all outgoing connections, keeping in mind that there is no default rule to allow outgoing ICMP traffic. Conclusion In conclusion, this article has highlighted the importance and impact of Windows Firewall, a feature that offers many features often overlooked by organizations. Hardening Windows Firewall configurations can be challenging, especially in environments with many applications, but the benefits of doing so can be immense. Windows Firewall can serve as a strong first line of defense in a cybersecurity strategy, and organizations should take advantage of its capabilities to enhance their overall security posture.

Lately, cyber-attacks are successful due to one or more reasons but in most cases, reasons are either unpatched systems or holes in the configuration of IT systems, especially Active Directory (AD) and Azure Active Directory (AAD). In this article we will outline why vulnerability management procedures play a crucial role in securing organizations, how we can successfully detect vulnerabilities and how we can assess security posture of our organization. Change in Vulnerability Management Every week we read about new vulnerabilities but the most important thing which has changed in the last years is that vulnerabilities which are publicly known are already most likely being exploited for some months. A very well-known example is Hafnium attack which exploited vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange server, but there are also many others like CVE-2022-22965 (Spring4Shell). The Chinese state-sponsored threat group started exploiting vulnerabilities in Exchange servers in January 2021, but vulnerabilities were publicly disclosed in March 2021 when Microsoft also released security updates and mitigation guidelines. The Hafnium attack targeted Exchange servers opened to internet via Outlook Web Access (OWA). Even though Microsoft released security update it did not help in case your organization was one of 21’000 which were believed to be affected. Due to a change in the timeline of vulnerability exploitation, public disclosure and mitigation/patch, organizations must have a well-developed vulnerability management procedure so they are able to identify all vulnerabilities on their systems, including IoT and network devices, a threat hunting team which can find artifacts of already exploited vulnerabilities and a comprehensive incident response plan, so damage to organization can be limited and systems can be restored. Guidelines for Vulnerability Management program To find and remediate vulnerabilities in the environment organizations must have a developed vulnerability management process. The process must include all steps – identification, classification/risk evaluation and remediation. Vulnerabilities can be most easily identified using a dedicated Vulnerability Assessment (VA) solution such as Tenable or Rapid7 or leverage the Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) solution such as Microsoft Defender for Endpoint or Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR. When deciding which approach to take organizations must consider that all devices must be scanned, including network and IoT devices which do not support agent installation but must be scanned using credential or uncredentialed scanning techniques. Once vulnerabilities are identified they will automatically have a CVSS score assigned. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score shows criticality of specific vulnerability. It is composed of multiple metrics such as access requirement of exploitation, complexity, required privileges, user interaction, scope of impact, … More information about CVSS scoring can be found on the following NIST website. After vulnerabilities are classified, each organization must assess the vulnerabilities’ impact on the environment. Results of this step will also impact the remediation process of each vulnerability. To assess the vulnerability’s impact organizations must verify which systems are impacted, how those systems are protected, are there already full or partial controls in place which prevent exploitation of vulnerability and what impact successful exploitation of the vulnerability might have on the organization. The last step of vulnerability management is remediation, which can be done in multiple ways such as patching, host isolation or implementation of other controls like firewall rules. Remediation process will defer based on the system’s version, criticality of vulnerability, potential patching impact on organization and internal patching policies. For example, some companies patch devices only once per month if for example extensive tests are needed for each patch, and in case vulnerabilities are discovered between pathing days they must be mitigated using other controls. If the system is out-of-support or has components which require vulnerable version of software to be installed one of the best ways to remediate threat is to isolate the system and look for replacement. Remediation part of vulnerability management usually includes collaboration between applications/deployment and cyber security team. The collaboration process must be simple and well defined, so each party knows the responsibilities. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) for example offers an integration with Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM) so that when a vulnerability is found cyber security team can easily send a request for patching to applications/deployment team with a vulnerability explanation and comment. This integration allows teams to be agile and collaborate in a quick and efficient way. Determining Cyber Security posture of organization The second most common reason for a successful breach is misconfigurations in systems, especially the domain itself. The most common reasons for misconfigurations are complexity of IT environments, as they include multiple systems, platforms and applications which need to be integrated, configured correctly and up-to-date, human error, lack of standardization between regions or sites company has, struggle with keeping up with the latest development and insufficient testing of configurations. Misconfigurations are most often not immediately apparent as there are no indicators in IT environments about them and in case organizations do not perform assessments of environments, misconfigurations can stay hidden for a long time and introduce unknown additional risk. To keep IT environment in an optimal state, assessments must be performed continuously, multiple times per year. We see misconfigurations as a big risk, that is why we suggest organizations to regularly assess environments and we also offer a free security assessment. Assessment of environment can either be done using custom scripts or by leveraging professional solutions such as Ping Castle or Purple Knight. On the other hand, customers which have already implemented Microsoft security solutions such as Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Defender for Identity or Microsoft Defender for Cloud already receive a good assessment of the environment as part of Secure score and recommendations Microsoft provides to customers. Once misconfigurations are identified organizations must prepare plans to mitigate them. Mitigation of some misconfigurations such as Kerberos Unconstrained delegation can be challenging as many organizations have old systems which were setup by previous employees and are often not documented. Changing delegation setting might also have a big effect on availability of systems in the environment. Because of challenges which might arise it is recommended to ask a professional for some advice instead of changing configuration without knowing potential effects. Keeping environment secure with a developed vulnerability management program can be challenging. Besides that, organizations must also assess configurations of systems deployed and improve it in case issues are identified. In case you need assistance with developing vulnerability management program or are interested in seeing the security posture of your environment, reach out to Premrn Security, and our experts will help you.

This blog explores the influence of LLM (Large Language Model) models on phishing attacks worldwide. Recently, both the IT community and business users have actively discussed LLM models, recognizing their numerous benefits for companies. However, it is essential to acknowledge that these same models also provide threat actors with significant advantages, particularly in the evolution of phishing attacks. Evolution of Phishing Attacks Reflecting on the history of phishing attacks reveals a notable shift. Previously, emails, especially those in non-English languages, were characterized by numerous errors, making them easily identifiable. The introduction of Google Translate marked a pivotal moment, streamlining the ability of threat actors to compose more coherent phishing emails in non-English languages, thereby escalating the phishing risk. The advent of LLM models further amplifies this risk by introducing an unprecedented capacity for language translation and sophisticated wording, rendering current phishing attacks highly professional and exceptionally challenging to detect. LLM models empower users to compose content in languages that traditional translation tools cannot comprehend. For instance, a user can instruct their preferred LLM model to draft a professional letter to a company's CEO in Swiss German, a dialect specific to a particular Canton. The result is a well-crafted text that is remarkably challenging to discern as fraudulent. Seasonal Awareness and Phishing Particular attention should be given to the awareness of employees during festive seasons, such as Christmas or Black Friday. During these periods, threat actors capitalize on increased user activity, creating multiple malicious websites to lure users seeking deals or holiday information. As a result, these seasons become breeding grounds for heightened phishing activity, taking advantage of the festive excitement and the desire to share joy with friends and family. HTML Email Vulnerabilities A significant factor contributing to the complexity of detecting phishing attacks lies in the adaptability of HTML emails. The inherent ability of HTML content to be modified using CSS code provides attackers with the means to obscure crucial warning banners. In particular, email security appliances often include internal banners on external emails, advising users to exercise caution when opening them. This security measure becomes compromised when attackers manipulate the HTML code to conceal such indicators. Addressing this HTML email vulnerability requires a proactive approach. One effective mitigation strategy is to rely on the preview function before viewing emails. By utilizing the email preview feature, users can bypass potential manipulations and directly observe the presence or absence of warning banners. More on this can be read in the following article. Current Limitations As of now, there are limited solutions and workarounds to tackle this specific issue. Given the prevalence and convenience of HTML emails, completely moving away from them might not be a practical option for many organizations. Consequently, users and security professionals must remain vigilant and prioritize additional layers of defense to counteract the potential risks associated with hidden banners in HTML emails. The Human Element in Cybersecurity Phishing stands out as the foremost risk confronting organizations today, as the strength of cybersecurity is only as robust as its weakest link—often the human element. Recognizing this vulnerability, companies must place a significant emphasis on cultivating a proactive security culture through user security awareness programs and training initiatives. However, recognizing that user education alone is insufficient, organizations must complement it with robust technical controls to prevent device infections. Common Phishing Techniques A prevalent phishing tactic involves the use of links embedded in emails, redirecting users to malicious websites exploiting browser vulnerabilities or containing malicious files. To counteract this, organizations can implement technical controls, such as link-checking tools that assess the reputation and behavior of linked websites. Browser isolation emerges as another effective defense mechanism, confining potentially unsafe links to a containerized environment, preventing file downloads and device infections. Phishing attacks frequently leverage malicious office documents, incorporating either macros or links. For documents containing links, security solutions can mirror those applied to email links, deterring access by redirecting to a secure destination. In cases involving macros, the macros should be disabled or users should be warned before enabling them. By default, all externally sourced office documents containing macros are blocked in Windows unless configured differently. Otherwise, users should be at least alerted by warnings, serving as an initial line of defense. This adds an additional layer of protection, allowing users to exercise caution before enabling potentially harmful content. The Importance of Layered Security Recognizing the dynamic nature of phishing attacks, the implementation of layered security becomes imperative. This approach enables organizations to interrupt threat actors in the early stages of an attack, enhancing the efficacy of security controls and user education. The synergy between robust security measures and informed users forms a formidable defense against the evolving tactics employed by malicious actors. When constructing their cybersecurity architecture, organizations inevitably face considerations of price performance. Determining the most potential attack vectors and identifying critical ground rules become paramount. Consequently, organizations must prioritize the protection of specific attack surfaces. For instance, safeguarding endpoint devices assumes paramount importance, given that malware often infiltrates from the internet to these devices through user interactions. Implementing advanced Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions, such as Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Cortex XDR, or SentinelOne, offers more than traditional antivirus systems. These solutions delve into process behaviors and employ machine learning algorithms to distinguish between legitimate and malicious activities, fortifying organizations against threats in their early stages. The landscape of EDR solutions has evolved significantly. Today's solutions not only excel at threat detection but also provide remediation capabilities through scripts or rollbacks. This multifaceted approach ensures that devices remain shielded from both common and severe attacks, including ransomware incidents. In the event of a ransomware attack, the ability to roll back devices to a pre-encrypted state represents a powerful countermeasure, minimizing potential damage. Continuous Monitoring for Real-Time Detection The statistics unveil a notable pattern wherein threat actors strategically choose Friday afternoons for their attacks. This timing allows them a window of 2 1/2 days before the attack is likely to be noticed, significantly extending the time to detect and respond. Compounding this challenge is the fact that many organizations lack continuous monitoring processes, further underscoring the necessity for proactive security measures. Drawing insights from recent statistics, particularly in the context of war time attacks, reveals the alarming efficiency of threat actors. In these scenarios, threat actors take less than 30 minutes to exploit vulnerabilities and exfiltrate data. This remarkable speed underscores the need for defenders to match the agility of threat actors, emphasizing the critical role of rapid response and effective security controls. Threat actors strategically exploit the user response time, recognizing that well-prepared organizations possess robust security controls. Attackers aim to capitalize on the brief window of opportunity, making detection challenging. However, with the implementation of comprehensive controls and well-developed processes, organizations can effectively thwart even the most sophisticated attacks, preventing potential compromises and blocking malicious activities. Continuous monitoring is crucial for all organizations, including smaller ones that have solely implemented an EDR system. Whether managed in-house or outsourced, establishing a dedicated monitoring team becomes imperative. Consistent surveillance of the environment plays a pivotal role in real-time threat detection, minimizing the risk and potential impact of a complete compromise. This proactive approach ensures that any anomalies or potential threats, even in smaller setups with just an EDR system in place, are promptly identified and addressed. In conclusion, phishing attacks remain a prevalent threat to company security, underscoring the critical need for continuous investment in awareness training and robust technical security solutions. This includes the implementation of email antivirus systems, advanced email technologies for the prevention and analysis of attachments and links, as well as endpoint solutions. Additionally, organizations must foster collaboration with external partners or maintain internal teams dedicated to ongoing monitoring and swift response to emerging threats. Given the rapid evolution of threat actors, security teams must stay abreast of developments. Premrn Security stands ready to provide professional support, offering expertise in employee training and the implementation of comprehensive security systems. Our cybersecurity experts are committed to safeguarding our customers' environments, ensuring they remain secure and resilient in the face of evolving cyber threats. Contact us today to fortify your future security posture.

In today's digital world, the threat landscape is constantly evolving and organizations are facing new and sophisticated cyber threats every day. In order to protect sensitive information and systems, it's crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. That's where zero trust comes in. Zero trust is a security model that assumes that all devices and users are potential threats, regardless of their location or whether they are inside or outside the network. Instead of relying on perimeter-based security measures, zero trust verifies the identity and behavior of users and devices before granting access to sensitive resources. The importance of zero trust lies in the fact that traditional security models are no longer effective in protecting organizations from modern cyber threats. Perimeter-based security assumes that all devices inside the network are trusted and that the network perimeter provides enough security. However, with the rise of remote work and the increasing use of cloud-based services, the network perimeter has become porous, making it easier for attackers to penetrate the network. One of the key components of zero trust is continuous monitoring and verification. Zero trust solutions are designed to monitor user and device behavior and assess their risk level in real-time. This allows organizations to detect and respond to potential threats quickly, even if they are already inside the network. The implementation of zero trust requires a significant shift in an organization's security culture and requires a change in the way they approach security. It requires organizations to adopt a risk-based approach to security, where the risk level of each user and device is assessed before granting access to sensitive resources. If the risk level is higher than the threshold access to sensitive recourses is not given. The challenges encountered in implementing zero trust include the need for increased visibility and control, the need for better identity and access management, and the need for continuous monitoring and verification. These challenges can be addressed by adopting a multi-layered security approach, which combines various security solutions such as XDR systems, identity protection mechanisms, MFA and UEBA protection to provide comprehensive coverage. One of the important challenges encountered by organizations is management, education, and willingness of users to adopt zero trust concept. The first barrier is usually the implementation of MFA to users which do not own a company phone as many of them do not want to install an authenticator application to their private phone or to use a private phone number to receive SMS messages. In most cases this behavior/response is a leverage to receive a company phone. If an organization cannot afford or is not willing to issue mobile phones to all employees a good alternative is to hand out physical security keys for MFA authentication. In conclusion, zero trust is a crucial step in achieving comprehensive cybersecurity. By adopting a zero-trust approach, organizations can protect their sensitive information and systems from modern cyber threats, increase their visibility and control, and ensure the security of their users and devices. Whether you're just starting your journey or are already on the path to zero trust, working with an experienced security consultant can help you achieve your security goals and stay ahead of the threat landscape.

Cyber-attacks are a growing threat in today's world and are becoming increasingly prevalent. As the saying goes in the cybersecurity community, "There are those who have been hacked and those who will be." When I ask individuals if they are worried about being hacked, around 75% respond with, "Why would a hacker target me? I don't have anything valuable to hide." This apathetic attitude prompted me to write this article, in which I aim to shed light on the motivations behind hacking, the different types of hackers, and the profits they can earn. Hackers can be divided into several categories based on their goals and motivations. The most dangerous and skilled group is known as "Nation-State Actors." These hackers are financially supported by governments, mainly the United States, Russia, China, and North Korea, and have nearly unlimited resources and time. Their primary goals are espionage and cyber warfare. Many of their attacks garner widespread media attention due to their large-scale impact. A prime example of a nation-state actors' attack is the SolarWinds hack in 2020, which targeted multiple US government agencies. Their targets are typically government agencies, electrical grid systems, power plants, and companies that work with the government as software or hardware vendors or consultants. The next group is cybercriminals, whose primary motivation is financial gain. Cybercrime is the largest area of hacking, as many individuals turn to hacking as a means to quickly make money. The most common type of attack performed by these groups is ransomware with extortion. They have moderate to high resources and knowledge and can cause significant damage to their targets. Their targets are organizations that hold valuable data, such as airlines, banks, IT companies, and hospitals. The final two groups are "Hactivists" and "Script Kiddies." Both groups have low to moderate resources and knowledge. Hactivists are hackers who engage in cybercrime for ideological or religious reasons. Their attacks often take the form of fake news, denial of service, and ransomware. Script Kiddies are inexperienced hackers who use programs and malware they find online to hone their skills. They are usually young individuals, often teenagers, who hack for fun or to show off to their peers. Their hacks include stealing Wi-Fi passwords and college exams. Now that we understand the different types of hackers, let's delve into the value of the data they steal. Credit card information is a commonly stolen item. Most credit card theft occurs on fake websites that trick individuals into entering their credit card information. The value of stolen credit cards on the black market ranges from $5 to $110 per card. Online payment services, such as PayPal, are also frequently stolen. These thefts occur by tricking individuals into entering their credentials on fake websites or by using credentials obtained from other hacked accounts, such as Facebook or email. The value of an online payment service account can be as high as $200. Gmail accounts are also valuable to cybercriminals and are sold for around $156 each. Many individuals reuse their email credentials, making Gmail accounts easy targets. Healthcare organizations are also frequent targets of cyberattacks. Cybercriminals are seeking protected health information (PHI) in these attacks. Stealing PHI is more lucrative than stealing credit cards, as healthcare organizations lack advanced fraud detection systems, and PHI provides much more personal information than a credit card. By using PHI, cybercriminals can commit health insurance fraud, illegally obtain prescription drugs and medical equipment, and create fake identities and passports that can be sold for a significant profit. As a result, PHI can be worth up to $1000 per piece. The most lucrative venture for cybercriminals is ransomware, hence why these types of attacks are becoming increasingly prevalent. Ransomware is a tactic employed by cybercriminals where they scramble your data, sometimes even stealing it, and then demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. A successful ransomware attack on a medium-sized company can net the attacker a payout of up to $300,000. Now that we have a better understanding of why cybercriminals engage in these actions and the value they place on our personal information, we must become more vigilant and protect ourselves against potential attacks. Our expert cyber security team is here to help you safeguard your personal information or secure your organization against these threats. Don't wait until it's too late, reach out to us today.

In the realm of cybersecurity, the development of a comprehensive plan or roadmap is crucial. This plan should encompass technical solutions, incident response protocols, and the human element. Prior to initiating the plan, one must be aware of the various solutions, software, processes, activities, and risks present in their environment. To build a cybersecurity roadmap from scratch, the first step is to gather information about the environment. This can be done in several ways, depending on the organization's size, structure, and IT capabilities. Typically, organizations obtain the necessary information by communicating with different departments, utilizing Windows Event Log/Syslog, running scripts, and generating reports. Another option is to leverage an Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) solution, such as Crowdstrike, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, or Sentinel One, which has to be deployed on most endpoint devices in order to collect viable information. This approach ensures the devices are secure while also providing a list of all installed software, along with versions and vulnerabilities. Smaller and mid-sized organizations that are not widely dispersed and have simple and fast communication between sites typically use the first approach. In contrast, larger organizations that have already deployed an EDR solution may opt for the latter since they have to collect information from different regions, which can be challenging due to bandwidth restrictions, satellite links, and time zone differences. The information collected by an EDR solution is sent directly to the cloud instead of being forwarded to a central location, and the data upload is optimized to minimize congestion, especially in satellite links. Once the required information is collected using an EDR solution, the information only needs to be confirmed by the sites. The development of a cybersecurity plan that ensures security and visibility across all areas of IT, including communication (email, MS Teams, Cisco Webex, Slack, etc.), servers and workstations, identities, cloud resources, and SaaS applications, must be developed as a single, symbiotic solution for the next three years. CISOs and IT security teams must consider the usability of the proposed solutions, their integration into the environment and with each other, their impact on current operational processes and employees, the knowledge required to deploy and manage the solutions, and who will monitor the environment. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in the deployment of suboptimal solutions that do not work together symbiotically, leading to additional expenses. Another critical aspect of cybersecurity that must be addressed simultaneously is the preparation of an incident response plan and team. Organizations must have a well-defined process for incident detection and response, including regular reviews of incidents generated by security tools or reported by an external Security Operation Center (SOC), threat hunting, and tabletop exercises to test the plan's effectiveness. The incident response team must have clear roles and responsibilities and be trained to handle incidents effectively. The third area of cybersecurity that is often overlooked is the human element and management. Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue; it is a business issue. The importance of cybersecurity needs to be communicated to management and all employees. Security awareness training should be provided to all employees to help them understand their role in maintaining the organization's security. Management plays a critical role in ensuring that cybersecurity is taken seriously within the organization by providing the necessary resources and support to the IT department to deploy the right security solutions and ensure that processes are in place to detect and respond to incidents. They must also ensure that cybersecurity is part of the overall business strategy. In conclusion, cybersecurity comprises several pillars: IT solutions, people, and leadership that must work together to create a well-secured environment. IT departments must develop a cybersecurity roadmap and incident response plan through a combination of tools, processes, and people. Management plays a crucial role in ensuring that cybersecurity is taken seriously within the organization, and everyone within the organization has a role to play in maintaining the organization's security.

In an increasingly interconnected digital world, cyber threats have become more sophisticated, persistent, and potentially devastating. As organizations strive to protect their critical assets and sensitive information, a robust cybersecurity strategy is of greatest importance. The fusion of Zero Trust principles with Swiss Cyber Security practices offers a comprehensive solution to mitigate these evolving threats. Zero Trust: A Paradigm Shift in Cybersecurity Zero Trust is not just a security framework; it's a paradigm shift. Traditional security models that rely on the perimeter defense strategy are no longer sufficient to combat today's advanced cyber threats. Zero Trust is built on the premise that no entity, whether inside or outside the network, should be inherently trusted. Trust must be continuously verified and never assumed. Core Principles of Zero Trust Zero Trust security architecture operates on several key principles: Verify Identity: Every user, device, and application attempting to access the network must be authenticated, ensuring that they are who they claim to be. Least Privilege Access: Users and devices are granted the minimum access necessary to perform their tasks, reducing the potential attack surface. Micro-Segmentation: Networks are divided into smaller segments to limit lateral movement within the network if a breach occurs. Continuous Monitoring: Ongoing monitoring of network activity ensures that any anomalous behavior is detected promptly. Swiss Cyber Security: A Tradition of Excellence Switzerland has a long-standing reputation for maintaining a strong commitment to data privacy and security. Its Cyber Security landscape is no exception. Key Features of Swiss Cyber Security Data Privacy: Switzerland boasts rigid data privacy laws, including the new Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) and adherence to EU GDPR standards. This ensures that customer data remains highly secure and private. Proactive Threat Intelligence: Swiss cybersecurity firms continually invest in threat intelligence to stay ahead of emerging threats, making them well-equipped to safeguard their clients' interests. Innovative Technology: Swiss cybersecurity solutions harness the latest technology, providing clients with advanced security options, including encryption, advanced authentication, and intrusion detection systems. The Synergy: Zero Trust in the Swiss Context Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a fundamental component of the Zero Trust framework. It establishes rigid access controls, allowing organizations to grant or deny access to specific applications or data based on user identity, device health, and real-time security posture. ZTNA aligns perfectly with Swiss Cyber Security practices, which prioritize the protection of sensitive data and user privacy. Continuous Monitoring and Anomaly Detection Both Zero Trust and Swiss Cyber Security emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and anomaly detection. Swiss cybersecurity firms have adopted advanced AI and machine learning solutions to monitor network activity in real-time, just as Zero Trust encourages. Adaptive Authentication Zero Trust incorporates adaptive authentication, which evaluates various factors, such as the user's behavior and device health, before granting access. Swiss Cyber Security firms have also adopted this approach, enhancing security by using multiple factors for identity verification. Implementing Zero Trust in Swiss organizations The implementation of Zero Trust principles within the Swiss Cyber Security landscape can be highly effective in safeguarding an organization's critical assets. Here's how: Access Control Policies: Swiss firms can incorporate Zero Trust principles by adopting granular access controls, ensuring that users and devices are granted the minimum required access, as per the least privilege principle. Identity Verification: Robust identity verification, including multi-factor authentication and adaptive authentication, can be integrated to strengthen security measures. Continuous Monitoring: Swiss cybersecurity companies can reinforce their security solutions by enhancing real-time monitoring for anomalous behavior. Case Studies: Real-World Applications Banking and Finance The banking and financial sector in Switzerland, known for its security and confidentiality, can further bolster its defenses with Zero Trust. Zero Trust principles align seamlessly with the sector's strict regulatory requirements and data privacy commitments. Healthcare The healthcare industry faces numerous challenges in safeguarding patient data. Swiss healthcare organizations can benefit from the continuous monitoring and robust access controls provided by the Zero Trust framework. Government Institutions Swiss government institutions can enhance their security posture by adopting Zero Trust principles to protect sensitive information, critical infrastructure, and the privacy of citizens. Challenges and Considerations Implementing Zero Trust in the Swiss Cyber Security landscape is not without its challenges: Integration Complexity: Migrating to a Zero Trust architecture may be complex for some Swiss organizations, particularly those with legacy systems. Resource Requirements: Zero Trust may demand a significant investment in terms of technology, personnel, and training. Cultural Shift: Shifting from traditional security models to a Zero Trust paradigm requires a change in mindset and a strong commitment to continuous verification. The marriage of Zero Trust principles and Swiss Cyber Security practices provides a powerful combination to combat the evolving landscape of cyber threats. The stringent data privacy laws, advanced technology, and commitment to excellence in Switzerland make it an ideal environment to implement Zero Trust. As organizations in Switzerland and beyond adapt to a digital world filled with uncertainties, a proactive approach to cybersecurity, combining Zero Trust and Swiss Cyber Security, becomes a strategic imperative. The synergy of these two approaches empowers organizations to protect their critical assets, secure sensitive information, and maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data in an ever-changing digital landscape. Premrn Security offers professional support on your path to implementing a Zero Trust security model. Our team of cybersecurity experts is dedicated to ensuring the protection of your sensitive data and enhancing your organization's security posture against highly advanced threats. Take proactive steps now; contact us today to secure your future.