Preventing Ransomware Through Microsoft Security Solutions

August 13, 2021

Over the years, Microsoft has been at the forefront to help its customers fight against ransomware attacks. The tech giant offers a wide range of security solutions and services that allow individual users and companies to mitigate risks. Whether it’s protection from email phishing or other types of cybersecurity risks, Microsoft outlines a clear model to help users operate in a secure environment.

High-Level Advice

When it comes to combating ransomware, Microsoft shares relevant information and strategies. It believes that the best way to reduce ransomware attacks is via targeted disruption strategies and improved cybersecurity hygiene.

When there are more cloud and software opportunities in the market, there is a high chance of disruption and the occurrence of cybercrime. In fact, more opportunities require a collective effort from private and public sector organizations to collaborate and address cybersecurity issues.

It is common knowledge that ransomware attacks have been a serious threat to the critical operations of small and medium-sized businesses. But local and state governments are also not immune to ransomware attacks and often have to deal with state-wide proxies. Microsoft points out that a sustainable solution lies in a well-planned strategy and close partnership to avoid or minimize the impact of ransomware threats.

Technical Solutions

Microsoft uses more than one technique in its solutions and offers protection to users from various ransomware attack types. For instance, if there is an online Exchange server, Microsoft scans emails and attachments of the organization.

At this point, the burden of responsibility lies on the admin to maintain specific technologies in order to protect email Exchange and ensure compliance with default policies. In a tech-driven world, companies now depend on their IT team to safeguard their systems. For starters, admins can apply a specific company filtering system to their Exchange center.

Users often use the Versioning default feature on OneDrive to get rid of overhead from their IT department. Ideally, users can also avail Microsoft services to prevent ransomware. Some of the standard Microsoft practices and solutions to prevent ransomware involve:

Web Protection – Use Microsoft cloud security applications so that Microsoft can detect, review, and respond to malicious activities.

Email Protection – Block executable “.exe” files in email flow and initiate advanced threat protection.

Backups – Users should ensure there is no third-party access to data backups and that they are encrypted.

Device Compliance – Users should ensure that their devices are up to date to meet Microsoft’s security compliance.

Intelligent Detection – Users should use CAS and ATA to protect their valuable data. Companies that use collaborative Office 365 apps can use Advanced Security Management to achieve the same functionality.

Block Office Macros – While not widely known, document macros have been identified as the most used malware delivery method in 2021 (so far). The key is to block integrated Macros or reconfigure the trust level. Microsoft also recommends users block common ransomware.

Final Thoughts

As long as guidelines set forth by Microsoft are followed, it will put the malware model of attackers in question and ultimately prevent ransomware. With the onslaught of ransomware attacks in 2021, Microsoft has become more observant and collaborative. The company also provides thought leadership to discuss operational opportunities and policies that can counteract ransomware.