Common Network Security Misconfigurations in Corporate Setups
Data breaches make sensational headlines. Sometimes, the cause of the breach is a zero-day exploit or software vulnerabilities. However, data breaches are more likely to originate from misconfigurations. They are a leading vulnerability in cloud environments.
Security misconfiguration happens when system or application settings are missing or incorrectly set. They are dishearteningly prevalent even in organizations with a mature cybersecurity posture. The problems seem simple. However, addressing them at scale in complex production environments is not that easy.
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The Top Eleven Security Misconfigurations
Our list includes points from the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) guide for addressing common misconfigurations in large organizations.
1. Incorrect Security Group and Firewall Rules
A firewall is one of the crucial tools for network security. It acts as the first line of defense against unauthorized access and potential threats. Firewalls check incoming and outgoing network traffic by measuring it against predefined rules. Misconfigured security groups or firewall rules can lead to breaches. That’s why it’s important to mitigate the dangers with strict controls for both inbound and outbound traffic. Allow only authorized communications. Regularly audit firewall configurations to nip potential problems in the bud.
2. Lack of Network Segmentation and Effective Traffic Monitoring
Network segmentation creates security boundaries between systems and data. It can prevent intruders from moving freely across various segments of your network. Enforce strict traffic rules by applying the correct firewall rules.
3. Insufficient logging and Internal Network Monitoring
Security teams that lack tools to record security-related events or track system activities can’t spot anomalies. Mitigate by implementing a logging system to capture security events across every system. Consolidate logs from various sources in a centralized birds-eye monitoring system. Analyzing the aggregated data will increase the likelihood of spotting anomalies. It will also give real-time warnings. Your team can respond promptly to potential security threats.
4. Unpatched Systems
Even frequent patching may not keep up with the number of vulnerabilities. Clearing backlogs too quickly can also bring its own set of potential problems. Mitigate by using automated tools to monitor and apply updates. Additionally, make it a priority to replace old or unsupported hardware and software.
5. Misconfigured Encryption Settings
A surprising number of organizations fail to encrypt their sensitive data at all. Encryption adds a layer of protection to your data. Even if someone extracts the data, they will still need the right decryption keys. However, some teams use old encryption protocols or weak encryption keys. Mitigate the problem by using up-to-date encryption standards, such as AES-256.
A reliable VPN service can help protect your network from security misconfigurations. It encrypts your data, creating a secure tunnel between you and the internet, which makes it harder for hackers to intercept your communications. In corporate environments, where employees often access networks remotely, VPN ensures that sensitive information remains private, even when working from less secure locations. A premium VPN helps address issues like weak credential management or poor access control by making sure only authorized users can connect to your network. It also reduces the risk of exposing sensitive data when using public or shared networks, making it a crucial tool for businesses. With a VPN, companies can lower the chances of security mistakes leading to breaches and keep their data safe.
6. Default Installation Oversights
The default credentials and configurations in commercial software and IoT products are well known. Changing access codes during installation is a simple step. And yet, a steady number of breaches can be directly attributed to this oversight. The problem is compounded when the installation team neglects to harden the default features and settings of new installations.
7. Improper separation of user/administrator privileges
Access controls and restricting administration privileges are the basis of the popular “zero-trust” security model. Zero-trust security operates on the principle of least access. Only give users the rights they need right now. It’s not a static situation. Employees often attract additional permissions as their roles in the organization evolve. However, the security team should manage ‘permission creep’ with regular audits.
8. Insufficient ACLs on Network Shares and Services
Data shares and repositories are primary targets for malicious actors. Improperly configured Access Control Lists may allow unauthorized users to access shared drives. Malicious actors can exfiltrate the data from shared drives and folders to plan further intrusions.
9. Poor Credential Hygiene
Poor credential hygiene makes it easy to access the network, especially when multi-factor authentication (MFA) is not phishing-resistant. Key issues include easily crackable passwords and the discovery of cleartext passwords. The rise of cloud computing and infrastructure-as-code creates ongoing opportunities for breaches.
10. Unrestricted Code Execution
Allowing unverified programs to run on hosts is an invitation to hackers. They just need initial access through a phishing scam that convinces a user to run harmful code from an attachment. They first establish themselves, then start moving around in the network.
11. Bypass of System Access Controls
If a malicious actor can collect hashes on a network, they can mimic accounts. Weak or misconfigured MFA methods can also take a toll. For example, some companies use smart cards or tokens as an alternative to passwords. While people don’t use a password, their password hash is still registered to the account. It remains an authentication credential. If the password hash never changes, a malicious actor can use it indefinitely.
Start a Crusade Against Misconfiguration Vulnerabilities
Dealing with breaches is hard, and so is preventing them. Especially when security misconfigurations can sneak in where you least expect them. That’s why your team must follow established best practices. Empower your team with sufficient resources and training. Otherwise, human error may be too expensive.
