Recently, the SANS Institute released their annual Windows Remote Desktop Honeypot Report, providing comprehensive insights into the nature of malicious activity in a Windows environment. In order to understand how your own Windows network can be secured, it is critical for IT teams to understand the threats posed by malicious remote activity and what solutions are available to mitigate potential attacks. This article will summarize the key findings from the SANS Institute's report, outlining five key lessons for IT teams looking to improve the security of their Windows environments.
First, the report notes that unpatched remote desktop protocol (RDP) ports are vulnerable to brute-force and password-guessing attacks. In many cases, RDP ports are left open by default after installation and are susceptible to attack. To combat this, IT teams should take the time to audit their environments and ensure that all ports are properly secured and patched. Additionally, IT teams should implement two-factor authentication and strong, unique passwords to further secure their RDP ports.
Second, the report highlights the importance of using honeypots to detect malicious activity. Honeypots act as decoy machines that can detect malicious activity and log attackers' attempts to penetrate networks. The SANS report recommends using single honeypots running Windows machines as they can be used to collect and analyze cyber-attack data, including data on malware and exploits.
Third, the report underscores the importance of educating users on the basics of network security. Many of the threats posed to Windows systems are caused by users who are unwilling or unable to implement sound cyber security best practices. This means that IT teams need to invest in user training and awareness in order to ensure that users understand the threats posed by outside actors.
Fourth, the report highlights the importance of investing in advanced solutions to detect and prevent malicious activity. Security solutions such as penetration testing, malware and exploit detection, and application whitelisting can help to further secure networks and catch malicious activity before it does any damage.
Finally, the report emphasizes the importance of regular security patching. Windows IT teams should make sure that all systems are running the latest security patches and releases as these can fix vulnerabilities and ensure against attacks.
Overall, the SANS Institute's Window Remote Desktop Honeypot Report highlights five key lessons for IT teams hoping to secure their networks: secure RDP ports, use honeypots, educate users, invest in advanced security solutions, and patch vulnerabilities. By taking the time to familiarize themselves with the key findings of the report, IT teams can significantly reduce the risk of malicious activity in their Windows environments.
This Cyber News was published on www.bleepingcomputer.com. Publication date: Wed, 25 Jan 2023 15:39:02 +0000