Why you should enable MFA for your Active Directory Infrastructure

What are the threats to Active Directory?

Active Directory is a critical component of many organizations’ IT infrastructure due to which it is highly targeted by cyber attackers. Some of these threats include -

Credential theft The attackers may attempt to steal the usernames through techniques such as phishing, keylogging, or brute-force attacks. The attackers may use such information to get unauthorized access to active directory resources.

Domain controller compromise in the case of access to domain controller the attacker can potentially extract sensitive information from active directory, manipulate user accounts/ permissions or even take control of the entire domain.

Insider Threats Internal privileged users may misuse their access to active directory to steal data, sabotage systems, or conduct unauthorized activities within the network.

Ransomware Ransomware attackers targeting Active Directory can encrypt critical system files, including active directory databases, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This can disrupt business operations and lead to data loss if backups are not available or up to date.

Privilege escalation attackers may attempt to escalate their privileges within active directory by exploiting misconfigurations, vulnerabilities, or weak access controls. Once they access the elevated privilege, they can access sensitive data.

What is MFA and privileged access?

Multi-factor authentication is a security-based mechanism that requires users to provide two or more forms of authentication before they are granted access to a system or application. These authentication factors are typically something you know, have or are.

Privileged access is an elevated permission or right that are granted to certain users or accounts within the IT system. These accounts carry out sensitive or critical actions like configuring system settings or accessing sensitive data. System administrators, database administrators, and network engineers are all examples of privileged accounts.

Advantages of enabling MFA and privileged access around your active directory

Enabling multi-factor authentication and privileged access controls around your active directory helps enhance the security of your organization’s infrastructure.

Let’s explore why enabling then is essential

Mitigating Password-Based Attacks MFA requires users to add two or more forms of authentication to add an extra layer of protection to access the sensitive information or gain access to the system. This helps reduce risks of unauthorized access due to compromised passwords, phishing attacks, or brute-force attempts.

Protecting privileged accounts Privileged accounts have access to the sensitive data and information’s making them the prime target for cyberattacks. Enabling privileged access helps grand access to only the authorized personnel to access the critical system and sensitive data. This helps mitigate risks of breaches in the system.

Compliance requirements Many regulatory standards and compliance frameworks, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS, mandate the use of MFA and privileged access controls to protect sensitive data and ensure the integrity of IT systems. Implementing these can help an organization meet compliance requirements and avoid potential penalties or legal consequences.

Reducing the risk of data breaches There can be cases of financial as well as reputational consequences for organizations due to data breaches. To prevent this organizations can implement strong authentication mechanisms and limit access to privileged accounts, this helps reduce the risk of data breaches caused by unauthorized access or insider threats.

Enhancing incident responseMFA and privileged access can help control to limit the damage by preventing attackers from easily entering the network or escalating their privileges in case of security breaches. This makes it easy to detect and control threats before they cause significant harm.

Adapting to remote work environmentswith the increasing number of remote workers securing access to corporate resources has become even more crucial. MFA adds that layer of protection by removing access to active directory to ensure that only the authorized users can connect to the network, regardless of their location or device.

Protecting against credential theftcybercriminals frequently target passwords through techniques such as phishing, keylogging or password spraying. MFA helps mitigate the high risk of credential theft by requiring additional authentication that are much harder for attackers to compromise.

Conclusion

Enabling MFA and implementing privileged access controls around your Active Directory are essential measures for safeguarding your organization’s IT infrastructure, protecting sensitive data, and reducing the risk of security breaches and compliance violations.