The Top Ten Cybersecurity Misconfigurations

On October 5th, 2023, the NSA and CISA jointly issued an advisory about the top ten cybersecurity misconfigurations in large organizations, including those with mature cyber postures.

The list includes :

1. Default configurations of software and applications
2. Improper separation of user/administrator privilege
3. Insufficient internal network monitoring
4. Lack of network segmentation
5. Poor patch management
6. Bypass of system access controls
7. Weak or misconfigured multifactor authentication (MFA) methods
8. Insufficient access control lists (ACLs) on network shares and services
9. Poor credential hygiene
10. Unrestricted code execution

Recommendations :

To reduce and avoid the risk of these misconfigurations implement the following recommendations :

1. Remove Default Credentials and Harden Configurations: Ensure that all default credentials are changed, and configurations are hardened to minimize potential entry points for attackers. Implement industry-standard security guidelines for configuration hardening.
2. Disable Unused Services and Implement Access Controls: Identify and deactivate any unnecessary services or protocols to reduce the attack surface. Implement stringent access controls to restrict who can access critical systems and data.
3. Regularly Update and Automate Patching: Keep all systems and software up-to-date by regularly applying patches and updates. Automate this process to ensure proactive protection.
4. Manage Administrative Accounts and Privileges: Minimize the number of administrative accounts, regularly review and restrict their privileges, and closely monitor their activities to prevent unauthorized access.
5. Embed Security Controls in SDLC: Integrate security measures into the product\’s architecture and development process right from the beginning. Continuously apply security practices throughout the entire Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
6. Eliminate Default Passwords: Ensure that no default or weak passwords are used in any system or application. Mandate strong password policies and educate users about password security.
7. Provide High-Quality Audit Logs: Generate comprehensive and tamper-evident audit logs for all critical systems and applications. Log relevant events and regularly review these logs for suspicious activities.
8. Mandate Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enforce the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), preferably one that is phishing-resistant, for privileged users. Make MFA a default and seamless part of the authentication process.

Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses :

The advisory also highlights the importance of software manufacturers embracing secure-by-design principles to reduce the risk of potential threats. At AYRIME, we provide a comprehensive range of cybersecurity services, including :

1. Security by Design: We prioritize security at every stage of development, including threat modeling to anticipate potential threats and to ensure that your software is built with robust defenses.
2. Secure Code Review: Our experts meticulously examine your code to identify and rectify any security vulnerabilities, helping to shield your applications against cyber attacks.
3. Audit and Penetration Testing: We conduct effective audits and penetration testing of your systems, applications, and infrastructure to uncover weaknesses and recommend security enhancements.
4. Security Architecture Review : Our team assesses your overall security architecture to ensure it aligns with industry best practices and is resilient against evolving threats.
5. Latest Security Insights: We keep you informed about the latest security news and best practices to help you proactively mitigate risks.
6. Continuous Advisory Support: We offer expert guidance and continuous assistance to ensure your organization stays resilient against cyber threats.

Reach out to us today !