The joint cybersecurity advisory by the NSA and CISA sheds light on some critical security concerns faced by large organizations today. The document not only enumerates the most prevalent network misconfigurations but also underscores how these oversights serve as potential gateways for malicious actors to compromise and exploit networks.
The highlighted misconfigurations include:
- Default Configurations: Leaving systems, services, and applications in their default configurations can potentially permit unauthorized access.
- Improper User/Administrator Privilege Separation: Assigning multiple roles to a single account can enable malicious actors to quickly move across a network if that account is compromised.
- Insufficient Internal Network Monitoring: A lack of proper network sensor configuration can result in an undetected adversarial compromise.
- Lack of Network Segmentation: Inadequate segmentation allows hackers to move laterally across systems without any hindrance and exposes organizations to ransomware attacks.
- Poor Patch Management: Failing to update software regularly can present open attack vectors for adversaries.
- Bypassing System Access Controls: Malicious actors can exploit alternative authentication methods to gain unauthorized access.
- Weak or Misconfigured MFA: Certain MFA implementations are susceptible to exploitation, permitting unauthorized access.
- Insufficient Access Control Lists: Poor ACL configurations can allow unauthorized users access to sensitive data.
- Poor Credential Hygiene: Weak passwords and exposed passwords in cleartext can be easily exploited.
- Unrestricted Code Execution: Allowing unverified programs to execute on hosts can let attackers run malicious payloads.
To address these security loopholes:
- Network defenders are urged to harden configurations, update and automate patching, monitor and restrict administrative privileges, and more.
- Software manufacturers are called upon to incorporate secure-by-design and -default tactics throughout the software development lifecycle. This includes providing built-in security controls, mandating MFA, eliminating default passwords, and offering quality audit logs. They should strive for products that are secure right from installation without demanding additional security configurations or routine monitoring by the end-users.
In essence, the advisory highlights the importance of a collaborative effort between software manufacturers and network defenders to protect networks from the ever-evolving threats. Embracing security-by-design principles, being proactive in patch management, and maintaining strong internal security protocols can significantly enhance the cybersecurity posture of organizations.
Addressing the critical misconfigurations identified by NSA and CISA, Enclave emerges as the frontrunner in safeguarding organizational networks. Its software-based microsegmentation is tailor-made to enforce Zero Trust principles, effectively curbing malicious lateral movements and strengthening network defenses across diverse environments. With its rapid deployment capabilities and superior visibility features, Enclave not only rectifies existing vulnerabilities but also empowers organizations to stay ahead of potential security challenges.
