Microsoft 365: 3 indispensable security actions

Microsoft 365 is a powerful solution, but securing your environment is crucial. Here are the top 3 essential security actions you can implement immediately to protect your data and accounts.

The principle of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device).

1️⃣ 🔑 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) with Conditional Access.

✅ What does it entail?
An additional layer of security with a second verification step¹, such as:

Mobile app (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator)
SMS message

Conditional Access limited access based on:

Location
Device type

🎯 Why important?

Protects against hackers even with stolen passwords.
Blocks risky logins with smart access rules.

👉 Impact for users:
Users must register for MFA and install the Microsoft Authenticator app on their mobile device, for example.

2️⃣ 🚫 Block legacy authentication

✅ What does it entail?
Disable old authentication methods and protocols that are vulnerable to attacks², such as:

Email clients prior to 2016 (e.g., Outlook 2010 or 2013)
Old scanners or MFP devices

🎯 Why Important:
Legacy authentication does not support modern security standards such as MFA and makes your organization vulnerable. 👉 Impact to users:
Some older apps and devices may no longer work. Time to upgrade to modern solutions!

3️⃣ 📧 Limit logins on shared mailboxes

✅ What does it entail?
Avoid direct logins to shared mailboxes, as they often:

Having bad passwords
Not supporting an MFA

🎯 Why Important
Shared mailboxes³ are a popular target for cyberattacks. By giving users access as “delegates,” you significantly reduce the risks. 👉 Impact for users:
Users can no longer log in directly, but work through their delegated permissions.

🚀 Conclusion: straight to work!

By implementing these top 3 essential security actions, you will make your Microsoft 365 environment much more secure. Smaller steps can make a big difference against modern cyber threats. 🔒

Secure your organization today and take proactive measures! Need help implementing, feel free to contact us.

¹https://learn.microsoft.com/nl-nl/entra/identity/authentication/concept-mfa-howitworks ²https://learn.microsoft.com/nl-nl/entra/identity/conditional-access/policy-block-legacy-authentication ³https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/admin/email/create-a-shared-mailbox

About the author

My name is Alta Martes, a specialist in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, with a focus on modern workplace management, cloud security and identity & access management. With years of experience, I help organizations optimize their IT infrastructure and create a secure, efficient digital workplace. 🎯 Need help with your Microsoft 365 strategy?
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