Story Teaser Text: Cybersecurity leaders are pressured to stop attacks before they can launch them, and the best defense could come down to the setting they chose on the first day. In this article, Yuriy Tsibere explores how default policies such as Deny-by-Default, MFA Enforcement, and Application Ringfening can eliminate the entire category of risk. From disabling office macros to blocking outbound server traffic, these simple yet strategic moves create hardening environments that attackers cannot easily infiltrate. Whether you secure endpoints or oversee policy deployment, adopting a per-default security mindset can help reduce complexity, reduce the attack surface and stay ahead of evolving threats.
Cybersecurity has changed dramatically since the 2001 “Love Bug” virus era. What was once a nuisance is now a multi-billion profit-driven criminal enterprise. This shift requires a proactive defensive strategy, not only to respond to threats. CISOS, IT administrators, and MSPs need solutions that not only detect after facts, but also block attacks by default. Industry frameworks such as NIST, ISO, CIS, and HIPAA provide guidance, but often lack the clear and practical steps required to implement effective security.
For those launching a new security leadership role, the mission is clear. Stop as many attacks as possible, do it without irritating threat actors and alienating IT teams. That’s where security-specific thinking emerges. This means configuring the system to block risk from the gate. As I often said, attackers need to get it right only once. We have to get 100% right time.
Here’s how to eliminate the entire category of risk by setting the right default:
All remote accounts require multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Enabling MFA on all remote services, including SaaS platforms such as Office 365 and G Suite, as well as domain registrars and remote access tools, is the default for basic security. Even if your password is compromised, MFA can prevent unauthorized access. Do not use text messages to MFA.
While there can be some degree of friction, security benefits far outweigh the risk of data theft and financial loss.
Refusal by refusal
One of the most effective security measures these days is the whitelist or tolerance of your application. This approach blocks everything by default and can only run known and approved software. Result: Ransomware and other malicious applications will stop before running. It also blocks legal but rogue remote tools such as Anydesk, which attackers often try to sneak in through social engineering.
Users can access what they need through a store of pre-authorized, secure applications. Visibility tools make it easy to track everything you do.
Quick wins through safe configuration
Small changes to the default settings can close major security gaps on Windows and other platforms.
Turn off office macros: take 5 minutes and block one of the most common attack vectors of ransomware. Use a password protected screensaver: autolock the screen after a short break to stop anyone from snooping. Disabling SMBV1: This old-school protocol is outdated and used in big attacks like WannaCry. Most systems are no longer needed. Turn off Windows KeyLogger: It is rarely useful and can be a security risk if it is still there.
Organizational Control Network and Application Behavior
Remove local administrator rights: Most malware does not require administrator access to run, but users will mess with their security settings and prevent malicious software installation. Block unused ports and limit outbound traffic: Shut down SMB and RDP ports and allow only trusted sources, unless absolutely necessary. Keep your server out of reach of the internet unless necessary. This helps to avoid attacks like SolarWinds. Control Application Behavior: Tools like ThreatLocker Ringfening™ can prevent apps from doing rough things, like the words that launch PowerShell (yes, that’s the actual attack method). Secure a VPN: Turn it off if you don’t need it. If you do so, you will restrict access to a particular IPS and what users can access.
Enhance your data and web controls
Block USB drives by default: A common way to spread malware. Only secure, controlled, encrypted items are permitted when necessary. Restrict file access: Your app should not be able to peck user files unless you actually need it. Exclude unapproved tools: Block random SaaS or cloud apps that are not reviewed. If something is needed, let the user request access. Track File Activity: Keep an eye on what you’re doing on your device or in the cloud using files. It is the key to finding shade behavior.
Exceed the defaults with monitoring and patching
A powerful default is just the beginning. Continuous vigilance is important:
Regular Patch: Most attacks use known bugs. Continue updating everything, including portable apps. Automatic Threat Detection: The EDR tool is great, but if you don’t watch alerts 24/7, the threat can slip through. MDR service allows you to jump in quickly even after business hours.
The default security is not smart and is non-negotiable. Using strong authentication, network lockdown, app behavior, blocking unknown apps can wipe out a lot of risk. Attackers only need one shot, but solid default settings always keep you ready for defense. Payoff? There is a lesser compromise, less hassle, stronger and more resilient setup.
Note: This article is skillfully written and contributed by Yuriy Tsibere, product manager and business analyst at ThreatLocker.
Source link
