Cloud Access Security – A Quick Guide to the Most Important Insights in Security
For over a decade, Microsoft has been thoroughly evaluating global threats including software exploits, system vulnerabilities, and various types of malware. With security intelligence drawn from over 600 million computers worldwide, Microsoft has built one of the world’s most extensive security datasets.
This extensive research is compiled and released throughout the year in the form of The Microsoft Security Intelligence Report—a globally recognised, 160-page document giving a comprehensive view of the state of security. To provide quicker access to the essential developments and trends, Microsoft has also introduced “A Quick Guide to the Most Important Insights in Security,” offering a concise overview of crucial cybersecurity topics.
The eBook highlights the 10 most significant findings from this research. Continue reading to discover essential statistics on vulnerability trends, software weaknesses, global infection hotspots, and more.
Each year, there are over 6,000 newly disclosed vulnerabilities across the technology sector. It’s vital for IT departments to continually review and update all software to minimise the risk of attacks. Below are our Top 10 findings designed to help you strengthen your security posture.
41.8% of all reported vulnerabilities are marked as highly critical — the highest in the last three years
Understanding the Significance
When security experts, independent researchers, or even malicious groups discover software weaknesses, they publicly disclose their findings. These disclosures highlight just how vulnerable some systems may be to cyberattacks, particularly if they are not updated or patched quickly. Attackers frequently exploit unpatched vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access or compromise systems.
Industry-wide reports indicate a 9.4% increase in vulnerability disclosures from the first to the second half of 2015, surpassing 3,300 incidents.
These critical issues are particularly concerning for IT security teams as they often present opportunities for remote exploits. With thousands of vulnerabilities revealed annually, consistent evaluation and timely updating of all IT systems are crucial to maintaining a strong security stance.
To protect against emerging threats, always install updates and patches promptly, keep an eye out for unusual activity across your network, and isolate affected devices if suspicious behaviour is detected.
Download the complete report/eBook – https://1drv.ms/b/s!AlnJCCuzimoY1Z1-WnGNhZ3HOE16gw
Cloud Access Security Overview
How can your business maintain security and compliance when adopting cloud services—without sacrificing the flexibility and cost savings these platforms offer? This summary provides key insights into Cloud Access Security and its current landscape.
The rapid rise of cloud applications and the increasing range of devices used for connectivity have raised new security and compliance concerns for organisations. Employees may use their personal cloud accounts for work-related activities, sometimes unbeknownst to their employer.
Department heads may subscribe to cloud platforms without evaluating the associated risks or compliance issues, increasing the organisation’s exposure to threats.
With mobile devices accessing services beyond traditional network boundaries, controlling cloud usage becomes even more challenging. This is where Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs) play a pivotal role.
CASBs help organisations manage cloud-related risks and compliance. Unlike conventional security solutions like Enterprise Firewalls or Web Gateways, CASBs offer centralised oversight and enforce security measures on cloud app usage regardless of device or user location.
Fundamentally, CASBs are a practical response to the unexpected risks posed by the widespread adoption of cloud services, often without users fully grasping the impact on organisational security. Ideally, CASB capabilities will eventually blend seamlessly into standard security frameworks.
Initially, CASBs were designed to manage access to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) offerings such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Productivity Suites, and Service Management apps. However, they are now evolving to address broader needs across Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) functions as well. Key CASB features include:
● Shadow Cloud Detection – CASBs assess and identify all active cloud services within your business, determining who is using what and performing risk analysis on these activities.
● Access Management – Gain granular control over which cloud services are allowed or blocked, right down to specific users, devices, or actions.
● Data Security Controls – Implement protective measures based on data classification. CASBs can detect, alert, quarantine, block, encrypt, or tokenise sensitive information—delivering robust data management for all cloud-stored or transferred data.
● Threat Protection – CASBs help ensure that untrusted devices do not access corporate cloud services, and they provide monitoring to catch compromised accounts and malware quickly.
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Open in new tab How to Troubleshoot Cloud Access Security Challenges
If you’re facing difficulties managing cloud security for your organisation, start by mapping all active cloud services and identifying unauthorised usage. Consider deploying a trial CASB tool to monitor usage patterns and enforce policies. If sensitive data is being handled in cloud apps, implement encryption and regular audits. For mobile device access issues, enable multi-factor authentication and restrict access based on device compliance. Consistent review and updating of both your CASB policies and security tools is essential for ongoing protection. For detailed step-by-step guides, refer to the documentation provided by your CASB vendor.
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