How Businesses Can Strengthen Their Cyber Defences with Zero Trust Security
Why Traditional Cyber security
Models No Longer Work
A global law firm recently suffered a cyberattack that compromised client-sensitive documents. The breach wasn’t the result of a sophisticated hacking operation—it stemmed from a low-level employee’s compromised credentials.
Because the firm used a traditional security model, once the attacker gained access to the employee’s account, they moved freely across internal systems, accessing privileged legal and financial data.
The failure? The company’s cyber security relied on perimeter-based defences, assuming that anyone inside the network was trusted.
This is why Zero Trust security has become the new standard. Instead of assuming trust, Zero Trust operates on a ‘never trust, always verify’ principle, requiring continuous authentication and limiting user access.
What is Zero Trust Security?
Zero Trust security is a proactive cyber security framework that requires:
- Verification of every access request—whether inside or outside the network
- Continuous authentication—users and devices must re-validate their identities at every step
- Least privilege access—users only get the minimum level of access necessary for their role.
- Strict segmentation—even if a cybercriminal breaches one system, they can’t move laterally across the network.
Microsoft, Google, and the U.S. government have adopted Zero Trust security because traditional network perimeters no longer exist in today’s cloud-first environment.
Why Businesses Need
Zero Trust Security
1
Prevents Credential-Based Attacks
Cybercriminals using sophisticated AI attacks steal login credentials through phishing, brute force attacks, or data leaks. Without Zero Trust, a single compromised account can lead to a full-scale breach.
Solution:
- Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all employees.
- Deploy passwordless authentication using biometrics or security keys.
- Monitor user activity for suspicious login patterns.
2
Stops Lateral Movement of Cybercriminals
Once attackers gain access to a traditional network, they can move between systems undetected. Zero Trust prevents this by restricting access to the absolute minimum.
Solution:
- Use role-based access control (RBAC) to limit user permissions.
- Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems.
- Require real-time access approval for privileged users.
3
Protects Remote and Hybrid Workforces
With employees accessing systems from home networks, personal devices, and public Wi-Fi, traditional security perimeters no longer apply.
Solution:
- Require device compliance checks before granting access to corporate data.
- Use Microsoft 365 Conditional Access policies to restrict access based on risk level.
- Implement Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) instead of outdated VPNs.
How to Implement
Zero Trust in Microsoft 365
- Enable Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Protect devices with advanced threat detection and risk-based access policies. - Use Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) for Identity Protection
Detect risky logins and enforce adaptive authentication policies. - Set Up Conditional Access Policies
Restrict access based on location, device health, and user risk level. - Encrypt Sensitive Data with Microsoft Purview
Prevent unauthorised data sharing and leaks. - Regularly Audit and Review Access Permissions
Ensure employees only have access to necessary resources.
Conclusion: Zero Trust
is the Future of Cyber security
Zero Trust isn’t just a trend—it’s the most effective way to secure modern businesses against cyber threats. Companies that still rely on outdated perimeter-based security models are leaving themselves vulnerable to credential theft, insider threats, and lateral movement attacks
By implementing Zero Trust principles in Microsoft 365, businesses can eliminate blind spots, enhance identity protection, and reduce their overall risk exposure.
Ready to implement Zero Trust security?
Contact Solid Systems today for expert cyber security solutions!
