How Businesses Can Strengthen Their Cyber security with Zero Trust Security in Microsoft 365
Traditional Security No Longer Works
Zero Trust is the Future
A legal services firm recently suffered a data breach after an attacker gained access through a compromised employee account. Despite using a firewall and VPN, once inside, the attacker moved laterally across the network, accessing confidential case files and client data.
The problem? The firm relied on outdated perimeter-based security, assuming that anyone inside the network was trusted. Once an attacker gained access, they had free movement across the system.
Zero Trust security eliminates this assumption. Instead of trusting any user or device by default, every access request must be continuously verified—ensuring only legitimate users can reach sensitive business resources.
What is Zero Trust
Security in Microsoft 365?
Zero Trust security operates on the “never trust, always verify” model, ensuring that users, devices, and apps are constantly authenticated and authorised.
The core principles of Zero Trust include:
- Verify Identity – Every login attempt must be validated using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
- Enforce Least Privilege Access – Users should only have the minimum access necessary for their job role.
- Assume Breach – Even legitimate users are continuously monitored for suspicious activity.
- Protect Data & Endpoints – Implement strong encryption and device compliance policies.
Microsoft 365 fully supports Zero Trust security, allowing businesses to prevent data breaches, identity theft, and cyber threats
Why Businesses Need Zero
Trust in Microsoft 365
1
Prevent Credential Theft & Unauthorised Access
Cybercriminals steal login credentials through phishing, brute force attacks, and dark web leaks. Without Zero Trust, stolen passwords can grant full access to Microsoft 365 accounts.
Solution:
- Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all Microsoft 365 users.
- Use Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) Identity Protection to detect compromised credentials.
- Implement passwordless authentication to prevent reliance on weak passwords.
2
Stop Lateral Movement of Cybercriminals
Once attackers gain access, they move between systems, compromising emails, SharePoint files, and OneDrive storage.
Solution:
- Apply Microsoft 365 Conditional Access to restrict access based on device health, location, and risk level.
- Segment networks using Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to prevent attackers from moving across systems.
- Use Privileged Access Management (PAM) to limit access to high-risk admin accounts.
3
Strengthen Remote & Hybrid Work Security
With employees accessing Microsoft 365 from home, co-working spaces, and personal devices, traditional network security is no longer enough.
Solution:
- Require device compliance checks before granting access to company resources.
- Implement Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) instead of relying on outdated VPNs.
- Use Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps to monitor shadow IT and unauthorised cloud usage.
How to Implement
Zero Trust in Microsoft 365
- Enable Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Detect and block suspicious device activity in real time. - Use Microsoft 365 Conditional Access
Restrict access based on user risk level, device health, and login location. - Apply Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
Ensure employees only have access to necessary resources. - Monitor Microsoft 365 Security Logs
Detect unusual login attempts and data access patterns. - Encrypt Sensitive Data with Microsoft Purview
Prevent unauthorised sharing and exposure.
Best Practices for Zero Trust
Security in Businesses
- Require Continuous Authentication
Never allow persistent logins or access without MFA verification. - Limit Admin Access & Privileged Accounts
Reduce the number of users with global admin permissions. - Implement Device Compliance Policies
Ensure that only secure, managed devices can access Microsoft 365. - Use Microsoft Secure Score to Track Security Improvements
Continuously evaluate and enhance Microsoft 365 security settings.
Conclusion: Zero Trust Security
is a Business Imperative
Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, and businesses that rely on outdated security models are leaving themselves vulnerable.
Zero Trust ensures that every access request is verified, monitored, and limited to the minimum privileges necessary. By implementing Zero Trust security in Microsoft 365, organisations can reduce cyber risk, prevent data breaches, and enhance overall security resilience.
Want to implement Zero Trust in Microsoft 365?
Contact Solid Systems today for expert security solutions!
