Endpoint Security in Corporate Networks

Endpoint security is the process of securing end-user devices (endpoints) so they don’t introduce threats to a network. Endpoints are vulnerable to a wide variety of attacks by malicious actors if left unprotected. 

When endpoint attacks breach corporate network security defenses, they often paralyze operations, destroy reputations, cause legal liabilities, and lead to financial losses for the affected organizations.

Endpoint devices that can compromise corporate network security

Desktops and laptops

Desktops and laptops are often the primary workstations for employees, meaning they store a ton of sensitive data and have access to many critical systems. If a cyberattack targets a laptop or desktop, the impact can be huge.

According to a Forbes article, 12.7% of U.S. workers work remotely, and this number is expected to grow. Many of these workers likely use company-issued laptops, which are full of valuable information that makes them a goldmine and target for attackers.

To protect desktops and laptops, we use Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPPs). These platforms help detect and stop threats like malware and ransomware. They also offer tools for investigating and addressing security incidents. 

For instance, CrowdStrike Falcon is a popular EPP that uses AI and machine learning to identify threats and detect behaviors that suggest an attack is happening.

Another layer of protection is provided by Next-Generation Antivirus (NGAV) software. Traditional antivirus software only catches known threats, but NGAV is smarter. It looks at patterns and behaviors, not just virus signatures. So, if someone tries to run a suspicious script on a laptop, NGAV can flag it even if it’s a new threat.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), a technology that provides real-time monitoring and alerts users to unusual activities, is also worth adding to your network defenses. If an employee's laptop suddenly starts communicating with an unknown server, EDR will catch that, giving you a chance to intervene before any damage is done.

One of the trickiest things to do in corporate network security is balancing security with usability. Employees need their laptops to work efficiently, so we can't bog them down with clunky security measures. 

That’s why lightweight agents that run quietly in the background are essential. They provide robust protection without slowing down the device or annoying the user.

Patch management is also critical for securing data stored in desktops and laptops. These devices need regular software updates to fix vulnerabilities. Automated patch management tools make this easier by ensuring that all devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Mobile devices

Our smartphones and tablets are just as vulnerable as our laptops, if not more so, because we tend to carry them everywhere. Encourage team members to always use strong passwords, PINs, or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition, especially for mobile devices that can access the corporate network

Installing a robust mobile security app like Lookout or Norton Mobile Security can help detect malicious software and provide real-time protection. These apps often come with additional features like anti-theft tools, which can lock, locate, or wipe a device if it’s lost or stolen.

It’s also essential to keep the operating system and all installed apps up to date. Updates usually contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities. It's tempting to postpone updates, but doing so leaves your device open to attacks.

Consider a business VPN to provide a secure tunnel to your corporate networks for employees who work remotely. Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously insecure. 

Lastly, restrict what mobile devices can access on the corporate network. Mobile devices should have different access levels compared to more secure devices like office computers. 

Use mobile device management (MDM) solutions like Microsoft Intune or VMware Workspace ONE to enforce policies. These solutions can restrict which apps can be installed, monitor device compliance, and even remotely wipe data if needed.

Servers

Servers often house essential applications and databases, therefore, ensuring they're secure can prevent catastrophic breaches. For example, a company's customer database might reside on a server, making it a prime target for cybercriminals.

When securing a server, focus on access control. Only authorized personnel should have access to the server environment. Implementing strong authentication measures, like multi-factor authentication (MFA), ensures that even if a password is compromised, an additional layer of security remains. 

Another critical aspect to focus on is patch management. Servers, especially those running widely used operating systems like Windows Server or Linux distributions, must be constantly updated to mitigate vulnerabilities. 

Ensure that automatic updates are configured wherever possible and that there's a process for manually applying patches promptly when automatic updates aren't feasible.

‍Firewall protection is also a staple in server security. Configuring firewalls to allow only necessary traffic reduces the potential attack surface. For instance, if a server only needs to handle web traffic, configure the firewall to block all other types of incoming connections.

‍Encryption plays a significant role in securing data at rest and in transit. SSL/TLS protocols are useful for encrypting data being transmitted over the network, ensuring that any intercepted data is unreadable to attackers. For data stored on the server, whole-disk encryption provides better security.

Monitoring and logging activities on the server can help detect and respond to potential threats quickly. Tools like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems collect and analyze logs from various devices, providing centralized visibility and advanced threat detection capabilities.

Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions further enhance server security by providing real-time monitoring and automated responses to suspicious activities. For example, if unusual file changes are detected, the EDR system can automatically isolate the compromised server from the network to prevent further damage.

Ensure that there's a robust backup strategy in place. Regularly backing up server data to a secure location ensures that in the event of a ransomware attack or data corruption, data can be restored with minimal disruption to operations. 

Using solutions like Trellix Endpoint Security that integrate advanced machine learning and threat intelligence can help you stay ahead of emerging threats and keep the servers secure.

IoT devices

IoT devices form a web of endpoints that communicate along the edge of a network perimeter. These devices can range from digital watches communicating with phones and computers to medical devices transmitting health details to medical office servers. The interconnectedness of these devices requires a unique security posture.

When IoT devices connect to Wi-Fi, they start sending and receiving data, turning into access points for the information stored on the wider network. Just like a desktop computer, these endpoints need robust security measures. 

As more IoT devices are added, the digital perimeter grows, necessitating more safeguard measures. Therefore, it’s essential to audit your network devices regularly. Ensure that only authorized devices connect to the network. Remove unused machines and wipe them for reuse or safe disposal using software like DriveStrike.

Encrypting all data in transit and at rest is another key step. This maintains data privacy for customers and employees. Ensuring encryption meets or exceeds industry standards and legal requirements is also crucial.

It's wise to keep IoT devices separate from critical data and devices within a network. This segmentation hinders attackers from pivoting to other network resources if they exploit an IoT device.

Investing in a monitoring system provides security professionals and IT teams with alerts, enabling them to act quickly against intrusions or malicious actions. 

Physical security is equally important. Locking storage cabinets, implementing Multi-Factor Authentication for compatible devices, and using specific work-from-home security tools are all critical measures.

Vet your vendors to ensure they meet or exceed your organization's security expectations. Confirm they handle their IoT devices with care. Just as important is investing in employee education. Cybersecurity training helps staff understand both the practical aspects of securing IoT devices and the reasons for taking IoT security seriously.

Virtual environment 

Endpoint security in virtual environments is tricky. Unlike traditional setups, virtual environments pack multiple virtual machines (VMs) onto a single physical host. This shared nature can make them more vulnerable if not properly managed.

Ensuring that each VM has its own security measures is crucial. It's a risky bet to assume the host's security will trickle down. Each VM should have its antivirus, firewall, and intrusion detection systems. Think of it like having multiple locks on different doors in the same house. One locked door doesn't mean the entire house is secure.

Regular updates are crucial for VM security. Virtual environments often run older software versions because administrators fear downtime. But this can backfire. Use automated patch management tools designed for virtual environments. Tools like VMware's vSphere Update Manager can automate and streamline this process.

Network segmentation also helps to secure virtual machines. In traditional networks, segmenting different parts helps contain breaches. The same goes for virtual environments. By using techniques like VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), we can isolate VMs from one another. This way, even if one VM gets compromised, the attack won't easily spread.

Monitoring performance and traffic is not enough in virtual setups; you must go a step further. Tools like vRealize Network Insight can give you a deeper look into traffic patterns and anomalies. By capturing VM-to-VM traffic, you can pinpoint unusual activity early on.

Don't neglect backup and recovery. Virtual environments often give a false sense of security because snapshots can be easily taken. But relying solely on snapshots isn't wise. Incorporating regular, encrypted backups ensures data integrity and quick recovery. 

Lastly, access control should be airtight. In physical environments, restricting who can touch what is critical. In virtual ones, it's just as important. Use role-based access control (RBAC) to ensure that only specific personnel can manage, modify, or even access certain VMs. This limits potential damage from insider threats or careless mistakes.

Endpoint security threats

Malware and ransomware

Malware and ransomware are the biggest threats to endpoint security. Malware can sneak into your systems through phishing emails, infected websites, or even USB drives. Once inside, it can steal sensitive information, spy on your activities, or even give hackers control of your devices. 

Ransomware is a particularly nasty type of malware. It locks users out of their own systems and demands a payment, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access. Think of it like a digital hostage situation. The attackers often threaten to delete files or expose sensitive data if the ransom isn't paid. 

Spyware and trojans can also fall into this category of endpoint security threats. These types of malware can be equally destructive. Spyware, for instance, quietly monitors user activity, gathering personal and corporate information without you even realizing it. 

Trojans, on the other hand, disguise themselves as legitimate software. Once you install them, they open the door for other malware to enter. The 2013 Target data breach, which exposed credit and debit card information of millions of customers, started with a malware-laden email sent to an HVAC contractor.

Phishing attacks

In a phishing attack, the hacker sends an email that looks legitimate. Maybe it’s from a bank, a senior executive, or even a trusted vendor. These attacks exploit human psychology, making them particularly hard to stop. 

When an unsuspecting employee responds to the email, clicks on a link, or downloads an attachment in that email, they unknowingly hand over sensitive information or install malware on their device.

Another common phishing tactic is the use of "spear-phishing." This is a more targeted form of phishing where the attacker gathers information about a specific individual or organization to make the phishing attempt more convincing. 

Imagine a scenario where James from HR gets an email that appears to be from a job applicant. The email contains a resume in an attachment. James opens it, and bam! Malware is installed on his computer, giving the attacker access to sensitive employee information.

Phishing attacks can also lead to ransomware infections. For instance, clicking a malicious link might download ransomware onto the device. Suddenly, files are encrypted, and the attacker demands a ransom to unlock them. This can paralyze business operations and put customer data at risk.

It's not just emails, either. Phishing can also occur through text messages, social media, or even phone calls. 

The human element is always the weakest link in the security chain. Even with robust security systems in place, a single successful phishing attack can lead to a data breach. 

It’s crucial to educate employees and create awareness about the different forms phishing can take. Training sessions and simulated phishing attacks can be valuable tools in making sure everyone knows what to look out for.

Insider threats

Insider threats originate from within the organization. They involve individuals like employees, former employees, or business associates who already have access to sensitive data. 

These insiders can unintentionally or maliciously expose or steal sensitive information. While many cybersecurity measures focus on external threats like malware and hacking, insider threats can often go unnoticed.

Insider threats can be deliberate or unintentional. The former involves individuals who intentionally steal or expose sensitive data. Such actors might trade this data for financial gain, sell it to third-party websites, or use it to gain a competitive advantage.

Unintentional leakage involves negligent insiders who mishandle data without malicious intent. Human error, such as accidentally emailing sensitive information to the wrong person, or hardware failures that lead to data loss, are common causes. Unchecked environmental hazards can also jeopardize data security.

Detecting insider threats requires continuous monitoring. You must track the whereabouts of confidential data and identify any suspicious user behavior. Abnormal activities might include attempts to access irrelevant information or uploading data to unauthorized applications. You can use endpoint protection tools to detect such behaviors and respond promptly. 

To prevent insider threats, you should categorize applications deemed safe for enterprise use. Only apps from reputed vendors should be used. If an insider tries to transfer data from a trusted app to an unverified one, a tool like Endpoint DLP Plus can block this action. 

Discovering and classifying sensitive data is also essential. By scanning all devices, we can label critical information accurately and add extra security layers around it.

Rules must be enforced for cloud upload protection. Endpoint protection tools can prevent sensitive content from being exported to unauthorized cloud storage. Similarly, they can restrict the use of third-party clipboard tools that might be employed to capture screenshots of sensitive data.

Email security measures are crucial too. Data exchanged via email should remain within the organization's boundaries. Endpoint DLP Plus can ensure that only trusted domains and email clients are used. If someone tries to send data outside these parameters, the action can be blocked, and the admin will be alerted.

Managing data access via peripheral devices is another preventive step. By allowing only trusted USBs and devices, we can limit physical data transfers. There are endpoint security tools that can lock down unauthorized devices by default, preventing any potential data leaks.

Instant alerts and extensive audits help too. Any attempt to bypass security measures, like copying data using unapproved apps or sending information through unverified emails, will be blocked and logged. This way, admins can analyze these actions and spot potential threats early on. 

Zero-day exploits

Zero-day exploits carry an element of surprise, which makes them hard to respond to. They look for and attack vulnerabilities that even the software developers don’t know exist. They can then exploit this hole to infiltrate your network before any patches or updates are released to fix it.

What makes zero-day exploits harder to tackle is that traditional antivirus solutions often fall short. These tools rely on known threat signatures to detect malware. But with zero-day vulnerabilities, there are no signatures to recognize. I

Advanced endpoint security tools use behavior-based detection to mitigate these risks. They watch what’s happening on your systems in real-time and flag unusual activities, even when they don’t match any existing signatures.

Endpoint security tools for corporate networks

Antivirus and anti-malware software

Antivirus and anti-malware tools act as the frontline defense against malicious software designed to infiltrate and damage our systems. Antivirus software like Norton or McAfee can constantly scan for known threats, removing them before they cause harm.

However, using antivirus software alone is not enough. You need a more comprehensive approach, and that's where endpoint security comes into play. Endpoint security solutions encompass antivirus but protect every endpoint in the network - from laptops to smartphones to IoT devices.

For instance, solutions like Symantec Endpoint Protection or CrowdStrike do not just look for known malware signatures. These advanced tools use behavioral analysis to identify unusual activities. If an employee’s device starts acting suspiciously, it can isolate that device to prevent a network-wide compromise.

Another powerful feature of endpoint security tools is their ability to handle zero-day threats that traditional antiviruses might miss. Many of them use AI and machine learning to detect and block these threats in real-time.

Imagine a scenario where an employee unknowingly downloads a malicious email attachment. While traditional antivirus might catch it based on a known signature, an advanced endpoint security system can recognize atypical behavior patterns and immediately flag and quarantine the file before it has a chance to execute its payload.

Integrating antivirus, anti-malware, and other security measures in endpoint security provides a multilayered defense strategy. It ensures that if one layer fails, the others can still protect your valuable corporate data. 

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Detection and Response (EDR) is a cybersecurity solution that continuously monitors end-user devices. Sometimes called Endpoint Detection and Threat Response (EDTR), an EDR records and stores data on the behavior of endpoints. It uses analytics to spot anything suspicious.

EDR was coined by Gartner’s Anton Chuvakin, who described it as a solution that keeps track of what’s happening on your devices, uses data to detect odd behaviors, and provides context to block malicious activity. It also suggests steps to fix any problems.

EDR solutions record activities and events on endpoints and workloads. This gives security teams the visibility they need to uncover incidents that might go unnoticed. An effective EDR solution provides continuous and comprehensive visibility into what’s happening on endpoints in real time. 

A good EDR solution should offer features like advanced threat detection, investigation, and response capabilities. This includes incident data search and investigation alert triage, suspicious activity validation, threat hunting, and malicious activity detection and containment.

Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

DLP tools help ensure that sensitive data doesn’t leave the organization inadvertently or maliciously. They are designed to catch data breaches before they happen.

DLP solutions often monitor data in three states: at rest, in motion, and in use. This means they can keep an eye on files stored on workstations, data being transmitted over the network, and even information being copied to external devices like USB drives.

Integration with other security measures is another strength of DLP tools. Many of these systems work seamlessly with encryption, firewalls, and antivirus programs. 

However, we must stress the importance of setting clear policies. It’s not enough to install the software and hope for the best. You need to define what constitutes sensitive data for your organization and set the DLP rules accordingly.

Awareness and training are also integral to the success of any DLP initiative. When employees understand the reasons behind these DLP measures, they’re more likely to follow protocols. Empowering them with this knowledge makes them active participants in safeguarding your data.

Application whitelisting and blacklisting

It’s crucial to ensure that only trusted applications run on our corporate network. Application whitelisting and blacklisting can help with this.

Application whitelisting ensures that only the applications that are explicitly approved can run on the endpoints. This approach significantly reduces the risk of malware and unapproved software causing havoc. 

On the other hand, application blacklisting creates a blacklist of known malicious or unwanted applications. You can prevent these applications from running on your systems. 

Balancing whitelisting and blacklisting can be a challenge, but the payoff is worth it. Combining the two strategies creates a layered security approach that is much more effective. 

While whitelisting covers 99% of your needs by allowing only approved applications, blacklisting adds an extra layer by catching those rare threats that might bypass the whitelist. 

Firewalls

Firewalls act as gatekeepers, controlling the flow of data between your internal network and the outside world. They can block unauthorized access and potentially harmful traffic. For example, a firewall can prevent outsiders from accessing sensitive company information stored on internal servers. 

You should use hardware and software firewalls. Hardware firewalls are physical devices installed between your network and the internet. They provide a strong first line of defense. 

On the other hand, software firewalls are installed on individual devices within the network. They offer more granular control over the data that can enter or leave a particular device.

Endpoint security goes hand in hand with firewalls. It focuses on securing individual devices that connect to your network. This includes laptops, smartphones, and even IoT devices. 

Combining firewalls and robust endpoint security measures creates a multi-layered defense strategy. This makes it much harder for attackers to breach our network and compromise sensitive data.