6. Change Defaults and Test Your Security Default settings are designed for ease of use, not maximum Microsoft 365 security. It’s crucial to change them and then validate your defenses. • Change All Default Passwords: Immediately change any default credentials on new systems or applications. These are publicly known and an easy target for attackers. • Test Your Configuration: After hardening your systems, conduct penetration testing and vulnerability scans to ensure your configurations are secure and identify any remaining weaknesses. 7. Maintain Ongoing Governance and Audits Security is a continuous cycle of assessment and improvement. Your work is never truly done. • Periodic Audits: Regularly audit your systems to ensure that hardware, software and services are still authorized and correctly configured. • Stay Informed: Keep up with emerging threats and evolving FFIEC guidelines to adapt your security posture accordingly. • Document Everything: Maintain thorough documentation of your configurations, policies and procedures. This is essential for demonstrating compliance during an audit. Conclusion Hardening Microsoft 365 is a complex but essential task for any community bank. It requires deep technical expertise, a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements and a commitment to continuous vigilance. While these steps provide a roadmap, implementing them effectively can be a significant challenge for IT teams juggling multiple priorities. At RESULTS Technology, we specialize in providing managed IT and compliance services tailored for community banks. We help institutions like yours navigate the complexities of Microsoft 365 security and compliance, ensuring your technology is not just a tool for business but a fortress for your data. FMSI www.fmsiconsulting.com 913.955.3355 FMSI is a small business founded and located in Kansas, specializing in assisting community banks to succeed, a mission consistent with core CBA values. We have partnered with community banks for nearly 25-years providing core advisory services including asset/ liability, investment, and liquidity management. FMSI advisors actively assess market conditions and bank balance sheets of different size, mix, and capital levels. Market conditions are constantly changing presenting opportunities and challenges for CBA member banks. Interest rates are increasing for the first time in nearly a decade and now is a perfect time to partner with a trusted, industry leader. Establishing an FMSI relationship provides confidence your bank is optimizing the balance sheet, deploying necessary strategies, maximizing profitability, and managing balance sheet risks. FMSI is a Kansas CBA Endorsed Provider 15 In Touch
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