How can you detect unauthorized access to your network?

Use network monitoring and intrusion detection software to alert you of suspicious activity. These systems look for patterns that indicate hacking attempts or unauthorized access. Regularly review log files from routers, firewalls, servers, and other systems. Logs can reveal login attempts, accessed files, and other activity. File audit access systems are good shout . Configure systems to send alerts or notifications when specific important files are accessed or significant actions taken. Unexpected spikes in traffic or connections from unknown IP add could indicate an attack. Keep an updated list of all authorized devices and users on the network. The key is to proactively monitor access and activity, know what is normal vs suspicious

There has to be a robust identity management and governance along with access management should be in place to detect and report any unauthorised access.

The most basic and manual approach would be reviewing the logs. You could either use Windows’s native log viewer tool called Event Viewer or third-party log tools. Monitoring log files enables you to identify unusual or suspicious patterns that may indicate unauthorized access, such as system events, network traffic, and other user activities. By understanding Events, Logs, and Event IDs in Windows, system admins can better monitor and maintain the health and security of their systems. They can also quickly identify, troubleshoot, or respond to any issues that arise from unexpected events or suspicious activity. Any event is associated with a unique event ID; you can also use programming to visualize the logs and make informed decisions.

The first step in identifying unauthorized users on your WiFi network is to regularly monitor the list of connected devices through your router’s administration page. Log in with your credentials, and navigate to the section displaying connected devices. If those IP addresses don’t work, you can go to your network configuration and check the default gateway there, which is usually your Wi-Fi access point.

One time at work we noticed irregular traffic patterns during off-hours which prompted us to investigate further. This led to the discovery of a security breach. In my experience regularly monitoring access logs and setting up intrusion detection systems (IDS) are effective methods for identifying unauthorized access. Furthermore, educating employees on the importance of strong passwords and recognizing phishing attempts is a preventative measure that can reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Monitoring your network traffic can provide valuable insights into unusual or suspicious activities. You can use various network monitoring tools and software, such as WireShark or SolarWinds, etc., to track your network's data flow and detect insider threats in real time. These tools look for unusual spikes in traffic, vulnerabilities, unrecognized devices, or data transfers during odd hours. Additionally, consider enabling IDS and IPS. These tools can automatically detect and block unauthorized access attempts and malicious activity on your network. Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and staying vigilant is essential. Regularly review and update your security measures to stay one step ahead of potential threats.

Detecting unauthorized access to your network involves a combination of proactive strategies, regular monitoring, and use of security tools. Here's how you can do it: 1. **Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS):** These systems monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and alert you when they detect potential attacks. They can be network-based (monitoring the entire network) or host-based (monitoring a specific device). 2. **Firewalls:** Firewalls control what traffic is allowed into and out of your network. They can help block unauthorized access attempts. 3. **Network Monitoring Tools:** These tools help you keep an eye on your entire network, looking for any anomalies or unusual activity. 4. **Log Analysis:**

Because Unauthorised access could be to System, Network, Data, Application, Functionality, Configuration and many more things which are hanging off of the network, Strategically planned Security Operations can bring Visualisations for understanding unauthorised activity. Multiple "Access events" can be Co-Related and analysed by tools like SIEM and Alert can be configured. Network Monitoring tools can help you with Fault Management, Configuration change management, Accounting management, and possibly Performance management. Intrusion detection is not the technology to understand unauthorised access to Network or entities you have. Not sure how educating your users will protecting you from attackers accessing your assets and Data.

To Proactively and effectively Protect/Detect access to your network, A combination of hardware and software MUST be deployed: 1- Configure the proper Access Policy 2- Implement IDS 3- Regular Log Monitoring 4- Trigger Alerts

Monitoring systems are essential for system administrators as they enable early issue detection, reduce downtime, optimize performance, and facilitate capacity planning. These tools also play a crucial role in security monitoring, compliance reporting, resource optimization, and improving the overall user experience. By providing real-time insights and automated alerts, monitoring systems empower administrators to make informed decisions, ensuring the stability and reliability of IT environments.

Commencer à cartographier l'ensemble de votre réseau pour inventorier tous les équipements, serveurs de votre entreprise et leur interactions internes et externes en termes de flux. Ensuite grace aux IPS/IDS mettre des politiques qui alertent/bloquent des flux non habituels.

IDS: 1. Monitoring Network Traffic 2. Signature-Based Detection 3. Anomaly-Based Detection 4. Alerting 5. Logging and Reporting 6. Passive Detection IPS: 1. Real-Time Threat Prevention 2. Packet Filtering 3. Automatic Responses 4. Integration with Firewalls 5. Fine-Tuned Policies 6. Continuous Monitoring

Implementing IDs in your infrastructure is crucial, but it is not the only best solution; you might need a mix of technology to monitor your network and analyse it for signs of possible intrusions, such as exploit attempts and incidents that may be imminent threats. An IDS is a passive monitoring solution for detecting cybersecurity threats, while an IPS is an active protection system. IDS/IPS monitors all traffic on the network to identify any known malicious behaviour. The attacker will try to compromise a network by exploiting a vulnerability within a device or software; IDS/IPS identifies and blocks those exploit attempts before they successfully compromise. There are different types of IDS, such as NIDS, NNIDS, HIDS, PIDS and APIDS.

Sniff your traffic even on encrypted communications. How do you ensure that all your communications are encrypted and are using approved certificate chains? Zeek and Suricata are great examples of IDS that are free and open source. Identifying attackers and attacks signatures to stop them from doing damages.

Implementing Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) is vital for enhancing security. IDPS continuously monitor network activities, detect threats, and take preventive measures. Regular updates, integration with the security framework, and logging/reporting ensure effectiveness. Incident response planning and user education contribute to a robust security strategy, making IDPS an essential component in safeguarding IT environments.

Along with protecting your passwords, the next big step to protect your accounts is to apply multi-factor authentication (MFA). Multi-factor authentication can quickly stop unauthorized access, and it is always recommended to authorize the legitimate user by MFA. The illegitimate actor almost certainly won’t have access to the secondary form of identity verification, like a one-time passcode sent to the user’s mobile device. Unauthorized access frequently occurs due to the exploitation of a single compromised account or user credentials. MFA can effectively stop unauthorized access attempts, requiring an additional identity verification step. Many tools are available, such as Google Authenticator, OneLogin, Azure, IBM, etc.

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) offers several benefits for enhancing security: 1- Enhanced Security: By requiring multiple forms of verification, MFA makes it harder for unauthorized users to access a device or network. 2- Reduces Risk of Phishing: MFA can mitigate the risk of phishing attacks as merely stealing a password isn't enough to breach the system. 3- Compliance with Regulations: Many industries require MFA for compliance with security standards and regulations. 4- Increased Trust: Users and clients often have more trust in systems that use MFA, knowing their data is better protected. 5-Reduced Fraud and Identity Theft: MFA can significantly decrease the chances of identity theft and fraud.

Definitely MFA is a good option. I would prefer. This helps prevent unauthorized access even if passwords are compromised, improving overall account security.

Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) is crucial for enhanced security. MFA adds layers of verification, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, in events like password compromises. Implement MFA across systems using methods like authentication apps or tokens. Prioritize administrative accounts and regularly audit and monitor MFA settings to ensure ongoing protection. User education is key to understanding and embracing this added security measure.

Dans un environnement d'entreprise où les administrateurs systèmes et réseaux sont appelés à se connecter sur des équipements critiques, il est crucial en plus de l'usage d'un mot de passe fort d'utiliser une deuxième source d'authentification comme MFA. Outre les solutions payantes, des alternatives open source tels que Teleport ou Apache Guacamole peuvent facilement être utilisées pour rajouter une couche supplémentaire de sécurité notamment avec le TOTP

Users play a crucial role in cybersecurity threats, and educating the user about cybersecurity and best practices is always vital. Build their capacity for different threats and vulnerabilities and social engineering that attackers use to gain access. Also, encourage them to use strong passwords and share the organization's security policies with them. As attackers frequently target people rather than machines, you should shift from a technology-centric to a people-centric cybersecurity approach and make your employees your first line of defence. Regularly conduct security awareness training to keep employees up-to-date with the latest cybersecurity threats and educate them on how to identify suspicious activities.

Endpoint Protection: Install and update endpoint protection software to detect and prevent malware or unauthorized access on individual devices. Regular Auditing: Conduct regular audits of user accounts, permissions, and system configurations. Remove or disable unnecessary accounts and privileges to reduce the attack surface. :

You are only as strong as organization as your weakest link! Training of employees is the one of the most important things when it comes to security, social engineering is no joke, nor any other cyber security threats. Training shouldn’t be done just once, but repeated as necessary.

With all the proper tools and equipment on our premises, human error still exists and can contribute to most of the causes of unauthorized access especially new employees or users, who are most at risk in this kind of activities. Training regularly and proper on-boarding of employee must be prioritized and must be done. Knowledge is power. Having different set of information with regards to network security will give you peace of mind, not only for yourself but also to your company.

It doesn't hurt at all; time spent into education is never a waste; moreover with education and best practices on cybersec. It is a good idea to show always examples so education can be engaging and relatable. I've seen people not knowing the reason behind changing passwords and/or simply locking screens in computers; and it's the most vital thing to know. Organizations need to get a secure baseline and all starts out with the weakest link: ourselves.

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Actively scan for suspicious activity patterns and alert you to potential intrusions. Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Go a step further by actively blocking detected intrusion attempts. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Collect and analyze log data from various network devices and security systems, identifying anomalies and correlations that could indicate unauthorized access. System logs: Record events like login attempts, file access, and system changes. Firewall logs: Track incoming and outgoing network traffic, identifying unauthorized connections or blocked attempts.

Regularly conduct auditing and reporting. Keep educating users; conduct interactive cybersecurity sessions and trends and educate them on how attackers make you fall for social engineering or other threat traps. Implement a mix of technology such as firewalls, IDS, and IPS, implement security policy and regularly change passwords. Consider the CIA triangle in mind. Unauthorized access incidents may be disruptive and costly for your organization; they can also affect customer trust, damage your company’s reputation, and lead to fines for non-compliance. Consider implementing the best practices to prevent security incidents and respond promptly if unauthorized access is detected.

IDS/IPS and audit logs are the source to identify if there is any unauthorised access in your network. Keep an eye there for all events and logs through SIEM integration with audit logs, IPS/IDS events and implement UBA (user behaviour analytics) to detect early.

One thing I have found helpful over the years is implementing strong access controls and limiting user permissions based on their job roles helps minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

A few extra considerations: 1. Ensure centralized logging where legally possible. 2. Encrypt logs ensuring confidentiality of the data. 3. Consider tools that ensure the integrity of logs reducing the risk of tampering or deletion.