Why MFA Alone Isn’t Enough to Protect Your Microsoft 365 Account

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a crucial security measure for protecting your Microsoft 365 (M365) accounts. By requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone, MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access. However, as cyber threats evolve, relying solely on MFA is no longer sufficient. Here’s why:

Evolving Cyber Threats

1. Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals use sophisticated phishing emails to lure users to fake login pages that mimic M365. Once the user enters their credentials, attackers can capture both the password and the MFA token in real-time
2. Session Hijacking: After a user authenticates, hackers can steal session cookies through malware or browser vulnerabilities, allowing them to bypass MFA entirely
3. Social Engineering: Attackers may trick users into approving fraudulent login requests on their MFA app, granting them access without resistance
4. Lack of Monitoring: MFA does not monitor activity after login. Once an attacker gains access, they can create forwarding or inbox rules to exfiltrate emails, add malicious RSS feeds or inbox filters to hide their tracks, and use the account to send phishing emails

The Solution: Managed Detection and Response (MDR)

To achieve full security over your M365 accounts, you need Managed Detection and Response (MDR). MDR actively monitors your environment for suspicious activity, detects breaches early, and takes action before hackers can cause damage. Here are the top benefits of Sophos MDR:

1. Proactive Monitoring: Sophos MDR scans your M365 tenant for signs of compromise, such as unusual login patterns or unauthorised changes to settings
2. Real-Time Alerts: It alerts your IT team or service provider immediately when it detects potential breaches, allowing for swift action
3. Automated Responses: Sophos MDR can revoke sessions, enforce MFA resets, and block access to compromised accounts automatically
4. Comprehensive Forensics: It identifies and remediates lingering threats, such as malicious inbox rules or RSS feeds, ensuring the attacker has no foothold in your environment

“As customers increasingly recognise the critical need to secure their Microsoft 365 accounts, they are demanding the highest level of security products. This deeper understanding drives our commitment to using Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR) to provide 24/7 cybersecurity protection. With Sophos MDR, we ensure our customers have a robust, proactive defence strategy against evolving cyber threats.” – Dameon Merilaht , Senior Account Manager at CSG.

Conclusion

While MFA adds a valuable layer of security, it’s only as strong as the user’s vigilance. Human error, like falling for a phishing email or approving a suspicious MFA prompt, can undermine its effectiveness.

By implementing Sophos MDR for Microsoft 365, you gain peace of mind knowing your accounts are actively monitored and protected against advanced threats. Stay ahead of evolving cyber threats with a robust, multi-layered security approach.

Need help securing your M365 environment? Consider integrating Sophos MDR for comprehensive protection.