Most organizations use Microsoft Office 365 to team up on projects and share files. It is officially available and compatible with Mac OS and Windows. However, Linux users can access it directly online through web browsers or download it with the help of WINE. Although highly secure, Linux is not immune to Office 365 cyberattacks like phishing. Consider the following measures to safeguard your data when using Office 365.
1. Configure Microsoft Defender
Office 365 enjoys robust security technologies from Microsoft Defender that protect your data. Subscribing to the service gives you access to primarily security policies containing the recommended settings that protect your data while using the platform. However, you can manually update the settings to minimize security risks from malicious links, collaboration apps, and email messages. Crucial features to configure manually include:
- Anti-phishing protection: The policy deters cybercriminals from accessing confidential information through phishing attacks. It uses AI functionality to effectively detect malicious content and safeguard your emails and domains from spoofing.
- Safe links: This feature helps verify URLs in your email messages and blocks any malicious or suspicious links.
- Safe attachments: Files that have gone through anti-malware undergo assessment through this feature to check for any infection signs. It particularly works for documents shared on email or apps like SharePoint before they get to their intended destinations.
- Anti-malware protection: Ideal for automatically identifying viruses, spyware, and ransomware. It also provides real-time alerts in case of threats.
2. Use Multi-Factor Authentication(MFA)
Unfortunately, your login details can get into the wrong hands. Multi-factor authentication protects the end user in case of such security breaches. It makes it impossible to infiltrate your system by only allowing access upon completing the authentication process, which includes two or more steps.
Usually, the process may require users to provide a verification code sent to their mobile devices. It may also use biometric information like fingerprints to complete the login process. This way, third parties with your password and username won’t access confidential information.
Multi-factor authentication is simple and among the most effective ways to secure Office 365 against hackers. Since it is part of the Microsoft Office modern authentication framework, MFA is enabled automatically for the latest subscriptions.
3. Update your Systems Regularly
Outdated programs have loopholes that hackers exploit to access sensitive data. Updates come with security fixes to cover existing loopholes and protect against new threats. To enhance your Office 365 phishing protection, ensure you have the latest version of all the software, applications, and systems you use together with Office 365.
Most Linux users access Office 365 via browsers like Firefox and Chrome. Make sure your browsers are secure and up to date. You should also update your Linux operating system to enjoy the latest security patches as soon as they are available. To avoid the hassle of manually upgrading your programs, enable automatic updates so you don’t risk forgetting to install them.
Endnote
Despite the steps you take to safeguard Office 365, human error remains one of the weakest links towards achieving cyber security. As you implement measures to secure Office 365 on your Linux device, remember to provide regular training and education to your staff. This way, team members can easily identify potential threats and avoid them.
