Microsoft 365 is a popular communication, file storage, and collaboration cloud platform. However, the widespread use of cloud platforms has also made them a prime target for cybercriminals. How can businesses ensure the safety of their cloud environments? The answer lies in proactive, AI-driven solutions like cloud security with Darktrace.
Darktrace, an AI-powered cybersecurity tool, offers a unique approach to protecting cloud services. In this blog, we explore a real-world incident where Darktrace stopped an account hijacking attempt on a Microsoft 365 account in record time. Let’s discuss how cloud security with Darktrace helped to avoid this cyber attack and saved the business from a potentially disastrous breach.
Cloud Security with Darktrace and Account Hijacking
A customer of Darktrace survived an account hijacking attempt in May 2023. The dangerous user aimed to steal confidential data while deploying malware. The hijacking attack was detected and avoided in time before it led to major damage because of Cloud Security with Darktrace.
Step 1: Suspicious Login Attempts
The sequence started with unexpected access attempts made from an unknown foreign internet connection. Cybercriminals launch their account login attempts from unfamiliar geographic areas. The cyber attacker failed in their initial login attempt but managed to discover a security hole to bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA) successfully.
The Self-Learning AI mechanism from Darktrace detected the login attempt as dangerous. The system recognized the login attempt as different from normal patterns associated with the account. So it automatically triggered an alarm. The attacker went around the MFA security system to gain unauthorized access which showed that existing security measures fell short in preventing unauthorized access. Hence, the Darktrace system operated at full alert status while performing continuous checks for potential attackers.
Step 2: Multi-location Login Attempts
During those few hours, the attacker ran two more unsuccessful attempts to access the Microsoft 365 account from Texas and Florida. These successive logins come from distinct geographic regions, backed up by malicious activity.
So the system at Darktrace immediately triggered red flags when this action occurred. Moreover, the AI security solution immediately identified the dual login attempts, which are typical behavior during account hijacking. Darktrace monitored the account traffic and network activity. As it allowed the system to track irregular login actions associated with the suspicious foreign IP address.
Step 3: Account Compromise
The attacker’s access to the account was becoming more apparent when they proceeded to change the account’s password. However, this is a common tactic used to lock out the legitimate user and take control of the account.
But at this point, cloud security with Darktrace had already detected abnormal behavior and sent multiple alerts. So the system’s ability to monitor and respond made it clear that the account had been compromised.
Step 4: Email Rule Manipulation and Phishing Campaign
In an even more concerning move, the attacker created a rule within the Microsoft 365 Outlook inbox that would delete incoming emails. So this is a technique used to cover the tracks of an attack. Any security alerts or notifications related to the hijack attempt would be deleted automatically before reaching the account owner.
But Darktrace wasn’t fooled. Its AI capabilities picked up on this unusual email rule and flagged it as malicious. So through analyzing the pattern of activity within the account, Darktrace determined that this was a deliberate attempt.
How Darktrace Stopped the Hijack So Fast
The key to Darktrace’s success in stopping this account hijack lies in its Self-Learning AI and response capabilities. Unlike traditional security measures that rely on predefined threat signatures, Darktrace continuously learns the normal behavior. So this allows it to identify even the slightest deviation from the norm, enabling it to detect sophisticated attacks that might evade other security tools.
Here are some of the critical factors that made Darktrace effective in stopping the hijack fast.
1. Proactive Threat Detection
Traditional security systems are reactive and often identify threats only after damage has been done. Darktrace, however, continuously monitors the network and cloud environment for unusual patterns. So the early detection of abnormal login attempts from foreign IP addresses was the first step in preventing a full-scale breach.
2. Real-Time Analysis
Darktrace’s AI is capable of performing real-time analysis of the behavior and traffic patterns across the entire network. This means the system detects threats as soon as they appear, enabling an immediate response. So when the attacker bypassed MFA and manipulated the account’s email rules, Darktrace can detect these actions.
3. Autonomous Response
Darktrace’s response feature is a critical tool in automated threat mitigation. Once the system detected the attack, it took automatic action to limit the damage. Whether it’s isolating a compromised account or blocking further suspicious activity, Darktrace’s AI can step in and neutralize the threat.
4. Adaptive Security
Another reason for Darktrace’s quick detection and response is its ability to adapt to the unique behavior of each user and network. However, this adaptability makes it more effective at identifying threats tailored to specific environments. Such as the hijacking attempt targeting the Microsoft 365 account.
Importance of Cloud Security with Darktrace for Businesses
As more businesses shift to cloud-based solutions like Microsoft 365, ensuring strong security has never been more critical. Cyberattacks on cloud platforms are growing in both frequency and sophistication, and traditional security tools are often unable to keep up. So, cloud security with Darktrace offers a proactive, AI-powered solution that continuously adapts to the evolving nature of cyber threats.
Moreover, the case study discussed above illustrates the importance of adopting a comprehensive, AI-driven approach to cloud security. With Cloud Security with Darktrace, businesses can stay ahead of potential threats, and detect early signs of compromise.
Conclusion
Cloud account compromises led to the Microsoft 365 hijacking attempt, which proved how easily criminals can infiltrate cloud-based systems. The business prevented the attack through Darktrace’s security measures that use predictive artificial intelligence.
Cloud security remains vital for businesses that choose cloud-based platforms in their operations. The future of cloud protection is AI-driven security. Darktrace provides detection and learning capabilities along with response functions to emerging threats. So your business needs cloud security investment when you operate in cloud environments because this protects digital assets from upcoming cyber threats.
