Day 7 – 12 Days of Cybersecurity
“On the Seventh Day of Cybersecurity, SST Sent to Me…” CIS Control 9: Email and Web Browser Protections
Shielding the Gateways: The Value of CIS Control 9 – Email and Web Browser Protections
Email and web browsers are the primary gateways to the Internet—and, unfortunately, to cyber threats. Phishing emails, malicious attachments, and compromised websites are the most common ways attackers access sensitive information or systems. That’s why CIS Control 9: Email and Web Browser Protections is critical for any organization’s cybersecurity strategy.
This control focuses on securing these gateways, reducing the risk of breaches and malware infections. Let’s explore its importance and how it helps organizations stay resilient in a constantly evolving threat landscape.
What is CIS Control 9?
CIS Control 9 addresses the security of email systems and web browsers, often targeted by cybercriminals. This control emphasizes implementing protective measures to reduce exposure to phishing attacks, malicious downloads, and harmful websites. It provides guidance on hardening email and browser configurations, filtering threats, and educating users to recognize risks.
Why is CIS Control 9 Crucial?
Cybercriminals exploit email and web browsers because they are ubiquitous, widely used, and often vulnerable due to user behavior or outdated security settings. Here’s why protecting these gateways is essential:
- Defends Against Phishing Attacks – Phishing remains one of the most effective tactics for stealing credentials and delivering malware. Email protections like spam filters and domain-based authentication help block phishing attempts before they reach users.
- Blocks Malware and Ransomware – Many attacks begin with malicious links or downloads from emails or compromised websites. Strong protections reduce the chances of harmful files being downloaded or executed.
- Mitigates Browser Exploits – Outdated browsers or insecure settings can be exploited to deliver malware or steal data. Browser protections ensure that users are safeguarded while browsing the web.
- Protects Sensitive Data – Securing email and web communications prevents unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details.
- Enhances User Awareness – Educating users about email and web browsing risks improves their ability to recognize and avoid threats.
Steps to Implement CIS Control 9
- Secure Email Gateways – Email filtering solutions block spam, phishing, and malicious attachments. Implement authentication protocols like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to ensure the integrity of email communications.
- Enforce Web Filtering – Use tools to block access to known malicious or high-risk websites. Categorize and control access to web content to prevent exposure to threats.
- Configure Browsers for Security – Harden browser settings by disabling unnecessary plugins, enforcing HTTPS usage, and enabling sandboxing to isolate potential threats.
- Deploy Anti-Malware Solutions – Use antivirus and anti-malware tools to scan emails and downloaded files for harmful content.
- Educate Users – Provide regular training on recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious links, and safely handling attachments.
- Monitor and Update Regularly – Continuously monitor email and browser activity for anomalies. Keep email systems and browsers updated to protect against the latest vulnerabilities.
Real-world Benefits of CIS Control 9
Organizations implementing CIS Control 9 often see immediate improvements in preventing and detecting cyber threats. For example:
- A financial firm reduced phishing incidents by 70% after deploying a robust email filtering solution and educating employees on identifying fake emails.
- An e-commerce company protected customer data by implementing strict browser security settings, blocking attempts to exploit outdated plugins.
These outcomes demonstrate how a proactive approach to securing email and browsers can minimize risk and enhance user confidence.
Recommended Tools for Email and Web Browser Protections
- Email Filtering Services: Solutions like Mimecast, Proofpoint, or Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provide advanced threat protection for email systems.
- Web Filtering Tools: Web gateways like DNSFilter block access to harmful websites.
- Secure Browser Extensions: Tools like uBlock Origin and HTTPS Everywhere enhance browser security.
- Anti-Malware Solutions: Comprehensive solutions like Defender for Endpoints ensures threats are detected and mitigated.
Conclusion
CIS Control 9 is an essential layer of defense in your cybersecurity strategy. By securing email and web browsers, you can prevent many of the most common and costly cyber threats. Whether it’s stopping a phishing email or blocking access to a malicious website, these protections safeguard your systems, data, and reputation.
Secure Strategic Technology specializes in implementing CIS Controls like Control 9 to protect your organization’s most vulnerable gateways. Contact us today to learn how we can help secure your email systems and browsers, keeping your business safe in an increasingly digital world. Because every click matters—make them secure.
