In this episode of the Blue Security Podcast, Andy and Adam discuss two important topics: Microsoft's pledge for greater transparency in identifying and determining root causes for security vulnerabilities, and the increasing sophistication of USB malware attacks in industrial organizations. They provide insights into Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative and the importance of security in the OT and IoT networks. They also offer practical tips for strengthening USB security and data exfiltration prevention.

-Microsoft is pledging greater transparency in identifying and determining root causes for security vulnerabilities in their products and services.

-The Secure Future Initiative aims to transform software development, implement new identity protections, and improve transparency and vulnerability responses.

-USB malware attacks in industrial organizations are increasing in sophistication, with attackers using USB devices to establish silent residency in industrial control systems.

-Organizations should strengthen USB security by blocking or allowing USB devices based on an allow list, scanning USB devices for malicious processes or files, and implementing attack surface reduction rules.

-Data exfiltration prevention is crucial, and organizations should consider implementing full disk encryption, data loss prevention (DLP) rules, and sensitivity labeling to protect sensitive data.

-Visibility and inventory of OT and IoT devices are essential for developing a security strategy, and solutions like Defender for IoT and OT can provide network-based security and inventory management.

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https://msrc.microsoft.com/blog/2024/04/toward-greater-transparency-adopting-the-cwe-standard-for-microsoft-cves/

https://www.honeywell.com/us/en/news/2024/04/cybersecurity-in-2024-usb-devices-continue-to-pose-major-threat

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/defender-endpoint/configure-real-time-protection-microsoft-defender-antivirus

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/defender-endpoint/attack-surface-reduction