It can be, but probably isn't right now. Microsoft 365 has excellent security features—most organisations just haven't turned them on.
Quick answer: It can be, but probably isn't right now. Microsoft 365 has excellent security features—most organisations just haven't turned them on.
The Problem
Microsoft 365 comes with powerful security capabilities. But:
- Most security features are off by default
- Many require Business Premium or higher licensing
- Configuration requires expertise most businesses don't have
- Microsoft's defaults prioritise ease of use over security
What's Probably Missing
Security defaults not enough
Microsoft's "security defaults" are better than nothing but far from comprehensive. They enable basic MFA but miss dozens of important settings.
Conditional Access not configured
Conditional Access lets you create intelligent access policies: block sign-ins from unusual countries, require compliant devices, force MFA for risky sign-ins. Powerful. Usually not set up.
Defender features sitting unused
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 includes Safe Links (scanning URLs at click time), Safe Attachments (sandboxing files), and anti-impersonation protection. These need configuration and often a licence upgrade.
No one's watching the alerts
Microsoft 365 generates security alerts. If no one reviews them, attacks go unnoticed.
Data loss prevention not enabled
DLP policies can prevent sensitive data leaving via email or SharePoint. Usually not configured.
Admin accounts not protected properly
Global admin accounts with just a password and basic MFA are prime targets. Privileged access needs stronger controls.
What Licence Do You Have?
| Feature | Business Basic | Business Standard | Business Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic MFA | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Conditional Access | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Defender for Office 365 | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Intune device management | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Advanced threat protection | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Quick Wins You Can Do Today
1. Check MFA is actually on for everyone Not just enabled—enforced. No exceptions.
2. Block legacy authentication Old protocols that don't support MFA. Attackers love these.
3. Review admin accounts Who has Global Admin? Do they all need it? Are they properly secured?
4. Check your Secure Score Microsoft's built-in security assessment. In the Security admin centre. Most businesses score dismally low.
What Proper Configuration Looks Like
A properly secured Microsoft 365 tenant includes:
- MFA enforced with Conditional Access policies
- Legacy authentication blocked completely
- Risky sign-in policies active
- Safe Links and Safe Attachments configured
- Anti-impersonation protection for VIPs
- Data loss prevention for sensitive information
- Privileged Identity Management for admin accounts
- Alert policies monitored
- Audit logging retained
What We Do
We configure Microsoft 365 for security, not just functionality. Our managed service includes:
- Full security configuration from day one
- Business Premium security features properly enabled
- Ongoing monitoring and response
- Regular security reviews
- Updates as Microsoft releases new features
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about a security review.
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