Mortgage Workspace Blog

Why Higher Standards Beat Microsoft Secure Score’s Curve

Written by Justin Kirsch | Nov 20, 2024 11:01:14 PM

In today’s cybersecurity landscape, mediocrity is not an option. Organizations that rely solely on Microsoft Secure Score risk operating under a false sense of security. While Secure Score provides a baseline measure of security posture, it often allows a “D” grade to pass as acceptable—a dangerous standard in an era of sophisticated cyber threats.

Guardian Security Insights rejects the notion of grading on a curve, offering a dynamic platform that sets higher standards for cybersecurity. By providing actionable insights, transparency, and tools for continuous improvement, Guardian Security Insights ensures your organization is not just compliant but truly resilient.

The Pitfalls of Grading on a Curve

Microsoft Secure Score assigns organizations a percentage score to measure their security posture. While a score of 65% might be deemed acceptable, it leaves significant vulnerabilities unaddressed.

  • False Sense of Security: A “D” grade may technically pass, but it won’t protect your organization from phishing attacks, ransomware, or data breaches.
  • Missed Opportunities for Improvement: Secure Score lacks the depth to pinpoint specific vulnerabilities, leaving IT teams with a broad checklist rather than targeted action plans.
  • Limited Accountability: Without clear benchmarks and progress tracking, it’s difficult to hold IT teams accountable for improving security.

How Guardian Security Insights Sets a Higher Standard

Guardian Security Insights takes the foundation laid by Microsoft Secure Score and transforms it into a comprehensive tool for achieving cybersecurity excellence. Here’s how:

  • Secure Score Simulator: Test the impact of security actions, such as enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or addressing stale accounts, before implementation.
  • Detailed Category Reporting: Break your Secure Score into critical areas—Data, Devices, Identity, and Apps—for a granular understanding of vulnerabilities.
  • Intuitive Visualizations: Use Grade Emojis, Letter Grades, and visually engaging dashboards to simplify complex metrics for both IT teams and executives.
  • Real-Time Risk Alerts: Identify and address emerging risks, such as unprotected devices or policy exclusions, before they become critical vulnerabilities.

Achieving Excellence: The 90%+ Standard

Guardian Security Insights challenges organizations to aim higher. A Secure Score of 90% or above across all categories is not just achievable but essential in today’s threat landscape. Here’s why:

  • Comprehensive Protection: A higher score ensures fewer vulnerabilities and reduces the likelihood of breaches.
  • Improved Compliance: Meet and exceed regulatory requirements with detailed compliance tracking and reporting.
  • Enhanced Stakeholder Confidence: Demonstrate your organization’s commitment to cybersecurity with transparent, measurable progress.

Real-World Success Stories

Improving Device Security

An organization struggling with unmanaged devices used Guardian Security Insights to identify and address gaps, improving their Secure Score by 20% within six months.

Fostering Accountability

By leveraging Guardian’s transparent reporting tools, another organization established clear benchmarks for their IT team, resulting in a 25% improvement in their security posture over a year.

The Competitive Advantage for Mortgage Companies

For mortgage companies, where trust and data protection are paramount, Guardian Security Insights offers a competitive edge:

  • Build Customer Trust: Protect sensitive client data with a proactive approach to cybersecurity.
  • Ensure Compliance: Stay ahead of regulatory requirements with automated compliance tools.
  • Mitigate Financial Risks: Avoid costly breaches and downtime by addressing vulnerabilities proactively.

Take the Next Step Toward Cybersecurity Excellence

Don’t settle for a passing grade when it comes to your organization’s security. With Guardian Security Insights, you gain the tools, insights, and accountability needed to achieve true cybersecurity excellence.

Ready to Elevate Your Cybersecurity Strategy?

Visit Guardian Security Insights to learn more and schedule a personalized demo today.