* Understanding the Requirement:
* The scenario involves a group of users who handle sensitive information and have valuable files in their accounts.
* The goal is to protect these users from targeted online attacks.
* Options Analysis:
* Option A: Enable 2-Step Verification for those users and recommend they use Google Authenticator
* 2-Step Verification (2SV) enhances security by adding an extra layer of authentication.
Google Authenticator is a reliable method, but it may not be sufficient against highly targeted attacks.
* Option B: Enable 2-Step Verification for those users and recommend they use SMS codes
* While SMS codes are a form of 2SV, they are considered less secure than other methods due to potential vulnerabilities like SIM swapping.
* Option C: Disable password recovery for end users
* Disabling password recovery can prevent unauthorized access through recovery options but does not provide active protection against targeted attacks.
* Option D: Enroll all accounts for those users in the Advanced Protection Program
* The Advanced Protection Program (APP) is designed specifically to protect users at high risk of targeted attacks. It includes strong measures such as requiring a physical security key for login, blocking unauthorized access attempts, and restricting access to sensitive data.
* Recommended Solution:
* Enrolling users in the Advanced Protection Program (APP):
* Step 1: Identify High-Risk Users:
* Identify users who handle sensitive information and have valuable files.
* Step 2: Enroll in APP:
* Go to the Google Admin console.
* Navigate to the Security section and find the Advanced Protection Program.
* Enroll the identified high-risk users in APP.
* Step 3: Implement Security Keys:
* Ensure users have security keys (e.g., Titan Security Keys) for login.
* Guide users through the process of setting up and using security keys.
* Step 4: User Education:
* Educate users on the importance of APP and how it protects their accounts.
* Provide training on recognizing phishing attempts and other security best practices.
* Benefits of APP:
* Enhanced Security:
* APP provides the highest level of security for Google accounts, requiring security keys for authentication.
* Protection Against Phishing:
* Security keys are highly resistant to phishing attacks, which are common in targeted online attacks.
* Limited Access:
* APP restricts access to sensitive data, ensuring that only trusted apps and services can interact with the protected accounts.
References:
* Google Workspace Admin Help: Advanced Protection Program
* Google Workspace Security: Advanced Protection Program
* Google Security Blog: Advanced Protection Program