Nosy Network Neighbours

   This is one threat which is never thought to be serious but is one of the most common threat in a corporate network. Misplaced trust and mis-configured systems can lead to security headaches on computer networks of any size. Networks promote collaboration by allowing users to share files, folders, and other resources in real time. When used effectively, networks can have a dramatic positive effect on productivity, but when used carelessly, networks can contribute to security problems. The most common weaknesses occur when users don't pay sufficiently close attention while sharing resources and setting up user accounts.

  The three most common security problems on networks are the following:

  • Sharing files that should remain confidential. Users can inadvertently create this problem by sharing a folder filled with several subfolders, some of which contain data files that should remain confidential. Simple carelessness can also cause data to be compromised, as when a user copies sensitive files to a removable disk or to a local workstation or a portable computer that isn't properly secured. Creating policies that define what types of local files can be shared or copied and training users in proper techniques for managing confidential data are essential steps in avoiding this problem.
  • Allowing unrestricted access to shared files. Some types of information need to be shared with a small, tightly restricted group of network users. A Microsoft Excel workbook containing your company's budget and salary details, for instance, might need to be shared among a group of senior executives. If share permissions are too broad, unauthorized users might inadvertently be able to access these files.
  • Allowing users to change files without permission. Many collaborative environments depend on a team of workers being able to share information. Sensible management policies often dictate that only one or two team members have responsibility for making changes to files. What happens if a network share is set up incorrectly, so that everyone who has access to files in a particular folder also has the capability to edit, replace, or delete those files? In that scenario, a single distracted user can wipe out a frightful amount of work by accidentally saving a new file using the same name as an existing file or by deleting a group of files in a misguided cleanup effort. Good backups can undo some of the damage, but configuring the shared resources correctly can prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.
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    For extra security add a Server.

       If the data stored on your business network is truly sensitive, it is strongly recommended that you augment the basic protections afforded by access controls in Windows 2000 Professional and Windows XP Professional. In this type of environment, consider setting up at least one server running Windows 2000 Server or Windows .NET Server and creating a Windows domain. When all user data is stored on domain servers, a trained administrator can manage security policies and enforce them across the entire network, instead of relying on each user to maintain secure data. Using network servers also makes it easier to ensure that data is backed up regularly.

     
     
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