CISA Released Guide to Microsoft Expanded Cloud Playbook

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released the “Microsoft Expanded Cloud Logs Implementation Playbook.”

This guide is geared towards enabling organizations to effectively utilize the new logging capabilities introduced in Microsoft Purview Audit (Standard), enhancing their ability to detect and respond to advanced intrusion techniques.

Overview of New Logging Capabilities

The playbook outlines the expanded logging capabilities that allow organizations to conduct thorough forensic and compliance investigations.

Key functionalities include tracking critical events such as mail items accessed, sent messages, and user searches in services like SharePoint Online and Exchange Online.

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Additionally, organizations can now monitor a multitude of user and admin operations across various Microsoft services.

One of the major advancements highlighted in the guide is the integration of these logs with Microsoft Sentinel and Splunk Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems.

This feature not only streamlines log ingestion but also facilitates comprehensive analysis of administrative actions necessary for enhancing cybersecurity measures.

The primary aim of the playbook is to empower enterprises to operationalize these expanded cloud logs within their Microsoft 365 environments.

It provides a step-by-step approach for technical personnel responsible for log collection, aggregation, correlation, and incident-response orchestration.

The guide walks users through navigating to the logs, enabling them, and leveraging them as an integral part of an organization’s cybersecurity strategy.

Moreover, the playbook delves into analytical methodologies that help detect advanced threat actor behavior, equipping organizations with the tools necessary to proactively address potential security breaches.

Target Audience and Availability

This essential resource is directed towards technical staff at government agencies and enterprises with Microsoft E3/G3-and-above licensing.

Notably, these logging capabilities were previously limited to Audit Premium subscription customers and initially rolled out to the Department of Defense and federal agencies to safeguard national security interests.

For those interested in reviewing the playbook, it is available in PDF format with a file size of 2.25 MB, accessible in English.

CISA’s release of the Microsoft Expanded Cloud Logs Implementation Playbook marks a pivotal step in enhancing organizational cybersecurity frameworks.

By equipping entities with advanced logging capabilities and comprehensive operational guidance, CISA aims to fortify defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

As cyber safety remains a top priority, this playbook serves as a crucial tool for organizations striving to protect their digital infrastructures.

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