PROTECTING YOUR ORGANIZATION: BEST PRACTICES TO SECURE GOOGLE ADMIN ACCOUNTS

Protecting administrator accounts on Google is crucial for organizations as they have authority and access to sensitive data. According to IBM, the global average data breach cost in 2023 was USD 4.45 million, a 15% increase over three years. Administrator roles protect organizations from data breaches, with compromised credentials playing a role in 61% of breaches. Organizations should implement strong passwords, enable 2-step Verification (2SV), identify administrator access control and permissions, and monitor and audit administrator accounts to minimize the risk of data breaches.

Have you ever received the following?
‍

This Suspicious login alert is to inform you that Google has detected a suspicious login in your domain. Google considers login activity suspicious if we notice a sign in attempt that doesn't match a user's normal behavior, such as a sign in
from an unusual location, or because we think an unauthorized person attempted to access a user's account.
‍

In the evolving digital ecosystem, protecting administrator accounts on Google is vital for organizations. Administrator accounts have authority and access to sensitive data and the capability to oversee crucial aspects of an organization's digital infrastructure.

According to IBM, the global average data breach cost in 2023 was USD 4.45 million, a 15% increase over three years. Learning to protect administrator accounts on Google is crucial for an organization's overall
cybersecurity.

‍

What is a Google Administrator Account?

Google defines an administrator as a person who manages Google services or devices for a company, school, or group. This user manages your organization’s Google Workspace or Cloud Identity account. You also have the option to assign administrative roles to other users. Assigning a role provides other users with access to your Google Admin account.

‍

Why is it Important to Protect Administrator Roles?

Administrator roles with access to your Google Admin account are responsible for protecting your organization from data breaches. In a 2021 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, compromised credentials played a role in 61% of data breaches, emphasizing the critical nature of this challenge. Despite cybersecurity protocols, the human element is involved in 3 out of 4 breaches.
‍
Organizations open the door to cybersecurity threats when administrator accounts are left unsecured. Unauthorized access can lead to data breaches, exposing confidential information that can damage a company's reputation and result in substantial financial losses. According to Forbes, business email compromises accounted for $2.7 billion in losses in 2022.

‍

Best Practices for Securing Google Admin Account

Learn more about the best practices for securing your Google Admin account and minimizing the risk of data breaches in your organization.

‍

Implement Strong Passwords to Prevent Unauthorized Access

Passwords are important in securing login credentials and preventing unauthorized access to accounts. In a 2021 study by Ponemon Institute, 59% of respondents said their organizations’ policy focuses on the importance of password hygiene. Utilizing complex passwords with uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols can help reduce security incidents.

‍

Enable 2-Step Verification (2SV) to Secure Google Accounts

A 2-Step Verification (2SV), also called two-factor authentication, adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to complete a second step after entering their password before gaining access to their accounts.
‍
The second step involves tapping a sign-in prompt that Google sends to your phone or entering a code sent via text or generated from the Google authenticator app. This additional security measure can prevent unauthorized access, even if passwords are stolen. Google reported a 50% decrease in compromised accounts since 2SV.

‍

Identify Administrator Access Control and Permissions

A 2021 global survey of 900 enterprise security leaders conducted by Cyberark revealed that 80% of organizations experienced employees misusing or abusing access to business applications. To avoid giving full admin access to a Google

Admin account, it’s best to implement a policy that ensures employees have access based on their specific roles.
‍
Identifying administrator access and permissions enhances security and fosters a culture of accountability and responsibility within the organization. By aligning access controls with job responsibilities, organizations can significantly reduce the likelihood of security incidents from internal sources, safeguarding critical assets and maintaining operational integrity.
‍

‍

‍Monitor and Audit Administrator Accounts

The Cost of a Data Breach 2022 Report by IBM found that organizations that apply high levels of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation for threat detection and response have an average data breach cost of 55.3% lower than
organizations applying lower levels of those technologies.

By regularly monitoring and auditing administrator accounts, organizations can significantly mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats. It also helps organizations demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA.

‍

Conclusion

Securing your Google Admin account requires a multifaceted approach that includes implementing strong passwords, enabling 2-Step Verification (2SV), identifying administrator access control and permissions, and investing in regularly monitoring and auditing administrator accounts.
‍
By implementing these best practices and staying vigilant against emerging cybersecurity threats, organizations can protect sensitive data and maintain a resilient and secure digital environment. Embracing a proactive security mindset is essential for confidently navigating the complexities of the digital age and ensuring your organization's long-term success and sustainability.

‍