Source URL: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/09/24/retail-at-risk-how-one-alert-uncovered-a-persistent-cyberthreat/
Source: Microsoft Security Blog
Title: Retail at risk: How one alert uncovered a persistent cyberthreat
Feedly Summary: In the latest edition of our Cyberattack Series, we dive into real-world cases targeting retail organizations. With 60% of retail companies reporting operational disruptions from cyberattacks and 43% experiencing breaches in the past year, the stakes have never been higher. This post unpacks where a single alert led to the discovery of a major persistent threat, how attackers exploited unpatched SharePoint vulnerabilities and compromised identities to infiltrate networks—and how the Microsoft Incident Response—the Detection and Response Team (DART) swiftly stepped in with forensic insights and actionable guidance. Download the full report to learn more about how one small signal exposed a much larger danger, and how you can strengthen your defenses against similar threats.
The post Retail at risk: How one alert uncovered a persistent cyberthreat appeared first on Microsoft Security Blog.
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses a significant cybersecurity incident affecting retail organizations, highlighting the vulnerabilities exploited by cyberattackers and the swift response from Microsoft’s Detection and Response Team (DART). It emphasizes the importance of proactive security measures, identity management, and incident response strategies to combat modern cyber threats.
Detailed Description:
– The Cyberattack Series report reveals that a substantial percentage of retail companies have experienced operational disruptions due to cyberattacks, pointing to a growing trend of security compromises in the industry.
– Examination of two reactive cases where:
– **Reactive 1**: An alert from Microsoft Defender identified a possible web shell installation on a SharePoint server, linked to specific vulnerabilities (CVE-2025-49706 and CVE-2025-49704) that allowed identity spoofing and remote code injection.
– **Reactive 2**: A compromised identity led cyberattackers to exploit self-service password resets, allowing them to map the organization’s identity structure and escalate access using various tools and protocols.
– The DART’s intervention was crucial in mitigating the threats, including:
– **Reclaiming Identity Systems**: DART took actions like Active Directory takeback and Entra ID isolation to regain control.
– **Removing Malicious Entry Points**: Rapid identification and removal of web shells within hours.
– **Analytical Support**: Providing guidance for security configuration improvements aligned with Zero Trust principles, proactive patching recommendations, and encouraging the adoption of multifactor authentication (MFA).
Key Recommendations for Enhancing Cybersecurity:
– Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) across all devices.
– Conduct routine vulnerability scans and enhance identity and access controls.
– Maintain centralized logging and integrate threat intelligence capabilities.
– Regularly engage in security hygiene practices, such as promptly patching known vulnerabilities, enforcing MFA, and applying least privilege access principles.
The text emphasizes the necessity for real-time detection and response capabilities, underscoring the rapid pace at which cyberattacks occur. It serves as a guideline for organizations—especially within the retail sector—to strengthen their defenses against the evolving threat landscape.
Overall, the incidents discussed are not only pertinent for retail businesses but carry crucial insights for security professionals across various sectors, focusing on identity management, quick incident response, and the importance of continuous monitoring and patching.