In today’s digital workplace, SharePoint security is more important than ever. As organisations increasingly rely on SharePoint Online for document management and collaboration, ensuring your sensitive data remains protected is critical. Following best practices can help safeguard your information, maintain compliance, and reduce the risk of data breaches. In this article we cover some areas that you should be looking at when keeping your data safe and secure.
SharePoint security best practices
Implement Role-Based Access Control
One of the most effective ways to secure SharePoint is through role-based access control (RBAC). Assign permissions based on job roles rather than individuals. This approach ensures that users only have access to the documents and sites they need, reducing the risk of accidental or intentional data leaks.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity using more than just a password. With MFA enabled, even if credentials are compromised, unauthorised access to SharePoint is far less likely.
Regularly Review Permissions
We all know how it is, over time, employees change roles, and projects end. Conducting regular audits of SharePoint permissions ensures that access levels remain appropriate. Remove inactive accounts and verify that sensitive documents are only accessible to those who truly need them.
Use Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Policies
SharePoint offers built-in Data Loss Prevention policies that help prevent the accidental sharing of sensitive information, such as financial records or personal data. Configure DLP rules to automatically detect and restrict access or sharing of confidential content.
Monitor and Audit Activity
SharePoint’s audit logs allow administrators to monitor user activity, including document access and sharing. Regularly reviewing these logs can help identify unusual behaviour early and address potential security risks before they escalate.
Educate Your Team
Technology alone cannot guarantee security. Regular training and awareness programs ensure that employees understand best practices for handling sensitive information and recognise phishing or social engineering attempts.
By implementing these SharePoint security best practices, organisations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches while maintaining a collaborative, productive environment. SharePoint is a powerful platform, but its effectiveness depends on how well it is secured. If you’re looking for help with your SharePoint environment, you can download our SharePoint guide for more information or contact our team who can help.
