Extended Enterprise Browser Ransomware Lateral Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endpoint security solutions are inadequate in protecting against ransomware attacks, particularly in enterprise environments, as they fail to prevent lateral propagation and do not effectively manage browser-based credentials, leading to potential data loss and exfiltration.
Innovation Solution
An extended enterprise browser is installed on endpoint devices, which monitors for alternate browsers and takes actions to block ransomware spread by generating alerts, blocking access to sensitive applications, and using multiple client certificates based on ransomware risk levels to authenticate securely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional endpoint protection solutions are deployed, then endpoint devices are protected from ransomware attacks, but lateral propagation of ransomware to SaaS and private enterprise applications cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments protection by introducing a browser extension that operates independently within the web browser environment, separate from conventional endpoint protection agents. This extension specifically monitors and controls browser-based authentication processes to SaaS and private enterprise applications, creating a specialized protection layer that addresses lateral propagation without requiring changes to the entire endpoint security architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The browser extension acts as an intermediary between the endpoint device and SaaS/private enterprise applications. It intercepts and monitors authentication credentials in the browser, controlling the flow of information between the compromised endpoint and external applications, thereby preventing lateral propagation while maintaining normal application functionality.
2Measurement precision
If endpoint protection agents are deployed on each endpoint device, then ransomware detection capability is improved, but deployment and management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The browser extension leverages the existing browser infrastructure and authentication mechanisms to provide protection. Instead of requiring a separate agent with full system access, the extension uses the browser's built-in credential management and authentication flows, allowing it to function with minimal system resources and simpler deployment through standard browser extension installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The browser extension provides multiple security functions within a single component: monitoring authentication credentials, detecting ransomware attempts, blocking lateral propagation, and generating alerts. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate tools into one unified solution that operates within the existing browser environment.
3Loss of information
If endpoint protection agents are used, then threat posture reporting is enabled, but direct protection against data loss and exfiltration through browser credentials is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The browser extension performs preliminary monitoring and validation of authentication credentials before they are used to access SaaS and private enterprise applications. By intercepting and verifying credentials in advance, it prevents ransomware from exploiting them for lateral propagation and data exfiltration, providing proactive protection rather than reactive detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension continuously monitors browser authentication processes and provides real-time feedback on credential usage. When ransomware or unauthorized processes attempt to use browser credentials, the extension detects these attempts and immediately responds by blocking the authentication, creating a closed-loop protection system that adapts to threats as they emerge.
Data Source
AI summary
An extended enterprise browser installed on an endpoint device provides protection from ransomware attacks to SaaS and private enterprise applications. The extended enterprise browser monitors for alternate browser installed on the endpoint device. The extended enterprise browser may take one or more actions to block the spread of ransomware by the alternate browser.