All You Need to Know About Remote Desktop Connection Security Risks

What is Remote Desktop Connection?

Remote Desktop Connection (RDC), also recognized as Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), is a technology that grants the capability to control a computer from a distant location, emulating physical presence. It's commonly utilized over networks or the internet and is integrated into most Windows operating systems. Additionally, Mac systems can also employ RDP. Numerous enterprises rely on RDP to facilitate remote work for their staff.

What are the main Remote Desktop Connection security risks?

Imagine software as a puzzle, and vulnerabilities as missing pieces. These gaps let sneaky hackers in to mess with your stuff. Microsoft says lots of devices are vulnerable to these RDC risks. The following are the main three types of Remote Desktop Connection security risks.

The fragile bastion: Weak user sign-in credentials

Picture this: you lock your front door with a password. Computers do that too. But some folks choose "123456" as their digital key. Guess what? Hackers love that. They sneak into your network, steal your secrets, and break your stuff. It's like leaving your door unlocked.

The open gateway: Unrestricted port access

Think of ports as doors in a building. RDC hangs out at door 3389. Hackers know that and try to sneak in. It's like a secret club where the bouncer is taking a nap.

Fixing holes: Patched problems

Imagine you find a hole in your wall. You patch it, but sometimes there's still a draft. That's RDC. There are patched holes, but some may still let in the breeze. "BlueKeep" is one such hole. Hackers use it to do bad things to your computer. Microsoft patched it, but you need to let the fix in.

6 possible ways to reduce Remote Desktop Connection security risk

Here are six potential approaches that could help you remove Remote Desktop Connection security risks and make Remote Desktop Connection more secure. These suggestions may overlap, and enhancing security in one area could positively impact other aspects as well.

Way 1. Enable and enforce strong RDP configuration

To thwart potential security risks stemming from loose RDP configurations, it's essential to bolster and enforce stringent RDP settings. Here are measures you can take to avert the exploitation of RDP vulnerabilities by cyber attackers:

• Enhance sign-in credentials: Address the use of weak credentials by implementing complex passwords that are difficult to breach.
• Enforce account lockouts: Adopt policies that trigger account lockouts after a set number of login attempts, per user. Ensure to log both unsuccessful and successful login attempts, aiding in the identification of any anomalous behavior.
• Implement Network Level Authentication (NLA): Incorporating NLA can significantly reduce the initial server resource demands and provide defense against cyberattacks. This is a great way to avoid a Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack.

By adhering to these practices, you can establish a more robust RDP configuration, thereby thwarting unauthorized access and enhancing your system's overall security posture.

Way 2. Use unique account names

Consider using distinctive account names that avoid revealing personal or organizational details. Common formats like "firstname.lastname" can make it easier for cybercriminals to guess usernames, emails, and passwords. Choosing less predictable naming conventions improves security.

Way 3. Implement Single Sign-On (SSO)

Consider incorporating Single Sign-On (SSO) as an effective security measure. SSO simplifies user logins across various applications. This authentication method enables users to access multiple independent software systems using a single set of credentials.

By adopting SSO, your organization can enhance password security enforcement and implement advanced safeguards such as multi-factor authentication. Furthermore, you can even integrate RDP remote access within the SSO framework to mitigate the user login vulnerability highlighted earlier. This streamlines access control and fortifies overall security measures.

Way 4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

To enhance security, consider enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This method mandates users to provide a security token, like a code from a notification or biometric verification, during login. By demanding multiple layers of verification, unauthorized access to computing devices becomes substantially harder for attackers to achieve. The more hurdles they encounter, the lower the likelihood of successful unauthorized access.

Way 5. Configure firewall restrictions

Configure your corporate firewall to limit access effectively. Block traffic to port 3389 unless it originates from predefined allow listed IP address ranges or your employees' devices.

However, this method demands extensive manual configuration and remains susceptible to attacks if hackers gain control over an allowed listed IP address or compromise employee devices. Additionally, the process of identifying and pre-allowing employee devices can be challenging, leading to frequent IT requests from affected employees and potential productivity disruptions.

Way 6. Employ an RDP gateway

Consider utilizing an RDP gateway for enhanced security. Modern Windows Server editions offer an RDP gateway server, which features an external interface connected to multiple internal RDP endpoints. Microsoft provides comprehensive guidance on configuring this gateway server.

Adopting an RDP gateway streamlines the management of RDP security vulnerabilities. It encompasses various aspects like logging, TLS certificates, secure authentication to end devices without direct internet exposure, authorization for internal host access, user relationships, and more. This approach centralizes and fortifies RDP management with heightened security measures.

Bonus tip: Turn to a highly secure alternative to RDP

Given the growing emphasis threat actors place on exploiting Windows RDP as a primary attack vector, numerous organizations are shifting away from RDP and embracing more robust remote access solutions. Enter AnyViewer, an exceptionally secure alternative to RDP.

AnyViewer stands out as a free, yet highly secure remote desktop software for Windows users. It addresses a range of security concerns, bolstering user protection against potential risks:

Let's explore how to leverage AnyViewer to establish secure connections with unattended remote computers:

Step 1. Deploy AnyViewer on your chosen devices.

Step 2. Establish your foundational setup by registering or logging in.

Step 3. Successfully logged in. Now you can start to establish robust connections.

Step 4. Locate the target remote computer listed under "Devices".

Step 5. Seamlessly initiate connections through the "One-click control" feature.

★Tips:

It is recommended to upgrade to AnyViewer's professional or enterprise plan for:

Better device control: Manage unattended access devices better.

More remote sessions: Handle multiple remote sessions at once.

Send files easily: Move files without a hitch.

Privacy mode: Keep things private and safe.

... (and more)

The bottom line

In summary, comprehending the Remote Desktop Connection security risks is vital. Weak credentials, open ports, and lingering vulnerabilities pose threats. Counter these with strong RDP configurations, unique account names, Single Sign-On (SSO), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), firewall restrictions, and RDP gateways.

Consider the secure alternative, AnyViewer, which offers end-to-end encryption, Two-Factor Authentication, and a locked interface. By following these measures and exploring secure options, you can establish a safer remote connection environment, ensuring protection against unauthorized access and data breaches.