Active Directory (AD), Microsoft’s widely used directory service for Windows domain networks, has become a common target in cyber intrusions due to its complex structure and permissive default settings.

The Five Eyes cybersecurity agencies recently highlighted AD's vulnerability, citing legacy protocols, intricate permissions, and limited security diagnostic tools. Compromising AD can give attackers—from cybercriminals to nation-state actors—the access they need for espionage or financial gain. Services provided by AD, such as Domain Services (AD DS) for authentication and Certificate Services (AD CS) for secure communication, are frequently exploited by attackers using techniques like kerberoasting and password spraying.

Securing AD requires a thorough understanding of its objects, permissions, and relationships. Cyber attackers use AD to escalate privileges, move laterally, and maintain persistence, often blending malicious activity with normal operations. The cybersecurity agencies recommend implementing security controls, monitoring logged events, and deploying canary objects to detect threats. In severe cases, recovery may involve resetting all user passwords or rebuilding AD entirely. Organizations are urged to follow these guidelines to mitigate the risks and disruptions associated with AD compromises.

For additional guidance check out our on-demand webinar: Fortifying On-Premises Identity Systems: Active Directory Threat Prevention, Detection and Response