Microsoft attack simulation is a process designed to test an organization’s security posture against both known and emerging threats in a safe and controlled environment. It involves mimicking the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by real-life adversaries to understand how they might attack a a business’s digital infrastructure, identify potential vulnerabilities, and assess the effectiveness of the organization’s current defenses against such an attack.

What are the License requirements for Microsoft Attack Simulator?

The Microsoft Attack Simulator requires either a Defender for Office P2 license or a Microsoft 365 E5 license.

How Do Microsoft Attack Simulation Works?

The process of Microsoft attack simulation typically involves several steps:

  • 1

    Threat Profiling: Identifying which threat actors target your business

  • 2

    Defining the Scope: Determining the boundaries and objectives of the simulation.

  • 3

    Planning the Attack: Developing a detailed plan for the simulation.

  • 4

    Executing the Simulation: Carrying out the simulated attack.

  • 5

    Results and Reporting: Analyzing the outcomes and generating reports.

Types of Simulations in Microsoft Attack Simulation

Microsoft attack simulations can include various types of scenarios, such as:

  • 1

    Credential Harvesting: Attempts to collect credentials by directing users to a well-designed-looking website with input boxes to enter a username and password.

  • 2

    Malware Attachment: Adds a malicious attachment to a message. When the user opens the attachment, arbitrary code is run that helps the attacker compromise the target’s device.

  • 3

    Drive-by URLs: Users are directed to a website that automatically downloads malware onto their device without their knowledge.

  • 4

    Phishing Links: Users receive an email with a link that, when clicked, takes them to a fake login page designed to steal their credentials.

  • 5

    Ransomware Simulation: Simulates a ransomware attack where users are tricked into downloading and executing a file that encrypts their data and demands a ransom.

Types of Training

Training is assigned to users based on specific simulation scenarios. For example, training may include modules such as “Introduction to Information Security” and “How to Report Suspicious Messages.” Training can be assigned manually or through automation, and it often includes custom notifications.

Types of Reports

Simulation reports provide insights into the effectiveness of the simulations and training. Reports can include details such as:

  • Simulation Coverage: The extent to which the simulation covered the target users.

  • Training Completion: The percentage of users who completed the assigned training.

  • Repeat Offenders: Users who repeatedly fall for simulated attacks.

  • Behavior Impact: The effect of training on reducing the compromise rate.

Attack Simulator Dashboard Reports:

Overview examples:

Simulations examples:

Types of reports examples:

Training Completion Examples:

User Coverage examples (users who have participated in the simulations)

Training Efficacy Examples

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MATT HIBBERT

Matt is Mobile Mentor’s Lead System Administrator for our US team. He leads a team of endpoint specialists and system administrators to provide the best modern IT solutions and support for our client’s needs. He brings experience with over 6 years of Managed Services knowledge and has supported a variety of different clients involving healthcare, construction, law, financial, tax firms and more. Matt graduated from Towson University with a bachelor’s in information technology.