Corporate networks increasingly rely on VPN connections to securely access critical information systems for employees, partners, and administrators. However, recent disclosures of zero-day vulnerabilities in ’s Check Point Remote Access VPN and Mobile Access deployments are a reminder that remote access remains one of the most common targets for cybercriminals.
A successful VPN breach can give attackers access to corporate data, applications, servers, and services located behind an organization’s firewalls. For this reason, protecting remote access infrastructure should be a top priority for every business.
Avoid using outdated protocols
One of the most common mistakes still seen in corporate environments is the use of older VPN protocols for compatibility reasons with old devices or applications. Something similar happened with Check Point, with the problem exclusively affecting installations that still use the outdated IKEv1 (Internet Key Exchange Version 1) key exchange protocol to create VPN connections.
Learn more about: Check Point: Critical VPN zero-day used by Qilin ransomware
Protocols like IKEv1 are now considered outdated and have significant drawbacks compared to newer versions. Organizations should gradually migrate to more modern technologies like IKEv2 or other solutions that are actively supported by manufacturers.
Maintaining outdated security mechanisms significantly increases the attack surface and makes it easier for attackers to identify weaknesses that they can exploit.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Using just a username and password is no longer considered sufficient protection. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification factor, such as an authenticator app, biometrics, or a one-time password.
Even if a user's credentials are stolen through phishing or a data leak, accessing the VPN remains extremely difficult without the second factor of authentication.
Implement strict device controls
Access to corporate networks should not only be based on the user's identity but also on the reliability of the device being used.
Using Certificates allows businesses to verify that a login is being made from an authorized corporate computer or mobile device, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if an account is compromised.
See also: European security authorities ban First VPN
Always keep systems up to date
Most attacks exploit known vulnerabilities for which patches are already available. Regularly installing security updates on VPN gateways, firewalls, servers, and remote access software is one of the most effective protection practices.
Organizations should implement processes for rapid assessment and installation of critical patches, particularly when it comes to vulnerabilities that are already being exploited in real attacks.
Constantly monitor logs
Early detection of suspicious activity can prevent a serious breach before it develops. Administrators should systematically monitor VPN logs for unusual connections, repeated failed login attempts, connections from unknown geographic locations, or suspicious changes to security settings.
Leveraging SIEM tools and automated threat detection systems can significantly speed up the identification of potential attacks.
Restrict access rights
Not all employees need access to all company systems.
Applying the principle of least privilege ensures that each user only has the rights absolutely necessary to perform their tasks.
In the event of an account breach, the attacker will have limited ability to move within the network and less access to critical data.
Educate users about phishing
Technical attacks are often combined with social engineering. Phishing emails remain one of the primary methods of obtaining VPN credentials.
See also: Proton VPN's promises of post-quantum security
Continuous employee training, conducting test phishing campaigns, and keeping employees informed about new deception techniques can significantly reduce the risk of a successful attack.
Prevention is the best defense
As cybercriminals increasingly target remote access infrastructures, VPN security cannot be taken for granted. The use of modern protocols, multi-factor authentication, regular updates, and ongoing monitoring are key elements of an effective defense strategy.
In an environment where even a single vulnerability can lead to a ransomware attack or massive data breach, organizations that proactively invest in the security of their VPN infrastructure gain a significant advantage against modern cyberthreats.
