Why User Application Hardening Is a Must-Have in Your Essential Eight Strategy
When you think of cybersecurity, firewalls, antivirus software and multi-factor authentication might be the first things that come to mind. But often overlooked is User Application Hardening — a simple but powerful strategy that plays a critical role in protecting your systems. If you’re following the Essential Eight framework, this one’s not to be missed.
What Is User Application Hardening?
Think of your computer like your home. You might have a strong front door (your firewall) and a good alarm system (your antivirus), but if you leave the windows wide open (your applications), you’re still at risk. User Application Hardening is about locking those windows.
It involves disabling or restricting features in common applications like web browsers, PDF readers and office software that are often exploited by attackers. Things like Flash, Java, ads, and macros can be used as a backdoor by cybercriminals.
Why It Matters for Australian Businesses
In our work with small and medium-sized businesses across Australia, we’ve seen how a single malicious ad or dodgy PDF can lead to ransomware attacks or data breaches. And with cyber insurance providers increasingly expecting compliance with the Essential Eight measures, hardening your applications isn’t just smart — it’s necessary.
Real-World Example: A Missed Opportunity
One of our clients, a legal firm in Brisbane, had most of the Essential Eight controls in place. But they hadn’t configured application hardening. A staff member clicked on a pop-up ad while researching a case, and the browser loaded a malicious script in the background. It eventually led to unauthorised network access.
Had browser hardening been applied, that ad would’ve never loaded. After the incident, they worked with us to implement strict controls on all applications — and they haven’t had an issue since.
How User Application Hardening Fits into the Essential Eight
The Essential Eight from the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) is all about reducing risk from common threats. User Application Hardening is one of the eight strategies, and it complements others like Application Control and Regular Backups.
Here’s how it adds value:
- Reduces attack surface: By disabling unnecessary features, you’re giving hackers fewer ways to get in.
- Stops malicious code early: Many attacks rely on scripts or embedded content to run. Hardening blocks them before they start.
- Supports compliance: If you’re in a regulated industry or want to meet cyber insurance requirements, it’s a key checkbox.
What Should You Harden?
Start with the most used and most targeted applications in your organisation. Typically, that includes:
- Web browsers: Block Flash, Java, and untrusted content.
- PDF Readers: Disable JavaScript and auto-launching of embedded files.
- Office applications: Restrict or disable macros unless digitally signed.
If you’re not sure where to begin, our team at Gray Area Consulting can help you conduct a cybersecurity risk assessment to pinpoint vulnerabilities and prioritise actions.
Tips for Getting Started
- Audit your applications: Know which apps your staff use and the risks associated with them.
- Use Group Policy or endpoint management tools: Tools like Microsoft Intune make it easier to apply consistent hardening settings across all devices.
- Educate your team: Let employees know why certain features are disabled and how it protects the business.
It’s Not Just About Tech
Cybersecurity is a team sport. Even the most secure settings won’t help much if your staff aren’t aware. That’s why we always recommend pairing technical controls with employee training. When people understand the ‘why’, they’re more likely to embrace the ‘how’.
Need a Hand?
If you’re unsure whether your User Application Hardening is up to scratch, or you want help implementing the full Essential Eight, we’re happy to help. Get in touch with our team at Gray Area Consulting today. We’ll help you lock the windows and keep your digital home safe.
