Question 185 - Professional Google Workspace Administrator discussion

Understanding the Requirement:

The scenario involves a group of users who handle sensitive information and have valuable files in their accounts.

The goal is to protect these users from targeted online attacks.

Options Analysis:

Option A: Enable 2-Step Verification for those users and recommend they use Google Authenticator

2-Step Verification (2SV) enhances security by adding an extra layer of authentication. Google Authenticator is a reliable method, but it may not be sufficient against highly targeted attacks.

Option B: Enable 2-Step Verification for those users and recommend they use SMS codes

While SMS codes are a form of 2SV, they are considered less secure than other methods due to potential vulnerabilities like SIM swapping.

Option C: Disable password recovery for end users

Disabling password recovery can prevent unauthorized access through recovery options but does not provide active protection against targeted attacks.

Option D: Enroll all accounts for those users in the Advanced Protection Program

The Advanced Protection Program (APP) is designed specifically to protect users at high risk of targeted attacks. It includes strong measures such as requiring a physical security key for login, blocking unauthorized access attempts, and restricting access to sensitive data.

Recommended Solution:

Enrolling users in the Advanced Protection Program (APP):

Step 1: Identify High-Risk Users:

Identify users who handle sensitive information and have valuable files.

Step 2: Enroll in APP:

Go to the Google Admin console.

Navigate to the Security section and find the Advanced Protection Program.

Enroll the identified high-risk users in APP.

Step 3: Implement Security Keys:

Ensure users have security keys (e.g., Titan Security Keys) for login.

Guide users through the process of setting up and using security keys.

Step 4: User Education:

Educate users on the importance of APP and how it protects their accounts.

Provide training on recognizing phishing attempts and other security best practices.

Benefits of APP:

Enhanced Security:

APP provides the highest level of security for Google accounts, requiring security keys for authentication.

Protection Against Phishing:

Security keys are highly resistant to phishing attacks, which are common in targeted online attacks.

Limited Access:

APP restricts access to sensitive data, ensuring that only trusted apps and services can interact with the protected accounts.

Google Workspace Admin Help: Advanced Protection Program

Google Workspace Security: Advanced Protection Program

Google Security Blog: Advanced Protection Program