If you’re relying on outdated authentication methods, you’re leaving the door wide open for attackers. In the latest Senteon webinar with cybersecurity veteran Bob Miller, the focus turned to one of the most overlooked yet critical areas of browser security: authentication settings.
Bob explained that basic HTTP authentication is like locking your front door but leaving the key under the doormat. It’s convenient but risky. Attackers can easily intercept credentials when they’re transmitted without encryption, especially on public or unsecured networks. “By disabling basic HTTP and enforcing HTTPS, you’re effectively raising the bar for anyone trying to breach your system,” Bob emphasized.
The key takeaway from the session? Switch to HTTPS for all authentication processes. The days of allowing unsecured logins should be long behind us. With CIS Benchmarks guiding the way, businesses can configure their browsers to ensure that only encrypted, secure connections are used—protecting user credentials from being exposed.
Disable Cross-Origin Authentication: One More Barrier to Attack
Building on the need for secure authentication, Bob also discussed cross-origin HTTP authentication prompts. This setting, when enabled, can expose businesses to phishing attacks, where malicious websites prompt users to enter credentials in unsafe environments. Bob highlighted how disabling this feature is a straightforward way to prevent unauthorized access and credential theft.
“When cross-origin authentication is disabled, you’re closing off a popular avenue for attackers who rely on tricking users into handing over their login details,” Bob said. This, along with enforcing HTTPS, puts up multiple barriers that make it harder for attackers to succeed.
By ensuring that Microsoft Edge is configured to disable cross-origin authentication, businesses can further reduce their vulnerability to phishing and other credential-based attacks.
Secure Your Browser, Protect Your Network
In addition to strong authentication settings, Bob also touched on a broader concept of browser hardening. One of the most important pieces of advice was simple: don’t assume default browser settings are enough. Edge, like many browsers, prioritizes ease of use and convenience over security, but this can leave organizations exposed.
CIS Benchmarks offer a clear roadmap for securing Microsoft Edge, but it’s up to businesses to implement them. From disabling automatic downloads to enforcing strict authentication, these settings are the front line of defense for protecting sensitive data and reducing vulnerabilities.
Bob stressed the importance of proactive threat mitigation through browser hardening, saying, “It’s not about waiting for something bad to happen—it’s about making sure your systems are secure enough that attackers won’t even try.”
For more insights and strategies on browser security, watch the full episode here, or register for upcoming episodes here.
Ready to evaluate your own browser’s security? Get a free internal and external report from Senteon. Sign up with the comment “settings webinar” here.
