# Remote Desktop Protocol: A Growing Security Concern
## Introduction
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) was developed by Microsoft to allow users, administrators, and others to connect to remote computers over a network connection using a graphical user interface. It is a widely used tool that comes standard on Microsoft Windows, making it convenient for users to access remote machines.
## Rising Abuse of RDP
Unfortunately, RDP is being increasingly abused by ransomware groups, as highlighted in the Active Adversary Reports. Statistics show that RDP abuse has surpassed the 90 percent mark in incident-response cases, indicating a concerning trend in cybersecurity threats.
## Concerns from Attackers
From an attacker’s perspective, targeting RDP is appealing due to its integration with common user and administrative behavior. Attackers find RDP easy to use for file browsing, application installation, and exfiltration. Additionally, misconfigurations and misuse of RDP within environments make it a prime target for exploitation.
## Resources for Handling RDP
To address the growing security risks associated with RDP, resources including videos, articles, and scripts have been made available to administrators and responders. These tools aim to provide insights and guidance on managing RDP vulnerabilities and enhancing network security.
## Key Points
– RDP abuse is on the rise, with a significant impact on cybersecurity incidents.
– Attackers exploit RDP’s ease of use and common misconfigurations to gain unauthorized access.
– Resources are available to help organizations mitigate RDP vulnerabilities and improve network security.
## Summary
As the abuse of Remote Desktop Protocol continues to escalate, organizations must prioritize securing their RDP connections to prevent unauthorized access and potential data breaches. By leveraging available resources and implementing best practices, administrators and responders can strengthen their defense mechanisms against RDP-related threats. Stay informed and proactive in addressing RDP vulnerabilities to safeguard network integrity and data security.