NEW YORK, Nov. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Unfortunately, there's too much confusion today surrounding cybersecurity on Microsoft 365 which is a huge problem for FINRA firms needing to meet rule 17a-4.

Especially for small firms without in-house tech support helping them get on point with todays threats. But its critical they get it right or they leave themselves open -- often facing the risk of compromising their reputation -- or worse, huge fines for negligence.

But since the cloud isn't 17a-4 compliant out-of- the-box (surely NOT by FINRA standards), AdvisorVault has created a four-step approach designed just for small FINRA firms ensuring FINRA level cybersecurity on Microsoft 365. With this, firms get a clear path to 17a-4 compliance on the Microsoft Cloud ensuring its secured & monitored keeping FINRA happy.

AdvisorVault's four step approach to FINRA cybersecurity on the Microsoft Cloud:

Step One

Install "In-line" email filtering protecting email communications on Microsoft 365 with these features:

Advanced AI based email filteringSecuring internal, external & outgoing messages before reaching user's inboxProtection against anti-phishing, malware, ransomware with file & attachment scanningWith real-time click prevention for URLs with URL rewriting and data loss prevention & encryptionStep Two

Install plug-in to secure & monitor the Microsoft tenant with:

Proactive monitoring & security with best practice cloud security configurationDetection of logon from unknown locations or devices; identify unauthorized applications installed by employeesAudit tracking of changes in security configurations; blocking suspicious sign-ins on; instantly disable compromised accountsStep Three

Realtime endpoint security anti-virus software:

For desktops, laptops, physical & virtual servers, macOS, iOS, iPhones & android devicesIncluding local application scanning of web traffic, blocking known and unknown malicious websites, files, scripts; phishing attempts, antivirus, anti malware detectionRansomware scanning mitigating abnormal encryption attempts; blocking the process & restoring files from backup copies to their original location if compromisedStep Four

Implement employee Security Awareness Training including:

Automated testing with training, teaching firms' employees about cyber attacks,Simulated phishing scenarios helping employees understand todays risks; enforce cybersecurity within the firm; helping learn to better protect themselves in the futureTraining videos to recognize signs of future attacks helping employees to identify and prevent phishing attacksAutomated progress reports; reminders to personnel on their progress; reports including when employees click & reports phishing; tutorials helping them learn and better protect themselves in the futureAllan Lonz, President

[email protected]

Toll free: 1-866-732-1407

www.advisorvault.com

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SOURCE AdvisorVault