Blocking Remote Access Tools with Sophos Application Control

Remote access tools are essential for many IT functions, but they can also be exploited by cybercriminals as stealthy entry points into your network. At Louisville Geek, we recently launched an initiative to harden client environments by blocking remote access tools that aren’t in use, using Sophos Endpoint’s Application Control feature.

Tools like Atera, SimpleHelp, and AnyDesk are often used by threat actors during ransomware campaigns to move laterally, maintain persistence, and avoid detection. This project is part of our commitment to building a smarter, more resilient cybersecurity ecosystem for our clients.

Why Remote Management Tools Are a Security Concern

Threat actors commonly leverage legitimate Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools to mimic IT administrators and take control of compromised systems. These tools are widely available and difficult to detect in use, making them ideal for attackers who want to blend in with legitimate IT activity.

In response, we reviewed all Sophos-deployed environments with licensing that supports Application Control and took action to disable the use of unauthorized RMM software.

How Louisville Geek Implemented the Change

We started by auditing each client’s environment to determine which remote access tools were actually in use for business purposes. If none were present, we created and applied a policy to block the use of tools like Atera, SimpleHelp, TeamViewer, and AnyDesk.

If a client needed access to a remote tool for a specific vendor, we created device-specific exclusions that automatically expire after a set period. Permanent exclusions were only applied after validation of a long-term business need.

To learn more about our layered defense strategies, visit our Network Security page and see how we protect your systems at every level.

Benefits of Application Control in Sophos Endpoint

Sophos Endpoint’s Application Control is a powerful but often underutilized feature. By deploying it strategically, we can:

• Reduce the attack surface area
• Prevent lateral movement during an attack
• Limit attacker persistence
• Enhance visibility and control over third-party tools

This initiative also ensures that your endpoint security investment is working at full potential.

Smarter Security, Backed by Strategy

At Louisville Geek, security isn’t just about reacting to alerts. It involves making informed, strategic decisions to prevent threats from escalating. By disabling unused and risky RMM tools, we are proactively reducing our clients’ exposure to ransomware and advanced threats.

Ready to Strengthen Your Network Security?

The difference between compromise and containment often comes down to proper configuration and ongoing oversight. At Louisville Geek, we act as an extension of your team, ensuring your tools are not only deployed but strategically tuned to defend against common threats.

If you’re unsure whether unused RMM tools are creating vulnerabilities in your environment, now is the time to take action. Let our experts audit your configuration, identify exposure points, and deploy Sophos Application Control to proactively secure your network.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help build a more resilient cybersecurity ecosystem for your business.