Salesforce Security Controls You Should Implement Today

To protect your data, maintain compliance, and ensure business continuity, here are the key Salesforce security controls every admin should implement now.

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is the first line of defense against unauthorised access. Salesforce now requires all users to enable MFA for internal and external users.

Why it matters:

  • Reduces the risk of credential theft
  • Protects sensitive customer and business data
  • Supports compliance standards like GDPR and ISO 27001

Implementation tip: Enforce MFA via Profiles and Permission Sets, and communicate to users before rolling out.

2. IP Restrictions & Login Hours

ControlPurposeBest Practice
Trusted IP RangesLimits login access to approved networksUse for internal users, offices, VPNs
Login HoursRestricts access to working hoursPrevents off-hours access by mistake or attack

These settings help prevent unauthorised access even if credentials are compromised.

3. Connected App Security

Many Salesforce integrations use OAuth tokens, which can be exploited if left unmonitored.

Checklist:

  • Audit all connected apps regularly
  • Remove unused apps
  • Rotate OAuth secrets periodically
  • Set app permissions to least privilege

4. Permission Sets & Role Hierarchies

A well-structured access model is essential. Avoid giving broad access unnecessarily.

Tips:

  • Apply least privilege principle
  • Review roles & profiles quarterly
  • Monitor for inactive users with high access

5. Event Monitoring & Audit Trails

Salesforce Event Monitoring captures login activity, API calls, and data access events.

Benefits:

  • Detect unusual login patterns
  • Identify potential internal risks
  • Support audits and compliance reporting

Quick tip: Use Shield or native audit logs to automate alerts for anomalies.

6. Data Encryption & Field-Level Security

Sensitive data should always be encrypted and restricted to authorised users.

Action points:

  • Enable Platform Encryption for sensitive fields
  • Configure Field-Level Security for confidential data
  • Review access to files, attachments, and reports

7. Regular Security Health Checks

Salesforce provides built-in Security Health Check to measure your org against best practices.

Pro tip: Schedule monthly reviews and address all critical/high risk points.

Putting it All Together

Implementing these controls doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A staged approach, starting with MFA, IP restrictions, and connected app audits, will drastically improve your security posture.

Need Help Securing Your Salesforce Org?


Cognition24’s Salesforce-certified experts provide fast, thorough security reviews to ensure your environment is fully protected and compliant.

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