Microsoft Pushes Security as 'Core Priority' Among Employees

Microsoft announced that security efforts are now tied to employee performance reviews as the company pushed it as a "core priority."

The tech giant revealed its intentions to put security at the top of its priority starting in 2024 after years of scrutiny of its security issues and criticisms.

Microsoft Implements Top Security Policies on Employees

In an internal memo obtained by The Verge, Microsoft emphasized that security will be its main objective above all else. Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer stated that everyone will adhere to it as a "core priority."

The company also stated that a lack of security focus could impact promotions, bonuses, and performance-based salary increases for employees.

"Delivering impact for the Security Core Priority will be a key input for managers in determining impact and recommending rewards," the memo read. The entire document contains an internal FAQ about the new policy to ensure cooperation among employees.

Microsoft Puts Security, Diversity, Inclusion as Performance Factors

Previously, the tech giant revealed its focus on diversity and inclusion as part of its performance conversations. The new policy will put security on top of these topics and will be part of the "Connect" priorities.

"It goes beyond compliance, as we are asking employees to prioritize security in all the work that they do and hold themselves accountable by capturing their impact for it whenever they complete a Connect," the memo added.

Employees will be required to demonstrate security changes. This includes prioritizing security in product design, complying with security practices, and more. Executives must also follow the new policy on future decisions and deliverables.

Microsoft has started to implement security changes on some of its internal applications. Several apps like Outlook, will be transitioned to the Modern Authentication process starting September 16.