Shut the Front Door: Locking Down Default Accounts

Each month, we break down one control, policy, or requirement, from cybersecurity standards like CIS, NIST, or CMMC, and explain what it means, why it matters, and how your business can apply it in the real world.

What are Default Accounts?

Most operating systems, applications, and network devices come with default accounts — preconfigured usernames and passwords intended for initial setup, administration, or vendor support. Examples include:

  • admin on routers, firewalls, printers, and other devices

  • root on UNIX/Linux systems

  • Pre-provisioned application admin logins

  • Default guest or service accounts

Managing default accounts means disabling, deleting, or securely modifying them so they cannot be exploited by attackers. This typically involves:

  • Renaming default usernames (where supported)

  • Setting strong, unique passwords

  • Restricting or removing unnecessary privileges

  • Disabling or deleting unused accounts entirely

Where Is This Control Found?

You’ll find explicit requirements to manage default accounts across many security standards:

  • CIS Critical Security Controls v8.1

  • NIST SP 800-171

    • 3.5.8: Disable identifiers after a defined period of inactivity

    • 3.5.3: Control the use of identifiers for shared accounts

  • PCI DSS v4.0

    • Requirement 2.2.4 – Remove/disable unnecessary default accounts

    • Requirement 8.2.1 – Change default passwords before system is installed on the network

  • ISO/IEC 27002

    • 9.4.4 – Use of privileged utility programs (includes managing built-in accounts)

  • HIPAA Security Rule

    • §164.312(a)(2)(i) – Unique user identification (implies removing shared default accounts)

  • State Regulations

    • Massachusetts 201 CMR 17.00 – Requires unique IDs and secure authentication

Why Managing Default Accounts Matters for SMBs

Attackers love default accounts because they are predictable. Vendors ship them with known usernames and often widely published default passwords—many of which are freely available online.

If these accounts remain active:

  • Attackers don’t need to guess usernames — they’re already documented

  • Brute force attacks are faster since the target account is well-known

  • Privilege escalation becomes easier if the account has administrative rights

For SMBs, the risk is amplified by limited IT oversight. A single overlooked router or application with default credentials could become the doorway to your network.

How SMB Leaders Can Implement This Control

DIY Approach – For Smaller IT Environments

  1. Identify All Default Accounts

    • Review vendor setup guides for your hardware/software. (This is where having a good asset inventory is necessary. See our previous article on that subject.)

    • Search online for “[product name] default password” to see what attackers see

  2. Change Usernames & Passwords

    • Rename default accounts where possible

    • Use strong, unique passphrases (e.g., 15+ characters, random words, numbers, and symbols)

  3. Disable or Delete Unused Accounts

    • If a default account is not needed, disable or remove it entirely — first make sure you have at least one other account with admin privileges on the system

  4. Limit Privileges

    • Ensure default accounts cannot access more than absolutely necessary

  5. Document & Monitor

    • Keep a record of changes and review periodically to ensure no defaults reappear after updates or resets

When to Seek Expert Help

If you have:

  • Complex infrastructure (multiple sites, remote workers, or cloud platforms)

  • Compliance requirements that demand documented control evidence

  • Legacy systems that require vendor coordination to change defaults

…you should work with a managed service provider (MSP) or internal IT security specialist who can:

  • Run automated scans to detect default or weak credentials

  • Harden systems during onboarding and after firmware/software updates

  • Maintain audit-ready documentation of account changes

Final Thoughts

Leaving default accounts in place is like giving an attacker a spare key under the doormat — it’s the first thing they’ll check.

By taking a systematic approach to identifying, changing, and disabling these accounts, you can close one of the most preventable security gaps in your organization.

What do you want to do next?

I'm not happy with my current IT service provider. I'd like to investigate alternatives.

Clocktower Technology Services offers several levels of security-first, managed IT services designed to meet you where you are and get you where you need to be. Schedule a call to discuss your specific needs.

I don't want to change my IT service team, but I have specific security and compliance needs that I feel like they're not addressing.

You don't have to fire your IT team to get the benefits of Clocktower's deep expertise in SMB cybersecurity. Our unique approach to small-business governance risk and compliance (GRC) allows you to reduce risk and meet compliance requirements at your pace, without replacing your IT support staff. Schedule a call to learn more.