Google Releases White Paper on Microsoft’s Security Lapses and Offers Discounts to US Government and Corporate Customers

Google has released a white paper that shines a light on Microsoft’s recent security shortcomings. The tech giant has scrutinized the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of the Windows creator, which have been made public, and has shared its findings with the US government. Google has also hinted to Microsoft’s government and business clients that transitioning to Google Workspace could be a safer option.

The white paper, as reported by Bloomberg, urges government agencies to consider switching to Google’s collaborative suite by offering discounts. Google aims to entice both corporate and government customers away from using Microsoft Office, which it deems as insecure.

In the document, Google stated, “The repeated security challenges with Microsoft called for a better alternative for enterprises and public-sector organisations alike. We believe Google Workspace presents a safer alternative, with a proven track record of engineering excellence, deep investment in cutting edge defences, and a transparent culture where providing security for customers is treated as a profound responsibility.”

To incentivize the transition, Google is providing discounts for government agencies that shift 500 or more users to Google Workspace Enterprise Plus for three years, with the first year being free. Additionally, corporate clients signing a three-year contract could receive 18 months of service at no charge. Following this period, customers may continue to benefit from discounts and incident response services, including assistance from Google’s Mandiant security business.

The recent report by the US Cyber Safety Review Board highlighted Microsoft’s failure to prevent China-linked hackers from accessing the email accounts of US officials in 2023. The report emphasized the urgent need for Microsoft to implement reforms to address its significant security challenges, marking its most substantial security hurdle in over two decades.