Learn how recent Microsoft SharePoint cyberattacks are putting HR data at risk and the steps you can take to stay secure and compliant.
In July and August 2025, a coordinated wave of cyberattacks targeting Microsoft SharePoint vulnerabilities impacted hundreds of organizations worldwide. Security researchers linked the activity to a hacking campaign known as ToolShell, which compromised an estimated 300 to 400 victims, including U.S. federal agencies such as the Department of Energy, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services (Cybersecurity Dive report on the SharePoint hacking campaign, CyberScoop coverage of Microsoft SharePoint attacks affecting U.S. agencies).
The exploited vulnerabilities (CVE-2025-49704 and CVE-2025-49706) allowed attackers to bypass authentication and access the full contents of SharePoint servers. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has also warned about additional bypass vulnerabilities (CVE-2025-53770 and CVE-2025-53771 identified in CISA guidance) that emerged during remediation efforts.
Once inside, some attackers deployed a ransomware strain known as 4L4MD4R, identified by Palo Alto Networks, which disabled Microsoft Defender, bypassed certificate validation, and encrypted files before demanding cryptocurrency payments (Cybersecurity Dive analysis of the Palo Alto Networks ransomware findings).
Why SharePoint Cyberattacks Put HR Data at Risk
For HR teams, the threat is not abstract. SharePoint is often used to store or share sensitive employee records such as payroll data, medical information, and compliance documentation. A single breach can result in costly downtime, regulatory fines, reputational harm, and the loss of employee trust.
If your HR department relies on on-premise systems or legacy SharePoint deployments, you face a higher risk profile. Even with patches, on-prem environments demand ongoing maintenance, specialized security oversight, and rapid vulnerability management to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Why HR Teams Need More Than Generic HR Compliance Software
Generic HR compliance software may help track specific requirements, still it often lacks the specialized security, automation, and lifecycle controls HR departments need to protect sensitive data against evolving cyber threats.
DynaFile combines compliance tools with secure cloud-based document management, making it easier to meet complex standards while streamlining day-to-day file handling.
How to Protect HR Files from SharePoint Attacks with DynaFile
DynaFile eliminates the vulnerabilities associated with on-premise file servers by providing secure, cloud-based document management built specifically for HR and administrative teams.
Go Paperless with Smart Scanning
Transform paper files into secure, digital records in seconds with scan-to-cloud automation and barcode cover sheets that route documents instantly to the correct folder. DynaFile’s automated scanning workflows remove the need for local server storage, keeping sensitive files away from attack surfaces.
Simplify File Organization and Access
Centralized cloud storage, custom indexing, and cross-referenced search make file retrieval fast and accurate. HR teams can access documents securely from anywhere, without exposing data through vulnerable on-prem servers.
Accelerate Onboarding and Signatures
Integrations with DocuSign, Adobe Sign, and PandaDoc allow you to send, sign, and automatically file documents in one streamlined process, improving speed and reducing manual steps.
Enhance Collaboration and Security
Role-based permissions, encrypted file sharing, and version control keep control in your hands. DynaFile’s cloud architecture supports remote and hybrid teams while protecting data from the kinds of exploits seen in the ToolShell campaign.
Stay Audit-Ready and Compliant
With real-time alerts, detailed audit trails, and automated retention enforcement, HR teams can meet compliance standards confidently and respond to audits without the scramble.
The Best HR Document Management Alternative to SharePoint
Organizations seeking the best HR document management alternative to SharePoint need a system specifically designed with HR needs in mind. DynaFile delivers a purpose-built solution that replaces the complexity of SharePoint with intuitive, secure, and fully compliant document workflows tailored for HR, compliance officers, and administrative teams.
| Feature | DynaFile | SharePoint | HRIS | Most Other DMS |
In-Browser Document Structuring: Split, Merge, Reorder Pages & Update Metadata of HR Files | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Automated Metadata Tagging & Indexing + Data Synchronization from HRIS or System of Record | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Cross-Reference Search by Employee, Department, Location, and Document Type | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Customizable HR Specific Indexing & Reporting | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Compliance Certifications (HIPAA, GDPR, SOC 2 Type II) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
Barcode Scanning for Cloud-Based HR Filing | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Automated Retention Policy Enforcement for HR Documents | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Real-Time Audit Trails & Compliance Reporting for HR | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Built for HR Teams Managing Employee Documents | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Complete HR Document Lifecycle Management (Onboarding to Offboarding) | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
Flexible HR Document Storage & Pricing Model | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Download the full HR Document Management Feature Matrix.
Frequently Asked Questions About SharePoint Attacks and HR Document Management
Q: What happened in the recent Microsoft SharePoint cyberattacks?
A: In July and August 2025, attackers exploited critical vulnerabilities in on-premise Microsoft SharePoint servers. The campaign, known as ToolShell, affected hundreds of organizations worldwide, including major U.S. federal agencies. Exploits allowed attackers to bypass authentication, access sensitive files, and in some cases deploy ransomware.
Sources: CISA alert on Microsoft SharePoint exploitation, Cybersecurity Dive coverage of the SharePoint hacking campaign.
Q: How can HR departments be affected by SharePoint attacks?
A: HR teams store sensitive employee records such as payroll data, healthcare information, and compliance documentation. If SharePoint servers are compromised, these files could be exposed, leading to regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruption.
Q: What is the best HR document management alternative to SharePoint?
A: For HR teams seeking a secure, cloud-based solution, DynaFile offers a platform purpose-built for compliance, automation, and document control. It removes the vulnerabilities of on-premise systems while delivering features such as role-based permissions, automated retention, and secure sharing with auditors.
Q: How does DynaFile protect HR files from cyber threats?
A: DynaFile uses secure cloud storage, role-based access, detailed audit trails, encryption, and retention tools to keep files safe. It supports compliance standards with FERPA, HIPAA, HITECH, SOC 2, and internal HR policies, ensuring HR teams can work confidently and stay audit-ready.
Q: Does DynaFile help schools meet FERPA compliance standards?
A: Yes. DynaFile delivers secure cloud storage that helps schools meet FERPA compliance standards while enabling hybrid teams to eliminate paper-based filing. These same features also support HIPAA, HITECH, SOC 2, and internal HR policy requirements.
Q: What features should HR look for in secure document management software?
A: Look for:
- Seamless integrations with HRIS, ATS, and e-signature tools
- Secure cloud storage with encryption in transit and at rest
- Role-based access controls
- Automated retention and purge policies
- Real-time audit trails and version histories
- Compliance support for FERPA, HIPAA, HITECH, and SOC 2
Q: How do automated retention policies help with HR compliance?
A: Automated retention policies ensure documents are kept for the required period and then securely purged. The retention policies reduce compliance risk, save storage space, and eliminate manual tracking that can lead to errors.
Q: Can DynaFile integrate with my existing HR technology stack?
A: Yes. DynaFile integrates with leading HRIS, ATS, and e-signature platforms, including Adobe Acrobat Sign, PandaDoc, DocuSign, Workday, ADP, SAP SuccessFactors, and more. These integrations allow HR teams to streamline workflows without replacing core systems.
Final Takeaway: Secure Your HR Data Before the Next Attack
The recent SharePoint ToolShell campaign proves that cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and outdated or misconfigured on-premise systems leave organizations exposed. For HR leaders managing sensitive employee data, the safest move is to transition to a secure, cloud-native system designed for compliance and efficiency from day one.
DynaFile offers exactly that, providing secure document management with built-in HR workflows, powerful automation, and compliance features that protect your data and your organization’s reputation.
Schedule a demo today and see how secure, cloud-based document management can protect your people, strengthen compliance, and streamline every HR process.
