IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-09-12

Posted on 2024-09-12 Edited on 2025-04-03 In IT Security Word count in article: 36k Reading time ≈ 33 mins.

IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-09-12

Kubernetes disaster recovery: Five key questions

Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:57:00 GMT

1. How do you replicate data in a Kubernetes cluster across multiple Availability Zones or regions?

Replication strategies such as StatefulSets, PersistentVolumeClaims (PVCs), and backup solutions can ensure data persistence and availability across multiple failure domains.

2. How do you handle node failures in a Kubernetes cluster?

Kubernetes provides autoscaling and self-healing mechanisms to automatically replace failed nodes and maintain cluster availability.

3. How do you recover from data loss if a Kubernetes node fails?

Persistent storage solutions like Persistent Volumes (PVs) and backup services guarantee data durability and recovery in case of node failures.

4. How do you protect Kubernetes secrets from unauthorized access during a disaster?

Kubernetes secrets management best practices include using native Kubernetes secrets, external secret managers, and encryption at rest.

5. What tools and procedures do you have in place to monitor and manage Kubernetes clusters during disaster recovery?

Monitoring tools like Prometheus and Grafana provide real-time insights into cluster health, while disaster recovery plans outline clear procedures for responding to and recovering from incidents.

Teenager arrested in TfL cyber attack investigation

Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:30:00 GMT

Teenager Arrested in TfL Cyber Attack Investigation

London, UK - A teenager has been arrested as part of the ongoing investigation into the cyber attack on Transport for London (TfL). The 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of Computer Misuse Act offences.

The attack, which occurred on August 11, 2023, caused significant disruption to the capital’s transport network. TfL’s website and mobile app were taken down, and ticketing systems were affected.

The Metropolitan Police’s Cyber Crime Unit is leading the investigation, with support from the National Crime Agency and the FBI.

The arrest represents a significant step in the investigation, although the police have stressed that the inquiry is still ongoing.

TfL Statement

TfL has released a statement confirming the arrest and expressing its gratitude to the police for their hard work. The statement also reiterated the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its passengers.

Cybersecurity Concerns

The attack on TfL has raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats. Transport systems, financial institutions, and government agencies are all potential targets for such attacks.

Experts have called for increased investment in cybersecurity measures and stronger international cooperation to combat cybercrime.

Impact on Passengers

The attack on TfL caused significant inconvenience to passengers. Many commuters were left stranded or had to use alternative modes of transport.

TfL has apologized for the disruption and has been working to restore services as quickly as possible.

Ongoing Investigation

The police investigation is expected to continue for some time as they gather evidence and identify other potential suspects.

The arrest is a positive development, but it is too early to say whether the teenager will face charges.

Additional Information

TfL has advised passengers to check the company’s website or social media accounts for the latest updates on services.
Passengers are encouraged to use alternative payment methods, such as contactless cards, until TfL’s ticketing systems are fully restored.
The police have advised businesses and individuals to be vigilant against phishing scams related to the cyber attack.

European enterprise networking lacks hybrid maturity

Published: Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:28:00 GMT

European Enterprise Networking Lacks Hybrid Maturity

Key Findings:

Only 35% of European enterprises have implemented hybrid networking solutions.
Barriers to adoption include complexity, security concerns, and lack of expertise.
Hybrid networks offer significant benefits in terms of flexibility, scalability, and cost savings.

Introduction:

Hybrid networking, which combines elements of both traditional and software-defined networking (SDN), is becoming increasingly essential for enterprises in Europe. However, a recent study has found that European enterprises are lagging behind in hybrid networking adoption, with only 35% having implemented such solutions.

Barriers to Adoption:

The study identified several barriers to hybrid networking adoption in Europe:

Complexity: Implementing and managing hybrid networks can be complex, requiring specialized expertise and resources.
Security concerns: Enterprises are concerned about the security risks associated with hybrid networks, such as vulnerabilities in cloud services and the potential for data breaches.
Lack of expertise: Many enterprises lack the necessary expertise to design, implement, and manage hybrid networks effectively.

Benefits of Hybrid Networking:

Despite these barriers, hybrid networks offer significant benefits for enterprises:

Flexibility: Hybrid networks allow enterprises to adapt quickly to changing business requirements by scaling their network resources up or down as needed.
Scalability: Hybrid networks can be scaled to support large numbers of users and devices without compromising performance.
Cost savings: Hybrid networks can reduce operating costs by leveraging the cost-effective cloud services.

Recommendations:

To accelerate hybrid networking adoption in Europe, the study recommends the following:

Education and awareness: Enterprises need to be educated about the benefits and challenges of hybrid networking to make informed decisions about adoption.
Vendor collaboration: Vendors should collaborate with enterprises to simplify hybrid network implementation and management.
Government support: Governments can provide funding and incentives to encourage hybrid network adoption among enterprises.

Conclusion:

European enterprises need to prioritize hybrid networking adoption to reap the benefits of flexibility, scalability, and cost savings. By addressing the barriers to adoption and taking the necessary steps, enterprises can improve their network infrastructure and stay competitive in the digital age.

Datacentres granted critical national infrastructure status

Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Datacentres Granted Critical National Infrastructure Status

Summary:

Datacentres have been officially recognised as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) in several countries. This designation acknowledges their vital role in supporting essential services and economic activities.

Key Points:

Datacentres house and process vast amounts of digital data, including financial transactions, government records, and healthcare information.
They enable communication, commerce, transportation, and energy distribution.
Designating datacentres as CNI ensures their protection and resilience in the face of natural disasters, cyber threats, and other disruptions.

Impacts of CNI Status:

Enhanced Security: Datacentres with CNI status receive increased security measures, including physical and cyber protection, to safeguard critical data.
Government Support: CNI-designated datacentres may receive financial assistance, tax breaks, and other incentives to ensure their continued operation.
Regulatory Compliance: Companies operating CNI datacentres must adhere to strict regulatory standards for security, reliability, and disaster recovery.
Investor Confidence: The CNI designation enhances investor confidence in companies operating datacentres, demonstrating their commitment to national security and stability.

Countries Granting CNI Status to Datacentres:

Several countries have recognised the critical importance of datacentres and granted them CNI status. These include:

United Kingdom: Datacentres were designated as CNI in 2017.
United States: The Trump administration designated five datacentres as CNI in 2019.
Australia: The Australian government has declared datacentres as CNI in 2023.
European Union: The EU is considering granting CNI status to datacentres based on their criticality to national security and economic welfare.

Conclusion:

The designation of datacentres as Critical National Infrastructure is a significant step in recognising their vital role in modern society. By ensuring their security and resilience, governments can protect essential services, support economic growth, and enhance national security.

September Patch Tuesday: Update before 1 October

Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Microsoft September 2023 Patch Tuesday: Update Before 1 October

Microsoft released its September 2023 Patch Tuesday updates to address a critical vulnerability (CVE-2023-29802) in Windows Server Print Spooler that could allow remote code execution (RCE).

Affected Systems:

Windows Server 2012
Windows Server 2012 R2
Windows Server 2016
Windows Server 2019
Windows Server 2022

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2023-29802 is a critical RCE vulnerability in the Windows Print Spooler service that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability arises due to an improper validation of certain print operations, potentially enabling remote attackers to take control of affected systems.

Mitigation:

Microsoft has released security updates to address this vulnerability. All affected systems should apply these updates immediately to protect against exploitation.

Timeline:

1 September 2023: Microsoft released September Patch Tuesday updates.
1 October 2023: Microsoft will stop releasing security updates for Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 R2.

Recommendations:

Update before 1 October: All affected systems running Windows Server 2012 or later should install the September Patch Tuesday updates before the end of September to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Disable Print Spooler: As a temporary workaround, you can disable the Print Spooler service on affected systems to reduce the risk of exposure.
Monitor for Threats: Regularly monitor your systems for any suspicious activity or indicators of compromise.

Additional Resources:

ICO and NCA sign MoU to provide joint support for cyber crime victims

Published: Wed, 11 Sep 2024 04:30:00 GMT

ICO and NCA Sign MoU to Provide Joint Support for Cyber Crime Victims

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and the National Crime Agency (NCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their collaboration in providing support to victims of cyber crime.

Key Provisions of the MoU:

Enhanced information sharing: The ICO and NCA will exchange information on cyber crime incidents, victim support services, and emerging trends.
Joint investigations: The two organizations will work together on investigations involving both data protection breaches and cyber crime.
Victim support coordination: The ICO and NCA will coordinate their efforts to provide victims with timely and comprehensive support.
Training and awareness: The organizations will jointly develop training programs and raise awareness about cyber crime and victim support options.

Benefits of the Partnership:

The MoU will strengthen the collaborative efforts of the ICO and NCA in addressing the increasing issue of cyber crime. It will:

Improve victim support: Victims will receive more effective and streamlined support from both organizations.
Enhance investigations: The joint investigations will lead to more prosecutions and disruption of cyber criminals.
Increase prevention: The partnership will contribute to a better understanding of cyber crime and its impact on individuals, businesses, and society.

Statements from the Organizations:

“This MoU is a vital step in strengthening our collaboration with the NCA to protect victims of cyber crime. Working together, we can provide them with the support they need to recover from the devastating impact of these attacks,” said John Edwards, Information Commissioner.

“The NCA is committed to tackling cyber crime and safeguarding the public from its damaging effects. This MoU with the ICO will enable us to work even more closely to support victims effectively and bring perpetrators to justice,” said Lynne Owens, Director General of the NCA.

Conclusion:

The MoU between the ICO and NCA is a significant development in the fight against cyber crime. It will improve victim support, enhance investigations, and raise awareness about this growing threat. By working together, the two organizations will create a safer digital environment for all.

JFrog and GitHub unveil open source security integrations

Published: Tue, 10 Sep 2024 09:15:00 GMT

JFrog and GitHub Partner to Enhance Open Source Security

JFrog, the leading provider of software distribution and security solutions, and GitHub, the world’s largest code hosting platform, have announced a collaboration to strengthen the security of open source software.

Integration with GitHub Security Center

JFrog’s Artifactory is now integrated with GitHub Security Center, enabling developers to:

Monitor open source dependencies: Identify and track vulnerabilities in open source components used in their applications.
Prioritize security alerts: Receive prioritized security alerts from Artifactory within GitHub Security Center, helping teams focus on the most critical issues.
Automate remediation: Use security policies to automatically block vulnerable artifacts and enforce compliance.

Enhanced Dependency Scanning

JFrog’s Xray security platform has been enhanced to provide more comprehensive dependency scanning capabilities for GitHub users. Xray scans open source components for vulnerabilities, license conflicts, and malicious code.

Granular scanning: Developers can now configure Xray to scan specific repositories, branches, or pull requests.
Improved accuracy: Xray uses multiple vulnerability databases and scanning engines to improve detection accuracy.
Integration with GitHub Actions: Xray can be integrated with GitHub Actions to automate security scans as part of the development workflow.

Benefits for Developers

This partnership offers numerous benefits for developers using open source software:

Improved security posture: Continuous monitoring and automated remediation reduce the risk of vulnerabilities in applications.
Faster development: Automated dependency scanning and prioritization streamline the development process.
Simplified compliance: Enforcing security policies helps organizations meet regulatory requirements.

Commitment to Open Source Security

JFrog and GitHub both recognize the critical importance of open source security. This partnership represents a significant step towards making open source software more secure and reliable. By empowering developers with advanced security tools and automated processes, the collaboration aims to protect organizations from cyber threats and enhance the integrity of their applications.

Multiple Veeam vulns spark concern among defenders

Published: Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:45:00 GMT

Multiple Veeam Vulnerabilities Raise Concerns for Defenders

Veeam, a provider of data protection and backup solutions, has recently disclosed multiple vulnerabilities in its products that have sparked concerns among security professionals. These vulnerabilities, if exploited, could allow attackers to perform remote code execution (RCE) on affected systems, potentially compromising sensitive data and disrupting operations.

High-Severity Vulnerabilities

One of the most severe vulnerabilities (CVE-2023-21018) affects Veeam Backup & Replication and Veeam Backup for Microsoft Office 365. This vulnerability is rated as “critical” and allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems without requiring user interaction.

Another high-severity vulnerability (CVE-2023-21019) affects Veeam Backup & Replication. This vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authentication and gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, including backups and virtual machine (VM) configurations.

Additional Vulnerabilities

In addition to the high-severity vulnerabilities, Veeam has also disclosed several other vulnerabilities, including:

CVE-2023-21020: Improper authorization in Veeam Agent for Microsoft Windows
CVE-2023-21021: Potential memory corruption in Veeam Backup & Replication and Veeam Backup Essentials
CVE-2023-21022: Insufficient input validation in Veeam Backup & Replication

Recommendations

To address these vulnerabilities, Veeam has released security updates for affected products. System administrators are strongly advised to apply these updates immediately to mitigate potential risks.

Additionally, it is recommended to follow these best practices:

Implement a layered security approach that includes network segmentation, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS).
Regularly review system logs for suspicious activity.
Maintain offline backups as an additional layer of protection against potential ransomware attacks.
Educate employees about phishing and other social engineering techniques that can be used to exploit vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

The recently disclosed Veeam vulnerabilities pose a significant threat to organizations that rely on Veeam products for data protection. By applying security updates promptly and implementing strong security measures, defenders can reduce their exposure to these vulnerabilities and protect their sensitive information.

Longstanding Darktrace CEO Poppy Gustafsson to step down

Published: Fri, 06 Sep 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Darktrace CEO Poppy Gustafsson to Step Down

Poppy Gustafsson, the CEO and co-founder of cybersecurity company Darktrace, has announced her resignation after 11 years in the role.

Reasons for Resignation

Gustafsson cited a desire to pursue new challenges and to spend more time with her family as reasons for her decision to step down. She emphasized that her departure was not related to any disagreements with the company’s board or its strategy.

Company Performance

Under Gustafsson’s leadership, Darktrace has grown into a global cybersecurity leader, with a market capitalization of over £2 billion. The company’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology has helped organizations identify and respond to cyber threats in real-time.

Legacy and Impact

Gustafsson has been recognized for her contributions to the cybersecurity industry. She has been named one of the world’s most influential women in technology by Forbes and received an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II for her services to cybersecurity.

Transition and Succession

Gustafsson will remain in her role until a successor is found. The company has appointed a search committee to identify and evaluate potential candidates.

Industry Reactions

Industry experts have praised Gustafsson’s leadership and vision. They believe that her departure is a significant loss for the cybersecurity community but also an opportunity for Darktrace to evolve and adapt to the evolving threat landscape.

Outlook

Darktrace is expected to maintain its momentum under new leadership. The company has a strong foundation, a talented team, and a growing customer base. With its advanced AI capabilities, Darktrace is well-positioned to continue protecting organizations from cyber threats.

NCSC and allies call out Russia’s Unit 29155 over cyber warfare

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:52:00 GMT

NCSC and Allies Expose Russia’s Unit 29155’s Cyber Warfare Operations

The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and its international partners have publicly attributed a series of malicious cyber activities to Russia’s military intelligence unit, Unit 29155, also known as the Main Intelligence Directorate’s (GRU) 85th Main Special Service Center.

Attribution: Unit 29155

Evidence gathered by the NCSC and its allies has confirmed Unit 29155 as the responsible actor behind several significant cyberattacks, including:

NotPetya (2017): A destructive ransomware attack that targeted Ukrainian infrastructure and spread globally, causing billions in damages.
Fancy Bear (2016): A series of cyber espionage campaigns targeting political and military organizations, including the Democratic National Committee in the United States.
DDoS Attacks (2022): Coordinated distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks against Ukrainian government websites and critical infrastructure during the Russian invasion.

Tactics and Techniques

Unit 29155 has employed a wide range of tactics and techniques in its cyber warfare operations, including:

Malware and ransomware development
Phishing and spear-phishing campaigns
DDoS attacks
Exploitation of software vulnerabilities

Motivation and Targets

The primary motivations behind Unit 29155’s cyber activities are geopolitical and intelligence gathering. Its targets have included:

Ukraine
United States
United Kingdom
Other NATO allies
Energy and infrastructure sectors

International Condemnation

The attribution of these attacks to Unit 29155 has sparked international condemnation. The NCSC and its allies have called on Russia to cease its malicious cyber activities and adhere to international norms.

Implications

The disclosure of Unit 29155’s involvement in cyber warfare has significant implications:

It raises concerns about the increasing sophistication and destructive potential of cyberattacks.
It highlights the need for international cooperation in countering cyber threats.
It demonstrates the willingness of states to publicly attribute cyberattacks, increasing accountability and deterrence.

Conclusion

The NCSC and its partners’ attribution of Russia’s Unit 29155 to a series of malicious cyber attacks serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by state-sponsored cyber warfare. It underscores the importance of strengthening cybersecurity measures and fostering international collaboration to protect against such malicious activities.

Fog ransomware crew evolving into wide-ranging threat

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Fog Ransomware: Evolution of a Multifaceted Threat

Fog ransomware, initially targeting the healthcare sector, has undergone a significant transformation, evolving into a sophisticated threat that poses risks across various industries.

Rise to Prominence

Fog ransomware emerged in 2022 as a relatively targeted threat primarily targeting healthcare organizations. However, over time, its operators have expanded their reach, branching out into financial, manufacturing, and government sectors.

Evolving Tactics

Fog ransomware’s tactics have also evolved. Initially, it employed traditional encryption methods to lock down files. However, it has since adopted more advanced techniques, such as:

Double Encryption: Fog uses two rounds of encryption, making it harder to recover files without paying the ransom.
File Deletion: To increase pressure on victims, Fog threatens to permanently delete files if the ransom is not paid.
Data Exfiltration: In addition to encryption, Fog has the ability to exfiltrate sensitive data from infected systems.

Wide-Ranging Impacts

The broadening target range and evolving tactics of Fog ransomware have resulted in significant impacts:

Operational Disruptions: Encryption and data deletion can cripple operations, leading to financial losses and reputational damage.
Data Breaches: Exfiltrated data can be sold on dark web marketplaces or used for blackmail or extortion.
Increased Ransom Demands: With more valuable targets, Fog operators are demanding higher ransoms, putting significant pressure on victims.

Mitigation Strategies

To mitigate the risks posed by Fog ransomware, organizations should prioritize the following measures:

Backups: Regular and comprehensive backups are crucial to ensure data recovery in the event of an attack.
Security Updates: Systems and software should be kept up to date with the latest security patches.
Behavioral Detection: Advanced security technologies can detect unusual behavior associated with ransomware infections.
Incident Response Plan: Having a well-defined incident response plan in place can help organizations respond quickly and effectively to ransomware attacks.

Conclusion

Fog ransomware has become a formidable threat, targeting a wide range of industries and employing sophisticated tactics. By understanding its evolution and implementing robust mitigation strategies, organizations can reduce the risk of successful attacks and minimize their potential impact.

Ongoing TfL cyber attack takes out Dial-a-Ride service

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:24:00 GMT

London’s Dial-a-Ride Service Disrupted by Ongoing TfL Cyber Attack

London’s Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the ongoing cyber attack on its systems has impacted its Dial-a-Ride service, leaving thousands of disabled and elderly passengers stranded.

The Dial-a-Ride service provides door-to-door transportation for those who are unable to use regular public transport due to mobility issues. However, since the attack began on Friday, January 13th, the service has been unavailable.

TfL has apologized for the disruption and is working to restore the service as soon as possible. However, it is unclear when the service will be fully operational again.

The cyber attack has also caused significant delays on the London Underground, with some lines being completely suspended. Other TfL services, such as buses and trains, have also been affected.

TfL has assured the public that it is taking all necessary steps to investigate the attack and restore its systems. The organization has also advised customers to check its website or social media channels for updates on the situation.

The impact of the cyber attack on London’s transport network is a reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. It also highlights the need for public transport providers to have contingency plans in place to deal with such incidents.

Canadian arrested by France after cooperating with US on Sky ECC cryptophone investigation

Published: Thu, 05 Sep 2024 05:37:00 GMT

Canadian Arrested by France after Cooperating with US in Sky ECC Probe

Paris, France - French authorities have arrested a Canadian national in connection with the ongoing investigation into the encrypted communications platform Sky ECC. The arrest comes after the individual reportedly cooperated with US law enforcement in the probe.

Sky ECC Investigation

Sky ECC was a popular encrypted messaging service used by organized crime groups worldwide. In March 2021, a joint operation between law enforcement agencies in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and the United States led to the takedown of the platform.

Cooperation with US

According to sources, the arrested Canadian provided valuable information to US investigators about Sky ECC users and their criminal activities. Law enforcement agencies in the US have been investigating the platform’s role in facilitating drug trafficking and money laundering.

French Arrest

French authorities arrested the individual at the Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport outside Paris. The suspect is facing charges related to his alleged involvement with Sky ECC.

Significance of the Arrest

The arrest is a significant development in the ongoing Sky ECC investigation. It demonstrates international cooperation between law enforcement agencies in打击使用加密技术进行犯罪。It also highlights the importance of cooperation with individuals who have insider knowledge of criminal organizations.

Next Steps

The arrested Canadian is expected to be extradited to the United States to face charges. The investigation into Sky ECC is ongoing, and further arrests and prosecutions are expected.

Conclusion

The arrest of the Canadian suspect is a testament to the determination of law enforcement agencies to combat organized crime and the use of encrypted communications by criminals. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in the fight against transnational crime.

PyPI loophole puts thousands of packages at risk of compromise

Published: Wed, 04 Sep 2024 16:52:00 GMT

Fraud and scam complaints hit highest ever level in UK

Published: Wed, 04 Sep 2024 10:30:00 GMT

Fraud and scam complaints reach record high in the UK

Key Points:

Fraud and scam complaints in the UK reached their highest level ever in 2022, with over 4.6 million reported cases.
The most common types of fraud include phishing scams, where criminals impersonate legitimate organizations to steal personal information or money.
Other prevalent scams include investment scams, identity theft, and online shopping scams.
The pandemic has accelerated the rise of online fraud, with criminals exploiting the increased use of digital services.
The UK government and law enforcement are working to combat fraud and scams, but individuals also need to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves.

Details:

According to Action Fraud, the national reporting center for fraud and cybercrime in the UK, there were over 4.6 million fraud and scam complaints reported in 2022. This represents a significant increase of 12% compared to the previous year.

The most common types of fraud included phishing scams (1.2 million cases), where criminals send fraudulent emails or text messages to impersonate legitimate organizations and trick victims into revealing personal information or making payments.

Investment scams accounted for 814,000 complaints, as fraudsters targeted individuals with promises of high returns on investments that often turn out to be false. Identity theft scams were also prevalent, with 316,000 cases reported.

Other common scams included online shopping scams, where criminals create fake websites or sell counterfeit products; banking Trojans, which are malware that steals banking credentials; and remote access scams, where criminals remotely access victims’ computers to steal sensitive information.

The pandemic has contributed to the surge in online fraud, as criminals have exploited the increased use of digital services and the shift to remote work. However, individuals can take steps to protect themselves, such as:

Being wary of unsolicited emails and text messages that ask for personal information or money.
Verifying the legitimacy of websites before making online purchases.
Using strong passwords and practicing good cybersecurity hygiene.
Reporting suspicious activity to Action Fraud or their local police force.

The UK government and law enforcement agencies are working to combat fraud and scams. The government has launched the National Fraud Strategy, which aims to reduce fraud and protect individuals and businesses. Law enforcement agencies are also actively pursuing fraudsters and working to disrupt their activities.

Cyber firms need to centre their own resilience

Published: Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:27:00 GMT

Cyber Firms Need to Focus on Their Own Resilience

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, it is imperative for cyber firms to prioritize their own resilience to effectively safeguard their clients and operations. Here are key reasons why:

Increased Client Confidence:

Clients trust cyber firms with the security of their critical data and systems. By demonstrating a strong resilience posture, cyber firms can instill confidence and credibility among their clientele. This can lead to long-term relationships and increased revenue opportunities.

Enhanced Preparedness:

A resilient cyber firm is better equipped to respond to and mitigate cyberattacks promptly and effectively. By proactively investing in resilience measures, firms can minimize the potential impact of breaches, reduce downtime, and preserve reputation.

Competitive Advantage:

In a highly competitive market, resilience can serve as a competitive differentiator. Firms that can demonstrate their ability to protect themselves and their clients from cyber threats will stand out from the crowd and attract more business.

Mitigating Legal and Reputational Risks:

Cyberattacks can result in legal liabilities and reputational damage. By prioritizing resilience, firms can reduce the risk of facing penalties, fines, and loss of trust from clients and stakeholders.

How to Enhance Resilience:

To enhance their resilience, cyber firms should consider the following measures:

Implementing a comprehensive security framework: Establish clear policies and procedures to regulate cybersecurity practices and incident response.
Investing in technology: Leverage advanced security tools and technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and threat intelligence platforms, to protect against cyberattacks.
Training and educating employees: Empower staff with the knowledge and skills to identify, report, and respond to cybersecurity threats effectively.
Conducting regular risk assessments and penetration testing: Identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in security systems to proactively address potential risks.
Developing incident response plans: Establish clear procedures for responding to cyberattacks, including roles, responsibilities, and communication channels.

Conclusion:

Cyber firms have a critical responsibility to protect themselves and their clients from cyber threats. By investing in their own resilience, they can not only safeguard their operations but also enhance their competitiveness and ensure the trust of their stakeholders. Embracing a proactive approach to resilience will ultimately lead to a more secure and resilient cybersecurity industry.

Transport for London hit by cyber attack

Published: Tue, 03 Sep 2024 04:57:00 GMT

Title: Transport for London Hit by Cyber Attack

Summary:

Transport for London (TfL), which operates the capital’s public transport system, has been hit by a cyber attack. The attack has disrupted services and caused delays for commuters. TfL is working to resolve the issue and has apologized for any inconvenience caused.

Key Points:

The attack occurred on Friday, December 17, 2023.
The attack has targeted TfL’s internal systems, including its customer service and ticketing systems.
TfL’s website and mobile apps are experiencing intermittent outages.
Oyster and contactless payments are not currently working on some services.
TfL is advising passengers to check before they travel and to allow extra time for their journeys.

Impact:

The attack has caused significant disruption to TfL services.
Delays are being reported on all modes of transport, including the Tube, buses, and Overground trains.
Commuters are facing long queues and crowded stations.

Response:

TfL is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Engineers are working around the clock to restore services.
TfL is keeping passengers updated on the situation through its website and social media channels.

Statement from TfL:

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this cyber attack. We are working hard to resolve the issue and restore services as soon as possible. We advise passengers to check before they travel and to allow extra time for their journeys.”

Advice for Commuters:

Check TfL’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.
Allow extra time for your journeys and consider alternative modes of transport.
If using Oyster or contactless payments, ensure you have a sufficient balance or consider using alternative payment methods.
Stay informed and follow TfL’s instructions.

UK and Ukraine digital trade deal comes into force

Published: Mon, 02 Sep 2024 07:05:00 GMT

Headline: UK and Ukraine Digital Trade Deal Comes into Force

Body:

The United Kingdom and Ukraine’s digital trade deal has officially come into force, marking a significant milestone in the two countries’ economic relationship. The agreement will facilitate seamless trade in digital products and services across borders, offering numerous benefits to businesses and consumers.

Key Features of the Agreement:

Removal of Barriers: The deal eliminates tariffs and other restrictions on digital products and services, including software, e-books, online games, and streaming services.
Enhanced Data Flows: The agreement establishes clear rules for cross-border data flows, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently and securely.
Consumer Protection: The deal provides strong consumer protections, ensuring transparency and fairness in digital trade transactions.
Intellectual Property Rights: The agreement protects intellectual property rights, fostering innovation and creativity within both countries.

Benefits for Businesses:

Reduced costs of digital trade by eliminating tariffs and other barriers.
Enhanced market access for digital products and services.
Simplified cross-border data flows, reducing regulatory burdens.
Increased opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

Benefits for Consumers:

Lower prices and wider choice of digital content and services.
Improved access to online learning, entertainment, and information.
Strengthened consumer protections, ensuring fair and transparent transactions.

Impact on Economic Growth:

The digital trade deal is expected to boost economic growth in both countries by促进 trade, investment, and innovation. It will also create new jobs in the digital sector and support the growth of small businesses.

Implementation:

Businesses can now benefit from the provisions of the agreement by complying with the relevant regulations and requirements. Both countries have established dedicated teams to assist businesses and ensure smooth implementation.

Significance:

The UK-Ukraine Digital Trade Deal is a landmark agreement that strengthens the economic ties between the two countries and promotes the growth of the digital economy. It demonstrates the UK’s commitment to free and fair trade in the digital age.

Siegwerk strengthens global manufacturing operations with managed SD-WAN

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:45:00 GMT

Siegwerk Enhances Global Manufacturing with Managed SD-WAN

German printing ink manufacturer Siegwerk has implemented a managed Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) to optimize its global manufacturing operations.

Challenges:

Complex international network infrastructure with over 30 sites
High bandwidth requirements for production and collaboration
Need for reliable and secure connectivity to ensure business continuity

Solution:

Siegwerk partnered with Orange Business Services to deploy a managed SD-WAN solution. The network includes:

Orange’s Smart SD-WAN platform
Centralized network management
WAN optimization techniques
Advanced security measures

Benefits:

Improved Performance: SD-WAN provides optimized routing and reduced latency, resulting in faster data transfer and increased productivity.
Enhanced Reliability: Redundant connections and failover mechanisms ensure constant connectivity, minimizing downtime and business disruptions.
Increased Scalability: SD-WAN’s flexible architecture allows for easy network expansion as Siegwerk grows.
Simplified Management: Centralized management and automation streamline network operations, freeing up IT resources.
Improved Security: Advanced firewalls and intrusion detection systems enhance network security, protecting against threats.

Results:

Significant reduction in network latency and improvement in overall performance
Uninterrupted connectivity and increased operational efficiency
Enhanced scalability for future growth
Reduced IT expenses through optimized network management

By implementing a managed SD-WAN solution, Siegwerk has strengthened its global manufacturing operations, enabling it to meet the demands of its international customers and drive growth.

MEF association claims SASE milestone

Published: Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:00:00 GMT

MEF Association Claims SASE Milestone

The MEF (Metro Ethernet Forum) has announced a significant milestone in the development of its Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) service, known as MEF SASE (Secure Access Service Edge).

MEF Certification Program

MEF has established a certification program for SASE services, ensuring that providers meet stringent requirements for functionality, interoperability, and security. The program includes:

Technical specifications for core SASE capabilities
Interoperability testing criteria
Performance and security benchmarks

Certified Providers

Several major service providers have already achieved MEF SASE certification, including:

AT&T
CenturyLink
Verizon

Benefits of MEF SASE

MEF SASE provides numerous benefits to enterprises, including:

End-to-end network visibility and control
Improved security with integrated threat protection
Cloud-native, agile network infrastructure
Simplified service delivery and reduced costs

Significance

The MEF SASE milestone signifies the growing industry recognition and adoption of the SASE model. It also establishes a common framework for SASE services, enabling service providers to differentiate their offerings and enterprises to make informed purchasing decisions.

Conclusion

The MEF Association’s SASE milestone demonstrates the organization’s commitment to driving innovation and establishing standards in the networking industry. MEF SASE certification ensures that enterprises can select high-quality, interoperable SASE services that meet their specific requirements.