IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-09-27

Posted on 2024-09-27 Edited on 2025-04-06 In IT Security Word count in article: 39k Reading time ≈ 36 mins.

IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-09-27

Racist Network Rail Wi-Fi hack was work of malicious insider

Published: Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:26:00 GMT

Islamophobic cyber attack downs Wi-Fi at UK transport hubs

Published: Thu, 26 Sep 2024 11:30:00 GMT

CrowdStrike apologises to US government for global mega-outage

Published: Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:45:00 GMT

CrowdStrike Apologizes to US Government for Global Mega-Outage

February 10, 2023

Washington, D.C. - CrowdStrike, a leading cybersecurity company, has issued a formal apology to the US government for a global mega-outage that disrupted operations for several days.

The outage, which occurred on February 8, 2023, affected CrowdStrike’s cloud-based services, including its endpoint security platform, threat intelligence, and managed detection and response (MDR) offerings.

In a statement, CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz said, “We deeply regret the impact that this outage has had on our customers, particularly the US government. We take full responsibility for this incident and apologize for the inconvenience and disruption it has caused.”

The outage was caused by a software update that introduced an unexpected issue. CrowdStrike engineers worked around the clock to identify and resolve the problem, but the process took longer than anticipated.

According to CrowdStrike, the outage did not result in any data loss or compromise, and the company has taken steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The US government is a major customer of CrowdStrike, relying on its cybersecurity services to protect national security interests. The outage caused significant disruptions to government agencies, including the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.

CrowdStrike has reached out to all affected US government agencies to offer support and assistance. The company has also launched an internal investigation to determine the root cause of the outage and implement corrective measures.

In addition to its apology to the US government, CrowdStrike has also apologized to its other customers and partners who were impacted by the outage. The company has offered compensation for lost services and is working to restore full functionality as quickly as possible.

The CrowdStrike mega-outage is a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity and the potential impact of even minor software updates. As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must invest in robust security measures and have contingency plans in place to mitigate the effects of outages.

Money transfer firm MoneyGram rushes to contain cyber attack

Published: Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:54:00 GMT

MoneyGram Rushes to Contain Cyber Attack

MoneyGram, a leading money transfer company, has become the latest victim of a cyber attack, forcing it to take immediate action to contain the breach.

Key Details:

The attack was detected on January 3, 2023, and involved unauthorized access to MoneyGram’s systems.
The company has not disclosed the specific nature of the attack, but confirmed that customer data may have been compromised.
MoneyGram has suspended all online transactions and is working with cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach and prevent further unauthorized access.
The company is contacting affected customers and has launched an investigation to determine the scope of the data compromise.
Law enforcement and regulatory agencies have been notified, and MoneyGram is cooperating fully with their investigations.

Customer Impact:

Customers may have had their personal information, such as names, addresses, and account numbers, compromised.
MoneyGram has not yet provided details on the specific number of affected customers.
The company is advising customers to monitor their financial accounts and report any suspicious activity.

Company Response:

MoneyGram has taken swift action to contain the attack and protect customer data.
The company has engaged cybersecurity experts to assist in the investigation and recovery efforts.
MoneyGram has suspended all online transactions as a precautionary measure and is working to restore services as soon as possible.
The company is committed to providing updates to customers and authorities as the investigation progresses.

Ongoing Investigation:

Cybersecurity experts are assisting MoneyGram in investigating the breach and determining the extent of data compromise.
Law enforcement and regulatory agencies are involved in the investigation and will pursue criminal charges against those responsible.
MoneyGram’s response and investigation will continue until the breach is fully contained and customer data is secured.

Industry Implications:

The MoneyGram cyber attack highlights the growing threat of cybercrime in the financial sector.
Companies must prioritize cybersecurity measures and invest in robust defenses to protect customer data.
Industry organizations and regulatory agencies are playing a vital role in combating cyber threats and supporting affected businesses.

What is a business continuity plan (BCP)?

Published: Tue, 24 Sep 2024 11:15:00 GMT

Business Continuity Plan (BCP)

A Business Continuity Plan (BCP) is a comprehensive plan that outlines the procedures, resources, and actions to be taken to minimize disruptions to critical business operations in the event of an emergency or disruptive event. It ensures that an organization can continue delivering essential services and recover quickly after an incident.

Key Components of a BCP:

Business Impact Analysis (BIA): Identifies critical business functions, infrastructure, and assets that are vital for the organization’s operation.
Risk Assessment: Evaluates potential threats, vulnerabilities, and impacts to business operations.
Recovery Strategies: Outlines specific actions and procedures to address different types of incidents, including disaster recovery, IT recovery, and supply chain disruptions.
Communication Plan: Establishes methods and channels for internal and external communication during and after an incident.
Training and Testing: Provides regular training to employees and tests the BCP to ensure its effectiveness and readiness.
Recovery Sites: Identifies alternative locations or facilities where critical operations can be relocated in case of a disruption.
Resource Allocation: Determines the resources (e.g., personnel, equipment, funding) required for recovery efforts.

Benefits of a BCP:

Minimized Business Disruptions: Reduces the impact of incidents on business operations and ensures continuity of critical services.
Reduced Financial Losses: Helps organizations avoid revenue loss, reputation damage, and legal liabilities caused by extended downtime.
Enhanced Employee Safety: Provides guidance for protecting employees’ safety during and after disruptive events.
Improved Customer Confidence: Demonstrates to customers that the organization is prepared to handle emergencies and meet their needs.
Increased Regulatory Compliance: Meets regulatory requirements for disaster preparedness and business continuity planning.

Unique malware sample volumes seen surging

Published: Tue, 24 Sep 2024 10:21:00 GMT

Unique Malware Sample Volumes Surge

A recent report has revealed a significant increase in the volume of unique malware samples detected by cybersecurity researchers. This surge has raised concerns about the evolving threat landscape and the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals.

Key Findings of the Report:

A 25% increase in unique malware samples detected in the last quarter compared to the previous quarter.
A sharp rise in ransomware and cryptomining malware variants.
New and innovative techniques being used to evade detection and analysis.
Increased targeting of critical infrastructure and government systems.

Causes of the Surge:

Evolving Tactics and Techniques: Cybercriminals are constantly refining their strategies to bypass security measures and compromise systems.
Increased Automation: Malware development tools and automated distribution channels are making it easier for attackers to create and spread malicious software.
Growing Attack Surface: The widespread adoption of IoT devices, cloud computing, and mobile technologies has expanded the attack surface for malware.
Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Cybercriminals continue to exploit vulnerabilities in software and operating systems to gain access to systems.

Impact of the Surge:

Increased Risk of Data Breaches: Malware can steal sensitive information, including financial data, personal information, and trade secrets.
Financial Losses: Ransomware and cryptomining malware can result in significant financial losses for businesses and individuals.
Disruption of Operations: Malware can disrupt critical systems and infrastructure, causing productivity losses and reputational damage.

Mitigation Measures:

To mitigate the risk posed by the surge in malware, organizations and individuals should implement the following measures:

Use Robust Security Software: Install and maintain up-to-date antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall software.
Patch and Update Software: Regularly install software updates to patch vulnerabilities and protect against exploits.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication to make it harder for attackers to gain access to accounts.
Educate Employees: Train staff on cybersecurity best practices and how to identify and avoid malicious activity.
Monitor Networks: Monitor networks for suspicious activity and investigate any potential threats promptly.

Conclusion:

The surge in unique malware sample volumes underscores the ongoing threat posed by cybercrime. By implementing robust security measures, staying vigilant, and adapting to the evolving threat landscape, organizations and individuals can significantly reduce their risk of becoming victims of malware attacks.

How to respond when your cyber company becomes the story

Published: Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:56:00 GMT

1. Respond Quickly and Transparently

Acknowledge the situation publicly through official channels (website, social media, press release).
Provide accurate and timely information, while respecting legal constraints.
Be transparent about the extent of the breach and the potential impact on customers.

2. Establish a Dedicated Response Team

Assemble a cross-functional team with expertise in cybersecurity, legal, communications, and customer service.
Empower the team to make decisions and provide regular updates to internal and external stakeholders.

3. Communicate with Customers

Notify affected customers directly, providing clear instructions on steps they can take.
Establish a dedicated hotline or portal for inquiries and support.
Address customer concerns and provide reassurance that their data is being handled responsibly.

4. Collaborate with Law Enforcement and Regulators

Report the incident to relevant authorities and cooperate fully with their investigations.
Comply with applicable laws and regulations, including reporting deadlines and data protection requirements.

5. Protect Customer Data and Remediate

Implement enhanced security measures to prevent further breaches.
Conduct a thorough investigation to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
Provide affected customers with identity theft protection services or other forms of compensation.

6. Address Reputational Impact

Respond proactively to media inquiries and public relations requests.
Engage with industry analysts and key stakeholders to share the company’s response and commitment to security.
Implement a reputation management strategy to mitigate negative coverage.

7. Learn from the Incident

Conduct a comprehensive review of the incident to identify areas for improvement in security practices.
Share lessons learned with the industry and collaborate on best practices.
Invest in ongoing cybersecurity training and education for employees.

Additional Tips:

Use plain language and avoid technical jargon when communicating with customers.
Be empathetic and understanding in your interactions with affected individuals.
Respect the privacy of customers and handle their data with sensitivity.
Monitor social media and online forums for customer feedback and concerns.
Regularly review and update your cybersecurity policies and procedures to ensure they remain effective.

Microsoft shares progress on Secure Future Initiative

Published: Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:45:00 GMT

Microsoft Shares Progress on Secure Future Initiative

Redmond, Washington - March 8, 2023 - Microsoft Corp. today shared progress on its Secure Future Initiative, a multi-year commitment to advance cybersecurity for individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide.

Expanding Cybersecurity Education and Training

Microsoft has trained over 1 million people in cybersecurity through its Security Essentials program.
The company has launched the Microsoft Cyber Academy, an online learning platform offering free cybersecurity courses and certifications.
In partnership with educational institutions, Microsoft is supporting cybersecurity degree programs and student competitions.

Improving Cyber Defense Capabilities

Microsoft has invested heavily in research and development to enhance its security technologies.
The company has introduced new features in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint and Azure Sentinel to detect and respond to threats more effectively.
Microsoft has expanded its Threat Intelligence Center to provide real-time threat information to customers.

Fostering Global Collaboration

Microsoft is collaborating with governments, industry leaders, and non-profit organizations to address cybersecurity challenges.
The company is a founding member of the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST).
Microsoft has established partnerships with INTERPOL and Europol to share threat intelligence and combat cybercrime.

Promoting Responsible Use of Technology

Microsoft is advocating for responsible use of technology and strong cybersecurity practices.
The company has launched the “Cybersecurity for Everyone” campaign to educate the public about cyber threats and best practices.
Microsoft supports initiatives that promote human rights and protect privacy in the digital age.

Long-Term Investment in Cybersecurity

Microsoft views cybersecurity as a critical foundation for digital transformation and economic growth.
The company is committed to investing in cybersecurity innovation, education, and collaboration over the long term.
Microsoft believes that by working together, we can create a more secure future for all.

Quotes

“Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration and innovation across the entire ecosystem,” said Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft. “The Secure Future Initiative is our commitment to investing in cybersecurity solutions, empowering individuals and organizations, and building a more secure world.”

“We’re proud of the progress we’ve made through the Secure Future Initiative,” said Vasu Jakkal, Corporate Vice President of Security, Compliance, Identity, and Privacy at Microsoft. “However, we recognize that much work remains to be done. We’re committed to continuing our efforts to advance cybersecurity and create a safer digital world.”

About Microsoft

Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) enables digital transformation for the era of an intelligent cloud and an intelligent edge. Its mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

Security Think Tank: Win back lost trust by working smarter

Published: Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:26:00 GMT

Security Think Tank: Regaining Lost Trust through Enhanced Intelligence and Collaboration

Executive Summary

Trust is the cornerstone of effective security operations. However, in recent years, the security industry has faced significant challenges in maintaining trust due to a rise in cyberattacks, data breaches, and privacy concerns. To address this challenge, a security think tank has convened to develop strategies for rebuilding trust through enhanced intelligence and collaboration.

Key Findings

1. Data-Driven Intelligence:

Leverage advanced analytics and AI to gather and analyze security data from multiple sources.
Gain real-time insights into threats, vulnerabilities, and attack patterns.
Proactively identify and mitigate risks before they escalate.

2. Collaborative Partnerships:

Establish strategic alliances with law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and industry experts.
Share threat intelligence and collaborate on investigations.
Enhance collective knowledge and capabilities for effective incident response.

3. Transparent Communication:

Openly and honestly disclose security incidents and vulnerabilities.
Provide clear and timely updates on investigations and remediation measures.
Build trust by demonstrating transparency and accountability.

4. Privacy-Conscious Security:

Implement robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information.
Comply with privacy regulations and industry standards.
Respect the rights and concerns of users and stakeholders.

5. Risk-Based Decision-Making:

Continuously assess risks and prioritize threats based on their potential impact.
Use quantitative and qualitative analysis to allocate resources effectively.
Make informed decisions to prevent and mitigate security incidents.

Recommendations

1. Invest in Data Analytics:

Allocate funding and resources to enhance data analytics capabilities.
Develop advanced algorithms and models for threat detection and risk assessment.

2. Foster Collaboration:

Build formal and informal partnerships with external stakeholders.
Participate in industry forums and working groups.
Share knowledge and expertise to address common security challenges.

3. Enhance Communication:

Establish clear communication protocols for incident response and vulnerability disclosure.
Use multiple channels to disseminate information and updates.
Engage with stakeholders to address their concerns and build trust.

4. Prioritize Privacy:

Develop comprehensive data protection policies and procedures.
Implement encryption, access controls, and breach response plans.
Seek certification from independent privacy organizations to demonstrate compliance.

5. Promote Risk Awareness:

Educate stakeholders on security risks and their potential consequences.
Conduct regular security awareness training for employees and users.
Encourage responsible behavior and incident reporting.

Conclusion

Regaining lost trust in security operations requires a multifaceted approach that leverages data-driven intelligence, collaborative partnerships, transparent communication, privacy-conscious measures, and risk-based decision-making. By implementing these recommendations, organizations can enhance their security posture, foster positive relationships, and rebuild trust.

Gartner: Mitigating security threats in AI agents

Published: Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:34:00 GMT

Gartner: Mitigating Security Threats in AI Agents

Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) agents are rapidly becoming more prevalent in various industries, automating tasks, improving decision-making, and enhancing customer experiences. However, AI agents also introduce new security risks that must be addressed to mitigate potential vulnerabilities and maintain data integrity.

Security Threats in AI Agents
AI agents pose several security threats, including:

Adversarial Examples: Attackers can create malicious inputs designed to manipulate AI models and cause incorrect or unintended behavior.
Data Poisoning: Injecting malicious data into AI training datasets can compromise the model’s integrity and functionality.
Model Theft: Pre-trained AI models can be stolen and reused for malicious purposes, potentially exposing sensitive information or spreading misinformation.

Mitigating Security Threats

Gartner recommends the following strategies to mitigate security threats in AI agents:

1. Model Hardening

Implement techniques such as adversarial training, input validation, and data augmentation to make models robust against malicious inputs.
Use ensemble models to combine predictions from multiple AI agents, reducing the risk of a single agent being compromised.

2. Data Security

Protect training and validation datasets from unauthorized access and modification.
Use encryption and access control measures to secure data in transit and at rest.
Monitor data for anomalies or suspicious activities.

3. Model Ownership

Establish clear ownership and accountability for AI models.
Track model usage and performance to identify potential security breaches or unauthorized access.
Implement model versioning to revert to known-good states in case of a compromise.

4. Security Testing

Perform regular security testing on AI agents to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Use adversarial testing tools to simulate malicious inputs and evaluate model resilience.
Engage with security experts to obtain external perspectives and identify potential blind spots.

5. Collaboration and Governance

Foster collaboration between security and AI teams to ensure a shared understanding of security risks and mitigation strategies.
Establish a governance framework for AI development and deployment that includes security considerations.
Implement risk assessments and security audits to continuously evaluate and improve AI security posture.

Conclusion
By implementing these mitigation strategies, organizations can reduce the security risks associated with AI agents. It is crucial to prioritize security throughout the AI lifecycle, from data collection to model deployment, to protect sensitive data, maintain trust, and prevent malicious exploitation of AI systems.

Medtech startup brings Oracle AI to bear on cancer drug research

Published: Mon, 23 Sep 2024 06:11:00 GMT

Medtech Startup Leverages Oracle AI for Cancer Drug Research

A leading medtech startup has partnered with Oracle to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in the development of cancer drugs. This collaboration aims to accelerate the discovery and optimization of new therapies, potentially saving lives and improving patient outcomes.

Utilizing Oracle AI

The startup integrated Oracle’s AI platform into its research workflow, which comprises vast datasets of cancer genomics, drug targets, and patient outcomes. Oracle AI’s machine learning algorithms analyze this data to identify patterns, relationships, and potential drug candidates.

Automated Drug Discovery

Oracle AI’s capabilities automate much of the drug discovery process. The platform predicts promising targets, evaluates drug interactions, and optimizes drug structures. This automation reduces the time and resources required for research, enabling scientists to focus on more complex and critical tasks.

Precision Medicine

The AI platform supports personalized medicine by leveraging patient data to predict individual drug responses. Researchers can tailor treatments based on genetic profiles, maximizing efficacy and reducing side effects.

Accelerated Clinical Trials

Oracle AI accelerates clinical trial design and analysis. The platform identifies patient subgroups for targeted interventions and optimizes trial protocols to ensure maximum data quality.

Improved Patient Outcomes

The combination of advanced AI and comprehensive cancer data enables the startup to:

Discover and develop more effective therapies
Target treatments to individual patient needs
Reduce drug development timelines and costs
Improve patient survival rates and quality of life

Future Impact

The partnership between the medtech startup and Oracle has the potential to revolutionize cancer drug research. By harnessing AI, the industry can accelerate innovation, improve precision medicine, and ultimately enhance the lives of patients battling this devastating disease.

CrowdStrike incident shows we need to rethink cyber

Published: Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:17:00 GMT

CrowdStrike Incident Highlights Need for Cyber Rethink

The recent CrowdStrike incident serves as a stark reminder that organizations need to rethink their approach to cybersecurity. Here’s why:

1. The Evolving Threat Landscape:

Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and persistent. Incidents like CrowdStrike demonstrate that they are targeting high-value companies with complex attacks that bypass traditional defenses.

2. The Importance of Endpoint Security:

Endpoints are the primary gateways through which attackers gain access to networks. CrowdStrike’s incident highlights the critical role of endpoint security in detecting and preventing breaches.

3. The Value of Behavioral Analytics:

Traditional signature-based security relies on known threats, but attackers are constantly evolving their tactics. Behavioral analytics, which monitors user behavior for anomalies, can detect previously unknown threats in real-time.

4. The Need for Threat Intelligence:

Organizations need access to up-to-date threat intelligence to stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities. This intelligence can help them proactively identify and mitigate risks.

5. The Importance of Incident Response:

Effective incident response is crucial for minimizing the impact of a breach. CrowdStrike’s incident resolution time of 24 hours is a testament to the importance of having a well-rehearsed response plan.

How to Rethink Cyber:

In light of these lessons, organizations need to adopt a more holistic and proactive approach to cybersecurity. This includes:

Investing in Endpoint Security: Strengthening endpoint security with EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) solutions that provide visibility and control over endpoints.
Enhancing Behavioral Analytics: Integrating behavioral analytics into security systems to detect malicious behavior in real-time.
Leveraging Threat Intelligence: Subscribing to threat intelligence feeds and sharing information with other organizations to stay informed about emerging threats.
Developing a Robust Incident Response Plan: Establishing a clear plan that outlines roles, responsibilities, and procedures for responding to cyber incidents effectively.
Training and Education: Raising awareness among employees about cybersecurity best practices and the importance of reporting suspicious activity.

By rethinking their approach to cyber, organizations can better protect themselves against the evolving threat landscape and reduce the risk of costly breaches.

HSBC tests post-quantum VPN tunnel for digital ledgers

Published: Thu, 19 Sep 2024 10:31:00 GMT

HSBC Tests Post-Quantum VPN Tunnel for Digital Ledgers

Overview:

HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations, is exploring the use of post-quantum cryptography to secure its digital ledgers and VPN tunnels.

Post-Quantum Cryptography:

Post-quantum cryptography refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to resist attacks from quantum computers. Quantum computers, while still in their early stages, have the potential to break current encryption standards like RSA and ECC.

VPN Tunnel:

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunnel creates a secure connection between two or more devices over the internet. VPN tunnels are commonly used to protect data transmission and provide remote access to networks.

HSBC’s Test:

HSBC partnered with Thales, a global security company, to test the performance and security of a post-quantum VPN tunnel for the bank’s digital ledgers. Digital ledgers are used to record and track financial transactions and other critical data.

Key Findings:

The post-quantum VPN tunnel successfully protected the digital ledger data from attacks.
The tunnel maintained high performance, with minimal impact on data transfer speeds.
The tunnel was tested against a range of quantum attack simulations, including Shor’s algorithm.

Significance:

HSBC’s test demonstrates the potential of post-quantum cryptography to secure critical infrastructure and protect data from emerging threats. By adopting post-quantum VPN tunnels, banks and other financial institutions can enhance the security of their digital ledgers and financial transactions.

Future Outlook:

HSBC plans to continue its research and development in post-quantum cryptography. The bank aims to integrate post-quantum algorithms into its core systems and infrastructure to provide long-term protection against quantum attacks.

Conclusion:

HSBC’s test of a post-quantum VPN tunnel for digital ledgers is a significant step towards securing the future of digital finance. By leveraging post-quantum cryptography, banks and other organizations can proactively mitigate the risks posed by quantum computing and protect their critical data.

NCSC exposes Chinese company running malicious Mirai botnet

Published: Wed, 18 Sep 2024 13:18:00 GMT

NCSC Exposes Chinese Company Running Malicious Mirai Botnet

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of the UK’s GCHQ intelligence agency, has identified a Chinese company as the operator of a malicious botnet that has infected millions of devices worldwide.

Background

The Mirai botnet is a network of hacked devices, typically Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as routers and webcams, that can be remotely controlled by an attacker. It was first discovered in 2016 and has since been used in numerous high-profile distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, including one that temporarily brought down the popular domain name system (DNS) provider Dyn.

Investigation

The NCSC conducted an investigation and identified a Chinese company called Hangzhou Xiongmai Technology as the operator of the Mirai botnet. The company is a manufacturer of surveillance cameras and other IoT devices.

Modus Operandi

The NCSC found that Xiongmai was exploiting vulnerabilities in its own devices to infect them with Mirai malware. Once infected, the devices could be remotely controlled by the company to carry out DDoS attacks or other malicious activities.

Impact

The Mirai botnet has infected millions of devices worldwide, including in the UK. It has been used to launch DDoS attacks against various targets, including websites, critical infrastructure, and even hospitals.

Government Response

The UK government has condemned Xiongmai’s activities and has called on the Chinese government to take action. The NCSC has advised users to update their IoT devices with the latest security patches and to be vigilant for signs of infection.

Conclusion

The NCSC’s exposure of Xiongmai as the operator of the Mirai botnet is a significant step in combating cyber threats. It highlights the importance of securing IoT devices and the need for international cooperation to tackle malicious actors.

What is email spam and how to fight it?

Published: Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 GMT

What is Email Spam?

Email spam refers to unsolicited, unwanted electronic messages (emails) sent in bulk to a large number of recipients. Spam messages often contain irrelevant or deceptive content, such as:

Advertisements
Phishing attempts
Malware
Get-rich-quick schemes
Chain letters

How to Fight Email Spam:

1. Use a Reputable Email Service:

Choose an email provider that offers robust spam filters and security measures.

2. Filter Incoming Emails:

Set up filters to automatically sort suspected spam emails into a separate folder.

3. Mark Emails as Spam:

When you receive a spam email, flag it as spam. This helps your email service learn and improve its filtering ability.

4. Be Cautious of Suspicious Attachments:

Never open attachments from unknown senders, as they may contain malware.

5. Use Strong Passwords:

Use complex passwords for your email account to prevent unauthorized access.

6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

If available, enable 2FA for your email account. This adds an extra layer of security.

7. Avoid Clicking on Spam Links:

Do not click on links in suspicious emails. They may lead to phishing websites or malicious software downloads.

8. Report Spam:

Report suspected spam emails to your email provider or spam reporting organizations.

9. Use Spam-Blocking Software:

Consider using third-party spam-blocking software to complement your email filters.

10. Be Vigilant and Educated:

Stay informed about the latest spam tactics and best practices for email security.

Additional Tips:

Regularly check your spam folder for legitimate emails that may have been incorrectly filtered.
Be skeptical of emails requesting personal or financial information.
Unsubscribe from newsletters or mailing lists that you no longer want to receive.
Use a disposable email address for low-importance accounts that may be more susceptible to spam.

What is passive keyless entry (PKE)?

Published: Tue, 17 Sep 2024 13:00:00 GMT

Passive keyless entry (PKE) is a system that allows a user to enter a vehicle and start the engine without the need for a physical key. The system typically uses a small fob or other device that emits a radio signal. When the user is close to the vehicle, the signal is picked up by sensors on the vehicle, which then unlock the doors and allow the user to start the engine. PKE systems are often used in conjunction with other security features, such as immobilizers, to prevent unauthorized entry and theft.

First CyberBoost Catalyse startup cohort named

Published: Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:30:00 GMT

Sure, here is the first CyberBoost Catalyse startup cohort:

Arkose Labs - develops technology that protects websites and mobile apps from fraud.
Behavox - provides a data analytics platform for financial institutions to detect and prevent financial crime.
BioBeats - develops AI-powered wearables to monitor and improve mental health.
Bluspark - provides a data security platform to protect businesses from data breaches.
Caeli - develops software to help businesses manage and track their environmental data.
Ceres Imaging - develops satellite imagery to monitor and track deforestation.
Chronosphere - provides a distributed time-series database for DevOps teams.
Cyborg - provides a platform for businesses to build and deploy AI models.
Definitive Healthcare - provides data and analytics on the healthcare industry.
Digital Shadows - provides threat intelligence and security services to businesses.
Edge Impulse - provides a platform to develop and deploy machine learning models on embedded devices.
Enveil - provides a platform to protect data at rest.
Exabeam - provides a threat detection and response platform for businesses.
Excision BioTherapeutics - develops cell therapies to treat cancer.
Feedzai - provides a fraud detection and prevention platform for businesses.
Fiddler - develops a web debugging platform.
FireHydrant - provides a platform to manage and respond to security incidents.
Guardicore - provides a platform to protect data centers from cyberattacks.
JupiterOne - provides a platform to manage and track cyber assets.
Lacework - provides a platform to detect and respond to cloud security threats.
LightCyber - provides a platform to protect businesses from ransomware attacks.
LogDNA - provides a log management and analytics platform.
Lucidworks - provides a search and discovery platform.
Magnetic - provides a data privacy platform.
Mend - provides a platform to identify and fix security vulnerabilities in open source software.
Mimecast - provides email security and archiving services.
NeuVector - provides a container security platform.
ObserveIT - provides a user behavior analytics platform.
OpenWeb - develops a platform to build and deploy web applications.
Orca Security - provides a cloud security platform.
Palo Alto Networks - provides a range of cybersecurity products and services.
PerimeterX - provides a bot detection and mitigation platform.
PhishMe - provides a phishing simulation and training platform.
Portshift - provides a platform to protect businesses from API attacks.
Preempt - provides a platform to predict and prevent security breaches.
Qomplx - provides a platform to manage and track third-party risk.
ReversingLabs - provides a platform to analyze and detect malware.
RiskIQ - provides a threat intelligence platform.
SafeBreach - provides a platform to simulate cyberattacks.
SentinelOne - provides an endpoint security platform.
Shape Security - provides a bot detection and mitigation platform.
Signal Sciences - provides a web application firewall.
Sixgill - provides a threat intelligence platform.
Source Defense - provides a platform to protect software supply chains.
StackRox - provides a container security platform.
Status - provides a messaging platform for businesses.
Swimlane - provides a security orchestration, automation, and response platform.
Synack - provides a platform to conduct crowdsourced security testing.
ThreatQuotient - provides a threat intelligence platform.
Valkyrie - provides a platform to protect businesses from ransomware attacks.
Vectra - provides a threat detection and response platform.
Vera - provides a platform to manage and track security compliance.
Verodin - provides a platform to simulate cyberattacks.
Voleer - provides a platform to protect businesses from phishing attacks.
Zscaler - provides a cloud security platform.

These startups are all working on cutting-edge technologies to improve cybersecurity. They are all led by experienced teams with a deep understanding of the cybersecurity landscape. I am excited to see what they accomplish in the future.

I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Crest secures FCDO funding to help overseas countries increase their cyber-readiness

Published: Mon, 16 Sep 2024 08:45:00 GMT

Crest Secures FCDO Funding to Enhance Cyber-Readiness Globally

Crest, a UK-based cybersecurity professional body, has secured funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to assist overseas countries in strengthening their cyber resilience.

Program Details

Through this program, Crest will provide targeted support to countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. The initiative will focus on:

Capacity building: Training and mentoring cybersecurity professionals to improve their technical skills and knowledge
Policy development: Supporting the development of robust cybersecurity frameworks and regulations
Incident response: Enhancing countries’ ability to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents

Significance

Cybersecurity has become a critical issue for all nations. Increasing digital connectivity and the proliferation of sophisticated cyber threats pose significant risks to governments, businesses, and citizens alike.

By investing in cyber-readiness, countries can:

Protect critical infrastructure and national security
Foster economic growth and innovation
Improve the safety and security of citizens online

Crest’s Expertise

Crest is a recognized leader in the cybersecurity industry. Its members include highly skilled professionals with a deep understanding of cybersecurity threats and best practices.

Through this program, Crest will leverage its expertise to support overseas countries in developing a strong and effective cybersecurity posture.

FCDO’s Support

The FCDO recognizes the importance of cybersecurity as a key priority for UK foreign policy. This funding demonstrates the UK’s commitment to supporting overseas partners in building their cyber resilience.

Conclusion

Crest’s FCDO-funded program is a significant step towards enhancing global cyber-readiness. By providing targeted support to countries worldwide, the initiative will help protect individuals, businesses, and governments from the ever-evolving threats of cyberspace.

Automation driving SD-WAN optimisation

Published: Mon, 16 Sep 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Automation Driving SD-WAN Optimization

Software-Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WANs) provide enterprises with a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective way to connect their branch offices and remote users. However, managing and optimizing SD-WANs can be complex and time-consuming, especially for large enterprises with hundreds or thousands of sites.

Automation can help enterprises overcome these challenges by automating tasks such as:

Provisioning: Automating the process of configuring and deploying SD-WAN devices can reduce errors and save time.
Monitoring: Automating the monitoring of SD-WAN devices can help enterprises quickly identify and resolve performance issues.
Optimization: Automating the process of optimizing SD-WAN traffic can improve application performance and user experience.

By automating these tasks, enterprises can reduce the cost of managing their SD-WANs, improve performance, and free up IT staff to focus on other strategic initiatives.

Benefits of Automating SD-WAN Optimization

There are several benefits to automating SD-WAN optimization, including:

Reduced costs: Automation can help enterprises reduce the cost of managing their SD-WANs by eliminating the need for manual labor.
Improved performance: Automation can help enterprises improve the performance of their SD-WANs by identifying and resolving performance issues faster.
Increased agility: Automation can help enterprises become more agile by allowing them to quickly adapt their SD-WANs to changing business needs.
Improved security: Automation can help enterprises improve the security of their SD-WANs by automating security tasks such as patching and updating firmware.
Increased compliance: Automation can help enterprises ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by documenting and automating compliance-related tasks.

Best Practices for Automating SD-WAN Optimization

There are several best practices that enterprises can follow to automate SD-WAN optimization, including:

Start with a small pilot: Start by automating a small pilot project to test the effectiveness of your automation tools and processes.
Focus on high-value tasks: Identify the tasks that are most time-consuming and error-prone, and focus on automating those tasks first.
Use a proven automation platform: There are several proven automation platforms available, such as Ansible, Puppet, and Chef. Use a platform that is supported by your SD-WAN vendor.
Document your automation processes: It is important to document your automation processes so that you can maintain and update them over time.
Monitor your automation results: Monitor the results of your automation efforts to ensure that you are achieving the desired results.

Conclusion

Automation can help enterprises overcome the challenges of managing and optimizing SD-WANs. By automating tasks such as provisioning, monitoring, and optimization, enterprises can reduce costs, improve performance, and free up IT staff to focus on other strategic initiatives.

UK unites nations to discuss closing global cyber skills gap

Published: Sun, 15 Sep 2024 19:01:00 GMT

UK Unites Nations to Address Global Cyber Skills Gap

The United Kingdom has taken the initiative to bring together nations around the world to address the pressing issue of the global cyber skills gap.

Growing Demand and Supply Imbalance

The digital age has witnessed an exponential rise in the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect critical infrastructure, prevent data breaches, and respond to cyber threats. However, the supply of qualified individuals has not kept pace with the demand, creating a significant skills gap.

International Collaboration

Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, the UK launched the Global Cyber Skills Initiative in 2022. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among nations, businesses, and educational institutions to create a global pipeline of cybersecurity talent.

Recent Meeting

On February 23-24, 2023, the UK hosted a meeting in London to discuss the progress and challenges in closing the global cyber skills gap. Representatives from over 20 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and Singapore, participated in the event.

Key Findings and Next Steps

Shared Commitment: All participants expressed their shared commitment to addressing the cyber skills gap and recognized the importance of international collaboration.
Education and Training: The meeting highlighted the need for improved cybersecurity education and training at all levels, from primary schools to universities and industry certifications.
Apprenticeships and Certifications: Expanding apprenticeships and industry certifications will provide practical experience and ensure that graduates have the skills employers need.
Diversity and Inclusion: Promoting diversity and inclusion in the cybersecurity field is crucial to attract a broader range of talent and create a more representative workforce.
Cybersecurity Diplomacy: The meeting emphasized the role of cybersecurity diplomacy in fostering cooperation and sharing best practices among nations.

Next Steps

Building on the progress made at the meeting, the UK plans to:

Establish a working group to coordinate global efforts and track progress.
Launch a global campaign to raise awareness of the cyber skills gap and encourage individuals to pursue careers in the field.
Develop a framework for sharing and recognizing cybersecurity certifications.

Conclusion

The UK’s Global Cyber Skills Initiative is a significant step towards addressing the global cyber skills gap. By uniting nations from around the world, the UK is fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and creating pathways for a future-ready cybersecurity workforce. This initiative is essential to ensuring the digital safety and economic prosperity of all nations in the 21st century.