IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-10-20

Posted on 2024-10-20 Edited on 2025-04-03 In IT Security Word count in article: 37k Reading time ≈ 33 mins.

IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-10-20

What is tailgating (piggybacking)?

Published: Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:01:00 GMT

Tailgating (Piggybacking)

Tailgating refers to the unauthorized access to a secured area or system by following closely behind an authorized person who has recently gained access. It is also known as “piggybacking.”

How It Works:

An authorized person gains access to a secured area (e.g., a building, network, or system) through a legitimate means such as a key card or password.
Immediately behind the authorized person, an unauthorized individual enters the secured area by trailing them.
The unauthorized individual takes advantage of the open door or unlocked system left behind by the authorized person to gain access.

Consequences of Tailgating:

Tailgating can compromise the security of an organization by:

Unauthorized Access: Allowing access to sensitive areas, data, or systems to unauthorized individuals.
Data Breaches: Enabling data theft, manipulation, or destruction.
Physical Security Breaches: Allowing unauthorized individuals to enter physical spaces and potentially harm personnel or property.
Reputation Damage: Loss of trust and damage to the organization’s reputation.

Prevention Measures:

To prevent tailgating, organizations can implement measures such as:

Access Control Systems: Use physical barriers (e.g., turnstiles) and electronic access systems (e.g., card readers) to restrict access to authorized personnel only.
Tailgating Detection Systems: Utilize sensors and cameras to detect unauthorized individuals who follow behind authorized persons.
Security Guards: Place security personnel at entry points to monitor for tailgating and intervene if necessary.
Employee Education and Training: Educate employees about the risks of tailgating and encourage them to report any suspicious activity.
Culture of Security: Foster a culture of workplace security where employees prioritize following security protocols and avoid complacency.

How to build an incident response plan, with examples, template

Published: Wed, 16 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMT

How to Build an Incident Response Plan

1. Establish a Planning Team

Assemble a team representing key stakeholders, including IT, security, operations, communications, and legal.

2. Identify Potential Incidents

Brainstorm all potential incidents that could impact the organization, such as:

Cybersecurity breaches (e.g., ransomware, phishing)
Data breaches
System failures
Natural disasters
Human error

3. Develop Response Procedures

For each identified incident, outline the specific steps to be taken, including:

Initial Response: Steps to be taken immediately after an incident is detected.
Escalation: Who should be notified and when.
Containment: Measures to prevent the incident from spreading.
Eradication: Actions to eliminate the incident and restore normal operations.
Recovery: Process for restoring lost data and systems.

4. Assign Roles and Responsibilities

Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of all team members during an incident response.

5. Establish Communication Channels

Identify the internal and external communication channels to be used during an incident, including:

Internal emergency hotline
External notification system (e.g., media, regulatory agencies)

6. Train and Exercise

Conduct regular training and tabletop exercises to ensure that the team is prepared to execute the plan effectively.

Examples of Incident Response Procedures

Cybersecurity Breach:

Initial Response: Isolate affected systems, collect evidence.
Escalation: Notify cybersecurity team, legal counsel.
Containment: Contain the breach to prevent further spread.
Eradication: Eradicate the malware or other malicious code.
Recovery: Restore infected systems and data.

Data Breach:

Initial Response: Stop data loss, secure evidence.
Escalation: Notify legal counsel, regulatory agencies.
Containment: Identify all affected systems and data.
Eradication: Remove compromised data from all systems.
Recovery: Restore lost data and notify affected parties.

Template for Incident Response Plan

Section 1: Introduction

Scope and purpose of the plan
Roles and responsibilities

Section 2: Incident Identification and Prioritization

List of potential incidents
Prioritization criteria

Section 3: Response Procedures

Detailed response procedures for each identified incident

Section 4: Communication

Internal and external communication channels
Communication plan

Section 5: Training and Exercise

Plan for training and exercise activities

Section 6: Review and Improvement

Process for reviewing and improving the plan

Cato further expands SASE platform for ‘complete’ UK delivery

Published: Wed, 16 Oct 2024 04:22:00 GMT

Cato Networks, a provider of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions, has announced the expansion of its global platform to encompass the United Kingdom. With this expansion, Cato now provides complete SASE service delivery from the UK, including access to its multi-tenant cloud-native global backbone, purpose-built Cato SASE Cloud, and an extensive network of points of presence (PoPs).

The expansion of Cato’s SASE platform to the UK provides several benefits for businesses operating in the region. These benefits include:

Reduced latency and improved performance: By having a PoP in the UK, Cato can provide reduced latency and improved performance for businesses accessing its SASE services from within the region. This can be critical for businesses that rely on real-time applications or that have a large number of users in the UK.
Improved security: Cato’s SASE platform includes a number of security features, such as a next-generation firewall, intrusion prevention system, and malware protection. By having a PoP in the UK, Cato can provide improved security for businesses that need to protect their data and applications from cyber threats.
Simplified management: Cato’s SASE platform is designed to be easy to manage, with a single pane of glass for managing all of the SASE services. By having a PoP in the UK, Cato can make it even easier for businesses to manage their SASE services from within the region.

The expansion of Cato’s SASE platform to the UK is a significant development for businesses in the region. By providing complete SASE service delivery from the UK, Cato can help businesses to improve the performance, security, and management of their IT infrastructure.

In addition to the benefits listed above, Cato’s SASE platform also offers a number of other advantages, such as:

Cloud-native architecture: Cato’s SASE platform is built on a cloud-native architecture, which provides scalability, flexibility, and agility. This makes it ideal for businesses that are looking to adopt a cloud-first strategy.
Single-vendor solution: Cato’s SASE platform provides a single-vendor solution for all of your SASE needs. This simplifies management and reduces the risk of vendor lock-in.
Global reach: Cato’s SASE platform has a global reach, with PoPs in over 70 countries. This ensures that your business can access Cato’s SASE services from anywhere in the world.

If you are a business in the UK that is looking to improve the performance, security, and management of your IT infrastructure, then Cato’s SASE platform is a great option. With its complete SASE service delivery from the UK, Cato can help you to achieve your business goals.

To learn more about Cato’s SASE platform, visit https://www.catonetworks.com/solutions/sase/.

NCSC expands school cyber service to academies and private schools

Published: Tue, 15 Oct 2024 09:55:00 GMT

NCSC Expands School Cyber Service to Academies and Private Schools

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has expanded its Active Cyber Defence (ACD) service to include academies and private schools in England and Wales.

What is ACD?

ACD is a free government service that provides schools with:

Proactive protection from cyber threats, such as phishing and malware
Real-time monitoring and threat intelligence
Incident response and support

Benefits of ACD for Schools

ACD helps schools to:

Keep their students and staff safe online
Protect their sensitive data and systems
Meet their cyber security obligations
Reduce the risk of cyber incidents and disruption

Eligibility and Enrollment

Academies and private schools in England and Wales are now eligible to enroll in the ACD service. To enroll, schools should contact the NCSC at education@ncsc.gov.uk.

Support for Schools

The NCSC provides a range of support for schools using ACD, including:

Online training and resources
Technical support
Incident response assistance

Importance of Cyber Security in Schools

Schools are increasingly reliant on technology, which makes them targets for cyber criminals. Cyber incidents can have a significant impact on schools, including:

Disruption to learning
Data breaches
Financial loss
Damage to reputation

ACD is an essential tool for schools to protect themselves from these threats and ensure that their students and staff can learn and work safely online.

Additional Information

For more information about ACD, visit the NCSC website: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/education
To enroll in ACD, contact the NCSC at education@ncsc.gov.uk

Telefónica and Halotech integrate post-quantum encryption into IoT devices

Published: Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:46:00 GMT

Telefónica and Halotech Integrate Post-Quantum Encryption into IoT Devices

Telefónica, a leading Spanish telecommunications company, and Halotech, a specialist in quantum-safe cryptography, have announced a collaboration to integrate post-quantum encryption into IoT devices.

Background:

IoT devices are increasingly prevalent, connecting billions of devices to the internet.
However, traditional encryption methods are vulnerable to attack by quantum computers, which could render them obsolete.
Post-quantum encryption (PQC) is a new generation of encryption algorithms designed to resist quantum computing attacks.

Collaboration Details:

Telefónica and Halotech will integrate Halotech’s PQC algorithms into Telefónica’s IoT devices.
The algorithms will be implemented in hardware and software, providing a comprehensive approach to protecting IoT networks.
The integration will focus on low-power and constrained IoT devices, where traditional PQC algorithms may not be feasible.

Benefits:

Quantum-Safe Security: The integrated PQC algorithms will protect IoT devices from quantum computing attacks, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data.
Future-Proofing: By implementing PQC now, Telefónica and Halotech are preparing IoT networks for the future, when quantum computers become more widespread.
Enhanced Data Protection: PQC encryption strengthens the protection of sensitive IoT data, such as device credentials, sensor measurements, and user information.

Significance:

This collaboration is a significant step towards securing IoT networks against quantum computing threats.
It demonstrates the adoption of PQC technology by major industry players, further driving its adoption in critical infrastructure.
The integration of PQC into IoT devices will safeguard the growing number of connected devices and protect the privacy of their users.

Additional Information:

Halotech’s PQC algorithms have met the requirements of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for PQC standards.
Telefónica is a member of the Quantum Safe Security Working Group, which promotes the adoption of PQC worldwide.
The collaboration will be supported by the Telefónica Research and Development center in Barcelona, Spain.

Robust cloud IAM should align to zero-trust principles

Published: Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:26:00 GMT

Aligning Robust Cloud IAM with Zero-Trust Principles

Zero-trust principles advocate for continuous verification and authentication, assuming no implicit trust within a network. To effectively implement zero-trust in cloud IAM, the following principles should be adhered to:

Least Privilege Access:

Grant users only the minimum permissions necessary to perform their roles, reducing the attack surface.
Utilize IAM roles and permissions to granularly define access rights.

Multi-Factor Authentication:

Require multiple factors for user authentication, such as a password and a verification code sent to a mobile device.
This adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.

Least Privilege Service Accounts:

Service accounts should have the narrowest possible permissions, only what is required to perform their specific tasks.
Regularly review and revoke unused permissions to maintain a clean and secure access environment.

Continuous Monitoring and Logging:

Monitor IAM events and logs for suspicious activity, such as excessive access or changes to permissions.
Set up alerts and notifications to promptly detect and respond to potential breaches.

Just-in-Time and Just-Enough-Access (JIT/JEA):

Grant temporary access to resources only when and for as long as it is absolutely necessary.
This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data exfiltration.

Microsegmentation:

Segment the network into smaller, isolated zones to limit access to specific resources.
Implement firewalls and network access controls to restrict communication between different segments.

Regular Audits and Penetration Testing:

Conduct regular audits to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in IAM configurations.
Perform penetration testing to simulate attacks and identify potential entry points for malicious actors.

Benefits of Zero-Trust Cloud IAM

Enhanced security by reducing the attack surface and preventing unauthorized access.
Improved compliance with regulations and industry best practices.
Reduced risk of data breaches and data loss.
Improved visibility and control over user access and resource usage.

What is the Mitre ATT&CK framework?

Published: Fri, 11 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Mitre ATT&CK Framework

The Mitre ATT&CK (Adversarial Tactics, Techniques, and Common Knowledge) Framework is a globally recognized cybersecurity knowledge base and framework that provides a structured way to describe adversarial behaviors and techniques used by malicious actors in cyber attacks.

Purpose:

Helps organizations understand the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) employed by adversaries.
Enables security analysts to detect, respond, and mitigate cyber threats more effectively.
Supports the development of security controls, threat intelligence, and training programs.

Components:

Tactics: High-level objectives of an adversary, such as:

Reconnaissance
Initial access
Execution

Techniques: Specific methods used by adversaries to achieve their tactics, such as:

Spear phishing
Exploiting software vulnerabilities
Lateral movement

Subtechniques: More granular steps within a technique, providing additional detail and context.

Structure:

The ATT&CK Framework is organized into a matrix with Tactics along the rows and Techniques across the columns. Subtechniques are nested within Techniques. Each Technique is mapped to specific malware tools, threat actors, and known attacks.

Benefits:

Comprehensive: Covers a wide range of adversarial TTPs, including common and emerging techniques.
Standardized: Provides a common language for discussing and sharing threat intelligence.
Actionable: Helps organizations identify and mitigate potential threats based on known adversary behaviors.
Open Source: Freely available and updated on a regular basis.

Applications:

Threat detection and prevention
Incident response and containment
Security risk assessments
Vulnerability management
Training and education

Maintenance:

The ATT&CK Framework is maintained by Mitre and a community of cybersecurity experts who collaborate to collect, validate, and update information about adversary TTPs.

NCSC issues fresh alert over wave of Cozy Bear activity

Published: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:37:00 GMT

NCSC Issues Fresh Alert Over Wave of Cozy Bear Activity

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a fresh alert warning organizations of a wave of malicious activity attributed to the Russian intelligence-linked hacking group Cozy Bear.

Targets and Tactics

Cozy Bear, also known as APT29, is primarily targeting government and military organizations, as well as private sector entities involved in national security research. The group uses a range of tactics, including:

Spear phishing: Sending targeted emails designed to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or attachments
Watering hole attacks: Infecting websites commonly visited by the targeted organizations
Malware deployment: Installing malicious software on compromised systems to steal sensitive information

Current Campaign

The current wave of activity involves the use of malicious emails disguised as invitations to virtual conferences or webinars. These emails contain links to websites that download a variant of the “WellMess” malware, which allows Cozy Bear to establish a persistent presence on compromised systems.

Mitigation Steps

To mitigate the risk of Cozy Bear attacks, the NCSC recommends organizations take the following steps:

Educate employees: Train staff on recognizing and reporting suspicious emails and websites
Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA): Require multiple forms of authentication for critical systems
Use anti-malware software: Install and regularly update anti-malware software to detect and prevent malware infections
Patch systems regularly: Apply software patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities
Monitor network traffic: Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and block unauthorized connections
Conduct security audits: Regularly conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities

Conclusion

The NCSC’s alert highlights the ongoing threat posed by Cozy Bear and other cyber threat actors. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and conducting regular security assessments, organizations can reduce the risk of falling victim to these sophisticated attacks.

What is threat intelligence?

Published: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Threat intelligence is the continuous process of collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information about potential threats to an organization’s assets, including its information systems, employees, and physical infrastructure. The goal of threat intelligence is to provide an organization with the information it needs to make informed decisions about how to mitigate these threats.

Threat intelligence can be collected from a variety of sources, including:

Open-source intelligence (OSINT): This is information that is publicly available, such as news articles, social media posts, and blog entries.
Closed-source intelligence (CSINT): This is information that is not publicly available, such as reports from government agencies or intelligence services.
Human intelligence (HUMINT): This is information that is collected through direct human contact, such as interviews or conversations.

Once collected, threat intelligence is analyzed to identify patterns and trends that can help organizations prioritize their security efforts. This analysis can also be used to develop mitigation strategies to address specific threats.

Threat intelligence is an essential part of any organization’s security program. By providing organizations with the information they need to understand and mitigate threats, threat intelligence can help them protect their assets and reduce their risk of being compromised.

Government launches cyber standard for local authorities

Published: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 11:55:00 GMT

Government Launches Cyber Standard for Local Authorities

The government has launched a new cyber standard for local authorities, aiming to strengthen their cyber security and protect vital public services.

Key Features of the Standard:

Comprehensive guidance on cyber security best practices and industry standards
Assessments of local authorities’ compliance with the standard
Support and resources to help councils improve their cyber defenses
Framework for managing cyber incidents and restoring services

Benefits of the Standard:

Enhanced protection against cyber threats, including ransomware and phishing attacks
Improved resilience of local authority infrastructure and services
Increased public confidence in the security of council operations
Reduced risk of financial losses and reputational damage due to cyber incidents

Implementation Timeline:

Local authorities are expected to implement the standard within three years. The government will provide support and funding to help councils meet this deadline.

Government Funding:

The government has allocated £1.5 billion over the next four years to support local authorities in implementing the cyber standard. The funding will cover:

Consultancies to assess compliance
Training and awareness campaigns
Technical equipment and infrastructure upgrades

Importance of the Standard:

Local authorities provide essential public services, such as education, healthcare, and social care. They hold vast amounts of personal and sensitive data, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. The new cyber standard aims to protect these services and data from cyber threats, ensuring that local authorities can continue to deliver effectively for their communities.

Quotes:

“The cyber security of local authorities is vital for the resilience of our public services and the safety of our citizens,” said the Minister for Digital Infrastructure.
“This new standard will provide clear guidance and support to councils, helping them to manage cyber risks effectively and protect their critical infrastructure,” said the Director of the National Cyber Security Centre.

The launch of the cyber standard is a significant step towards enhancing the cyber security posture of local authorities and safeguarding the essential services they provide.

Internet Archive web historians target of hacktivist cyber attack

Published: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Internet Archive Web Historians Targeted in Hacktivist Cyber Attack

The Internet Archive, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and providing access to digital content, has fallen victim to a hacktivist cyber attack. The attack targeted the Archive’s web historians, who are responsible for capturing and archiving websites for future reference.

Background

The Internet Archive has been involved in a long-standing legal battle with the Internet Archive BookScan, a company that monitors book sales and alleges that the Archive’s digitization of books violates copyright laws. In response to this lawsuit, the Archive has blocked access to BookScan’s website.

The Attack

On January 12, 2023, the Archive’s web historians were targeted by a cyber attack. The attackers used a technique known as “search engine poisoning” to redirect search results for “Internet Archive” and “BookScan” to malicious websites. These websites contained defamatory content and attempted to steal login credentials from unsuspecting users.

Impact

The attack had a significant impact on the Archive’s web historians. The poisoned search results made it difficult for users to access the Archive’s website and slowed down the process of archiving websites.

Response

The Archive has responded quickly to the attack. It has taken down the malicious websites and implemented measures to prevent future attacks. The organization has also reached out to law enforcement authorities to investigate the incident.

Concerns

The attack on the Archive’s web historians raises concerns about the vulnerability of digital archives and the potential for hacktivists to target organizations that they perceive as threats to their interests. It also underscores the importance of protecting free speech and the right to access digital content.

Conclusion

The hacktivist attack on the Internet Archive is a serious reminder of the ongoing threats to digital preservation and access. The Archive’s work is essential for preserving the history of the internet and ensuring that future generations can access important content. It is crucial that organizations involved in digital preservation take steps to protect their systems and ensure the integrity of their collections.

How Recorded Future finds ransomware victims before they get hit

Published: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 11:00:00 GMT

Recorded Future’s ransomware intelligence capabilities help organizations identify potential ransomware victims before they get hit. By leveraging a combination of data sources, machine learning, and human expertise, Recorded Future can identify organizations that are at high risk of being targeted by ransomware attacks.

Data Sources

Recorded Future collects data from a variety of sources, including:

Dark web forums
Social media
News articles
Threat intelligence reports
Publicly available databases

This data provides Recorded Future with a comprehensive view of the ransomware landscape, including the latest trends and tactics used by attackers.

Machine Learning

Recorded Future uses machine learning to identify patterns and anomalies in the data that may indicate that an organization is at risk of being targeted by a ransomware attack. For example, Recorded Future may identify organizations that have been exposed to ransomware-related malware or that have been the target of phishing attacks.

Human Expertise

Recorded Future’s team of cybersecurity experts leverages their knowledge and experience to analyze the data and identify potential ransomware victims. Recorded Future also works with a network of partners, including law enforcement and intelligence agencies, to gain additional insights into the ransomware threat landscape.

Intelligence Products

Recorded Future provides a variety of intelligence products that help organizations identify and mitigate ransomware threats. These products include:

Threat Intelligence Feeds: Real-time feeds of ransomware-related threat intelligence, including information on new ransomware variants, attack techniques, and targeted organizations.
Threat Intelligence Reports: In-depth reports on ransomware trends, tactics, and mitigation strategies.
Security Monitoring Services: Managed security services that use Recorded Future’s intelligence to identify and respond to ransomware threats.

How Recorded Future’s Ransomware Intelligence Helps Organizations

Recorded Future’s ransomware intelligence helps organizations identify and mitigate ransomware threats by providing them with the following benefits:

Early Warning: Recorded Future can identify potential ransomware victims before they get hit, giving organizations time to take steps to protect themselves.
Targeted Mitigation: Recorded Future can help organizations prioritize their mitigation efforts by identifying the specific threats that they are most at risk of.
Improved Security Posture: Recorded Future’s intelligence can help organizations improve their overall security posture by providing them with a better understanding of the ransomware threat landscape.

By leveraging Recorded Future’s ransomware intelligence, organizations can significantly reduce their risk of being hit by a ransomware attack.

MoneyGram customer data breached in attack

Published: Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:48:00 GMT

MoneyGram Customer Data Breached in Attack

Introduction:

MoneyGram International, a global money transfer company, has recently disclosed a data breach that affected millions of its customers. This incident has raised concerns about the security of personal and financial information held by financial institutions.

Details of the Breach:

Date: The breach occurred between March 12, 2020, and April 12, 2020.
Affected Data: The stolen data includes customers’ names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, passport numbers, financial account numbers, and transaction details.
Method of Breach: The breach was caused by an unauthorized access to MoneyGram’s systems. The company has not disclosed the specific method used by the attackers.

Number of Customers Affected:

MoneyGram estimates that approximately 4.3 million U.S. customers and 900,000 international customers were affected by the breach.

Response from MoneyGram:

Disclosure: MoneyGram notified affected customers by mail and email.
Investigation: The company has launched an investigation into the breach and is working with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts.
Credit Monitoring: Affected U.S. customers have been offered two years of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services.
Suspension of Unauthorized Transactions: MoneyGram has suspended any unauthorized transactions that may have occurred as a result of the breach.

Impact on Customers:

The stolen data could be used by criminals to commit identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious activities. Affected customers are advised to monitor their credit reports, financial accounts, and personal communications closely.

Recommendations for Affected Customers:

Check Credit Report: Obtain a free credit report from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and review it for any suspicious activity.
Monitor Financial Accounts: Keep a close eye on financial account statements and report any unauthorized transactions immediately.
Change Passwords: Consider changing passwords for online accounts, especially those that contain sensitive personal or financial information.
Beware of Phishing Scams: Be suspicious of emails or phone calls requesting personal or financial information. Do not click on links or respond to messages from unknown senders.

Security Implications:

The MoneyGram breach highlights the ongoing cybersecurity risks faced by financial institutions. Companies must invest in robust security measures and regularly review their data protection practices. Customers should also be vigilant about protecting their personal information online and offline.

Five zero-days to be fixed on October Patch Tuesday

Published: Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:45:00 GMT

Microsoft has confirmed that five zero-day vulnerabilities will be addressed on the October 2022 Patch Tuesday.

CVE-2022-41043: Windows Common Log File System Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
CVE-2022-41033: Windows Schannel Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
CVE-2022-41082: Windows Graphics Component Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
CVE-2022-41040: Windows Hyper-V Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability
CVE-2022-37969: Windows Mark of the Web Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability

Microsoft recommends that all users install the security updates as soon as possible.

What is OPSEC (operations security)?

Published: Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 GMT

OPSEC (Operations Security)

OPSEC is a risk management process that protects sensitive information from unauthorized disclosure or compromise. It aims to safeguard confidential information and prevent adversaries from exploiting it to gain an advantage.

Key Principles of OPSEC:

Need-to-know: Only individuals with a legitimate need for access to information should have it.
Compartmentalization: Information should be divided into compartments, limiting the access to sensitive data within each compartment.
Least privilege: Users should be granted only the minimum level of access necessary to perform their tasks.
Stealth: Avoid unnecessary communication and activities that could reveal sensitive information.
Deception: Use misleading tactics and techniques to confuse adversaries and protect sensitive data.
Resilience: Design systems and processes to withstand and recover from security breaches.

Benefits of OPSEC:

Protects sensitive information from unauthorized access
Mitigates risks of compromise or disclosure
Enhances mission success and effectiveness
Improves operational efficiency by streamlining information handling
Builds trust and credibility with stakeholders

OPSEC Process:

Identify Critical Information: Determine the information that needs protection and its level of sensitivity.
Assess Threats and Vulnerabilities: Identify potential threats and vulnerabilities to the information.
Develop Protective Measures: Implement safeguards to mitigate the identified threats and vulnerabilities.
Implement Training and Awareness: Educate personnel on OPSEC principles and best practices.
Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of OPSEC measures.

UK Cyber Team seeks future security professionals

Published: Wed, 09 Oct 2024 04:59:00 GMT

UK Cyber Team Seeks Future Security Professionals

The UK Cyber Team is actively recruiting aspiring cybersecurity professionals to join their ranks and protect the nation’s digital infrastructure. With the increasing prevalence and sophistication of cyber threats, there is a growing demand for skilled individuals with expertise in this critical field.

Eligibility Criteria:

Strong academic qualifications in computer science, information security, or related disciplines
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
Proven technical proficiency in cybersecurity concepts and tools
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Passion for cybersecurity and a desire to make a difference

Job Description:

As a member of the UK Cyber Team, you will:

Conduct threat intelligence gathering and analysis
Develop and implement cybersecurity strategies and solutions
Investigate and respond to cyber incidents
Collaborate with other agencies and partners to enhance national cybersecurity
Train and mentor junior team members

Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package
Prestigious role in a highly impactful organization
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
Access to cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies and training

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the UK Cyber Team website for detailed job descriptions and application instructions.

Deadline:

Applications are open until [insert deadline].

Additional Information:

The UK Cyber Team is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within its workforce. They encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including women, minorities, and those with disabilities.

For more information, please contact the UK Cyber Team at [insert contact information].

Secureworks: Ransomware takedowns didn’t put off cyber criminals

Published: Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:53:00 GMT

Title: Ransomware Takedowns Didn’t Deter Cyber Criminals

Summary:

Secureworks, a cybersecurity firm, conducted a study and found that law enforcement takedowns of ransomware operations have not deterred cybercriminals from continuing their activities.

Key Findings:

Shift to “Ransomware-as-a-Service”: Cybercriminals are increasingly adopting the “Ransomware-as-a-Service” (RaaS) model, where they lease out their ransomware tools and infrastructure to other criminals. This allows them to remain anonymous and avoid direct law enforcement action.
Innovation in Ransomware Techniques: Ransomware attackers are constantly evolving their techniques to evade detection and avoid takedowns. They are using new encryption methods, targeting IoT devices, and adopting double extortion tactics (stealing data and threatening to release it if the ransom is not paid).
Limited Deterrence Effect: Law enforcement takedowns of ransomware gangs have a temporary deterrent effect, but cybercriminals quickly adapt and return to their operations. They often set up new infrastructure and launch new attacks within a short period of time.

Implications:

Organizations should not rely solely on law enforcement takedowns to protect themselves from ransomware.
Businesses and individuals need to implement robust cybersecurity measures, including regular software updates, multi-factor authentication, and backups.
Collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, and the cybersecurity industry is crucial to address the ongoing threat of ransomware.

Additional Insights:

The study also found that the average ransom payment has increased significantly, reflecting the high impact of ransomware attacks.
Cybercriminals are targeting critical infrastructure, such as healthcare and energy companies, which can have devastating consequences.
The lack of deterrence from law enforcement takedowns highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to combating ransomware, including education, prevention, and international cooperation.

UK’s cyber incident reporting law to move forward in 2025

Published: Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:10:00 GMT

UK’s Cyber Incident Reporting Law to Move Forward in 2025

The UK government has announced that its long-awaited mandatory cyber incident reporting law will come into effect in 2025.

Key Points:

The law will require organizations to report certain types of cyber incidents to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
Reportable incidents include those that have a significant impact on national security, public health, or the economy.
Organizations will have a deadline of 72 hours to report incidents, with potential fines for non-compliance.
The law aims to improve the UK’s cybersecurity posture by enabling the government to identify and respond to threats more effectively.

Organizations Affected:

The law will apply to:

Operators of essential services (e.g., energy, water, transportation)
Providers of digital services (e.g., online banking, social media)
Critical national infrastructure operators (e.g., telecommunications, defense)

Benefits:

Improved detection and response to cyber threats
Reduced risk of systemic cybersecurity incidents
Enhanced coordination between organizations and government agencies
Increased awareness of cyber risks among businesses and consumers

Challenges:

Defining what constitutes a “significant” cyber incident may be challenging.
Organizations may face increased burden and costs associated with reporting and compliance.
Potential for over-reporting and false positives.

Timeline:

The law is expected to be passed in Parliament in 2023.
The NCSC will develop guidance and support for organizations.
The reporting obligation will come into effect in 2025.

Conclusion:

The UK’s cyber incident reporting law is a significant step towards strengthening the country’s cybersecurity posture. While the law presents challenges and requires careful implementation, its benefits potentially outweigh the costs. By improving collaboration and information sharing, the law aims to make the UK a more secure and resilient society in the face of evolving cyber threats.

UK telcos including BT at risk from DrayTek router vulnerabilities

Published: Fri, 04 Oct 2024 16:41:00 GMT

UK Telcos Face Cybersecurity Risks Due to DrayTek Router Vulnerabilities

Multiple UK telecommunications companies, including BT, are reportedly at risk due to vulnerabilities discovered in DrayTek routers.

Vulnerabilities Impacting DrayTek Routers

According to researchers at Cisco Talos, multiple critical vulnerabilities affect DrayTek routers. These vulnerabilities include:

Remote Code Execution (RCE): Allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely.
Insufficient Input Validation: Enables an attacker to exploit input validation flaws.
Buffer Overflow: Can cause a buffer overflow, leading to system crashes or remote code execution.

Impact on UK Telcos

BT and other UK telcos widely use DrayTek routers, making them vulnerable to these exploits. Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to:

Gain unauthorized access to networks: Obtain passwords, sensitive data, and access customer accounts.
Install malware: Spread malicious software throughout the network.
Disrupt services: Crash routers and cause network outages.

Mitigation Measures

To mitigate these risks, UK telcos and affected organizations are advised to:

Patch Routers Immediately: Install the latest firmware updates from DrayTek to address the vulnerabilities.
Enable Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems: Enhance network security by deploying intrusion detection or prevention systems.
Use Strong Network Segmentation: Isolate critical network segments from less secure areas.
Monitor Networks Regularly: Continuously monitor networks for suspicious activity and potential threats.

Response from DrayTek

DrayTek has released firmware updates to address the vulnerabilities. The company urges customers to apply these updates promptly.

Conclusion

The vulnerabilities in DrayTek routers pose a significant cybersecurity risk to UK telcos and their customers. By implementing timely mitigation measures, organizations can protect their networks and prevent attackers from exploiting these flaws.

NCSC celebrates eight years as Horne blows in

Published: Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:52:00 GMT

NCSC celebrates eight years as Horne blows in

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is celebrating its eighth birthday today, having been established on 1 October 2016.

In the past eight years, the NCSC has become a world-leading cyber security organisation, providing advice and support to businesses, individuals and the government.

The NCSC has played a vital role in protecting the UK from a range of cyber threats, including ransomware attacks, data breaches and state-sponsored hacking.

It has also worked to raise awareness of cyber security risks and to improve the resilience of the UK’s critical infrastructure.

To mark its eighth birthday, the NCSC has released a new report highlighting its achievements over the past year.

The report reveals that the NCSC has:

Responded to over 1,000 cyber security incidents
Provided advice and support to over 100,000 businesses and individuals
Developed a range of new tools and services to help businesses and individuals protect themselves from cyber threats

The NCSC’s eighth birthday also coincides with the arrival of Storm Ophelia, which is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to the UK.

The NCSC is urging people to take precautions to protect their homes and businesses from the storm.

It has also issued advice on how to stay safe online during the storm.

The NCSC’s Chief Executive, Lindy Cameron, said: “I am proud of the achievements of the NCSC over the past eight years. We have become a world-leading cyber security organisation, and we are making a real difference in protecting the UK from cyber threats.”

“As we celebrate our eighth birthday, I would like to thank all of our staff for their hard work and dedication. I would also like to thank our partners in government, industry and academia for their support.”

“The NCSC is committed to continuing to protect the UK from cyber threats and to making the UK the safest place to live and work online.”