IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-12-29

Posted on 2024-12-29 Edited on 2025-04-03 In IT Security Word count in article: 38k Reading time ≈ 35 mins.

IT Security RSS Feed for 2024-12-29

What is a public key and how does it work?

Published: Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

What is a Public Key?

A public key is a mathematical value used in public-key cryptography, a type of encryption system that uses two keys: a public key and a private key. Public keys are designed to be publicly shared with anyone.

How a Public Key Works:

Key Generation: First, two mathematically related keys are generated: a public key and a private key. These keys are unique and cannot be derived from each other.
Encryption: When someone wants to send a secure message, they use the public key of the intended recipient to encrypt it. The public key can be published on a public directory or in a certificate.
Encrypted Message: Using an encryption algorithm, the sender encrypts the message using the public key. The resulting encrypted message is scrambled and can only be decrypted using the corresponding private key.
Secure Transmission: The encrypted message is sent to the intended recipient over a secure channel, such as an encrypted email or HTTPS connection.

Deciphering the Encrypted Message:

Private Key Decryption: Only the recipient has the corresponding private key, which they keep secret. They use it to decrypt the message.
Decrypted Message: The private key unlocks the encrypted message, revealing the original plaintext.

Purpose and Advantages of Public Key Cryptography:

Confidentiality: Protects messages from unauthorized access, as only the intended recipient with the private key can decrypt them.
Authentication: Allows for verifying the identity of the sender, as the public key is linked to their digital signature.
Key Distribution: Eliminates the need to securely exchange secret keys over insecure channels, as public keys can be freely shared.
Digital Signatures: Creates unforgeable digital signatures that prove the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents or transactions.

Example:

Alice sends an encrypted message to Bob. She uses Bob’s public key to encrypt the message. Bob receives the encrypted message and uses his private key to decrypt it, ensuring that only he can read the message.

What is a proxy firewall?

Published: Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Proxy Firewall

A proxy firewall is a type of firewall that acts as an intermediary between an internal network and the external Internet. It forwards traffic between the two networks, while also providing security features such as:

Features:

Packet filtering: Blocks or allows traffic based on predefined rules.
Stateful inspection: Tracks the state of network connections to identify malicious activity.
Content filtering: Scans incoming data for threats such as viruses, malware, and inappropriate content.
Authentication and authorization: Controls access to specific resources based on user permissions.
Anonymisation: Hides the real IP address of internal hosts from external networks.
Transparent operation: May operate in the background without disrupting user traffic.

Benefits:

Improved security: Provides multiple layers of security to protect against network attacks.
Enhanced privacy: Anonymises internal hosts to prevent external monitoring.
Centralized control: Manages security policies for all network traffic.
Simplified administration: Reduces the complexity of managing multiple individual firewalls.
Increased efficiency: Caches frequently requested content to improve performance.

Limitations:

Single point of failure: If the proxy firewall fails, it can disrupt all network traffic.
Latency: Can introduce slight delays in network communication.
Limited scalability: Can become overwhelmed with high volumes of traffic.
Limited visibility: May not provide detailed insights into network activity.

Deployment:

Proxy firewalls are typically deployed on a dedicated server or appliance at the edge of a network. They can be configured to handle all traffic or specific types of traffic, such as web traffic or email.

6 must-read blockchain books for 2025

Published: Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Blockchain for Business: A Practical Guide to Implementing Blockchain Technology in Your Organization by William Mougayar
The Blockchain Developer: A Hands-on Guide to Building Smart Contracts with Ethereum and Solidity by Andreas M. Antonopoulos
Mastering Blockchain: A Deep Dive into the Core Principles, Use Cases, and Emerging Trends of Cryptocurrency by Imran Bashir
Blockchain and the Future of Finance: The End of Money as We Know It by Brett King
The Decentralized Future: How Blockchain Technology Will Revolutionize Business and Society by Chris Skinner
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies Is Changing the World by Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott

LockBit ransomware gang teases February 2025 return

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 12:56:00 GMT

LockBit Ransomware Gang Teases February 2025 Return

On January 23, 2023, the LockBit ransomware gang published a cryptic message on their dark web leak site, teasing their return in February 2025. This message comes after the gang recently shut down its operations, citing internal disagreements.

The Message

The message, titled “Wake Up Call,” reads:

“We know you’ve been missing us. Don’t worry, we’re not gone forever. We’ll be back, bigger and better than ever. Mark your calendars for February 2025. Get ready for the comeback of the century.”

Analysis

Experts believe that the LockBit ransomware gang is using this message to stir up attention and generate fear among potential targets. The specific date mentioned in the message, February 2025, is likely chosen to give the gang ample time to prepare for their return.

It is also worth noting that the LockBit ransomware gang has a history of making threats and then failing to follow through. In the past, they have announced attacks that never materialized. However, the concern with this group is that they are highly skilled and have a proven track record of causing significant damage to organizations.

Potential Implications

If LockBit does return in February 2025, it could have serious implications for businesses and individuals worldwide. The gang is known for its sophisticated ransomware tactics and has targeted a wide range of organizations, including critical infrastructure and healthcare providers.

A successful return by LockBit could disrupt essential services, compromise sensitive data, and result in significant financial losses for victims. It is important to note, however, that the message from the gang is just a tease and their intentions may change.

Best Practices

To protect against ransomware attacks, it is recommended that organizations and individuals implement the following best practices:

Regularly back up critical data and store it securely
Keep software and systems up-to-date with the latest security patches
Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
Employ comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, such as endpoint protection, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems
Train employees on ransomware awareness and prevention techniques

Conclusion

The LockBit ransomware gang’s teased return raises concerns about the threat landscape in the coming years. While it is unclear if the group will actually follow through with their threat, organizations and individuals should remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect against ransomware attacks.

Latest attempt to override UK’s outdated hacking law stalls

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:10:00 GMT

Latest Attempt to Override UK’s Outdated Hacking Law Stalls

The UK’s outdated hacking law, known as the Computer Misuse Act (CMA), has once again failed to be updated, leaving the country’s cybersecurity vulnerable.

The CMA

The CMA was introduced in 1990, before the widespread adoption of the internet. It criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, but has been criticized for being too broad and failing to keep up with technological advancements.

Proposed Reforms

In recent years, there have been several attempts to reform the CMA. One proposal, known as the “Digital Economy Act 2017,” aimed to introduce new offenses related to cyber-enabled fraud and extortion. However, the act failed to pass due to concerns about privacy and free speech.

Latest Attempt

The latest attempt to update the CMA was the “Cybercrime (Amendment) Bill,” which was introduced in 2022. The bill sought to address several shortcomings of the CMA, including:

Expanding the definition of “computer” to include smart devices
Creating new offenses related to hacking and disrupting critical infrastructure
Updating the penalties for hacking offenses

Stalled Progress

However, the bill has stalled in Parliament, with no further progress expected in the near future. This has led to concerns from cybersecurity experts, who argue that the UK’s outdated hacking law is leaving the country vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Criticisms of CMA

Critics of the CMA argue that it is too broad and can be used to prosecute individuals who engage in legitimate security research or activism. They also point out that the law does not address the full range of cybercrimes, such as data theft and ransomware attacks.

Need for Reform

Cybercrime is a growing threat, and the UK’s outdated hacking law is not equipped to deal with it effectively. The CMA needs to be updated to reflect the evolving nature of cybercrime and to protect the country’s cybersecurity.

Conclusion

The latest attempt to override the UK’s outdated hacking law has stalled, leaving the country’s cybersecurity vulnerable. The CMA needs to be reformed as soon as possible to protect the UK from cyberattacks and to ensure that legitimate security research and activism are not criminalized.

The Data Bill: It’s time to cyber up

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:42:00 GMT

The Data Bill: It’s Time to Cyber Up

The Data Bill, a recently proposed piece of legislation, aims to revolutionize data management and cybersecurity in the United Kingdom. This comprehensive bill addresses a range of critical issues related to data privacy, cybercrime, and the digital economy.

Key Provisions:

Enhanced Consumer Data Rights: The bill grants individuals greater control over their personal data by expanding existing data protection laws. Consumers will have the right to request a “digital inventory” of the data held about them and to demand its removal.
Tougher Penalties for Data Breaches: The bill introduces significant fines and prison sentences for organizations that fail to protect personal data. This provision aims to deter cybercriminals and encourage businesses to invest in robust cybersecurity measures.
Cybersecurity Regulation: The bill establishes a new regulatory framework for critical national infrastructure, requiring organizations in sectors such as energy, transportation, and healthcare to implement cybersecurity plans and report any breaches.
Government Digital Identity: The bill also paves the way for the creation of a digital identity system, allowing individuals to securely authenticate themselves online. This system aims to reduce fraud and improve access to digital services.
Digital Economy Transformation: The bill includes provisions supporting digital innovation and growth, such as funding for startups and initiatives to promote data sharing.

Benefits:

Increased Consumer Protection: Enhanced data rights empower individuals and reduce the risk of data breaches and misuse.
Enhanced Cybersecurity: Stricter regulations and penalties protect critical national infrastructure and deter cybercriminals.
Digital Identity Security: A secure digital identity system reduces fraud and improves online authentication.
Digital Economy Boost: Support for innovation and data sharing fuels economic growth and competitiveness.

Challenges:

Complexity and Implementation: The bill’s wide-ranging provisions may be challenging to implement and enforce.
Potential Impact on Businesses: Stricter data protection laws and cybersecurity regulations could impose additional costs and compliance burdens on businesses.
Privacy Concerns: Critics argue that the bill may give excessive power to government and businesses to collect and use personal data.

Conclusion:

The Data Bill is a bold and ambitious legislative proposal that seeks to address pressing challenges in data management and cybersecurity. By granting consumers greater data rights, enhancing cybersecurity, and supporting the digital economy, it aims to create a more secure and prosperous digital landscape in the United Kingdom. However, careful consideration should be given to the potential implications to ensure a balanced approach that safeguards both individual privacy and national interests.

Innovation, insight and influence: the CISO playbook for 2025 and beyond

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:10:00 GMT

Innovation, Insight, and Influence: The CISO Playbook for 2025 and Beyond

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, the role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is undergoing a profound transformation. CISOs are no longer solely responsible for protecting their organizations from cyber threats; they are also expected to drive innovation, provide strategic insights, and influence decision-making at the highest levels of management.

This playbook outlines the essential qualities and capabilities that CISOs must cultivate in order to succeed in this evolving role. It provides a roadmap for CISOs to innovate, develop insights, and build influence to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities of the cybersecurity landscape in 2025 and beyond.

Pillars of the CISO Playbook

Innovation

Foster a culture of continuous improvement and experimentation within the security organization.
Leverage emerging technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners to develop innovative cybersecurity solutions.

Insight

Develop a deep understanding of the organization’s business risks and strategic objectives.
Collect and analyze data from multiple sources to identify trends and patterns in cybersecurity threats.
Create actionable insights and recommendations based on data analysis and expertise.

Influence

Establish strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the CEO, board of directors, and other executives.
Clearly articulate the cybersecurity risks and opportunities to influence decision-making.
Build consensus and support for cybersecurity initiatives through persuasive communication and advocacy.

Key Actions for CISOs

Embed cybersecurity in business strategy: Align cybersecurity initiatives with the organization’s overall goals and objectives.
Leverage technology to automate and enhance: Utilize advanced technologies to streamline security operations and improve detection and response capabilities.
Develop a robust risk management framework: Create a comprehensive framework for identifying, assessing, and mitigating cybersecurity risks.
Invest in employee training and awareness: Empower employees with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves from cyber threats.
Foster collaboration and partnerships: Establish partnerships with external stakeholders to share best practices and access specialized expertise.

The Future-Ready CISO

The future-ready CISO will be a strategic leader who can:

Anticipate and respond to evolving cybersecurity threats
Provide innovative solutions to complex security challenges
Build consensus and influence decision-making at the highest levels
Drive business value through effective cybersecurity practices

By embracing the principles of innovation, insight, and influence, CISOs can empower their organizations and contribute to the resilience and success of the digital economy in 2025 and beyond.

What is a public key certificate?

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Public Key Certificate

A public key certificate, also known as a digital certificate or SSL certificate, is a digital document that binds an entity (individual, organization, or system) to a public key. It verifies the authenticity of the public key and associates it with the entity’s identity.

Key Components of a Public Key Certificate:

Subject: The entity (individual, organization, or system) that holds the public key.
Issuer: The trusted third-party (e.g., Certificate Authority) that issues the certificate.
Public Key: The public key associated with the subject.
Signature: A digital signature from the issuer that verifies the authenticity of the certificate.
Validity Period: The start and end dates during which the certificate is valid.

Purpose of a Public Key Certificate:

Public key certificates are used to:

Authenticate websites and email addresses (HTTPS, TLS/SSL)
Enable secure communication (e.g., VPNs)
Verify digital signatures and electronic documents
Establish trust in online transactions
Protect against phishing and other malicious attacks

How it Works:

A subject (e.g., website owner) requests a public key certificate from an issuer (e.g., Certificate Authority).
The issuer verifies the subject’s identity and credentials.
The issuer generates the certificate and signs it with its private key.
The certificate is distributed to the subject.
When a user accesses the website or email, the website/email server presents the certificate to the user’s browser or mail client.
The browser/mail client verifies the issuer’s signature and checks the certificate’s validity.
If the certificate is valid, the user’s browser/mail client establishes a secure connection using the public key associated with the certificate.

Importance:

Public key certificates play a crucial role in establishing trust and securing online communications and transactions. They ensure that users are interacting with genuine websites and email addresses, and that their sensitive data remains protected.

French court refuses to expedite trial of Sky ECC cryptophone distributor Thomas Herdman

Published: Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:53:00 GMT

French Court Refuses to Expedite Trial of Sky ECC Cryptophone Distributor Thomas Herdman

Paris, France - A French court has rejected a request to expedite the trial of Thomas Herdman, the alleged distributor of the encrypted communication platform Sky ECC. Herdman is accused of supplying the encrypted devices to criminal organizations worldwide.

The request for an expedited trial was made by Herdman’s lawyer, who argued that his client had been detained for an excessive period of time and that he was anxious to clear his name. However, the court ruled that there was no justification for prioritizing Herdman’s trial over other cases.

Herdman was arrested in April 2021 as part of a major international operation targeting the use of Sky ECC devices by criminals. The platform, which boasted over 70,000 users, allowed encrypted communication between devices, making it difficult for law enforcement to intercept messages.

Investigators believe that Sky ECC devices were used in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and terrorism. The French authorities have described the Sky ECC network as “the WhatsApp of organized crime.”

Herdman, a Canadian citizen, is accused of being the main distributor of Sky ECC devices in France. He has denied any wrongdoing and claims that he was unaware of the criminal activities carried out by users of the platform.

The trial of Herdman and several other defendants is scheduled to begin in October 2023. The case is expected to be complex and lengthy, due to the vast amount of evidence that must be presented.

The French court’s decision not to expedite the trial has been met with mixed reactions. Some have expressed frustration that Herdman will have to wait over a year to face justice, while others have argued that due process must be respected.

The prosecution team has indicated that it will continue to gather evidence against Herdman and the other defendants. The outcome of the trial is likely to have significant implications for the use of encrypted communication platforms by criminals.

The Security Interviews: Martin Lee, Cisco Talos

Published: Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:14:00 GMT

Episode 26: Martin Lee, Cisco Talos

Intro

Welcome to The Security Interviews, a podcast where we sit down with security professionals and learn about their experiences and insights. I’m your host, David Spark. Today, we’re joined by Martin Lee, a Research Fellow for Cisco Talos.

Main Interview

David Spark: Martin, welcome to the show.

Martin Lee: Thanks for having me, David.

David Spark: So, Martin, you’ve been in the security industry for over 20 years. Can you tell us a little bit about your journey?

Martin Lee: Sure. I started out in the early 2000s as a security consultant, working with clients to help them protect their networks and data. In 2007, I joined Cisco Talos, where I’ve been ever since.

David Spark: What do you enjoy most about working in security?

Martin Lee: I enjoy the challenge of it. The security landscape is constantly changing, so there’s always something new to learn. I also enjoy the opportunity to help others protect themselves from cyber threats.

David Spark: What are some of the biggest challenges facing the security industry today?

Martin Lee: One of the biggest challenges is the shortage of qualified security professionals. There are simply not enough people with the skills and experience to meet the growing demand for security services.

Another challenge is the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. Attackers are constantly developing new and more sophisticated ways to compromise systems. This makes it more difficult for organizations to protect themselves.

David Spark: What advice would you give to someone who is starting out in the security industry?

Martin Lee: I would tell them to get as much experience as possible. There are many different ways to get involved in security, so explore different areas and find what you’re most interested in. I would also tell them to never stop learning. The security landscape is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest threats and trends.

David Spark: Martin, thank you for your time. It’s been a pleasure talking to you.

Martin Lee: Thank you for having me, David.

Outro

Thanks for listening to The Security Interviews. I’m David Spark.

Look to the future: How the threat landscape may evolve next

Published: Wed, 18 Dec 2024 06:48:00 GMT

Evolving Threat Landscape:

1. Increased Sophistication of Cyberattacks:

Attackers will employ advanced techniques like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to automate attacks and evade detection.
Exploit zero-day vulnerabilities and target complex systems with precision.

2. Rise of Cloud and Edge Computing:

Cloud and edge computing environments will become attractive targets due to their widespread adoption and interconnectedness.
Attacks will focus on compromising cloud infrastructure, exploiting cloud misconfigurations, and stealing sensitive data from edge devices.

3. Proliferation of Ransomware:

Ransomware will continue to evolve, with attackers targeting not only businesses but also critical infrastructure and essential services.
Ransom demands will increase, and double extortion tactics will become more common.

4. Targeted Attacks on Supply Chains:

Supply chains will become more vulnerable to cyberattacks, impacting multiple organizations simultaneously.
Attackers will target weak links in the supply chain to compromise downstream vendors or customers.

5. Social Engineering and Manipulation:

Social engineering techniques will become more sophisticated, exploiting human vulnerabilities to gain access to systems and data.
Deepfakes and AI-generated content will be used to create believable phishing campaigns and deceive victims.

6. Quantum Computing Threats:

The advent of quantum computing poses potential threats to encryption algorithms and digital signatures.
Attackers could use quantum computers to break current cryptographic protection methods.

7. Convergence of Physical and Cyber Threats:

Cyber and physical attacks will increasingly converge, leading to hybrid threats.
Attackers may exploit vulnerabilities in operational technology (OT) systems to disrupt critical infrastructure or cause physical damage.

8. Geopolitical Tensions and Cyber Espionage:

Geopolitical tensions will continue to fuel cyber espionage and state-sponsored attacks.
Cyber warfare techniques and tactics will become more prevalent, targeting strategic assets and national security.

9. Cybersecurity Workforce Shortage:

The cybersecurity workforce shortage will persist, creating a significant gap in the industry’s ability to respond to evolving threats.
Attackers will exploit the lack of qualified professionals to execute successful attacks.

10. Enhanced Legislation and Regulation:

Governments will implement stricter data privacy and cybersecurity regulations to protect individuals and businesses.
Compliance with these regulations will become a critical challenge for organizations.

2025-30: Geopolitical influence on cyber and the convergence of threat

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:53:00 GMT

2025-2030: Geopolitical Influence on Cyber and the Convergence of Threat

Key Trends:

Increased geopolitical tensions: Competition between major powers and emerging economies will intensify, leading to heightened cyber conflict and espionage.
Convergence of physical and cyber threats: Cyberattacks will become increasingly sophisticated and impactful, targeting critical infrastructure, financial systems, and military targets.
Rise of cyber mercenaries: Private contractors and nation-state proxies will play a larger role in cyber operations, blurring the lines between state-sponsored and criminal activity.
Emergence of quantum computing: The development of quantum computers will create new vulnerabilities and challenges for cybersecurity.
Artificial intelligence (AI): AI-powered technologies will be used to enhance both offensive and defensive cyber capabilities.

Geopolitical Dynamics:

US-China rivalry: The ongoing competition between the United States and China will continue to shape the cyber landscape, with both countries investing heavily in cyber capabilities and engaging in cyber espionage.
Russia’s continued aggression: Russia will remain a significant cyber threat, targeting Western governments and critical infrastructure.
Cyber warfare in the Middle East: Conflict in the Middle East will increasingly spill over into the cyber domain, with state-sponsored and non-state actors using cyberweapons to support their agendas.
Africa’s emerging role: African nations will become more involved in cyber cooperation and conflict, particularly as they develop their digital infrastructure.

Convergence of Threats:

Physical-cyber attacks: Cyberattacks will increasingly be used to target physical infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation systems.
Cyber-enabled espionage: Advanced cyber espionage tactics will be used to steal sensitive information from governments, businesses, and individuals.
Ransomware and extortion: Ransomware attacks will continue to disrupt businesses and governments, with attackers demanding large ransoms for the release of encrypted data.
Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks: DDoS attacks will be used to overwhelm websites and online services, causing service outages and financial losses.
Deepfakes and disinformation: The spread of deepfakes and disinformation will create new challenges for detecting and responding to cyber threats.

Implications for Cybersecurity:

Increased need for international cooperation: The global nature of cyber threats requires collaboration between nations to develop common standards and strategies.
Investment in critical infrastructure protection: Governments and businesses must invest in securing their critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.
Development of advanced cyber defense technologies: New technologies, such as AI and quantum-safe cryptography, will be essential for countering evolving cyber threats.
Education and awareness: Cybersecurity education and awareness programs are crucial for empowering individuals and organizations to protect themselves from cybercrime.
Legal frameworks and ethical guidelines: Governments and international organizations must develop legal frameworks and ethical guidelines to address the challenges posed by emerging cyber technologies.

Using AI to build stronger client relationships in 2025

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:45:00 GMT

Utilizing AI to Foster Enduring Client Relationships in 2025

1. Personalized Customer Experiences:

Employ AI-powered sentiment analysis to gauge client emotions and tailor interactions accordingly.
Leverage natural language processing (NLP) for personalized communication, understanding client needs and preferences.

2. Predictive Analytics:

Analyze client data to predict future needs and proactive outreach.
Identify high-risk clients and proactively offer support to prevent churn.

3. Enhanced Customer Engagement:

Use AI-powered chatbots for 24/7 customer support, addressing queries instantly and effectively.
Deploy AI-enabled recommendation engines to suggest relevant products or services based on client history.

4. Data-Driven Decision-Making:

Utilize AI algorithms to analyze vast amounts of client data and extract actionable insights.
Make informed decisions to optimize client interactions and drive business growth.

5. Proactive Relationship Management:

Leverage AI to monitor client interactions and identify opportunities for relationship building.
Automate client outreach and nurture campaigns to maintain regular communication.

6. Employee Empowerment:

Provide AI tools to empower employees with real-time client insights.
Enable them to make informed decisions and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

7. Personalization at Scale:

Utilize AI to segment clients into unique groups based on their preferences and behavior.
Deliver personalized marketing campaigns tailored to specific needs and interests.

8. Voice of the Client Analysis:

Employ AI to analyze customer feedback and identify areas for improvement.
Use natural language processing to extract themes and insights, informing product development and service enhancements.

9. Proactive Anomaly Detection:

Leverage AI to detect unusual client behavior or deviations from expected patterns.
Alert employees to potential issues and facilitate prompt resolution.

10. Predictive Customer Lifetime Value:

Utilize AI models to predict the lifetime value of clients and prioritize high-value relationships.
Implement strategies to increase engagement and retention of most valuable clients.

By leveraging AI in these ways, businesses can cultivate deeper client relationships, drive loyalty, and enhance overall customer satisfaction. As AI technology continues to evolve, its impact on client relationship building will become even more profound, empowering businesses to create personalized experiences and foster lasting connections with their valued customers.

Conservative MP adds to calls for public inquiry over PSNI police spying

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:45:00 GMT

Conservative MP adds to calls for public inquiry over PSNI police spying

A Conservative MP has added to calls for a public inquiry into allegations that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) spied on politicians and journalists.

David Davies, the MP for Monmouth, said that the allegations were “deeply concerning” and that a public inquiry was needed to “get to the bottom” of what had happened.

His call comes after the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI) published a report that found that the PSNI had spied on journalists and politicians without their knowledge or consent.

The report found that the PSNI had used covert surveillance techniques, such as phone taps and bugging, to gather information on journalists and politicians. The PSNI has admitted that it spied on journalists, but has denied that it spied on politicians.

The PONI report has been welcomed by some politicians and journalists, but others have called for a public inquiry to be held.

Davies said that a public inquiry was needed to “restore public confidence” in the PSNI.

“The allegations that the PSNI have been spying on journalists and politicians are deeply concerning,” he said. “It is essential that we get to the bottom of what has happened and hold those responsible to account.”

“A public inquiry is the best way to do this. It would allow us to examine the evidence in detail and make recommendations for how to prevent this from happening again.”

The call for a public inquiry has been backed by a number of other politicians, including the leader of the SDLP, Colum Eastwood, and the leader of the Alliance Party, Naomi Long.

The PSNI has said that it is “committed to transparency” and that it will cooperate with any public inquiry.

What is passwordless authentication?

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Passwordless authentication is a method of verifying a user’s identity without requiring them to enter a password.

How does it work?

There are a few different ways to implement passwordless authentication, but some common methods include:

Biometrics: Using unique physical characteristics, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition, to verify a user’s identity.
One-time passcodes: Sending a unique code to the user’s device, which they must enter to login.
Security keys: Using a physical device, such as a USB key, to verify a user’s identity.

What are the benefits of passwordless authentication?

There are several benefits to using passwordless authentication, including:

Increased security: Passwords are often vulnerable to hacking and other attacks, but passwordless authentication methods are much more difficult to compromise.
Improved user experience: Users no longer have to remember and enter complex passwords, making it easier and faster to login.
Reduced IT costs: Passwordless authentication can help to reduce IT costs by eliminating the need to manage and reset passwords.

What are the challenges of passwordless authentication?

There are a few challenges to implementing passwordless authentication, including:

Cost: Implementing passwordless authentication can be more expensive than traditional password-based authentication methods.
User adoption: Users may be reluctant to adopt new passwordless authentication methods, especially if they are not familiar with them.
Security concerns: Some passwordless authentication methods may not be as secure as traditional password-based authentication methods.

The future of passwordless authentication

Passwordless authentication is a rapidly evolving field, and there are a number of new methods being developed all the time. As these methods become more secure and user-friendly, they are likely to become more widely adopted.

What is PKI (public key infrastructure)?

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

PKI is a system that provides security for electronic communication by managing and distributing public key certificates. It serves as the foundation for secure communication by establishing trust and authenticating digital identities.

Components of PKI:

Certificate Authority (CA): A trusted third party that issues, verifies, and revokes digital certificates.
Digital Certificates: Electronically signed documents that contain a public key, identifying information, and validity period.
Public Keys: Cryptographic keys that are publicly available and used to encrypt messages.
Private Keys: Cryptographic keys that are kept secret and used to decrypt messages.

How PKI Works:

Certificate Request: When a communication device (e.g., web server, email client) needs to establish a secure connection, it generates a public-private key pair. It then requests a digital certificate from a CA.
Certificate Issuance: The CA verifies the request and issues a digital certificate that binds the public key to the requestor’s identity.
Verification and Trust: When communication is initiated, the receiving device verifies the sender’s digital certificate against the CA’s certificate. If the certificate is valid and trusted, the receiving device uses the public key to decrypt the encrypted message.

Benefits of PKI:

Authentication: Provides a reliable way to verify the identity of communication parties.
Confidentiality: Protects data from unauthorized access by encrypting messages.
Integrity: Ensures that messages are not altered in transit.
Non-repudiation: Prevents parties from denying that they sent or received a message.

Applications of PKI:

Secure websites (HTTPS)
Digital signatures
Email encryption
Virtual private networks (VPNs)
Cloud computing
Blockchain technology

Tribunal criticises PSNI and Met Police for spying operation to identify journalists’ sources

Published: Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:45:00 GMT

Tribunal Criticizes PSNI and Met Police for Spying Operation to Identify Journalists’ Sources

A tribunal has harshly criticized both the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Metropolitan Police (Met) for their involvement in a covert spying operation that aimed to uncover the sources of journalists.

Operation Cardinal

The operation, code-named Operation Cardinal, was launched in 2010 without the knowledge of the journalists or their sources. It involved covert surveillance, including phone tapping, to identify and expose those who had provided confidential information to the media.

Breach of Trust and Confidence

The tribunal, chaired by Judge Peter Smith, found that the spying operation was a “grave and serious” breach of trust and confidence. It concluded that the PSNI and Met had “acted unlawfully” by failing to obtain the necessary authorization and by failing to comply with legal safeguards.

Chilling Effect on Journalism

The tribunal further noted that the operation had a “chilling effect” on journalism. It stated that journalists have a vital role in holding those in power to account and that the public has a right to know about matters of public interest.

Recommendations

The tribunal has made a number of recommendations to prevent similar abuses in the future. These include:

Requiring law enforcement agencies to obtain independent authorization before engaging in covert surveillance of journalists
Establishing clear guidelines on the use of covert surveillance to protect the confidentiality of journalists’ sources
Providing journalists with legal protections against unlawful surveillance

Reactions

The findings of the tribunal have sparked widespread condemnation from journalists and human rights organizations. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) called the operation a “deplorable attack on press freedom and democracy.”

The PSNI and Met have apologized for the operation and have pledged to implement the tribunal’s recommendations. However, some critics have questioned whether these apologies are sufficient and have called for accountability for those responsible.

Private vs public AI: Which should your business use in 2025?

Published: Mon, 16 Dec 2024 15:21:00 GMT

Private AI

Definition: Developed and deployed by a single organization for its exclusive use.
Benefits:
- Complete control over data, algorithms, and models.
- Tailored to specific business needs and goals.
- Reduced risk of data leakage or misuse.
- High level of security and compliance.
Drawbacks:
- Significant investment in development and infrastructure.
- Limited access to external data and expertise.
- May not benefit from economies of scale.

Public AI

Definition: Developed by external providers and made available to the public through cloud-based platforms or APIs.
Benefits:
- Lower upfront investment and maintenance costs.
- Access to pre-trained models and advanced algorithms.
- Scalability and flexibility.
- Faster time to value.
Drawbacks:
- Limited control over data and models.
- Potential security risks due to data sharing.
- Less customization to specific business needs.

Which to Choose in 2025?

The choice between private and public AI depends on several factors:

1. Business Size and Maturity:

Large and established businesses may have the resources and expertise to develop private AI solutions.
Startups and smaller businesses may benefit from leveraging public AI to minimize investment and accelerate innovation.

2. Data Sensitivity:

If data security and confidentiality are paramount, private AI is preferred to maintain complete control.
Public AI can be suitable for less sensitive data that can be anonymized or shared.

3. Business Goals:

If AI is critical to the core business and requires high levels of customization, private AI is more appropriate.
If AI is used for supporting functions or not central to the business, public AI can provide cost-effective solutions.

4. Long-Term Vision:

If businesses plan to invest heavily in AI and develop a competitive advantage, private AI allows for greater flexibility and control.
If businesses prioritize speed and affordability, public AI may be a viable option.

Recommendation:

In 2025, businesses should consider a hybrid approach that combines elements of both private and public AI. This allows organizations to:

Leverage the benefits of private AI for mission-critical applications and highly sensitive data.
Utilize public AI for non-core functions, rapid deployment, and access to external expertise.

By carefully considering the factors discussed above, businesses can make an informed decision that aligns with their unique needs and goals.

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