data breach

Tech Optimizer
March 25, 2025
The ABC 6 News Team reports on the Infostealer malware, which has compromised over 2 billion credentials by using fake websites to trick users into providing sensitive information. Infostealer targets searches for free software, cracked software, game cheats, and activation tools, employing tactics such as search engine ads, SEO manipulation, social media promotions, and typosquatting to lure victims. Once installed, Infostealer can steal passwords, credit card information, cryptocurrency wallet data, and personal information. To mitigate risks, users are advised to download software from reputable sources, be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, install robust antivirus software, enable ad blockers, verify URLs, use multi-factor authentication, keep software updated, and stay informed about cybersecurity threats. Additionally, users can check if their email addresses or passwords have been involved in data breaches at www.haveibeenpwned.com.
Tech Optimizer
March 19, 2025
eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue through affiliate links. TotalAV is an antivirus solution with basic VPN functionality, while Surfshark specializes in VPN services. TotalAV: - Overall Rating: 2.8/5 - Pricing: 3.7/5 - Features: 2.7/5 - Usability: 3.7/5 - Security: 2/5 - Customer Support: 2.1/5 - Offers essential antivirus protection and basic VPN features, but lacks the capabilities of a dedicated VPN service. Surfshark: - Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Pricing: 4.8/5 - Features: 4.3/5 - Usability: 5/5 - Security: 4.5/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Provides advanced features like multihop connections and IP address rotation, with positive customer feedback despite some support challenges. Pricing Comparison: - TotalAV: Premium plan for the first year; renews at a higher rate. - Surfshark: Starter plan at .49/month billed annually. Feature Comparison: - TotalAV includes a kill switch and split tunneling; lacks rotating IP addresses and multi-hop VPN. - Surfshark includes all features of TotalAV plus advanced capabilities. Usability: - TotalAV supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android; lacks extensive user documentation. - Surfshark supports multiple operating systems and offers training resources. Security: - TotalAV's encryption and audit policies are unclear. - Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and has undergone multiple independent audits. Customer Support: - TotalAV offers email support; lacks live chat and community forums. - Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat and email support, along with an official Reddit community. Alternatives: - NordVPN starts at .99/month and includes essential and advanced features. - ExpressVPN offers comprehensive features at .32/month. Evaluation Methodology: The comparison was based on pricing, features, usability, security, and customer support.
Tech Optimizer
March 12, 2025
Infostealer malware has become a major cybersecurity threat, with around 25 million users targeted between early 2023 and the end of 2024. These malware variants capture sensitive information, including bank card details and passwords, with nearly 26 million devices affected during this period, resulting in over 2 million unique bank card details leaked. One in every 14 infections compromised bank card data, passwords, and second-factor authentication cookies. In 2024, infections increased significantly, with RisePro's share rising from 1.4% to 22.45% and Stealc from 2.65% to 13.33%. Redline remained the most prevalent infostealer, responsible for 34.36% of infections. By August 2024, an estimated 15.9 million devices had been affected in 2023, increasing to 16.49 million by March 2025. Over 9 million infections were tracked in 2024, with final counts expected to exceed those of 2023. To protect sensitive information, it is recommended to invest in robust antivirus software, use virtual cards for online transactions, set up transaction alerts and spending limits, avoid storing card details in browsers, use strong and unique passwords, and consider personal data removal services.
Winsage
February 3, 2025
As of October 2025, Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support, posing risks for Australian businesses that still rely on it, with nearly 47% of the desktop OS market share. The Australian Cyber Security Centre warns that outdated systems will be more vulnerable to cyber-attacks, and businesses will no longer receive security updates, increasing the risk of data breaches, which currently average over AUD 1 million per incident. Compliance with regulations like the Australian Privacy Principles requires the use of secure and up-to-date technology. Windows 11 offers enhanced security features and productivity tools, making it essential for businesses adopting hybrid work models and integrating advanced technologies. HP is actively preparing businesses for this transition by optimizing its products for Windows 11, providing tailored solutions to ease the upgrade process. Additionally, the Australian Government has introduced a Technology Investment Boost for SMEs, allowing them to deduct 20% of costs related to digital adoption, and has committed AUD 1.2 billion to the Digital Economy Strategy to enhance digital infrastructure and skills.
Winsage
December 9, 2024
Researchers have identified a critical zero-day vulnerability affecting Windows systems. An alleged cyberattack attributed to Ukrainian actors targeted Gazprombank, one of Russia's largest financial institutions. The Russian hacking group BlueAlpha has been reported to exploit CloudFlare services. Microsoft has raised alarms about the Chinese hacking group Storm-0227, which is targeting critical infrastructure and U.S. government agencies. SonicWall has released patches for several high-severity vulnerabilities in its secure access gateway. Atrium Health disclosed a data breach impacting over half a million individuals. Rockwell Automation revealed four critical vulnerabilities in its Arena software that could allow remote code execution. U.S. authorities arrested an alleged member of the Scattered Spider gang, known for telecom hacks. A Nebraska man pleaded guilty to a .5 million cryptojacking scheme.
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