intrusions Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 3, 2025

Use Protection: 6 Tips to Watch Porn Online Safely

Seventeen U.S. states have enacted age verification laws that effectively prohibit adult websites from operating within their jurisdictions. The use of Incognito Mode can help hide browsing history, but it is not completely secure as data may still be retained by Google. Data theft is a risk when engaging with adult content, especially if personal information is shared on pornographic sites. Using a VPN can enhance anonymity, but it does not protect against voluntarily shared information. Privacy services like IronVest can help create disposable email addresses and phone numbers. Ads on adult websites can contain malware, making antivirus software important for protection. Trusted pornographic sites typically prioritize user privacy and security, so caution is advised when choosing platforms.

Tech Optimizer

April 26, 2025

How to disable the PC webcam and protect it from unauthorized access

The webcam is a crucial tool for remote communication but poses privacy risks, particularly through a threat known as CamFecting, where unauthorized access can occur via malware, malicious websites, or system vulnerabilities. Preventive measures include using antivirus software, disabling the webcam when not in use, and physically covering the camera with privacy caps or tape. Signs of unauthorized access include unexpected illumination of the webcam light, unusual camera behavior, unknown files on the system, abnormal data consumption, and decreased battery life. To deactivate the webcam, users can adjust settings in major browsers and operating systems. Maintaining digital hygiene, such as regularly updating software, using security systems like firewalls and VPNs, and being cautious of phishing attempts, is essential to minimize risks.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

More Americans are on Windows 11 than Windows 10: the older OS is getting abandoned en masse

Microsoft will officially cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, compelling users to transition to Windows 11, which has more demanding hardware requirements. Users with older systems may struggle to meet these requirements, and Microsoft will not guarantee updates for installations on unsupported hardware. Windows 10 will continue to receive support until October 2025, after which paid updates will be available. The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is emphasized in Windows 11 for enhanced security, providing encryption and verifying software integrity. Recent statistics show that Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 in market share in the U.S., with 54% of users on Windows 11 compared to 44% on Windows 10. However, Windows 10 still holds a 55% market share in Europe and over 60% in Asia.

Winsage

April 8, 2025

EncryptHub plays dual role as cybercriminal and Windows researcher

EncryptHub, a threat actor linked to intrusions at 618 organizations, reported two Windows zero-day vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-24061 and CVE-2025-24071, to Microsoft, which were resolved in March 2025. The vulnerabilities were reported by an individual named SkorikARI, who has been connected to EncryptHub after the threat actor exposed its login credentials. Researchers at Outpost24 identified this link through multiple pieces of evidence, including exfiltrated password files and a GitHub login associated with SkorikARI. EncryptHub has a history of selling zero-days on hacking forums and has been involved in both freelance development and cybercriminal activities. Despite his expertise, the hacker fell victim to poor security practices, leading to the exposure of personal information and interactions with ChatGPT regarding malware development and self-assessment as a hacker.

Tech Optimizer

March 31, 2025

Traditional EDR can’t keep up with modern cyber threats

By 2025, the global cost of cybercrime is projected to reach .5 trillion annually. Many organizations continue to use outdated Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions, which are increasingly ineffective against sophisticated cyber threats. EDR was introduced in 2013 but has struggled to keep pace with evolving attack techniques. Traditional EDR is reactive, responding to incidents after they occur, and relies on known Indicators of Compromise (IoCs), which limits its effectiveness. Real-world examples of traditional EDR failures include a misconfigured update to CrowdStrike’s Falcon EDR causing an IT outage, the Akira ransomware exploiting an unsecured webcam, the Medibank breach despite multiple alerts from EDR, and the BlackCat ransomware attack on Henry Schein. These incidents highlight the inadequacy of traditional EDR in preventing modern threats. The next phase of endpoint security is Preemptive Endpoint Protection (PEP), which actively prevents attacks rather than just detecting and responding to them. PEP utilizes proactive strategies like Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) and Adaptive Exposure Management (AEM), and research indicates that organizations using proactive security save 30% more on breach costs compared to those relying solely on reactive measures.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

Multi-year exploitation of Windows zero-day conducted by state-backed hackers

Nearly a dozen state-sponsored threat operations have been exploiting a zero-day vulnerability in Windows shortcuts, identified as ZDI-CAN-25373, since 2017. Groups such as Mustang Panda, Kimsuky, Evil Corp, and SideWinder have been involved in these attacks, primarily targeting organizations in the Americas, Europe, East Asia, and Australia. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution on vulnerable Windows systems by concealing malicious command-line arguments within .LNK shortcut files. Trend Micro researchers noted that crafted data in an .LNK file can make harmful content invisible to users inspecting the file through the Windows user interface, enabling attackers to execute code in the context of the current user. Microsoft is currently evaluating potential fixes for this vulnerability.

Tech Optimizer

February 22, 2025

Protect your devices with Norton: Get 58% off your first year now

The internet poses challenges such as cyber scams and data breaches, making data protection essential. Norton offers various cybersecurity solutions, including: - Norton AntiVirus Plus: Protects 1 device with real-time threat protection, 2GB cloud backup, password manager, and 24/7 support. Annual subscription is .99 (50% off). - Norton 360 Standard: Protects 3 devices, includes a secure VPN and Dark Web Monitoring. Annual subscription is .99 (57% off). - Norton 360 Deluxe: Protects 5 devices, adds parental controls and enhanced privacy features. Annual subscription is .99 (58% off). - Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus: Protects 10 devices, includes identity theft protection and credit monitoring. Annual subscription is .99 (47% off). Prices may change over time.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

The BadPilot campaign: Seashell Blizzard subgroup conducts multiyear global access operation

Microsoft has reported on the Russian state actor subgroup known as Seashell Blizzard, focusing on the "BadPilot campaign," which has been active since at least 2021. This campaign targets Internet-facing infrastructure to support broader operations, expanding its reach from Eastern Europe to a global scale. The subgroup has successfully infiltrated sensitive sectors like energy, telecommunications, arms manufacturing, and government entities, particularly exploiting vulnerabilities in software such as ConnectWise ScreenConnect and Fortinet FortiClient EMS since early 2024. Since the conflict in Ukraine began, there has been an increase in targeting international organizations significant to geopolitical interests, with at least three destructive cyberattacks attributed to this subgroup since 2023. The subgroup employs sophisticated cyber intrusion techniques, adapting its strategies to respond to evolving goals. Seashell Blizzard is linked to the Russian Military Intelligence Unit 74455 (GRU) and has been associated with various high-profile cyber incidents since its emergence in 2013. The subgroup's operations have evolved to include targets in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a strategic pivot to exploit vulnerabilities across different regions. The subgroup has demonstrated three primary exploitation patterns: deploying remote management and monitoring suites for persistence, using tunneling utilities to establish covert access, and modifying infrastructure to collect credentials. Organizations are advised to remain vigilant for indicators of compromise related to Seashell Blizzard's activities.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

New Sandworm Attacks Use Trojanized MSFT Activators

The Russian state-sponsored threat group Sandworm has intensified its campaign against Ukrainian Windows users since late 2023, executing sophisticated malware intrusions. They have deployed counterfeit Microsoft Key Management Service (KMS) activators and fraudulent Windows updates. One recent incident involved a deceptive KMS activation tool containing the BACKORDER malware loader, which enabled the delivery of DarkCrystal RAT after disabling Windows Defender. DarkCrystal RAT allows attackers to extract sensitive information, including saved credentials, browser cookies and histories, keystrokes, FTP credentials, and system details. The rise of pirated software from untrusted sources has facilitated these attacks, posing a threat to Ukraine's national security, critical infrastructure, and private sector resilience.

Tech Optimizer

February 7, 2025

What is Managed Endpoint Protection?

Managed Endpoint Protection involves outsourcing endpoint security for devices like laptops, desktops, and servers to specialized providers. These services offer continuous monitoring, automated responses, and compliance checks, utilizing advanced analytics and real-time threat intelligence. Key features include continuous monitoring, automated threat containment, vulnerability management, forensic analysis, compliance tools, and threat hunting. Managed services address various threats such as ransomware, phishing, zero-day exploits, credential theft, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and data exfiltration. Benefits include 24/7 expert coverage, access to specialized threat intelligence, faster incident response, reduced operational complexity, predictable pricing, and improved compliance. Challenges include the rapidly evolving threat landscape, skills shortage, budget constraints, and ensuring real-time visibility. Best practices for implementation involve maintaining asset inventories, defining roles, fine-tuning detection thresholds, conducting regular drills, and integrating with broader security measures. When choosing a provider, factors to consider include technical expertise, service level agreements, integration capabilities, pricing, compliance, and ongoing support. SentinelOne offers an autonomous cybersecurity platform that enhances endpoint security through superior visibility, automated responses, and customizable features.