ransomware attack Archives

Winsage

March 2, 2026

NTLM is going away: what Microsoft’s phaseout means for MSPs and IT teams

The migration from NTLM to Kerberos authentication is essential for improving security in Windows systems, but it faces challenges such as legacy systems and hardcoded authentication. Organizations must identify NTLM usage, conduct testing with NTLM disabled, and make necessary adjustments or upgrades to migrate successfully. Ongoing monitoring is crucial post-migration to prevent NTLM from re-entering the network. NTLM is associated with significant security vulnerabilities and has been exploited by various threat groups, making its elimination a priority for organizations despite potential hesitations to invest in the migration process. Transitioning to Kerberos is seen as a strategic security investment.

Tech Optimizer

February 25, 2026

Effective ways to prevent the download of malicious code

Malware is malicious software designed to disrupt normal system operations, often infiltrating devices through activities like web browsing or opening documents. In 2023, SonicWall Capture Labs reported over 6 billion malware attacks, an 11% increase from the previous year. Common types of malware include viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, adware, ransomware, fileless malware, and bots. Malware spreads through email attachments, phishing links, compromised websites, fake apps, and removable media. Its effects can include performance issues, data theft, and financial damage. Signs of malware presence include sluggish performance, unexpected crashes, and unauthorized changes. Recommended actions if malware is suspected include disconnecting the device, running a malware scan, and changing passwords. Preventative measures include using security software, practicing safe browsing, keeping software updated, and building security awareness.

Tech Optimizer

February 16, 2026

What is the best PC antivirus for 2026: Acronis True Image vs. competitors

In 2026, traditional antivirus solutions are becoming outdated due to the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, including AI-driven ransomware and advanced phishing schemes. The FBI Internet Crime Report states that cybercrime losses exceeded .5 billion in 2023, with projections by Cybersecurity Ventures estimating costs could reach trillion annually by 2025. Research from IBM shows that organizations without a tested recovery plan face higher costs and longer downtimes. Built-in protections like Windows Defender and MacOS XProtect offer basic security but may leave gaps, necessitating comprehensive third-party antivirus solutions. Acronis True Image is highlighted for its unique combination of real-time malware protection and full system backup capabilities, enabling users to recover quickly from incidents. Other leading antivirus solutions, such as Norton 360, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Kaspersky, excel in threat prevention but lack integrated recovery options. Acronis emphasizes the importance of both security and continuity, preparing users for both cyber incidents and everyday failures.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Easterly helms RSAC, Windows update problems, Police Copilot gaffe

Jen Easterly has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the RSA Conference. She is a cybersecurity expert and former Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Palo Alto Networks has released security updates for a vulnerability (CVE-2026-0227) with a CVSS score of 7.7 affecting its GlobalProtect Gateway and Portal, which can cause a denial-of-service condition in PAN-OS software. The January 2026 security update from Microsoft has caused connection and authentication failures in Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365, affecting users across various Windows versions. Microsoft is working on a resolution. The chief constable of West Midlands Police acknowledged an error by Microsoft’s Copilot AI in generating a fictional intelligence report. Microsoft has not confirmed Copilot's involvement. Britain’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has collaborated with Five Eyes partners to provide guidance on securing industrial operational technology, highlighting risks associated with remotely monitored systems. Kyowon, a South Korean conglomerate, confirmed a ransomware attack on January 10 that may have compromised customer information, affecting approximately 5.5 million members. Researchers at Varonis have identified a new attack technique called "Reprompt" that allows data exfiltration from Microsoft Copilot via a malicious link, exploiting a Parameter 2 Prompt (P2P) injection technique. Central Maine Healthcare is notifying over 145,000 patients about a data breach that compromised personal, treatment, and health insurance information, discovered on June 1.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Microsoft Ends Windows Server 2008 Support on January 13, 2026

Microsoft has officially ceased all support for Windows Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026, including paid extended security updates. This end-of-life scenario poses significant security risks for organizations still using the outdated operating system, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The transition away from Windows Server 2008 requires careful planning, as many organizations face challenges in migrating legacy applications to modern systems. The lack of ongoing patches means that any new vulnerabilities will remain unaddressed, potentially leading to data breaches and compliance failures, particularly in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance. Microsoft has encouraged migration to Azure, offering incentives for early adopters, but the transition can be complex and costly. The end of support also affects global supply chains and compatibility with newer software applications. Organizations are advised to conduct audits of their software portfolios and consider hybrid environments to enhance flexibility and security.

Winsage

January 10, 2026

Microsoft Ends Support for Windows 11, Office 2021 in 2026: Upgrade Now

Microsoft will conclude support for several key products on October 14, 2026, including Windows 11 version 24H2 and Office 2021. This end-of-support wave also affects various Azure services, Exchange Server versions, and certain .NET frameworks. Organizations must evaluate migration costs and risks associated with operating unsupported products, as the lack of updates could lead to security vulnerabilities. Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will be available for select products but at a premium cost. Migration challenges include potential hardware incompatibilities and the need for custom solutions for legacy applications. Proactive planning, inventory assessments, and prioritizing critical systems for migration are recommended strategies. The transition aligns with Microsoft's vision of promoting cloud-based and AI-enhanced technologies. Economic implications include increased IT spending, particularly affecting small and medium enterprises.

Winsage

December 19, 2025

Microsoft Phases Out RC4 Encryption by 2026 to Bolster Windows Security

Microsoft has announced the phased discontinuation of the RC4 encryption cipher, with full implementation expected by mid-2026. RC4, created in 1987, has been increasingly recognized as a vulnerability, exploited in various high-profile cyberattacks. Microsoft plans to disable RC4 by default in Windows Kerberos authentication, encouraging organizations to transition to more secure alternatives like AES-256. This decision follows years of warnings from the cybersecurity community and aims to eliminate long-standing cryptographic weaknesses. The transition will require organizations to audit and upgrade their infrastructures, as many legacy applications still depend on RC4. Disabling RC4 is expected to reduce the success rates of attacks exploiting weak encryption. Microsoft has introduced tools to help administrators identify hidden RC4 usage. The change reflects a commitment to zero-trust architectures and aligns with recommendations from organizations like NIST. Experts recommend a multi-step approach for organizations to navigate this transition effectively.

Winsage

December 15, 2025

Still running Windows 10? Here’s why that’s a bad idea

Hundreds of millions of computers are still using Windows 10, despite it reaching its end-of-support deadline. An Extended Security Updates (ESU) subscription is available for free until October 2026, providing updates to help protect against security threats. By early 2021, around 100 million PCs were still running Windows 7, which had ceased receiving updates in January 2020, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks from groups like Digital Shadows, LockBit, Conti, and Vice Society. Notable incidents include the PrintNightmare flaw in July 2021, which led Microsoft to issue a patch for Windows 7, and the WannaCry attack in 2017, which targeted Windows XP machines. Microsoft releases monthly security fixes, and vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-62215, identified in November 2025, have been categorized as "Exploitation Detected." While current vulnerabilities require local access, history suggests that remote attacks may soon occur, posing severe risks to unpatched systems.

Tech Optimizer

October 31, 2025

Windows 10 users face ransomware nightmare as Microsoft support ends in 2025 worldwide

Microsoft's Digital Defense Report indicates that over 90% of ransomware attacks target unsupported PCs. Unsupported systems are vulnerable due to the lack of security updates, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Users often delay upgrades, thinking they can wait "just one more year," but this increases risk as new vulnerabilities remain unaddressed. Upgrading to Windows 11 provides ongoing security updates and enhances performance. Delaying upgrades can lead to significant financial losses from data recovery and fraud. To improve security while preparing for an upgrade, users should verify compatibility for Windows 11, be cautious of phishing scams, consider using data removal services, secure logins with two-factor authentication, back up data regularly, and stay informed about cyber threats.

Winsage

October 21, 2025

The ESU Gamble: Why Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Are a Risk You Can’t Afford

Many organizations are relying on Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Microsoft’s Windows 10 as the end-of-life deadline approaches, but this solution is limited and does not protect against zero-day exploits or sophisticated attacks. The ESU program will end in October 2026, leading to increased costs and risks. Legacy systems like Windows 10 are particularly vulnerable to cybercriminals, and even with ESUs, they can be exploited by advanced threats. Transitioning to Windows 11 is complicated for many organizations due to compatibility and hardware issues. Morphisec offers a proactive solution with its Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) technology, which continuously alters system memory to protect against attacks without needing updates or patches. The cost of Morphisec is lower than potential expenses from ransomware incidents or ESUs. Organizations face significant risks if they delay action, as seen in past ransomware outbreaks like WannaCry. Unsupported systems can lead to compliance failures and reputational harm. Morphisec provides a way to secure Windows 10 systems while facilitating a smooth migration to Windows 11, ensuring protection across hybrid environments.