The Expanding Third-Party Ecosystem

Before we dive into the intricacies of third-party risk management, let’s first understand the scope of the issue. Over the past few decades, businesses have increasingly relied on third-party relationships. These relationships can encompass various activities, including outsourcing, procurement, and collaborative partnerships.

For example, a retail giant may rely on third-party logistics providers to handle its supply chain operations. A software company might partner with a third-party development team to accelerate product development. Even seemingly non-technical aspects, like office cleaning or catering services, can involve third-party vendors. All these relationships create a vast and complex third-party ecosystem.

The Importance of Managed Third-Party Risk

As businesses expand their networks of third-party relationships, they also expand their exposure to various risks. These risks can come in multiple forms: financial, operational, compliance, reputational, and even legal. Managed third-party risk becomes a critical component of overall risk management strategies.

Financial Risk

Third-party vendors’ financial health and stability can significantly impact your business. A vendor’s financial troubles can disrupt your supply chain, lead to project delays, or even result in contract disputes. According to a 2022 report by the Global Risk Institute, 43% of businesses surveyed experienced disruptions in their supply chain due to financial problems with third-party vendors in the past year. By managing third-party financial risk, you can identify potential issues before they escalate.

Operational Risk

Third-party partners play a vital role in your day-to-day operations. Any operational issues on their end can ripple through your organization. A logistics provider’s failure to deliver goods on time or a technology vendor’s system outage can disrupt your business. Effective risk management helps you anticipate and mitigate these operational disruptions.

Compliance Risk

Regulations and compliance requirements are continually evolving. When you engage with third parties, you share compliance responsibilities. Failure to ensure that your vendors adhere to relevant regulations can result in penalties and damage your reputation. Managed third-party risk includes compliance monitoring to reduce these risks.

Reputational Risk

The reputation of your business is a valuable asset. Any unethical or irresponsible behavior by a third-party vendor can tarnish your image. You can protect your brand’s reputation by carefully selecting and monitoring your partners.

Legal Risk

Contracts and legal agreements are essential components of third-party relationships. Inadequate contract management can expose your business to legal disputes and liabilities. Managed third-party risk includes robust contract management to mitigate legal risks.

The Process of Third-Party Risk Management

Effectively managed third-party risk program involves a systematic approach:

Identification

Begin by identifying all third-party relationships within your organization. This involves cataloging vendors, suppliers, contractors, and any other external entities you engage with.

Assessment

Evaluate the risks associated with each third-party relationship. This assessment should include financial health checks, compliance reviews, and operational risk assessments.

Risk Mitigation

Develop strategies to mitigate identified risks. This may involve renegotiating contracts, diversifying vendors, or setting up contingency plans.

Monitoring

Continuously monitor your third-party relationships to ensure ongoing compliance and performance. This includes regular audits and performance reviews.

Response and Recovery

Have a plan for responding to and recovering from third-party-related incidents. This might involve invoking contingency plans, legal action, or sourcing alternative vendors.

Documentation

Maintain thorough records of all third-party relationships, assessments, and risk mitigation efforts. This documentation is crucial for compliance and future reference.

The Benefits of Effective Third-Party Risk Management

Implementing a robust third-party risk management program offers several advantages to your business:

Risk Reduction

By proactively identifying and mitigating risks, you reduce the likelihood of disruptions to your operations and financial stability.

Cost Savings

Efficient risk management can lead to cost savings in the long run. For instance, renegotiating contracts with better terms or diversifying vendors can lower costs.

Reputation Protection

Protecting your reputation is invaluable. Effective risk management helps maintain your brand’s integrity in the eyes of customers and stakeholders.

Legal Compliance

Meeting legal and regulatory requirements is essential for avoiding costly penalties and legal disputes.

Competitive Advantage

Demonstrating third-party solid risk management practices can give your business a competitive edge. Many customers and partners prefer working with organizations that take risk seriously.

Resilience

A well-managed third-party ecosystem enhances your business’s ability to weather unforeseen challenges, such as economic downturns or global crises.

Conclusion

As businesses expand their third-party relationships, the importance of managed third-party risk cannot be overstated. Beyond cybersecurity concerns, companies must proactively identify, assess, and mitigate the myriad risks associated with their third-party partners. Organizations can protect their financial stability, reputation, and overall operational integrity by adopting a comprehensive third-party risk management approach. In today’s complex business landscape, it’s not enough to secure your fortress; you must also fortify the walls of your extended ecosystem.

The post Beyond Cybersecurity: Exploring Third-party Risk in Business Operations appeared first on SiteProNews.

Though data breaches at big corporations tend to get more press, companies of all sizes can be targets for cybercrime. A reported 700,000 small businesses were targets of data breach activity in 2020. Other common tech-focused challenges include website issues, e-commerce difficulties, remote worker connectivity and collaboration issues, and system incompatibility. While these challenges are undeniably frustrating, they can be maddening when taken together.

If you can relate as a business leader, consider trying the following tactics to resolve your biggest tech struggles.

1. Assessment and Planning

Before initiating any technological overhaul, evaluating your existing technology environment and plotting a strategic direction is crucial. This involves understanding where your business stands, identifying bottlenecks, and charting a clear path forward.

• Technology Infrastructure Assessment: Carefully evaluate your existing technology systems, hardware, and software to comprehensively understand their effectiveness and limitations.
• Tech Challenges Identification: Identify technological challenges hampering productivity, efficiency, or customer satisfaction.
• Clear Technology Goals: Set short-term and long-term technology objectives aligning with your business goals, enabling systematic progress toward improved infrastructure and processes.

2. Cybersecurity and Data Protection

Safeguarding sensitive information is important. Addressing cybersecurity and data protection concerns ensures the integrity of your operations and maintains trust with customers and partners.

• Robust Cybersecurity Measures: Establish a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, and routine vulnerability assessments.
• Employee Education: Train your employees to recognize and respond to potential cyber threats, building a culture of vigilance against phishing, malware, and other attacks.
• Response Planning: Develop a comprehensive plan outlining the steps during a cyber incident, including containment, recovery, communication, and compliance with data breach regulations.

3. Move Operations into the Cloud

Transitioning to cloud-based systems can enhance flexibility and scalability while reducing operational costs. However, careful planning and execution are crucial to a successful migration.

• Benefits Assessment: Evaluate the advantages of migrating to the cloud, such as improved remote access, automatic updates, and potential cost savings.
• Migration Strategy: Plan the migration process meticulously, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations and data integrity during the transfer.
• Data Security and Compliance: Choose a reputable cloud provider that adheres to data protection regulations and implements security measures to safeguard data stored in the cloud.

4. Centralize Your Data and Communications

Do you and your employees constantly have to move from one platform to another to see or retrieve different data sets? Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s a waste of time. Break down your data silos by centralizing all the data in your company. For instance, you might want to update a customer relationship management (CRM) system that can easily house all your information. Having data in one place makes communicating with internal and external stakeholders easier, streamlines analysis and reporting, and helps you optimize all your processes.

5. Remote Work Infrastructure

The rise of remote work necessitates a robust digital infrastructure that supports seamless communication, collaboration, and productivity, regardless of employees’ physical locations.

• Remote Work Tools: Identify and integrate tools such as video conferencing, project management platforms, and virtual collaboration software to facilitate efficient remote work.
• Connectivity Assurance: Ensure remote workers have reliable internet access and can easily connect to necessary business resources.
• Security Considerations: Address security vulnerabilities associated with remote work by implementing secure connections, access controls, and data encryption.

The point is this: You don’t have to be a technical wizard or even have one on your team to overcome your tech and infrastructure dilemmas. Just be willing to acknowledge your technical deficiencies so you can put measures in place to make your hassles go away so your company can be more secure and successful.

The post Tech Struggles and Infrastructure Challenges for Small Businesses appeared first on SiteProNews.

1. Data Privacy and Security

One of the primary concerns when integrating ChatGPT is the handling of sensitive user data. Developers must ensure that the privacy and security of user information are adequately protected . This entails using strong encryption methods, using secure communication protocols and following the standards set by the industry for the transmission and storage of data.

For example, when a user interacts with a chatbot to provide personal information such as their name, address, or payment details, it is crucial to handle this data securely. In compliance with data privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), developers should encrypt the data and only store it for as long as necessary.

By partnering with a reputable DevOps consulting firm, like the best devops consulting in Toronto, developers can receive expert guidance on implementing secure practices and ensuring data privacy, thereby mitigating the associated risks.

2. Ethical Use of ChatGPT

As AI systems become more powerful, it is crucial to consider the ethical implications of their use. The potential hazards associated with biased or damaging outcomes should be considered by developers integrating ChatGPT. ChatGPT’s responses are generated based on the data it has been trained on which can inadvertently contain biases or produce inappropriate content.

To mitigate these risks, developers should carefully curate and review the training data, ensuring it is diverse, inclusive, and representative. Ongoing monitoring of the system’s responses is also essential to identify and address any ethical concerns promptly.

For instance, if a chatbot integrated with ChatGPT provides medical advice, it must be programmed to recognize potentially dangerous or incorrect recommendations. Regular audits and testing can help detect and rectify any biases or ethical issues that arise during the system’s operation.

3. User Experience and Expectations

Integrating ChatGPT requires developers to strike a balance between AI capabilities and user expectations. While ChatGPT is impressive in its language generation abilities, it still has limitations. It may not always provide accurate or relevant responses, and users can easily become frustrated if their queries are misunderstood or misinterpreted.

To manage user expectations effectively, developers should communicate the system’s limitations upfront and provide clear instructions on how to interact with the chatbot. Incorporating fallback mechanisms, such as offering the option to escalate to a human operator, can help maintain a positive user experience and avoid potential frustrations.

For instance, the best devops consulting in Toronto can help developers optimize the user experience by conducting usability testing, analyzing user feedback, and continuously refining the chatbot’s performance based on real-world data.

4. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

Once integrated, a chatbot powered by ChatGPT requires ongoing monitoring and improvement to ensure its reliability and effectiveness. It is crucial to track system performance, user feedback, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify any issues or areas for improvement.

Real-time monitoring can help detect anomalies, such as sudden spikes in errors or inappropriate responses, which may indicate a problem with the underlying AI model. Regular model updates and retraining can help mitigate these risks and improve the chatbot’s performance over time.

Additionally, developers should actively seek and incorporate user feedback to make informed decisions about the system’s enhancements and prioritize the most valuable features.

Conclusion

Integrating ChatGPT into chatbot systems presents exciting opportunities for developers to enhance user experiences and streamline communication. However, it is essential to consider the associated risks and take proactive measures to mitigate them effectively.

By addressing data privacy and security concerns, ensuring ethical use of ChatGPT, managing user expectations, and continuously monitoring and improving the system, developers can create robust and reliable chatbot integrations.

Remember, by prioritizing security, ethics, user experience, and continuous improvement, developers can unlock the full potential of ChatGPT while delivering exceptional value to users.

The post 4 Risk Factors Devs Should Consider for ChatGPT Integrations appeared first on SiteProNews.

Understanding the Multi-Cloud Landscape

A multi-cloud environment utilizes multiple cloud computing services to meet specific
business needs. It offers flexibility, reduced vendor lock-in, and improved reliability. However,
managing security across multiple clouds can be daunting. DevSecOps provides a
framework to integrate security practices into multi-cloud deployments.

1 . Build a Secure DevOps Culture:

Creating a culture of security awareness and collaboration is crucial for DevSecOps. Teams
should work together to identify and address security vulnerabilities from the start. According
to a recent survey, organizations that foster a DevSecOps culture experience a 50%
reduction in security incidents compared to those without a strong security culture.
Encourage cross-functional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and training programs to
promote a security-focused mindset.

2. Implement Continuous Security Practices

Traditional security approaches fall short in dynamic cloud environments. Implement
continuous security practices like continuous integration and continuous deployment
(CI/CD). Automate security testing, code scanning, vulnerability assessments, and
configuration management throughout the software development lifecycle. According to
industry reports, organizations that adopt CI/CD practices experience a 75% decrease in the
time required to detect and remediate security vulnerabilities. Leverage tools such as
Jenkins, GitLab, and SonarQube to automate security checks at every stage of the
development pipeline.

3. Leverage Cloud-Native Security Tools

Each cloud provider offers security tools and services. Leverage cloud-native security
solutions aligned with your multi-cloud strategy. Use network security groups, web
application firewalls, identity and access management, and data encryption. A study
conducted by a leading research firm found that organizations utilizing cloud-native security
tools experienced a 30% decrease in security incidents. Leverage cloud provider-specific
security services such as AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), Azure Security
Center, and Google Cloud Security Command Center to enhance your security posture.

4. Employ Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

Infrastructure as Code (IaC) is vital for DevSecOps in a multi-cloud environment. Define and
manage infrastructure resources using code for consistent, repeatable, and auditable
deployments. Treat infrastructure as code to codify security controls and configurations. A
survey of IT professionals revealed that 78% of organizations adopting IaC reported
improved security compliance and reduced configuration errors. Utilize tools like Terraform,
CloudFormation, or ARM templates to define infrastructure and enforce security
configurations consistently across multiple cloud platforms.

5. Seek Expert DevOps Consulting

In a complex multi-cloud landscape, seek expert guidance to empower DevSecOps
effectively. DevOps consulting firms provide specialized knowledge and experience in
implementing and optimizing DevSecOps. For Toronto organizations, engaging with the best
DevOps consulting services offers valuable insights and strategies tailored to your needs.
According to a customer satisfaction survey conducted by ABC Consulting, 95% of
organizations that collaborated with top DevOps consulting firms reported improved security
and operational efficiency. These experts can assist with strategy development, tool
selection, process optimization, and security best practices.

Conclusion

Empowering DevSecOps in a complex multi-cloud landscape requires a holistic approach
that integrates security practices throughout the software development lifecycle. Build a
secure DevOps culture, implement continuous security practices, leverage cloud-native
security tools, and employ Infrastructure as Code (IaC). Seek expert guidance, such as the
best DevOps consulting in Toronto, for navigating the complexities of multi-cloud
environments. Embrace the power of DevSecOps to unlock your organization’s full potential
in the digital landscape. By prioritizing security and collaboration, and leveraging automation
and expert knowledge, you can ensure the successful implementation of DevSecOps
practices in your multi-cloud environment.

The post Empowering DevSecOps in a Complex Multi-Cloud Landscape: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on SiteProNews.

It is also why mobile phones have become a new target for hackers. In this blog, we will cover five ways to protect your mobile devices against these exploitations so that your sensitive information is safe on your phone. Let’s get started: 

Why Are Hackers Targeting Mobile Phones? 

According to a recent report, mobile phone traffic has the largest market share (65.57% of all mobile traffic). From the stars, it is easy to conclude why hackers are now targeting mobile phones to carry out cybersecurity attacks on individuals and organizations alike.

To Steal Credentials

Stealing passwords is a fool-proof way to gain access to a corporate network. Hackers often use phishing attacks to get sensitive information like credentials, credit card information, etc. And since most people now use their phones to manage emails, hackers find it easier to exploit those. 

To Obtain Organizational Data

Around 40% of small businesses reported data loss due to cyberattacks in a report published in May 2023. And since a significant part of office work is done through mobile phones, it is easier for hackers to target these devices and gain sensitive operational data.

To Spy

A mobile phone can be used for spying if it gets compromised by a hacker. Hackers can easily access the device’s microphone or camera and turn it on regardless of the time and place. And since everyone carries a phone, it not only endangers the owner’s privacy but also violates other people’s privacy. 

To Deliver Malware

It is also common for hackers to exploit mobile phones to deliver malware. It will infect the device and provide a gateway for hackers to access the corporate network. 

How Can Your Phone Get Hacked? 

A hacker can easily trick people into giving up sensitive information, and mobile phones are just the perfect setup. Here are a few ways your phone can get hacked. 

Phishing

Hackers commonly use phishing attacks (via email or text) to compromise user credentials. And these passwords help cybercriminals to hack into personal accounts and corporate networks. 

Tracking Software

Hackers use keyloggers and spyware to monitor keystrokes or to record general device activity. It is a common way hackers steal personal data using mobile phones. 

Using Bluetooth & Public WiFi

Public WiFi and unknown Bluetooth connections are highly insecure and are easier for hackers to intercept. 

There are various other ways your phone can get hacked, but some malicious file, software, or link usually initiates the attack.

Common Signs that Indicate Your Phone Is Hacked

Here are some common tell-tale signs to identify phone hacking:

• Excessive pop-ups can indicate an adware infection, and clicking on them may complicate things further.
• If you are receiving random calls or texts from different unknown numbers, chances are there has been a data breach.
• A malicious app might run in the background if your data usage has increased in a few days.
• If your battery drains more quickly, your phone may have some unwanted apps installed.
• If your phone is overheating, malicious software might run in the background. 
• Suspicious phone performance can also indicate hacking attempts.
• If usual websites look different, your infected phone could redirect you to malicious websites.
• Unusually high phone bills can indicate that your phone is hacked.
• If you have suspicious apps on your phone that you don’t recognize, they may be malicious. 

5 Ways You Can Protect Your Phone from Getting Hacked  

1. Use Strong Passwords

Using complicated sequences and passphrases is better than using simple passwords. The more difficult it is to break a password, the more secure your data is. Using password managers is also a fool-proof way to create, store and manage your credentials. You can also use 2FA (two-factor authentication) for added security.

2. Install Updates

You must keep your mobile phone up-to-date by installing software updates, patches, and bug fixes. This way, you can ensure that there are no vulnerable spots in your device that can be exploited or hacked. 

3. Use Antivirus Software

You can only do so much alone when protecting your mobile phone. However, antivirus software can regularly scan your mobile phone to detect and remove malicious software, offering real-time protection. 

4. Clear Cookies and Browsing History

Deleting your browsing history and cookies can reduce your digital trail. It ensures that your personal data, preferences, and other sensitive information do not fall into the hands of vicious hackers.

5. Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) protects your network security. A reliable VPN encrypts your network traffic and provides you with complete anonymity, even if you are using public WiFi. 

Besides this, one must practice healthy browsing habits. Clicking suspicious links and downloading software from unverified sources is a big NO. Turning off your WiFi and Bluetooth (when not in use) is also commonly recommended.  And not leaving your phone unattended always helps. For security reasons, try to use VPN for TextNow for secure calling or texting purpose.

What to do if your phone gets hacked?

Here are some measures you can take if you suspect that your phone is hacked:

1. Delete any (suspicious) app you do not recognize.
2. Block excessive unrecognized calls and report them as spam.
3. Cancel subscriptions if your bill is unusually high. 
4. Run a scan using some anti-malware tool
5. Back up your data and restore your phone to its factory settings.
6. Reset all your passwords (account credentials and phone passcode)
7. Inform your friends and service provider. 

Bottom-line

All in all, hacking mobile phones has become more convenient for cybercriminals, and the increasing use of such devices is only fueling this wave. However, with some basic security measures, you can ensure that your mobile phone is protected against such exploitations and that your data is safe against breaches and hacking attempts.

The post Mobile Phones Are the New Target: 5 Ways to Avoid Hackers appeared first on SiteProNews.

“IT and cybersecurity budgeting are two different segments of financing. IT covers overall technology investments, including hardware, software, personnel, and cybersecurity. Because cybersecurity is just a fraction of the grand scheme, it explains why budgets can be tight and sometimes even non-existent,” says Carlos Salas, a cybersecurity expert at NordLayer. 

Additionally, the same research shows that the most prominent cyber attacks in Canada from the last year were phishing (42%), malware (33%), and data breaches (27%). As a result, financial damages vary from losses of up to 5,000 CAD for 45% of companies to over 10,000 CAD for 12% of surveyed Canadian companies. Numbers could be even higher because as much as 15% of companies could not disclose how much they lost due to cyber incidents.

What Cybersecurity Solutions Are Currently In Use Among Canadian Companies?

Research reveals that Canadian companies combine different measures to achieve security. More than 7 out of 10 companies utilize antivirus software (72%). Secure passwords (66%) and file encryption (65%) are the second-highest priority when creating security policies within organizations at the moment. 

Business virtual private networks (VPNs) maintain their popularity in securing organization network connections, with over half (65%) of companies using them. Cyber insurance (43%) is a relatively new solution making its way to business cybersecurity, although its focus is on covering the consequences of an incident rather than preventing it.

A Quarter of Canadian Companies Plan to Allocate up to 24% of Their Organizational Budget for IT Needs in 2023

Spending on cybersecurity solutions, services, and applications will remain a priority (55%) in the 2023 budget. Besides cybersecurity training for employees (51%), Canadian companies will devote slightly less budget to hiring dedicated staff for cybersecurity questions (43%) and external cybersecurity audits (38%).

The research shows that 39% of surveyed companies plan to allocate up to 24% of their organizational budget for IT needs in 2023, and another 37% of respondents plan to invest up to 49% of their budget. Only 4% of companies said they don’t plan to invest in cybersecurity in 2023, out of which the majority are small companies.  

“Business budgeting tendencies show that cybersecurity investments receive only a small part of the allocated IT budget. Cybersecurity funds must be distributed wisely to ensure valuable outcomes, prove the chosen security direction effective, and minimize resources’ waste,“ says Salas.

What Cyberattacks Are Experienced in Small, Medium, and Large Companies?

NordLayer surveyed organizations of various sizes, revealing some similarities and differences between cyberattacks and company size. Speaking of similarities among all sizes, phishing (39%) is the overall most prominent, followed by malware (34%).

Small businesses are more likely to experience identity theft (12%) or data breaches (11%) than insider threats (2%) or social engineering attacks (5%). Also, small businesses experience the lowest number of cyberattacks — 42% of respondents did not face them.

Medium enterprises tend to suffer from malware (43%), social engineering (30%), and insider threats (29%). Compared with the other two categories, medium-sized businesses were exposed most to data breaches (34%) and DDos/DoS attacks (27%).

Large companies experienced the most cyberattacks — as much as 92%. Organizations of such size experience malware (43%) slightly more often than phishing (42%). They experience the same amount of data breaches and identity theft (27%) attacks, while ransomware is the least expected (19%).  

Companies Should Allocate a Budget for Cybersecurity 

The mantra “cybersecurity keeps evolving — so do cyber threats” remains relevant today, emphasizing the need for strengthening business protection measures. Choosing comprehensive cybersecurity tools and solutions helps to achieve the flexibility needed to adapt to dynamic technological and risk change. A sufficient budget is key. 

Salas also shares his tips on securing organizations: “No business is too small to experience a cyberattack. My recommendation for organizations of all sizes is to have a strong cybersecurity strategy. It should have the mindset that every employee is responsible for cybersecurity, not only the IT department. Speaking of concrete tools within the strategy, the company should have cyber mitigation and remediation solutions as well as backup plans for threat scenarios. Also, invest in employee training and dedicated staff for cybersecurity matters.”

Methodology: NordLayer surveyed 500 companies in three countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The external agency SAGO conducted the surveys between March 15 and 25, 2023. Respondents were asked a set of questions about cyber incident costs and allocated budgeting for IT and security in the period of 2022-2023. The samples were taken from non-governmental organizations operating in the services industry, and the target respondents were decision-makers (sole or partial) for IT-related acquisitions. Companies were divided into three main groups regarding size: 1 – 10 employees (small), 11-200 employees (medium), 201+ employees (large). 

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However, security is a significant consideration in cloud computing environments, and organizations need to be aware of the risks, threats, and challenges they may face when making the switch. 

Cyber Attacks

Cyber attacks are among the most significant risks associated with operating in the cloud. These attacks disrupt a business’s underlying infrastructure and can substantially impact its reputation.

Cloud environments are a high risk in business settings because they are exposed to the internet with multiple points of entry, making them more vulnerable. Threat actors can use various methods to launch attacks, such as exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities, phishing techniques, or brute-force attacks. 

To mitigate these attacks, businesses should use a defense in depth (DiD) security approach that includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and strong passwords.

Insider Risks

Insider risks posed by individuals within an organization who intentionally or unknowingly cause harm to databases, connected systems, or company resources.  Most of these risks are from simple misconfigurations or accepting default settings which tend to mean security is turned off.  Security by design is one thing but we need to move to security by default.  Most employees are focused on getting the job done and they take the easy path which tends to be the highest risk. 

One of the reasons why insider risks pose such a significant risk is that they often have privileged access to sensitive data. Whether it’s because of their job responsibilities or level of authority within the organization, these insiders have dangerous levels of access to company resources.

Moving your company’s operations to the cloud can increase the risks posed by insider threats. Since cloud providers often have multiple customers on the same servers, there is a greater risk of another customer’s data being compromised. 

In addition, cloud providers often have a higher level of trust in their employees than other organizations, which makes it easier for insiders to access sensitive data.

Insecure APIs

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are the backbone of cloud computing ecosystems. APIs make it easy for businesses to interact with third-party solutions and cloud service providers. However, while APIs offer increased convenience, they also pose security challenges.

Vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and injection-based attacks are common in insecure APIs. Insecure APIs are a significant threat to businesses because their gateways act as access points to other cloud resources which, when compromised, could result in a catastrophic enterprise-wide data breach.

API misconfiguration occurs when there’s a lack of understanding of how the API works or poor implementation of its security measures. For example, failing to enable authentication, allowing unrestricted access, or not encrypting API requests can leave an organization vulnerable to attack. 

To protect against API misconfiguration, organizations should deploy APIs built on secure and trusted frameworks with proper configuration settings.

Account Hijacking

Account hijacking is when the attacker gains unauthorized access to an account by stealing its credentials. This can be done through various methods, including phishing attacks, malware, social engineering, brute force attacks and even insider threats. 

The attacker can then use the account to access sensitive information or commit malicious activities such as identity theft or fraud.

One reason why account hijacking is a security challenge in the cloud is that many businesses and their employees use weak passwords that are easy to bypass. This makes it easier for an attacker to gain access to an account. 

Many employees will also use the same password across multiple accounts. If one account is compromised, it can lead to a domino effect, where all other accounts with the same password are accessible.

Compliance and Legal Risks

When businesses migrate to the cloud, they are subject to various legal and compliance risks. These include data privacy laws, intellectual property rights, data localization requirements, and industry-specific regulations.

As companies store and transfer sensitive information through a third-party vendor, data breaches and unauthorized access are always possible. With numerous compliance regulations and data privacy laws in place, ensuring that cloud service providers comply with these regulations can be difficult. 

Companies need to ensure that their cloud service provider has proper security measures in place and is compliant with relevant standards such as HIPAA, GDPR and other regulatory compliance standards.

Advanced Persistent Threats

Advanced persistent threats (APTs) are increasingly common in the cloud. APTs are sophisticated attacks that target specific organizations or individuals over a long period of time, with the attacker often remaining undetected for months or even years.

APTs can be used to steal data, disrupt operations and sabotage systems. Organizations should implement multi-factor authentication to protect against these threats, regularly patch their systems, and monitor activity for suspicious behavior. 

Additionally, organizations should use cloud-based security tools such as Privileged Access Management (PAM) and data loss prevention (DLP) solutions to help detect and mitigate threats in real-time.

Data Loss and Service Downtime

Data loss and downtime are other common risks associated with cloud computing. Data loss can occur due to natural disasters, malicious attacks, or human errors. Downtime typically occurs when there is a disruption in service due to maintenance or an outage on the part of the cloud service provider.

Organizations should ensure that their cloud service providers have adequate measures to prevent data loss and downtime. This includes having a reliable backup system, proper authentication protocols, and real-time monitoring systems.

Additionally, organizations should consider investing in a third-party cloud service provider that offers disaster recovery services to ensure data remains safe even during an outage.

Multi-Tenant Vulnerabilities

Multi-tenant cloud computing can create vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Multi-tenancy refers to the practice of multiple users or organizations sharing a single instance of an application or service, which is hosted on the same hardware and managed by the same provider. 

Since all users are on the same network, any security vulnerabilities in one tenant’s environment can potentially be exploited by an attacker to gain access to other tenants’ data. 

To protect against this risk, organizations should ensure that their cloud service provider has adequate security measures, including protected RDP connections, firewalls, encryption, and strong authentication and authorization using solutions such as privileged access management . 

Organizations should also deploy intrusion prevention systems to detect and respond to any malicious activity on their networks.

Limited Visibility and Control

When companies migrate to a cloud-based environment, they lose visibility and control over their data and resources. This can be problematic as organizations may not be aware of any potential security risks or incidents within the cloud platform.

Organizations should ensure that they have adequate monitoring and logging systems in place to detect any suspicious activity or unauthorized access. They should also establish a well-defined policy for cloud security and ensure that their cloud service providers have proper authentication protocols and access controls in place.

Another way to ensure visibility and control over cloud resources is to invest in a third-party security provider that offers secure hosting, monitoring, and reporting services. This will help organizations gain better insight into their cloud environment and help them detect any potential security issues before they become significant problems.

Take Proactive Steps to Minimize Security Risks in the Cloud

The cloud can be a powerful tool for organizations, but it also comes with risks. To protect against these threats, organizations should ensure they deploy the right security measures and invest in cloud-based security solutions. 

By taking the necessary steps to secure their cloud environment, organizations can ensure that their data and resources remain safe while enjoying the benefits of cloud computing.

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A survey by NordVPN showed that 84% of users had experienced social engineering behavior in the past, and more than a third of them have fallen victim to phishing email scams. Experts say that a new type of phishing has started to emerge recently — clone phishing — which can trick even the most cautious users.

Clone phishing is a scam where a cybercriminal replicates a legitimate email or website to trick the victim into giving personal information. The cloned email looks almost the same as the original and contains legitimate details, making clone phishing more difficult to spot than other phishing attacks.

“Even though users learn and become more cautious every time they experience a cybersecurity issue, criminals don’t make it easy by constantly developing new techniques to target people. Clone phishing attacks take phishing to the next level because the emails are usually highly personalized and replicate something that a victim received in the past,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN.

How Does Clone Phishing Work?

First, the attacker intercepts a message sent to a user from a legitimate source (e.g., a bank, client support service, money transfer site, or employer). Attackers may use various techniques to intercept emails, including DNS hijacking. A hacker won’t always need to intercept emails to carry out clone phishing attacks. However, if they do, these clone emails become much more difficult to spot because they look just like the original.

After that, a scammer creates a replica of the email and sends it to the victim, urging them to take action. Scammers want their victims to act quickly, so phishing emails always sound urgent. You may see common social engineering tactics like asking users to change their passwords or provide other sensitive data because their account has been “compromised.” It’s also common for clone phishing scams to contain a malicious link that a user can click thinking they’ll access a legitimate website.

The victim opens the email, believing it to be from a legitimate source. They may open an attachment (e.g., a PDF document) that instantly installs malware on their machine and provides cybercriminals access to their sensitive information. Or they may click on a link included in the email and are redirected to a malicious site, allowing attackers to steal their information.

How to Prevent Clone Phishing Attacks

“Spotting clone phishing attacks can be tricky, especially if the scammers have a lot of experience in creating cloned emails. However, you can take several steps to reduce the likelihood of falling victim to this social engineering attack,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven and provides a list of tips that can help users avoid being affected by clone phishing emails.

• Check the sender’s email address. Before you click anything or reply to the email, make sure the sender’s email address is legitimate. Clone phishing attempts often come from email addresses that resemble the original. However, they may have additional full stops, dashes, symbols, or other subtle differences. Check the sender’s email address carefully to ensure it’s from a legitimate source.
  
• Don’t click on links. Avoid clicking on links unless you’re absolutely sure the email isn’t a scam. The email may contain links that redirect you to a malicious website where scammers can steal your personal information. Only click on links and buttons after you’ve confirmed that the email is safe.
  
• Use spam filters. Spam filters are helpful if you receive a lot of emails daily. These filters analyze the content of every email and identify unwanted or dangerous messages. While they won’t always spot a cloned email, using them in addition to other measures is a good idea.

“Clone phishing emails are not dangerous until you click the links or files they include. So the general recommendation is not to rush into trusting everything you read in your email inbox. It is always safer to double-check with the company that is emailing you and contact them by phone before you provide any personal information or click on the links in your emails,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven.

The post Clone Phishing — an Attack that Can Trick Even the Most Cautious Users appeared first on SiteProNews.

Half of Americans (53%) say they have seen an ad for a product or service pop up on their phones soon after talking about it or watching it on TV, new research by cybersecurity company NordVPN reveals.

Two in four (50%) consumers admit they have no idea how to prevent this from happening and one in ten (10%) who noticed the adverts said it scared them.

Rather than devices reading your mind, this personalised product placement is due to a type of data monitoring called ultrasonic cross-device tracking. This is where apps on your smartphone listen in to background noise — including conversations — to gather more information about you.

“Later, they share this data across other devices,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN.

Smartphones were by far the most common place to find these tailored ads. Four in five (77%) Americans who recognised the phenomenon first spotted it on their handset, with half (52%) seeing it on their computer and a fourth (39%) on their tablet.

Information showing people’s behaviour across devices is extremely valuable to companies, but this type of tracking is controversial because of its lack of transparency and security concerns around consumers’ data.

A key part of cross-device tracking is the use of audio beacons, which are embedded into ultrasound — frequencies above the level that can be heard by humans — and can connect with the microphone on our devices without us knowing. This is one reason many apps ask for permission to access your smartphone’s microphone, even if they don’t involve using your voice.

“While it’s impossible to stop the ultrasonic beacons working, you can reduce the chance of your smartphone listening for them by simply restricting unnecessary permissions you have granted to the apps on your device,” says Warmenhoven.

Ultrasonic Cross-device Tracking — How Does It Work?

Ultrasonic cross-device tracking is used as a method to link all the devices you own to track your behavior and location. These ultrasonic audio beacons can be embedded in many things we interact with daily: TV shows, online videos or websites, or apps on our phones.

Imagine you are watching TV and you see chocolate being advertised. You pick up your phone, and the same chocolate ad appears on your screen. By using ultrasounds, audio beacons can detect when your phone is nearby, and apps on your phone can listen for approximate audio beacons to track what you are doing.

How Can You Reduce Cross-device Tracking?

NordVPN cybersecurity advisor Adrianus Warmenhoven has some top tips to keep snooping devices at bay:

• Change app permissions. The apps on your smartphone may have some permissions that are not required. For instance, why would a photo-editing app need access to your microphone? If apps on your phone have such non-required permissions, you should revoke these permissions. Apple now requires apps to ask your permission before tracking you or your iPhone across websites or apps owned by other companies, and you can turn this off for all apps. All changes to app permissions can usually be done in the privacy settings on your device.
• Use a private browser. If you want to keep yourself from tracking, it is best to use a private browser like Tor or DuckDuckGo rather than the incognito mode in Google Chrome. These browsers do not profile you or save any of your personal data for sharing with marketers.
• Use a VPN. One of the best ways to protect yourself from being tracked is by using a VPN. A VPN is a tool that encrypts every bit of information about your internet activity. It also stops IP-based tracking because it masks your IP address.

The post Yes, Your Phone is Eavesdropping on You – and Most Americans Don’t Know How to Stop It appeared first on SiteProNews.

As such, it’s essential to stay informed about the different types of threats and take steps to protect yourself. Here are the top 10 mobile security threats that you should look out for and how you can avoid them:

1. Malware

Malware, or malicious software, is a threat to both PCs and mobile devices. It can be spread through downloads, emails, text messages, and web browsing. Malware can steal personal information or damage your device.

Malware works by exploiting security vulnerabilities in the device. It can take complete control and steal data or cause damage when it has access to a device. As such, you must equip your device with security tools to protect it from this threat. 

2. Spyware

Spyware is a type of malware that tracks your activity and collects personal information. It can track your location, monitor SMS messages, and even record phone conversations. Like malware, spyware can be spread through downloads, emails, text messages, and web browsing.

When spyware gets on your mobile device, it can send the information it collects back to the attacker. It will see all your activity and can use this to steal your identity or money.

3. Phishing

Phishing is an attack that attempts to steal sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and bank account details by pretending to be a legitimate source. It can also be spread through emails, text messages, and web links.

When users click on the link or download an attachment, they are taken to a fraudulent website where they are asked to enter their personal information. The attackers then use this information for malicious purposes.

4. Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that locks down a device and demands payment in order to unlock it. Once on the device, ransomware can take full control and restrict access to data and settings.

To prevent ransomware, users should always keep their systems and software up to date. You can also install anti-virus software, as well as firewalls and other security measures.

5. Adware

Adware is a type of malware that shows unwanted advertisements on your device. Ads displayed by the adware can be intrusive and lead to other malicious websites or downloads.

To avoid getting infected, it’s important to download apps only from reputable sources. Also, be careful when clicking on links in emails or text messages. These links may lead to malicious websites that can install adware on your device.

6. WiFi Attacks

WiFi networks are susceptible to various attacks, such as man-in-the-middle attacks, where an attacker intercepts communications between two devices. It can be used to steal passwords and other sensitive information.

Public WiFi networks usually lack encryption, making them even more vulnerable to attacks. It’s important to only connect to secure networks or use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public WiFi networks.

7. Data Leakage

Data leakage occurs when sensitive information is unintentionally exposed.Human error, insecure coding practices, or malicious attacks can cause it. When data is leaked, it can be used for malicious purposes such as identity theft or financial fraud.

8. Mobile Device Theft

Mobile device theft is a growing problem, as many people carry their devices everywhere they go. An attacker can use stolen mobile devices to access personal information and financial accounts. This can be especially dangerous if the device is not password protected or doesn’t have biometric security enabled.

To prevent theft-related problems, always secure mobile devices with a passcode and use biometric security whenever possible. If a device is lost or stolen, it should be reported immediately so service can be suspended.

9. Unsecure Apps

Attackers can use unsecured applications to steal personal information or gain access to other parts of the device. Make sure you only download apps from official app stores and regularly check for updates that may contain security patches.

If you’re not sure about the security of an app, it’s best to avoid downloading it. This will help you avoid any problems caused by malicious apps. You should also check whether the app can access your personal information, such as contacts, photos, or device location. Limiting access to only the information necessary for the app’s functionality is best to avoid security threats.

10. Outdated Operating Systems

Outdated operating systems are vulnerable to various attacks as they lack the latest security patches. It’s important to keep your device’s operating system up-to-date to protect against the latest threats.

Developers update operating systems with the latest security patches. This means new operating systems will have the latest security measures to keep your device safe.

The Bottom Line

It’s important to be aware of the various security risks and threats that exist to protect your devices and data. Be sure to regularly check for updates for all your apps and operating systems, practice safe browsing habits, and only download apps from reputable sources.

The post Top 10 Mobile Security Threats You Should Look Out For appeared first on SiteProNews.

Moreover, in the wake of the pandemic, remote work has become the new normal for many businesses, and as a result, the need for online privacy and security skyrocketed.

The need for online privacy and security became even more critical, with approximately 58.6% of the U.S. workforce working remotely post-COVID.

In today’s business world, internet access is vital, but online privacy, including data protection, is equally important. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how small businesses can avoid threats and why an excellent Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a crucial tool to safeguard against hackers and protect sensitive data, both online and on-site.

What is a Business VPN and How Does It Work? 

A business VPN is a tool that allows remote employees and workers from different office locations to securely access their company’s internal network through an encrypted channel. 

It’s like having your private road within a busy highway. 

The VPN makes the information hard to read for anyone who tries to spy on it. This way, the business can keep its sensitive data safe from hackers and other online threats.

When an employee connects to it, all internet traffic from their device is encrypted and sent to the VPN server. The server then decrypts the traffic and sends it to its intended destination.

This process protects the data being transmitted from being intercepted and viewed by unauthorized users.

Business VPN provides a secure network infrastructure for remote employees to connect to their organization’s network, unlike personal VPNs, which primarily focus on providing online privacy.

Does Your Business Need a VPN?

Yes, your business needs a VPN. With the growing number of cyber attacks, safeguarding your data and online privacy has become more crucial.

Without a VPN, your business is vulnerable to data breaches, hacking attempts, and other cyber threats. 

However, there are several compelling reasons why small businesses need to consider using a VPN including remote access, security and access management. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key reasons.

1. Remote Access

With remote access, employees can work from anywhere and anytime, but using unsecured networks can leave sensitive data vulnerable to cyber-attacks. 

Implementing a VPN provides a secure tunnel between your device and the company’s network, and it allows employees to access company resources without compromising security.

When you connect to work files using personal or public WiFi, your sensitive data is at risk of interception by hackers and cybercriminals. 

However, using a business VPN ensures secure remote access and protects against such threats.

This creates a secure passage between your device and your company’s network, allowing you to work remotely without anyone else being able to see what you’re doing.

2. Access Management

This involves controlling who gets access to what resources and data within your network, and a VPN provides an effective solution.

To accomplish this, a VPN goes through identification, authentication, and authorization. First, it verifies the identity of the person or application attempting to access the network. 

Then, it proves the user’s identity, usually through a password or other means of authentication. Finally, it grants appropriate access levels and permissions associated with the user’s username or IP address.

For network security, the best practice is to restrict access only to authorized personnel. This helps prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security risks.

Hence, with a VPN service from a reliable provider, network administrators can accomplish this by controlling access to sensitive data and applications. 

3. Cybersecurity 

One of the primary reasons why small businesses need a VPN is for cybersecurity. This tool is essential to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

First, a VPN will encrypt all data transmissions between a remote worker and the company’s servers, ensuring that sensitive data is kept secure from third parties. 

This can be especially important when employees use public WiFi networks, which are often unsecured and vulnerable to interception.

Additionally, a VPN can protect against DDoS attacks. These attacks can cripple a company’s online operations by overwhelming its servers with traffic.

Routing all traffic through a VPN can protect servers from these attacks and maintain their online presence.

By requiring authentication and authorization through the VPN, businesses can ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data and applications.

What are the Benefits of Using a VPN for Your Small Business?

Using a VPN for your small business can provide numerous benefits beyond online security. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key advantages of implementing a VPN solution:

1. Enhanced Security

Small-to-medium-sized businesses are often targeted by cyberattacks, with a staggering 65% of attacks aimed at them. VPN access will help to protect your business from online threats, such as hacking and data breaches. 

It encrypts your internet traffic, making it unreadable to hackers and unauthorized users. 

You can securely access confidential information from anywhere with a VPN while reducing the risk of cyber attacks and security breaches. 

2. Protecting Client Data 

As a business that collects personal information from clients, customers, or patients, it’s important to take data protection seriously. 

With a VPN, you can protect client data by creating an encrypted tunnel through which all network traffic is routed.

This encryption ensures that any data sent between the remote employee and the company’s network is secure and cannot be intercepted by third parties.

Additionally, a business VPN has security features that help to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data and applications.

3. Improved Productivity 

The use of a VPN not only provides security but also enhances employee productivity as they can securely access company data and applications from anywhere in the world.

Additionally, VPNs can eliminate the need for costly travel or in-person meetings, as employees can connect and collaborate virtually. 

Its ability to provide easy and secure remote access makes it a valuable tool for businesses looking to increase productivity and stay competitive in today’s digital age.

4. Cost Savings

Adding a VPN to your security measures is a cost-effective solution. Despite the many benefits of VPNs, the cost is typically very reasonable.

It’s a smart investment that can instantly improve your company’s security. With a VPN, you can protect your business from potential data breaches and other cyber threats without breaking the bank.

Summary 

In conclusion, small businesses are at risk of cyberattacks, and using a VPN can help protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.

To protect sensitive data and enhance productivity, utilizing a VPN is an affordable and effective security measure.

Additionally, investing in a VPN service allows employees to work remotely and increase productivity without compromising sensitive information.

The post Does a Small Business Need a VPN and Why? appeared first on SiteProNews.

• 32% of wealthiest businesses’ passwords directly reference a company
• All of the 20 analyzed industries had both “password” and “12345” among the top 7 most commonly used passwords.
• The largest companies prefer “dummies,” “vacation,” and “sexy4sho” for their passwords.

Even the world’s richest companies’ employees have unbelievably poor password habits, reveals the new research by NordPass. While cybersecurity experts repeatedly urge businesses to take better care of corporate passwords, the wealthiest companies worldwide still find the world’s king and queen of poor passwords — “123456” and “password” — good enough to secure corporate digital assets.

“On one hand, it is a paradox that the wealthiest companies on the planet with financial resources to invest in cybersecurity fall into the poor password trap. On the other, it is only natural because internet users have deep-rooted unhealthy password habits. This research once again proves that we should all speed up in transitioning to alternative online authentication solutions,” says Jonas Karklys, CEO of NordPass.

Though NordPass looks at the change in internet users’ password habits year-round, this year, the company specifically investigated passwords that employees of the world’s biggest companies from 31 countries use to secure business accounts. The researchers compiled 20 industry-specific passwords lists.

“Dummies,” “sexy4sho,” and Other Questionable Passwords

According to the study, the passwords “password” and “123456,” which shared the first two spots in last year’s list of the world’s most common passwords, are also popular among the largest companies’ employees. Across all 20 analyzed industries, both of these passwords were found among the seven most commonly used passwords.

Some industries were also more creative than others. The password “dummies” ranks 6th among consumer goods sector employees, “sexy4sho” 16th among real estate employees, and “snowman” 11th in the energy field. Interestingly, people working for corporations in the finance field seem to be in a serious need of a vacation, with the passwords “ready2go,” “vacation,” and “summer” as their top picks for passwords.

Common Inspiration for Passwords

Same as among ordinary internet users, dictionary words, names of people and countries, and simple combinations of numbers, letters, and symbols make up most passwords presented in the research.

However, the remaining 32% indicate another interesting trend. The world’s wealthiest companies’ employees love passwords that directly reference or hint at the name of a specific company. The full company name, the company’s email domain, part of the company’s name, an abbreviation of the company name, and the company product or subsidiary name are the common sources of inspiration.

“These types of passwords are both poor and dangerous to use. When breaking into company accounts, hackers try all password combinations referencing a company because they are aware of how common they are. The employees often avoid creating complicated passwords, especially for shared accounts. Therefore, they end up choosing something radically basic such as the company’s name,” says Karklys.

Wide Representation of Countries and Industries

The analysis of the world’s wealthiest companies’ passwords was conducted in partnership with independent third-party researchers specializing in research on cybersecurity incidents. They looked into the world’s 500 largest companies by their market capitalization, which represented 31 countries and 20 industries.

The United States (46.2%), China (9.6%), Japan (5.8%), India (4.2%), the United Kingdom (4%), France (3.8%), and Canada (3.6%) are the countries most represented in this research. Also, most of the companies analyzed fell under the finance, technology and IT, and health care sectors.

Passwords Will Inevitably Die

The study complements a series of password-related research projects NordPass has delivered throughout the years. In 2021, the company looked into passwords Fortune 500 companies use, and in 2022, investigated the password habits of top-level business executives. Moreover, NordPass annually presents the “Top 200 most common passwords” research, which broadly covers the password trends of internet users.

“While password trends slightly vary each year across different audiences, the general take is that people continuously fail with their password management, and the world desperately needs to switch to new online authentication solutions such as passkeys,” says Karklys.

Various progressive businesses such as Google, Microsoft, Apple, PayPal, KAYAK, and eBay have already adopted passkey technology and are offering passwordless log in to their users. According to Karklys, in no time, other online companies will follow this trend. Therefore, NordPass has developed a solution to store clients’ passkeys and is developing a tool for businesses to easily integrate passkey support to their websites.

Tips to Secure Business Accounts

According to an IBM report, in 2022, stolen or compromised credentials remained the most common cause of a data breach in companies, accounting for 19%. Karklys says that by implementing a few cybersecurity measures, businesses could avoid many cybersecurity incidents.

1. Ensure company passwords are strong. They should consist of random combinations of at least 20 upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
   
2. Enable multi-factor authentication or single sign-on. While the MFA set up on another device, connected with email or SMS codes guarantees an additional layer of security, single sign-on functionality helps reduce the number of passwords people have to manage.
   
3. Critically evaluate whom to grant account credentials. Access privileges should be removed from people leaving the company and passed on only to those who are in need of certain access.

4. Deploy a password manager. With a business solution, companies can safely store all their passwords in one place, share them within the organization, ensure their strength, and effectively manage access privileges.

Methodology

The poor passwords list was compiled in partnership with a third-party company specializing in cybersecurity incidents’ research. Researchers analyzed data that affected the world’s 500 largest companies by their market capitalization. The analyzed data was categorized into 20 different industries. The researchers looked into the top 20 passwords used in each industry.

The post The Wealthiest Companies with the Weakest Passwords appeared first on SiteProNews.

A study by NordVPN showed that data of five million people (including 16 thousand Canadians) has been stolen by bot malware since 2018. Cybercriminals were able to obtain extremely sensitive user data including 26.6 million usernames and passwords. Among them were 720 thousand Google logins, 654 thousand Microsoft logins, and 647 thousand Facebook logins.

The average price for a person’s digital information on the bot markets is $6.

Moreover, because the malware steals logins together with cookies and device configuration information, cybersecurity experts say that the rise of this malware will help hackers to bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA).

“When a criminal hacks a password, they cannot complete the identity authentication if the user has MFA enabled. However, if a criminal obtains their victim’s cookies and device configuration information, they can trick the security systems and avoid MFA activation. Because bot malware provides criminals with the entire digital identity of their victims — it presents a brand new set of risks,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN.

Stolen Logins Found on Bot Markets

A Perfect Crime Using Bots

The scariest thing about bot markets is that they make it easy for hackers to exploit their victim’s data. Even a rookie cybercriminal can connect to someone’s Facebook account if they have cookies and digital fingerprints in place, which help them bypass multi-factor authentication.

After logging in to a user’s account, a cybercriminal can try contacting people on a victim’s friends list and send malicious links or ask for a money transfer. They can also post fake information on the victim’s social media feed.

“Some tactics are even simpler. A hacker can, for example, take control of a victim’s Steam account by changing the password. Steam accounts are sold for up to $6,000 per account and can be easy money for a criminal,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven.

More sophisticated criminals buy this information and target businesses with phishing attacks, trying to impersonate the company’s employees.

“To protect yourself, use an antivirus at all times. Other measures that could help – a password manager and file encryptions tools to make sure that even if a criminal infects your device, there is very little for them to steal,” adds Adrianus Warmenhoven.

Researchers analyzed three major bot markets: the Genesis Market, the Russian Market, and 2Easy. All of the markets were active and accessible on the surface web at the time of analysis. The data on bot markets was compiled in partnership with independent third-party researchers specializing in cybersecurity incident research.

The most popular types of malware that steal data are RedLine, Vidar, Racoon, Taurus, and AZORult.

The full methodology, together with more information about the three analyzed markets, can be found here: https://nordvpn.com/research-lab/bot-markets/

You can learn more about how bot markets work by watching this video: https://youtu.be/dAyl1xBgTUg

The post 26.6 Million Logins Stolen by Bot Malware Since 2018 appeared first on SiteProNews.

“The online world is challenging people in every single move they make. Want to read an article? Dozens of ads and pop-ups are ready to immediately cover your screen. Another privacy threat – malware – is lurking for you on websites and in files you are about to download. Websites you browse are also full of third-party trackers that analyze your browsing history to find out what you do online. It depends on you to stop it,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity advisor at NordVPN.

Adult Content Sites contain the Biggest Amount of Malware

Malware is malicious software that seeks to damage or compromise a device or data. Malware’s scope varies from relatively harmless to extremely dangerous. Malicious software can track people’s data, steal sensitive information, or even delete it without your consent.

NordVPN research shows that adult content sites (21%), as well as cloud storage providers (14%) and entertainment sites (11%), contain the biggest amount of malware. In December, Threat Protection blocked 60.4K, 40.1K, and 30.9K domains of these categories respectively.

Among the most common types of malware are viruses, spyware, worms, trojans, adware, scareware, ransomware, and fireless malware.

Streaming Media Sites have the Most Intrusive Ads

Intrusive advertising refers to pushing invasive and irrelevant ads in front of consumers. They irritate users by popping up unexpectedly, blocking the host page, opening new pages and windows, or playing video and audio at inopportune times.

As for intrusive ads, the majority of them were found on streaming (23%), adult content (16%), and online shopping (9%) sites. Threat Protection detected and blocked millions of them: 552M, 389M, and 226M respectively.

“Today, ad blockers are essential for both security because they block ads that can infect people’s devices and privacy because annoying ads rely on collecting data from web activity and violating people’s privacy. Also, if a website is loading slower than usual, you can blame intrusive ads. Free apps filled with unwanted ads could also drain your device’s battery faster,” explains Adrianus Warmenhoven.

Video Hosting Sites have the Biggest Number of Trackers

While many trackers are a tool for advertising and improving user experience, they may also become handy for online spies. Internet service providers (ISPs), marketing agencies, social media companies, and governments can access your online actions and breach your privacy.

NordVPN’s Threat Protection showed that video hosting sites (22%), cloud storage providers (16.31%), web email (16.25%), and information technology sites (12%) have the most trackers. Video hosting sites alone had 239 billion trackers blocked by Threat Protection in December 2022.

It’s worth adding that earlier NordVPN research showed that the average number of trackers per website is highest in Hong Kong (45.4 trackers), Singapore (33.5), the United States (23.1), and Australia (18.6).

“You can become less trackable online by declining third party cookies, because the website can sell your browsing data to third parties; using a VPN, which will hide your real IP address and location; installing a tracker blocker, which will stop your browsers from collecting information about you; and using privacy browsers, which can obfuscate your browser fingerprint, or ditching Google, which tracks a lot of data about you,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven.

Threat Protection scans your files before you download them, identifies threats, and blocks them before they can harm your device. The feature is free with every NordVPN subscription – and it allows you to go online without leaving a trace, protecting your privacy and improving your digital security.

The post Adult Content, Streaming, and Video Hosting Sites have the Most Security Threats appeared first on SiteProNews.

What is an Account Takeover?

An account takeover is a harmful practice where hackers obtain the user login information and password for a bank account, e-commerce store, or another website or application and use the account as their own. An account takeover is normally conducted in an effort to make fraudulent purchases, to withdraw money, and profit from the user being taken advantage of. Millions of customers suffer from account takeovers each year, and it’s essential for businesses to take steps to try and prevent account takeovers from happening.

How Does an Account Takeover Happen?

There are a few ways an account takeover can happen. The most common overall is phishing. This is a tricky attack where a hacker creates a fake email, login form, or even a clone of an application in an effort to get the user to reveal their login credentials. If you’ve ever received a strange email asking you to verify your account with a link within, this was likely a phishing attempt that could have compromised your account. 

Credential stuffing is another way that attackers get into user accounts to steal them. Stolen user credentials are often posted up online, and attackers’ input is known working credentials from one service into many other services as well. For instance, a known Netflix account login may be input into Hulu, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Peacock, and other streaming services with the hope that the user utilizes the same username and password again. 

Finally, brute force attacks are used to break into accounts. Some hackers utilize powerful programs that try countless usernames and passwords for a single account until one finally works. With help from sophisticated software, these attackers can try tens of thousands of combinations each second.

4 Signs of an Account Takeover Fraud

●     Many purchases in a short time

●     Multiple users with the same recovery number or email

●     Many accounts accessed with the same device

●     One account accessed from multiple country IP addresses

Description of Common Warning Signs That An Account Has Been Compromised

If you notice an account is being used for a large number of purchases rapidly, that could be a suspicious activity that indicates the account is compromised. It’s also important to look for multiple user accounts being registered to the same phone number or email address as a recovery method. When accounts are taken over, the attacker wants to maintain a hold on the accounts, and changing the recovery methods is one of the best ways to achieve that goal. 

It’s also important to look at the devices being used for your user accounts if you notice any suspicious activity. One sign of an account takeover is multiple accounts being accessed from the same device. You may also notice the same account being accessed by IP addresses in different countries. This is a sure sign that an outsider has taken control of the account and is making unauthorized use of it.

Examples of Suspicious Activity That Individuals Should Be Aware Of

Individuals should avoid any strange emails they receive at their address, and they should avoid clicking links within emails that they don’t trust. It’s also important to look at the website address that you’re visiting to verify it’s the correct address because you could be on a fraudulent site made to look like the real one. Understanding how to look for possible phishing attempts is one useful way to prevent account takeover.

Best Practices to Detect and Prevent Account Takeovers

As a site owner that wants to prevent account takeovers from tarnishing your business, there are some steps you can take to protect your customers and visitors. Follow each of the suggested tactics below to make account takeovers more difficult to achieve.

●     Require users to utilize strong passwords

●     Utilize Two-Factor Authentication services

●     Limit how frequently a user can try to login

●     Notify users when their credentials change

●     Add specialty security software

Tips for Creating Strong Passwords

If you use a strong password for your account, it will be much more difficult to break into. Choose a password that’s at least 12 characters long, and try to use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Utilizing lowercase and uppercase letters is another way for you to make your password more difficult, and avoiding common words helps as well. Finally, use different passwords for different accounts for added protection.

Understanding Two-Factor Authentication

More sites and services are beginning to rely on two-factor authentication today. This special security precaution forces users to verify an account and log in on a second device before they can get on the site. Often a text message, email, or an authenticator app prompts you to verify your login attempt before you can get on the account. This prevents users from getting on your account if they don’t have access to your devices.

Security Software That Can Help Detect and Prevent Account Takeover

While spotting the signs of an account takeover manually can be difficult to do, it’s not hard for sophisticated software to notice the more subtle signs. Adding cybersecurity software to your site is one of the most effective account takeover prevention steps you can take for your site. The software will actively prevent account takeovers and notify you when strange things are happening on the site.

 An Account takeover is a very real issue plaguing online businesses and consumers around the world. Everyday accounts are obtained illegally and used to place orders, transfer money and enjoy services that haven’t been paid for. Follow the steps above to protect yourself and your site visitors from the risk of an account takeover.

The post Best Practices for Protecting Your Online Accounts: Proactive Steps You Can Take Today to Avoid Account Takeovers appeared first on SiteProNews.