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December, 2020

December 31, 2020 – Hacker

Microsoft Says SolarWinds Hackers Accessed Some of Its Source Code Full Text

Abstract Microsoft on Thursday revealed that the threat actors behind the SolarWinds supply chain attack were able to gain access to a small number of internal accounts and escalate access inside its internal network. The "very sophisticated nation-state actor" used the unauthorized access to view, but not modify, the source code present in its repositories, the company said. "We detected unusual activity with a small number of internal accounts and upon review, we discovered one account had been used to view source code in a number of source code repositories," the Windows maker  disclosed  in an update. "The account did not have permissions to modify any code or engineering systems and our investigation further confirmed no changes were made. These accounts were investigated and remediated." The development is the latest in the far-reaching  espionage saga  that came to light earlier in December following revelations by cybersecurity firm FireEye that attac

The Hacker News

December 31, 2020 – Hacker

Microsoft: SolarWinds hackers accessed our source code Full Text

Abstract The threat actors behind the SolarWinds attack could breach internal Microsoft accounts to view the source code for Microsoft products.

BleepingComputer

December 31, 2020 – Hacker

Microsoft says hackers viewed source code as part of SolarWinds attack Full Text

Abstract Microsoft on Thursday reported that its source code had been viewed, but not altered, by hackers involved in the massive cyber espionage incident that affected thousands of companies and much of the federal government. 

The Hill

December 31, 2020 – Hacker

SolarWinds hackers gained access to Microsoft source code Full Text

Abstract The threat actors behind the SolarWinds supply chain attack could have had access to the source code of several Microsoft products. The threat actors behind the SolarWinds attack could have compromised a small number of internal accounts and used...

Security Affairs

December 31, 2020 – Breach

Non-profit founded by Gates Foundation suffers massive exposure of student records Full Text

Abstract An exposed AWS bucket left hundreds of thousands of student-related records exposed to the internet, but officials from the non-profit say most of the data was old and obsolete.

SCMagazine

December 31, 2020 – Ransomware

What’s Next for Ransomware in 2021? Full Text

Abstract Ransomware response demands a whole-of-business plan before the next attack, according to our roundtable of experts.

Threatpost

December 31, 2020 – Criminals

Threat actor is selling 368.8 million records from 26 data breaches Full Text

Abstract A data breach broker is selling user records allegedly from twenty-six data breaches on a hacker forum. Security experts from Bleeping Computer reported that a threat actor is selling user records allegedly stolen from twenty-six companies on a hacker...

Security Affairs

December 31, 2020 – General

Financial services industry hit with tens of millions of attacks per day Full Text

Abstract The report found that the bad threat actors primarily used common attack paths, such as SQL injection, local file inclusion and cross-site scripting.

SCMagazine

December 31, 2020 – General

The 2020 SolarWinds reality check: As cleanup continues, community considers implications Full Text

Abstract What might go down as the most consequential story of the year for the cybersecurity community only surfaced in December. And yet, experts predict years of clean up, both physical and political, and potential shifts in how the nation secures the supply chain.

SCMagazine

December 31, 2020 – Criminals

Data breach broker selling user records stolen from 26 companies Full Text

Abstract A data breach broker is selling the allegedly stolen user records for twenty-six companies on a hacker forum, BleepingComputer has learned.

BleepingComputer

December 31, 2020 – Breach

T-Mobile Data Breach – Phone numbers & Call Records Exposed Full Text

Abstract United States telecommunications giant T-Mobile has unveiled that the personal data of its employees and customers have been hacked. This is the...

Cyber Security News

December 31, 2020 – Ransomware

City of Cornelia hit by ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract The City of Cornelia’s data system is offline following a ransomware attack the day after Christmas. City Manager Donald Anderson confirmed the attack in a press release to local media on Tuesday.

Now Habersham

December 31, 2020 – Malware

New Golang-based Crypto worm infects Windows and Linux servers Full Text

Abstract Experts from Intezer discovered a new and self-spreading Golang-based malware that targets Windows and Linux servers. Experts from Intezer discovered a Golang-based worm that targets Windows and Linux servers. The malware has been active since...

Security Affairs

December 31, 2020 – Policy and Law

Ticketmaster fined $10 million in corporate espionage scheme Full Text

Abstract Ticketmaster tried to steal both a client and design ideas from a competitor by logging into the back-end system with a former employer’s login credentials.

SCMagazine

December 31, 2020 – General

Adobe Flash Player is officially dead tomorrow Full Text

Abstract Flash Player will reach its end of life (EOL) on January 1, 2021, after always being a security risk to those who have used it over the years.

BleepingComputer

December 31, 2020 – General

Russian businesses lose $49 billion to Cyber Attacks Full Text

Abstract Sberbank, a major money lender in the Russian Federation, has released a report that claims that the loss incurred by Russian companies because of cyberattacks in 2020 was about $49 billion.

Cybersecurity Insiders

December 31, 2020 – Malware

Emotet campaign hits Lithuania’s National Public Health Center and several state institutions Full Text

Abstract An Emotet campaign hit Lithuania, the malware has infected systems at the National Center for Public Health (NVSC) and several municipalities. A large-scale Emotet campaign hit Lithuania, the malware has infected the networks of Lithuania's National...

Security Affairs

December 31, 2020 – Policy and Law

Ticketmaster fined $10 million for breaking into rival’s systems Full Text

Abstract Ticketmaster, a Live Nation subsidiary and a leading ticket distribution and sales company, was fined $10 million for illegally accessing the systems of competitor CrowdSurge using the credentials of one of its former employees.

BleepingComputer

December 31, 2020 – Breach

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Charity GetSchooled Leaks Info of 930,000 Children, Teens, and Young Adults Full Text

Abstract This breach occurred when GetSchooled, a charity founded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in collaboration with Viacom, left a database open to anyone with a browser and internet connection.

welpmagazine

December 31, 2020 – Criminals

Cybercriminals Claim to Leak Door Controls USA’s 140GB Database on Hacker Forum Full Text

Abstract The archive was leaked on November 27-28. It appears to have been posted on the hacker forum after Door Controls USA seemingly refused to pay ransom to attackers who breached the company’s network.

CyberNews

December 31, 2020 – General

SolarWinds Attribution: Are We Getting Ahead of Ourselves? Full Text

Abstract FireEye has named the threat actor “UNC2452,” and Volexity dubbed the threat actor “Dark Halo,” stating that the actor is the same as UNC2452, though FireEye has not substantiated that claim.

Recorded Future

December 31, 2020 – Government

Cyber attack on U.S. government may have started earlier than initially thought - U.S. senator Full Text

Abstract The unprecedented cyber attack on U.S. government agencies reported this month may have started earlier than last spring as previously believed, a U.S. senator involved in cybersecurity said.

Reuters

December 31, 2020 – Government

CISA updates SolarWinds guidance, tells US govt agencies to update right away Full Text

Abstract In an update posted late last night, CISA said that all US government agencies that still run SolarWinds Orion platforms must update to the latest 2020.2.1HF2 version by the end of the year.

ZDNet

December 31, 2020 – Education

What is OAuth 2.0 ? How it Works ? A Detailed Explanation of Authorization Framework Full Text

Abstract OAuth 2.0 is the industry-standard protocol for authorization. OAuth 2.0 supersedes the work done on the original OAuth protocol created in 2006.

Cyber Security News

December 30, 2020 – Breach

T-Mobile data breach: CPNI (Customer Proprietary Network Information) exposed Full Text

Abstract T-Mobile has disclosed a data breach that exposed customers' network information (CPNI), including phone numbers and calls records. T-Mobile has disclosed a data breach exposing customers' account's information. The T-Mobile security staff discovered...

Security Affairs

December 30, 2020 – General

Adobe now shows alerts in Windows 10 to uninstall Flash Player Full Text

Abstract With the Flash Player officially reaching the end of life tomorrow, Adobe has started to display alerts on Windows computers recommending that users uninstall Flash Player.

BleepingComputer

December 30, 2020 – Government

CISA demands US govt agencies to update SolarWinds Orion software Full Text

Abstract US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) urges US federal agencies to update the SolarWinds Orion software by the end of the year. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has updated its official guidance to order...

Security Affairs

December 30, 2020 – General

2021 strategy predictions: Shifts in business models, shifts in security priorities Full Text

Abstract Enhanced email security? Growth of digital identities? Vulnerability management born from mergers and acquisitions? Here, cybersecurity experts offer their take on what strategic shifts we should expect within the enterprise.

SCMagazine

December 30, 2020 – Hacker

FBI Warn Hackers are Using Hijacked Home Security Devices for ‘Swatting’ Full Text

Abstract Stolen email credentials are being used to hijack home surveillance devices, such as Ring, to call police with a fake emergency, then watch the chaos unfold.

Threatpost

December 30, 2020 – Malware

New Golang worm turns Windows and Linux servers into monero miners Full Text

Abstract The potential number of systems is staggering: There are 5.5 million MySQL, Tomcat, Jenkins, and WebLogic devices connected to the internet that could be vulnerable.

SCMagazine

December 30, 2020 – Business

Cerberus Cyber Sentinel buys Alpine Security Full Text

Abstract The deal, and implication of more to come, hint at increased hunger for third-party security auditing services in the face of worsening cybercrime, and an increasingly complex regulatory compliance landscape.

SCMagazine

December 30, 2020 – Government

DHS orders federal agencies to update SolarWinds Orion platform Full Text

Abstract The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has ordered all US federal agencies to update the SolarWinds Orion platform to the latest version by the end of business hours on December 31, 2020.

BleepingComputer

December 30, 2020 – Breach

T-Mobile data breach exposed phone numbers, call records Full Text

Abstract T-Mobile has announced a data breach exposing customers' proprietary network information (CPNI), including phone numbers and call records.

BleepingComputer

December 30, 2020 – Policy and Law

Israel, Cyberattacks and International Law Full Text

Abstract In response to a series of cyberattacks, Israel seems to be increasingly turning toward international law to guide its approach to hostile activities in cyberspace.

Lawfare

December 30, 2020 – Ransomware

GenRx Pharmacy ransomware attack leads to HIPAA data breach disclosure Full Text

Abstract GenRx Pharmacy, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based healthcare organization, has warned hundreds of thousands of patients over a potential data breach following a ransomware attack earlier this year.

The Daily Swig

December 30, 2020 – Malware

Emotet malware hits Lithuania’s National Public Health Center Full Text

Abstract The internal networks of Lithuania's National Center for Public Health (NVSC) and several municipalities have been infected with Emotet malware following a large campaign targeting the country's state institutions.

BleepingComputer

December 30, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Google Docs bug could have allowed hackers to hijack screenshots Full Text

Abstract Google has addressed a bug in its feedback tool incorporated across its services that could have allowed attackers to view users' private docs. Google has addressed a flaw in its feedback tool that is part of multiple of its services that could be exploited...

Security Affairs

December 30, 2020 – General

Taking a Neighborhood Watch Approach to Retail Cybersecurity Full Text

Abstract Bugcrowd CTO Casey Ellis covers new cybersecurity challenges for online retailers.

Threatpost

December 30, 2020 – Malware

New worm turns Windows, Linux servers into Monero miners Full Text

Abstract A newly discovered and self-spreading Golang-based malware has been actively dropping XMRig cryptocurrency miners on Windows and Linux servers since early December.

BleepingComputer

December 30, 2020 – Breach

Treasure Valley Community College Notifies Consumers of Data Security Incident Full Text

Abstract The college has become aware of a data security incident that may have involved the personal information of certain community members. It is offering complimentary credit monitoring services to them.

PR Newswire

December 30, 2020 – Breach

Kawasaki Security Breach – Unauthorized Access to a Server from an Overseas Location Full Text

Abstract Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. is a Japanese public multinational corporation primarily known as a manufacturer of motorcycles, engines, heavy equipment, aerospace and...

Cyber Security News

December 30, 2020 – General

Enterprises Running Old Software Lose 47% More Money in Data Breach Full Text

Abstract More than 4 in 10 firms in North America use out-of-date technology and lose nearly 50% more money in a data breach than companies running updated software and hardware, a new Kaspersky report said.

MSSP Alert

December 30, 2020 – General

A new year, a new administration: Doors open in 2021 for public-private cooperation Full Text

Abstract While much is speculative, a few aspects of how the government’s information security interactions with the private sector have begun to crystalize.

SCMagazine

December 30, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Experts have named the average time for fixing vulnerabilities in computer programs Full Text

Abstract In almost 44% of cases, developers of computer programs fix discovered vulnerabilities in products from the point of view of information security only after three months due to slow software updates.

Hackers Review

December 30, 2020 – Attack

Antwerp laboratory becomes latest victim of cyber-attack Full Text

Abstract The attack took place on the General Medical Laboratory (AML) in the Antwerp district of Hoboken. Hackers installed ransomware on the lab’s website, bringing it to a standstill.

Brussels Times

December 30, 2020 – Hacker

Hackers Target Usenet Indexing Service NZBGeek and Rob Users’ Personal Data Full Text

Abstract Hackers installed keylogger and copied NZBGeek database exposing personal details of all users. While operating smoothly, as the site normally does, suddenly the site became unreachable.

Hackread

December 30, 2020 – IOT

FBI: Pranksters are hijacking smart devices to live-stream swatting incidents Full Text

Abstract "Recently, offenders have been using victims' smart devices, including video and audio capable home surveillance devices, to carry out swatting attacks," the FBI said in a PSA published today.

ZDNet

December 30, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware Is Headed Down a Dire Path Full Text

Abstract Though some researchers say that the scale and severity of ransomware attacks crossed a bright line in 2020, others describe this year as simply the next step in a gradual and predictable devolution.

Wired

December 30, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Microsoft Issued a Fix for Zero-Day Six Months Ago but It Didn’t Work Full Text

Abstract Microsoft fixed a zero-day vulnerability in June, but the company did a poor job. Security researchers from Google’s Project Zero showed that attackers could still use the zero-day, despite the patch.

Bit Defender

December 30, 2020 – Covid-19

US Treasury warns of ransomware attacks on COVID-19 vaccine research Full Text

Abstract The US Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) warns of ransomware attacks on COVID-19 vaccine research organizations. The US Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued a noticed to warn...

Security Affairs

December 30, 2020 – General

GDPR & HIPAA Compliance – Key Similarities and Differences in the Compliance Requirements Full Text

Abstract Introduction Privacy Regulations has for long been a major concern for most businesses processing or dealing with Personal Data....

Cyber Security News

December 30, 2020 – Skimming

Multi-platform Credit Card SKimmer hits Shopify, Bigcommerce, and Others Full Text

Abstract The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has created a free tool to identify unusual activity that could have potentially malicious repercussions...

Cyber Security News

December 29, 2020 – Outage

Wasabi cloud storage service knocked offline for hosting malware Full Text

Abstract Cloud storage provider Wasabi suffered an outage after a domain used for storage endpoints was suspended for hosting malware.

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – Breach

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, a partner of defense companies and agencies, reports breach Full Text

Abstract Of particular concern among some cybersecurity experts is the fact that the company took several months to report to the incidents, which stemmed from unauthorized access to servers from overseas offices.

SCMagazine

December 29, 2020 – Hacker

SolarWinds hackers aimed at access to victims’ cloud assets Full Text

Abstract Microsoft says that SolarWinds hackers aimed at compromising the victims' cloud infrastructure after deploying the Solorigate backdoor (aka Sunburst). The Microsoft 365 Defender Team revealed that the goal of the threat actors behind the SolarWinds...

Security Affairs

December 29, 2020 – General

2021 threat predictions: Bad actors that honed their craft with COVID are ready to go big Full Text

Abstract The last year provided threat actors the ability to hone their craft – targeting organizations and individuals left vulnerable from pandemic fallout. As a result of that, cyber experts expect more sophisticated attacks to come in 2021 – with ransomware and phishing continuing at a steady clip, and emerging threats tied to deepfakes and 5G…

SCMagazine

December 29, 2020 – Policy and Law

Lawsuit Claims Flawed Facial Recognition Led to Man’s Wrongful Arrest Full Text

Abstract Black man sues police, saying he was falsely ID’d by facial recognition, joining other Black Americans falling victim to the technology’s racial bias.

Threatpost

December 29, 2020 – IOT

Swatters hijack smart home devices to watch emergency responders Full Text

Abstract Weak credentials and login protections come with the risk of swatting for owners of connected devices with video and voice capabilities, warns the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – Hacker

Microsoft: SolarWinds hackers’ goal was the victims’ cloud data Full Text

Abstract Microsoft says that the end goal of the SolarWinds supply chain compromise was to pivot to the victims' cloud assets after deploying the Sunburst/Solorigate backdoor on their local networks.

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – Phishing

No Break in Phishing Scams Full Text

Abstract An employee of Freedom Finance fell victim to a phishing email, resulting in the loss of data of 16,000 clients from 2018. The attack also disrupted the internal network of the company.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 29, 2020 – General

Treasury asks financial sector to watch out for COVID vaccine scams, ransomware Full Text

Abstract The Financial Crime Enforcement Network detailed for banks or other financial services organizations potential issues, asking the sector to be particularly attuned to ransomware attacks on distribution networks and the supply chains for the manufacture of vaccines.

SCMagazine

December 29, 2020 – Breach

Voyager cryptocurrency broker halted trading due to cyberattack Full Text

Abstract The Voyager cryptocurrency brokerage platform halted trading yesterday after suffering a cyberattack targeting their DNS configuration.

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – Malware

Eliciting Current Activities of Malicious Browser Extensions Full Text

Abstract With a large user base, it makes it quite easy for cybercriminals to publish malicious browser extensions that perform illicit activities, including spying and data theft, among others.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 29, 2020 – Malware

Pegasus Spyware: Now Targets New Zero-Day in iPhone Full Text

Abstract Four nation-state-backed APTs abused Pegasus phone-surveillance solution to target 36 Al Jazeera members by exploiting a zero-day in iPhones, in an espionage attack.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 29, 2020 – Breach

Japanese Kawasaki Heavy Industries discloses security breach Full Text

Abstract Japanese giant Kawasaki Heavy Industries discovered unauthorized access to a Japanese company server from multiple overseas offices. Kawasaki Heavy Industries disclosed a security breach, the company discovered unauthorized access to a Japanese company...

Security Affairs

December 29, 2020 – Hacker

6 Questions Attackers Ask Before Choosing an Asset to Exploit Full Text

Abstract David “moose” Wolpoff at Randori explains how hackers pick their targets, and how understanding “hacker logic” can help prioritize defenses.

Threatpost

December 29, 2020 – Ransomware

2020 was the worst year ever for ransomware. 2021 will be more of the same Full Text

Abstract Most of the incentives driving ransomware operations have only intensified over the past year, while law enforcement and defenders look for new angles to stem the tide.

SCMagazine

December 29, 2020 – Criminals

Threat actor is selling a dump allegedly including 2,5M customers of service provider Ho Mobile Full Text

Abstract A threat intelligence analyst first spotted on a popular hacking forum a threat actor that is selling a database allegedly containing the database of the Italian mobile service provider Ho mobile.

Security Affairs

December 29, 2020 – Malware

Mac Attackers Remain Focused Mainly on Adware, Fooling Users Full Text

Abstract In February 2020, Malwarebytes reported that its Mac users encountered about twice as many "threats" as Windows users. However, it mainly included potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) and adware.

Dark Reading

December 29, 2020 – Phishing

Indian e-commerce users target of new ‘year-end carnival’ scam Full Text

Abstract The scam is designed to make e-commerce users believe that Flipkart is offering a year-end carnival, although there is no such information this year on the e-commerce player's official website.

The Times Of India

December 29, 2020 – Government

US Treasury warns of ransomware targeting COVID-19 vaccine research Full Text

Abstract The US Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) warned financial institutions of ransomware actively targeting vaccine research organizations.

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – Breach

Kawasaki discloses security breach, potential data leak Full Text

Abstract Japan's Kawasaki Heavy Industries announced a security breach and potential data leak after unauthorized access to a Japanese company server from multiple overseas offices.

BleepingComputer

December 29, 2020 – General

2020 Work-for-Home Shift: What We Learned Full Text

Abstract Threatpost explores 5 big takeaways from 2020 — and what they mean for 2021.

Threatpost

December 29, 2020 – Breach

Update: Kawasaki Heavy hack may have targeted defense-linked information Full Text

Abstract Kawasaki Heavy said it found fraudulent server access via a company base in Thailand during a system audit on June 11 this year, and confirmed the possibility of a data breach.

The Japan Times

December 29, 2020 – Business

Zix acquires CloudAlly backup for SaaS data protection Full Text

Abstract When Zix acquired cloud backup and recovery provider CloudAlly for $30 million, it picked up backup for such popular SaaS apps as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Box, and Dropbox.

Tech Target

December 29, 2020 – Attack

Finnish Parliament Says Intruders Gained Access to Some MPs’ Email Accounts Full Text

Abstract In an official statement, KRP Commissioner Tero Muurman said the attack did not cause any damage to the Parliament's internal IT system but was not an accidental intrusion either.

ZDNet

December 29, 2020 – Government

CISA releases a PowerShell-based tool to detect malicious activity in Azure, Microsoft 365 Full Text

Abstract Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released a tool for detecting potentially malicious activities in Azure/Microsoft 365 environments. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)'s Cloud Forensics team has released...

Security Affairs

December 29, 2020 – General

In a Zero Trust World, Compliance Doesn’t Equal Security Full Text

Abstract Zero trust architecture is the opposite of the old “trust, but verify” methodology—instead, it’s a risk management approach that translates to: “trust nothing and record everything.”

Nextgov

December 29, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

A Google Docs Bug Could Have Allowed Hackers See Your Private Documents Full Text

Abstract Google has patched a bug in its feedback tool incorporated across its services that could be exploited by an attacker to potentially steal screenshots of sensitive Google Docs documents simply by embedding them in a malicious website. The flaw was discovered on July 9 by security researcher  Sreeram KL , for which he was awarded $3133.70 as part of Google's Vulnerability Reward Program. Many of Google's products, including Google Docs, come with a " Send feedback " or "Help Docs improve" option that allows users to send feedback along with an option to include a screenshot — something that's automatically loaded to highlight specific issues. But instead of having to duplicate the same functionality across its services, the feedback feature is deployed in Google's main website ("www.google.com") and integrated to other domains via an iframe element that loads the pop-up's content from "feedback.googleusercontent.com." Th

The Hacker News

December 29, 2020 – Phishing

Hackers phish 615,000 login credentials by using Facebook ads Full Text

Abstract The Facebook users targeted span from a number of countries including Egypt, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Nepal with more than 615,000 of them being affected in totality.

Hackread

December 29, 2020 – Policy and Law

Brazilians mostly unaware of data protection regulations Full Text

Abstract The survey carried out by Brazilian credit intelligence company Boa Vista with over 500 consumers between August and September 2020 suggests that over 70% of those polled do not know what the GDPR is.

ZDNet

December 29, 2020 – Malware

AutoHotkey-Based Password Stealer Targeting US, Canadian Banking Users Full Text

Abstract Threat actors have been discovered distributing a new credential stealer written in AutoHotkey (AHK) scripting language as part of an ongoing campaign that started early 2020. Customers of financial institutions in the US and Canada are among the primary targets for credential exfiltration, with a specific focus on banks such as Scotiabank, Royal Bank of Canada, HSBC, Alterna Bank, Capital One, Manulife, and EQ Bank. Also included in the list is an Indian banking firm ICICI Bank. AutoHotkey  is an open-source custom scripting language for Microsoft Windows aimed at providing easy hotkeys for macro-creation and software automation that allows users to automate repetitive tasks in any Windows application. The multi-stage infection chain commences with a malware-laced Excel file that's embedded with a Visual Basic for Applications (VBA)  AutoOpen  macro, which is subsequently used to drop and execute the downloader client script ("adb.ahk") via a legitimate portable AHK

The Hacker News

December 28, 2020 – Privacy

12 new state privacy and security laws explained: Is your business ready? Full Text

Abstract While at the federal level security and privacy legislation are lost in a morass of partisan politics and corporate lobbying delays, states have been moving ahead to push through an impressive number of important bills that help fill in the gaps. A search of the Legiscan database reveals that hundreds of bills that address privacy, cybersecurity and data breaches are pending across the 50 states, territories and the District of Columbia.

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Criminals

Threat actor is selling a dump allegedly including 2,5M customers of service provider Ho Mobile Full Text

Abstract Threat intelligence analyst discovered a threat actor that is selling a database of the Italian mobile service provider Ho mobile. Threat intelligence analyst @Bank_Security first spotted on a popular hacking forum a threat actor that is selling...

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Policy and Law

Data questions remain as UK exits EU Full Text

Abstract For U.S. firms, whose home nation already has different privacy laws state by state, a new U.K. regime might be one more for the pile.

SCMagazine

December 28, 2020 – Breach

In wake of SolarWinds and Vietnam, more supply chain attacks expected 2021 Full Text

Abstract Research from ESET of a supply chain attack in Vietnam in which digital certificates were compromised set off continued discussions in the industry about the nature of recent supply chain attacks, and how security teams can most effectively prepare and respond.

SCMagazine

December 28, 2020 – Breach

Finland confirms that hackers breached MPs’ emails accounts Full Text

Abstract The Parliament of Finland confirmed that threat actors had access to email accounts of multiple members of parliament (MPs).  "Parliament of Finland has been subjected to a cyberattack in the fall of 2020. The attack was discovered by parliament...

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Government

Biden calls for modernizing US defenses following massive hack Full Text

Abstract President-elect Joe Biden on Monday stressed the need to modernize U.S. military forces to account for attacks in cyberspace following a massive hack of multiple government agencies that came to light earlier this month.

The Hill

December 28, 2020 – General

2021 tech predictions: The conceptual gets real Full Text

Abstract Community and market experts found some consensus: cloud security will dominate strategies and investments even more that it did during 2020, and technologies once deemed “on the horizon” – think automation, 5G and even the much hyped artificial intelligence – will officially arrive.

SCMagazine

December 28, 2020 – Outage

Aida Cruises cancels trips due to mysterious “IT restrictions” Full Text

Abstract German cruise line AIDA Cruises is dealing with mysterious "IT restrictions" that have led to the cancellation of New Year's Eve cruises embarking this past weekend.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Ransomware

Nefilim ransomware operators leak data stolen from Whirlpool Full Text

Abstract The American multinational manufacturer and marketer of home appliances Whirlpool was hit by the Nefilim ransomware gang. The American multinational manufacturer and marketer of home appliances Whirlpool suffered a ransomware attack,...

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Hacker

Finnish Parliament attackers hack lawmakers’ email accounts Full Text

Abstract The email accounts of multiple members of parliament (MPs) were compromised following a cyberattack as revealed today by the Parliament of Finland.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware Operators Take a Liking to SystemBC RAT Full Text

Abstract Sophos published new research into the SystemBC malware that acts as a Tor proxy and is being used in ransomware-as-a-service attacks for communications and data exfiltration.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 28, 2020 – General

Popular Messaging Apps and Security that Matters Full Text

Abstract A group of researchers analyzed 13 messaging apps and revealed standard security features and practices embraced by each while they capture and store user data.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 28, 2020 – Government

CISA releases Azure, Microsoft 365 malicious activity detection tool Full Text

Abstract The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released a PowerShell-based tool that helps detect potentially compromised applications and accounts in Azure/Microsoft 365 environments.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Covid-19

Hackers Amp Up COVID-19 IP Theft Attacks Full Text

Abstract In-depth report looks at how COVID-19 research has become as a juicy new target for organized cybercrime.

Threatpost

December 28, 2020 – Ransomware

Home appliance giant Whirlpool hit in Nefilim ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract Home appliances giant Whirlpool suffered a ransomware attack by the Nefilim ransomware gang who stole data before encrypting devices.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Phishing

Multi-platform card skimmer targets Shopify, BigCommerce, Zencart, and Woocommerce stores Full Text

Abstract Experts warn of a multi-platform credit card skimmer that can target online stores running on Shopify, BigCommerce, Zencart, and Woocommerce. Security experts have discovered a multi-platform credit card skimmer that can allow threat actors to harvest payment...

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Breach

Neopets Is Still A Thing And Its Exposing Sensitive Data Full Text

Abstract Neopets, a website that allows children to care for “virtual pets,” exposed a wide range of sensitive data online including credentials for company databases, employee emails, and code repositories.

The Security Ledger

December 28, 2020 – Criminals

UK NCA visits WeLeakInfo users to warn of using stolen data Full Text

Abstract 21 WeLeakInfo customers have been arrested across the UK for using stolen credentials downloaded from WeLeakInfo following an operation coordinated by the UK National Crime Agency (NCA).

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Hacker

Hackers Claim to Sell 65,000 Records Stolen From Japanese Video Game and Anime Company Koei Tecmo Full Text

Abstract Koei Tecmo is a Japanese video game and anime company. The hacker claimed to have hacked into the koeitecmoeurope.com website through a spear-phishing campaign on December 18th.

Secure Reading

December 28, 2020 – Phishing

One in ten shopping ads promoted on Google potentially lead to phishing sites Full Text

Abstract Ads created by cybercriminals can lead users to malicious phishing websites where they can be tricked into buying counterfeit or unsafe products, fall victim to financial scams, or worse.

CyberNews

December 28, 2020 – Phishing

Multi-platform card skimmer found on Shopify, BigCommerce stores Full Text

Abstract A recently discovered multi-platform credit card skimmer can harvest payment info on compromised stores powered by Shopify, BigCommerce, Zencart, and Woocommerce.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – Ransomware

REvil Ransomware Gang Targeted ‘The Hospital Group’ and Allegedly Stole 600GB of Documents Full Text

Abstract The Hospital Group has confirmed the ransomware attack and notified the Information Commissioner about the security breach. The Hospital Group also notified via email all customers.

Security Affairs

December 28, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware in 2020: A Banner Year for Extortion Full Text

Abstract From attacks on the UVM Health Network that delayed chemotherapy appointments, to ones on public schools that delayed students going back to the classroom, ransomware gangs disrupted organizations to inordinate levels in 2020.

Threatpost

December 28, 2020 – Malware

GitHub-hosted malware calculates Cobalt Strike payload from Imgur pic Full Text

Abstract A new strand of malware uses Word files with macros to download a PowerShell script from GitHub. This PowerShell script further downloads a legitimate image file from image hosting service Imgur to decode a Cobalt Strike script.

BleepingComputer

December 28, 2020 – IOT

Your new smart car is an IoT device that can be hacked Full Text

Abstract Connected cars are complex systems composed of numerous units that exchange large amounts of data, and threat actors can manipulate those systems in order to gain control of smart vehicles.

CyberNews

December 28, 2020 – Privacy

Privacy 2020: From prepared to alarmed, the year the rubber hit the road Full Text

Abstract If 2019 was an opportunity for privacy advocates to push for preparation ahead of looming data protection deadlines, then 2020 was the year organizations were expected to prove themselves ready. In this second article in our Year in Review series, we consider how legal complications leave all businesses, big and small, with a heavier privacy burden than ever.

SCMagazine

December 28, 2020 – General

‘Tis the Season for Nonprofit Cybersecurity Risks to Reach New Heights Full Text

Abstract Nonprofit cybersecurity challenges are made worse by slender budgets and the fact that inadequate attention is paid to risk reduction which is not seen as critical by many boards and donors.

Security Intelligence

December 28, 2020 – General

Working together to suppress complex and organized fraud Full Text

Abstract Unfortunately, fraudsters have taken advantage of the pandemic to rob and steal. And just as beating the virus, beating COVID-19-related fraud will also require a multiparty approach.

Help Net Security

December 28, 2020 – Attack

Scottish Environment Protection Agency targeted in cyberattack Full Text

Abstract The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has been targeted in a significant cyberattack in the early hours of Christmas Eve, it's executive director, David Pirie, confirmed.

STV

December 28, 2020 – General

SaaS security in 2021 Full Text

Abstract Companies have to make sure SaaS vendors keep their company’s data secure, and that their employees' use of these SaaS solutions is secure also when end users are not connected to the office network.

Help Net Security

December 28, 2020 – Attack

Microsoft Warned CrowdStrike of Possible Hacking Attempt Full Text

Abstract Microsoft warned CrowdStrike earlier this month of a failed attempt by unidentified attackers to access and read the company's emails, according to a blog post published by the security firm.

Info Risk Today

December 28, 2020 – Breach

E-commerce app 21 Buttons exposes millions of users’ data Full Text

Abstract Researchers discovered that the popular e-commerce app 21 Buttons was exposing private data for 100s of influencers across Europe. Researchers from cybersecurity firm vpnMentor discovered that the e-commerce app 21 Buttons was exposing private...

Security Affairs

December 27, 2020 – Malware

Attackers Increasingly Adopting VBA-based Attack Techniques Full Text

Abstract In this technique, malicious Office documents containing VBA code are saved within streams of CFBF files, with VBA macros saving data in a hierarchy including various types of streams.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 27, 2020 – Ransomware

Vermont Hospital confirmed the ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract The Burlington-based University of Vermont Health Network has finally admitted that ransomware was behind the October attack. In October, threat actors hit the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn and the University of Vermont Health Network....

Security Affairs

December 27, 2020 – Denial Of Service

TeamTNT Group Now has its Own IRC Bot Full Text

Abstract In a recent attack, the group has been observed actively using a newly developed Internet Relay Chat (IRC) bot dubbed TNTbotinger, which can be used to perform DDoS attacks.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 27, 2020 – General

Security Affairs newsletter Round 294 Full Text

Abstract A new round of the weekly SecurityAffairs newsletter arrived! Every week the best security articles from Security Affairs free for you in your email box. A massive fraud operation used mobile device emulators to steal millions from online bank accountsSolarWinds...

Security Affairs

December 27, 2020 – Malware

Gitpaste-12 Adds New Features to its Arsenal Full Text

Abstract The recent attacks use payloads hosted on a new GitHub repository, which includes a Linux-based cryptominer, a list of passwords for brute-force attacks, and a statically linked Python 3.9 interpreter.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 27, 2020 – Malware

New SignSight Supply-Chain Attack Targeted Certification Authority in Southeast Asia Twice Full Text

Abstract The attackers made changes to software installers available for download from a Vietnam government website. In addition, they added a backdoor to target users of a legitimate application.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 27, 2020 – Malware

Understanding & Detecting the SUPERNOVA Webshell Trojan Full Text

Abstract The recent supply chain attack has proven to be one of the most damaging attacks of 2020. Several distinct malware families have emerged in relation to the compromise. These include the SUNBURST backdoor, SUPERNOVA, COSMICGALE & TEARDROP.

Sentinel One

December 27, 2020 – Hacker

HackerOne announces first bug hunter to earn more than $2M in bug bounties Full Text

Abstract White hat hacker could be a profitable profession, Cosmin Iordache earned more than $2M reporting flaws through the bug bounty program HackerOne. Iordache is the first bug bounty hunter to earn more than $2,000,000 in bounty awards through the vulnerability...

Security Affairs

December 27, 2020 – Malware

What We Have Learned So Far about the “Sunburst”/SolarWinds Hack Full Text

Abstract After a successful infiltration of the supply-chain, the SunBurst backdoor— a file named SolarWinds.Orion.Core.BusinessLayer.dll—was inserted into the software distribution system and installed as part of an update package from the vendor.

Fortinet

December 27, 2020 – Malware

SolarWinds releases updated advisory for SUPERNOVA backdoor Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds released an updated advisory for the SuperNova malware discovered while investigating the recent supply chain attack. SolarWinds has released an updated advisory for the SuperNova backdoor that was discovered while investigating the recent...

Security Affairs

December 27, 2020 – Education

Leveraging SOC 2 compliance for Cloud (SAAS) services Full Text

Abstract In a digital world where we often witness high-profile attacks, and incidents of a data breach, considering the implementation of effective security...

Cyber Security News

December 27, 2020 – Education

Relentless Hacking Is Turning All of Us Into Data Nihilists Full Text

Abstract The digital landscape is far too complex for those who rely on it—us—to monitor all the ways we’re exposed. Major factors determining whether our data will be used against us are completely out of our control.

Bloomberg Quint

December 27, 2020 – Malware

Kaspersky Warns Against Dangerous Chrome extensions Full Text

Abstract These extensions installed in more than 8 million users’ browsers accessed a remote server in the background, trying to download malicious code, a process that our security solutions detect as dangerous.

Kaspersky Lab

December 26, 2020 – Phishing

GoDaddy apologized for insensitive phishing email sent to its employees offering a fake bonus Full Text

Abstract GoDaddy made the headlines for an initiative that is dividing cybersecurity community, it sent phishing messages offering bonuses to its employees. GoDaddy sent an email to its employee that promised a Christmas bonus to help them to face economic...

Security Affairs

December 26, 2020 – Breach

Koei Tecmo discloses data breach after hacker leaks stolen data Full Text

Abstract Japanese game developer Koei Tecmo has disclosed a data breach and taken their European and American websites offline after stolen data was posted to a hacker forum.

BleepingComputer

December 26, 2020 – Malware

SolarWinds releases updated advisory for new SUPERNOVA malware Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds has released an updated advisory for the additional SuperNova malware discovered to have been distributed through the company's network management platform.

BleepingComputer

December 26, 2020 – Botnet

The Emotet botnet is back and hits 100K recipients per day Full Text

Abstract Emotet is back on Christmas Eve, cybercrime operators are sending out spam messages to deliver the infamous Trickbot Trojan. Emotet is back on Christmas Eve, after two months of silence, cybercrime operators are sending out spam messages to deliver...

Security Affairs

December 26, 2020 – Hacker

REvil gang threatens to release intimate pictures of celebs who are customers of The Hospital Group Full Text

Abstract REvil ransomware gang, aka Sodinokibi, hacked The Hospital Group and threatens to release before-and-after pictures of celebrity clients. The Hospital Group has 11 clinics and has a celebrity clientele, but it made the headlines because the REvil...

Security Affairs

December 26, 2020 – Malware

SUNBURST Performs Anti-Analysis Environment Checks Before Contacting C2 Server Full Text

Abstract Before reaching out to its C2 server, SUNBURST performs numerous checks to ensure no analysis tools are present. It checks process names, file write timestamps, and Active Directory (AD) domains before proceeding.

FireEye

December 26, 2020 – Malware

10 Different Types of Dangerous Malware Attack and How to Avoid them Full Text

Abstract Today's topic is basically about types of malware, yes, it's a malicious software which is basically designated to damage, impair, or exploit...

Cyber Security News

December 26, 2020 – Malware

How to Detect and Search for SolarWinds IOCs in LogRhythm Full Text

Abstract LogRhythm Labs has gathered up the IOCs from CISA, Volexity, and FireEye associated with the recent SolarWinds supply chain attack and made them available in GitHub repository.

LogRhythm

December 26, 2020 – Business

White Ops Announces Acquisition by Goldman Sachs Merchant Banking, ClearSky Security, and NightDragon Full Text

Abstract The Sponsors are acquiring the business from previous investors Paladin Capital Group, Grotech Ventures, and other shareholders, and the acquisition follows Goldman Sachs’ and ClearSky’s initial investment in the Company earlier this year.

White Ops

December 26, 2020 – General

2020 InfoSec Naughty List: Cyberattacks by Country Full Text

Abstract The list, by Rapid7, is focused on the top offenders for the last half of the year and provides a smoothed trending view (vs. discrete daily counts) to help you make your Naughty/Nice inclusion decisions.

Rapid7

December 26, 2020 – General

China Used Stolen Data to Expose CIA Operatives in Africa and Europe Full Text

Abstract Around 2013, U.S. intelligence began noticing an alarming pattern: Undercover CIA personnel, flying into countries in Africa and Europe for sensitive work, were being rapidly and successfully identified by Chinese intelligence.

Foreign Policy

December 26, 2020 – Breach

Russian crypto-exchange Livecoin hacked after it lost control of its servers Full Text

Abstract Russian cryptocurrency exchange Livecoin posted on message on its official website on Christmas Eve claiming it was hacked and lost control of some of its servers, warning customers to stop using its services.

ZDNet

December 26, 2020 – Phishing

Amazon Gift Card Scam Delivers Dridex This Holiday Season Full Text

Abstract The operators behind Dridex have a nefarious trick up their sleeves this holiday season. A widespread phishing scam promises victims a $100 Amazon gift card but instead delivers the prolific banking Trojan to target machines.

Dark Reading

December 25, 2020 – Breach

CrowdStrike releases free Azure tool to review assigned privileges Full Text

Abstract CrowdStrike released a free Azure security tool after it was notified by Microsoft of a failed attack leveraging compromised Azure credentials. While investigating the impact of the recent SolarWind hack, on December 15th Microsoft reported to CrowdStrike...

Security Affairs

December 25, 2020 – Breach

CrowdStrike releases free Azure security tool after failed hack Full Text

Abstract Leading cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike was notified by Microsoft that threat actors had attempted to read the company's emails through compromised by Microsoft Azure credentials.

BleepingComputer

December 25, 2020 – Hacker

Cyberattacks on Media Agencies Increasing Full Text

Abstract Researchers say attackers are using different attack vectors to target Media agencies in Western Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America. Recently, the Al-Jazeera group fell victim to a crime.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 25, 2020 – APT

North Korea-linked Lazarus APT targets the COVID-19 research Full Text

Abstract The North Korea-linked Lazarus APT group has recently launched cyberattacks against at least two organizations involved in COVID-19 research. The North Korea-linked APT group Lazarus has recently launched cyberattacks against two entities involved...

Security Affairs

December 25, 2020 – Botnet

Emotet Shows up to Wish Merry Christmas Full Text

Abstract Emotet botnet  has returned a fter a two-month hiatus with Christmas and COVID-19-themed campaigns that touch base with at least 100,000 targets per day.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 25, 2020 – Government

Trust-Based Federated Login Abused for Local-to-Cloud Attacks Full Text

Abstract The NSA has released a security advisory detailing to attack techniques allegedly used by the SolarWinds hackers to escalate access from local networks to cloud resources.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 25, 2020 – Hacker

Magecart Mistakenly Spilled the Beans on its Recent Attack Full Text

Abstract A web skimming group inadvertently leaked a list of dozens of online stores it hacked while attempting to deploy a stealthy RAT on compromised e-commerce sites.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 25, 2020 – Malware

Fake Amazon gift card emails deliver the Dridex malware Full Text

Abstract The Dridex malware gang is delivering a nasty gift for the holidays using a spam campaign pretending to be Amazon Gift Cards.

BleepingComputer

December 25, 2020 – Hacker

Microsoft Warns CrowdStrike of Hackers Targeting Azure Cloud Customers Full Text

Abstract New evidence amidst the ongoing probe into the  espionage campaign  targeting SolarWinds has uncovered an unsuccessful attempt to compromise cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike and access the company's email. The hacking endeavor was reported to the company by Microsoft's Threat Intelligence Center on December 15, which identified a third-party reseller's Microsoft Azure account to be making "abnormal calls" to Microsoft cloud APIs during a 17-hour period several months ago. The undisclosed affected reseller's Azure account handles Microsoft Office licensing for its Azure customers, including CrowdStrike. Although there was an attempt by unidentified threat actors to read email, it was ultimately foiled as the firm does not use Microsoft's Office 365 email service, CrowdStrike  said . The incident comes in the wake of the  supply chain attack  of SolarWinds revealed earlier this month, resulting in the deployment of a covert backdoor (aka "Sunburst&q

The Hacker News

December 25, 2020 – Breach

The Russian cryptocurrency exchange Livecoin hacked on Christmas Eve Full Text

Abstract Russian cryptocurrency exchange Livecoin was compromised on Christmas Eve, hackers breached its network and gained control of some of its servers. The Russian cryptocurrency exchange was hacked on Christmas Eve, it published a message on its website...

Security Affairs

December 25, 2020 – Breach

Data breach discovered in Jerusalem Municipality website Full Text

Abstract The discovery of the breach comes after a string of cyberattacks targeted companies in Israel. Earlier this month, sensitive data of Israeli citizens was leaked and sold after the Shirbit insurance company was targeted in a ransomware attack.

The Jerusalem Post

December 25, 2020 – Breach

CrowdStrike Reveals That Suspected Russian Hackers Made Failed Attempt to Breach It Full Text

Abstract Microsoft identified a reseller’s Microsoft Azure account used for managing CrowdStrike’s Microsoft Office licenses making abnormal calls to Microsoft cloud APIs during a 17-hour period several months ago.

Crowdstrike

December 25, 2020 – General

PCI DSS and the Cloud: Top Risk and Mitigation Strategies To Tackle The Challenges Full Text

Abstract In the digital world, cloud computing is essential for most businesses online. It is a significant technology for your organization, be it...

Cyber Security News

December 25, 2020 – Denial Of Service

DDoS amplify attack targets Citrix Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Full Text

Abstract Citrix confirmed that a DDoS attack is targeting Citrix Application Delivery Controller (ADC) networking equipment. The threat actors are using the Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) protocol as an amplification vector in attacks against Citrix...

Security Affairs

December 24, 2020 – Ransomware

FreePBX developer Sangoma hit with Conti ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract Sangoma disclosed a data breach after files were stolen during a recent Conti ransomware attack and published online.

BleepingComputer

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

New cross-layer attack technique raises DNS cache poisoning, user tracking risk Full Text

Abstract The vulnerability allows hackers to mount so-called “cross-layer” attacks against the Linux kernel and cause further damage by exploiting a weakness in its pseudo-random number generator (PRNG).

The Daily Swig

December 24, 2020 – Hacker

Hacker Earns $2m in Bug Bounties Full Text

Abstract Romanian man earns $2m through HackerOne and becomes richest bug bounty hunter in the world

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Millions of devices could be hacked exploiting flaws targeted by tools stolen from FireEye Full Text

Abstract Millions of devices are potential exposed to attacks targeting the vulnerabilities exploited by the tools stolen from the arsenal of FireEye. Security experts from Qualys are warning that more than 7.5 million devices are potentially exposed to cyber...

Security Affairs

December 24, 2020 – Denial Of Service

DDoS attacks hit Citrix Application Delivery Controllers, hindering customer performance Full Text

Abstract Citrix reported Thursday a DDoS attack that was hitting its Citrix Application Delivery Controllers (ADCs), the networking products that let security and network teams manage the delivery speed and quality of applications to end users. According to the Citrix threat advisory, the attacker or bots can overwhelm the Citrix ADC Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS)…

SCMagazine

December 24, 2020 – Covid-19

North Korean state hackers breach COVID-19 research entities Full Text

Abstract North Korean nation-state hackers tracked as the Lazarus Group have recently compromised organizations involved in COVID-19 research and vaccine development.

BleepingComputer

December 24, 2020 – Policy and Law

Travel-booking company Sabre Corp. settles with 27 states over breach of credit card data Full Text

Abstract Sabre Corp. will make a $2.4 million payout and shore up its cybersecurity policies under an agreement with 27 state attorneys general who investigated a breach of its hotel-booking technology.

Cyberscoop

December 24, 2020 – Business

White Ops Acquired by Goldman Sachs Full Text

Abstract Bot mitigation platform acquired by Goldman Sachs, ClearSky Security, and NightDragon

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Insider Threat

Account takeovers: Insiders need not be malicious to cause chaos Full Text

Abstract With 2020 coming to a close, SC Media is delivering through a series of articles our picks of the most high impact events and trends of the last year, which we predict will factor into community strategies in 2021 and beyond. This is the first in that series.

SCMagazine

December 24, 2020 – Breach

NetGalley discloses data breach after website was hacked Full Text

Abstract The NetGalley book promotion site has suffered a data breach that allowed threat actors to access a database with members' personal information.

BleepingComputer

December 24, 2020 – Business

HelpSystems Acquires Data Protection Firm Vera Full Text

Abstract HelpSystems, a Minneapolis, Minnesota-based software company, announced on Wednesday that it has acquired cloud-based data protection solution provider Vera for an undisclosed amount.

Security Week

December 24, 2020 – Government

SolarWinds Hackers “Impacting” State and Local Governments Full Text

Abstract CISA issues warning over widespread impact of SolarWinds hacking campaign

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Phishing

Scammers Run COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud Schemes to Fool Users Full Text

Abstract The schemes to defraud people have gone to such an extent that threat actors were found running scams by impersonating biotechnology companies involved in the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 24, 2020 – Ransomware

Pay2Key Ransomware’s Mayhem Continues Full Text

Abstract The Pay2Key ransomware is only the latest wave in a series of Iranian based targeted ransomware attacks deployed against Israeli organizations and this appears to be a growing trend.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 24, 2020 – Government

Preparing for the challenges of 2021 Full Text

Abstract Organizations like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, local and state governments, and private sector have all taken significant steps to mitigate and respond to cyber incidents.

Help Net Security

December 24, 2020 – Business

White Ops Announces Its Acquisition Full Text

Abstract White Ops Announces Its Acquisition A group including Goldman Sachs Merchant Banking Division, ClearSky Security, and NightDragon has purchased the human verification technology company.

Dark Reading

December 24, 2020 – Government

Grid regulator warns utilities of risk of SolarWinds backdoor, asks how exposed they are Full Text

Abstract The North American electric grid regulator has asked utilities to report how exposed they are to SolarWinds software that is at the center of a suspected Russian hacking operation.

Cyberscoop

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Critical Flaws in Kepware Products Can Facilitate Attacks on Industrial Firms Full Text

Abstract The security holes, two rated critical and one high severity, are described as a stack-based buffer overflow issue, a heap-based buffer overflow issue, and a use-after-free bug.

Security Week

December 24, 2020 – Hacker

Hacker earns $2 million in bug bounties on HackerOne Full Text

Abstract Cosmin Iordache is the first bug bounty hunter to earn more than $2,000,000 in bounty awards through the vulnerability coordination and bug bounty program HackerOne.

BleepingComputer

December 24, 2020 – Hacker

Hackers also ‘impacting’ state, local governments. US cybersecurity agency says Full Text

Abstract The top U.S. cybersecurity agency said that an extensive campaign that gave hackers access to networks at several federal agencies is also "impacting" state and local governments.

The Hill

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Google reported that Microsoft failed to fix a Windows zero-day flaw Full Text

Abstract Google's Project Zero experts publicly disclosed details of an improperly patched zero-day code execution vulnerability in Windows. White hat hackers at Google's Project Zero team has publicly disclosed details of an improperly patched zero-day vulnerability...

Security Affairs

December 24, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware attack confirmed on Vermont Hospital Full Text

Abstract The IT staff of the Vermont healthcare network said that the ransomware attack was launched through a server vulnerability and the hackers were demanding an enormous sum as ransom.

Cybersecurity Insiders

December 24, 2020 – General

92% of all WordPress attacks are on Israeli sites: Report Full Text

Abstract A whopping 92% of all brute-force hacking attacks on WordPress sites around the world in the last few months were targeted at Israeli sites, according to a report by Internet security company F5 Labs.

The Jerusalem Post

December 24, 2020 – Business

HelpSystems Acquires Vera to Expand Data Security Offerings Full Text

Abstract Deal comes amid increased demand for data security solutions

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Criminals

‘UltraRank’ JavaScript-Sniffer Attack Campaign Hits Dozen E-Commerce Sites Full Text

Abstract A cybercriminal gang known as "UltraRank" has launched a new campaign, targeting at least a dozen e-commerce sites to steal payment card data using a JavaScript sniffer, says security firm Group-IB.

Info Risk Today

December 24, 2020 – Denial Of Service

Citrix confirms ongoing DDoS attack impacting NetScaler ADCs Full Text

Abstract Citrix has confirmed today that an ongoing 'DDoS attack pattern' using DTLS as an amplification vector is affecting Citrix Application Delivery Controller (ADC) networking appliances with EDT enabled.

BleepingComputer

December 24, 2020 – Breach

Fashion Marketplace 21 Buttons Exposes Millions of Users’ Data Full Text

Abstract As discovered by vpnMentor on 2 November 2020 in a research report led by Noam Rotem, it was found that it exposed the data of hundreds of influencers due to an AWS bucket being misconfigured.

Hackread

December 24, 2020 – Government

Government Security Experts Issue Farmers with New Advice Full Text

Abstract NCSC guide intended to keep devices and software safe from attack

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Privacy

Coalition of human rights groups joins suit against Israeli firm NSO Full Text

Abstract A coalition of human rights groups on Wednesday joined Facebook’s lawsuit against Israeli spyware vendor NSO, alleging that the company “prioritizes profit to the detriment of human rights.”

Reuters

December 24, 2020 – Breach

Misconfigured AWS Bucket Exposes Hundreds of Social Influencers Full Text

Abstract Victims could be targeted by stalkers and fraudsters

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Millions of Devices Affected by Vulnerabilities Used in Stolen FireEye Tools Full Text

Abstract Qualys said it identified more than 7.5 million instances related to vulnerabilities associated with the stolen FireEye tools and compromised versions of the SolarWinds Orion product.

Security Week

December 24, 2020 – Government

The Hack Roundup: CISA Guidance Warns Affected Systems May Need to Be Rebuilt Full Text

Abstract The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a guide for federal, state, and local government leaders on responding to the hack and an online hub for resources.

Nextgov

December 24, 2020 – Malware

SolarStorm Timeline: Details of the Software Supply-Chain Attack Full Text

Abstract While this is not the first software supply-chain compromise, it may be the most notable, as the attacker was trying to gain widespread, persistent access to a number of critical networks.

Palo Alto Networks

December 24, 2020 – Policy and Law

New Lawsuit Takes Aim at Ring After Smart Doorbell Hijacking Full Text

Abstract Incidents led to murder and sexual assault threats for users

Infosecurity Magazine

December 24, 2020 – Policy and Law

Lawmakers want more transparency on SolarWinds breach from State, VA Full Text

Abstract Two Democratic senators are calling on the departments of State and Veterans Affairs to brief lawmakers on how their agencies have been impacted by the SolarWinds breach.

Cyberscoop

December 24, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Google Discloses Poorly-Patched, Now Unpatched, Windows 0-Day Bug Full Text

Abstract Google's Project Zero team has made public details of an improperly patched zero-day security vulnerability in Windows print spooler API that could be leveraged by a bad actor to execute arbitrary code. Details of the flaw were revealed after Microsoft failed to patch it within 90 days of responsible disclosure on September 24. Originally tracked as  CVE-2020-0986 , the flaw concerns an elevation of privilege exploits in the GDI Print /  Print Spooler  API ("splwow64.exe") that was reported to Microsoft by an anonymous user working with Trend Micro's Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) back in late December 2019. But with no patch in sight for about six months, ZDI ended up posting a public  advisory  as a zero-day on May 19 earlier this year, after which it was  exploited  in the wild in a campaign dubbed " Operation PowerFall " against an unnamed South Korean company. "splwow64.exe" is a Windows core system binary that allows 32-bit applications to c

The Hacker News

December 24, 2020 – Government

U.S. cyber agency says SolarWinds hackers are ‘impacting’ state, local governments Full Text

Abstract The CISA said on Wednesday that a sprawling cyber espionage campaign made public earlier this month is affecting state and local governments, although it released few additional details.

Reuters

December 24, 2020 – Ransomware

Indian pharma firms at high ransomware attack risk in 2021 Full Text

Abstract Targeted ransomware attacks on the healthcare and pharma sector will surge in India in 2021 as companies finalize their vaccines to fight Covid-19, a new report said on Wednesday.

The Times Of India

December 24, 2020 – Criminals

Bulletproof VPN Seized by Global Police Operation for Providing Services to CyberCriminals Full Text

Abstract United States law enforcement joins international partners to disrupt a VPN service used to facilitate criminal activity. The Safe-Inet, a virtual private...

Cyber Security News

December 24, 2020 Stealthy Magecart – Malware

Stealthy Magecart Accidentally Leaks the List of Infected Stores Full Text

Abstract Recently, Sansec has found a clever remote access trojan (RAT), that has been sneaking in the lanes of hacked eCommerce servers. According...

Cyber Security News

December 23, 2020 – General

FBI: Iran behind pro-Trump ‘enemies of the people’ doxing site Full Text

Abstract Iranian cyber actors are likely behind a campaign that encouraged deadly violence against U.S. state officials certifying the 2020 election results.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Business

Can SolarWinds survive? For breached companies it’s a long, painful road to restoring trust Full Text

Abstract Communicating with the public, working with stakeholders and convincing insurers that root security failures have been addressed are all part of how companies come back from a bad breaches. But it still may not be enough.

SCMagazine

December 23, 2020 – Phishing

PSA: Active Chase phishing scam pretends to be fraud alerts Full Text

Abstract A large scale phishing scam is underway that pretends to be a security notice from Chase stating that fraudulent activity has been detected and caused the recipient's account to be blocked.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Education

SolarWinds: The Need for Persistent Engagement Full Text

Abstract The SolarWinds campaign reveals important lessons for U.S. cyber strategy.

Lawfare

December 23, 2020 – Phishing

Credential phishing attack impersonating USPS targets consumers over the holidays Full Text

Abstract The credential phishing attack impersonated the U.S. Postal Service that sought to get victims to give up their credit card credentials and pay a special delivery fee within three days to ensure package delivered.

SCMagazine

December 23, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Windows zero-day with bad patch gets new public exploit code Full Text

Abstract Back in June, Microsoft released a fix for a vulnerability in the Windows operating system that enabled attackers to increase their permissions to kernel level on a compromised machine. The patch did not stick.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – General

Microsoft 365 admins can now get security incident email alerts Full Text

Abstract Microsoft has added support for security incident email notifications to the Microsoft 365 Defender enterprise threat protection solution.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Policy and Law

US Teen Accused of Deadly Cyber-stalking Campaign Full Text

Abstract New Yorker accused of cyber-stalking a woman and soliciting others to rape, murder, and decapitate her

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Hacker

Lazarus Group Hits COVID-19 Vaccine-Maker in Espionage Attack Full Text

Abstract The nation-state actor is looking to speed up vaccine development efforts in North Korea.

Threatpost

December 23, 2020 – Hacker

Lazarus Attacks Vaccine Research Full Text

Abstract APT group Lazarus attacks two targets related to COVID-19 vaccine research

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Privacy

UK privacy watchdog warns SolarWinds victims to report data breaches Full Text

Abstract United Kingdom's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has warned organizations that fell victim to the SolarWinds hack that they are required to report data breaches within three days after their discovery.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Breach

Cyber-Attack on European Court of Human Rights Full Text

Abstract Europe’s human rights court hit by cyber-criminals after calling for release of Turkish political leader

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – General

Holiday deal exclusive: Get 20% off Emsisoft Anti-Malware Full Text

Abstract Emsisoft has provided BleepingComputer visitors an exclusive holiday deal where you can get 20% off Emsisoft Anti-Malware until the end of the year.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – APT

Now Fox Kitten APT Deploys Pay2Key Ransomware to Create Panic Full Text

Abstract The Iranian-backed Fox Kitten hacking group is suspected to be behind the nefarious acts of Pay2Key ransomware that began a new wave of attacks in November-December 2020.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 23, 2020 – Government

Top Democrat: ‘Critical’ that Pompeo brief senators on SolarWinds hack at State Dept. Full Text

Abstract The top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is calling on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to brief senators on the massive SolarWinds hack by suspected Russian hackers and its effect on the State Department.

The Hill

December 23, 2020 – Education

Third-Party APIs: How to Prevent Enumeration Attacks Full Text

Abstract Jason Kent, hacker-in-residence at Cequence, walks through online-retail card fraud and what to do about it.

Threatpost

December 23, 2020 – Government

DHS warns of data theft risk when using Chinese products Full Text

Abstract The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) warned American businesses of the data theft risks behind using equipment and data services provided by companies linked with the People's Republic of China (PRC).

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Education

Ransomware attacks could be about to get even more dangerous and disruptive Full Text

Abstract Cybercriminals lock down networks for one simple reason: it's the quickest and easiest way to make money from a compromised organization and they're unlikely to get caught.

ZDNet

December 23, 2020 – Business

Semperis Appoints Igor Baikalov as Chief Scientist Full Text

Abstract Baikalov is tasked with developing the company's identity analytics and machine learning capabilities

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Business

SolarWinds Claims Execs Unaware of Breach When They Sold Stock Full Text

Abstract Texas-based SolarWinds told the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that its executives were not aware that the company had been breached when they decided to sell stock.

Security Week

December 23, 2020 – Government

Nuclear weapons agency updates Congress on hacking attempt Full Text

Abstract Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette, DOE’s Chief Information Officer Rocky Campione, and NNSA CIO Wayne Jones all participated in the briefings to the relevant congressional oversight bodies.

Politico

December 23, 2020 – Education

CISA Releases Draft Use Case For Securing Remote, Mobile and Teleworking Connections Full Text

Abstract Federal officials dropped a holiday gift for cybersecurity managers across the government: the draft remote user use case for the latest iteration of the Trusted Internet Connection, or TIC, policy.

Nextgov

December 23, 2020 – Botnet

Tool shows what bad bot traffic ‘sounds’ like. Is there a practical application? Full Text

Abstract “Botronica” translates human bot traffic into sounds as a creative way to generate awareness of malicious bot activity.

SCMagazine

December 23, 2020 – Phishing

Emotet Returns to Hit 100K Mailboxes Per Day Full Text

Abstract Just in time for the Christmas holiday, Emotet is sending the gift of Trickbot.

Threatpost

December 23, 2020 – Government

U.S. House intel chair wants briefing on recent hacking campaign Full Text

Abstract U.S. House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff on Tuesday asked for a briefing from U.S. agencies about a widespread hack of U.S. government networks and potential vulnerabilities.

Reuters

December 23, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

QNAP fixes high severity QTS, QES, and QuTS hero vulnerabilities Full Text

Abstract QNAP has released security updates to fix multiple high severity security vulnerabilities impacting network-attached storage (NAS) devices running the QES, QTS, and QuTS hero operating systems.

BleepingComputer

December 23, 2020 – Ransomware

Germany’s Funke Media Group Faces Publishing Delays Due to Potential Ransomware Attack Full Text

Abstract The Funke media group said the attack affected numerous computer systems at editorial offices and printing plants across the country, and prevented the publishing of its Wednesday editions.

Washington Post

December 23, 2020 – Government

Homeland Security: Chinese business dealings a ‘grave threat’ to data security Full Text

Abstract The DHS advisory covers the various Chinese laws allowing Beijing to access data with employees, leadership, or ownership within its borders.

SCMagazine

December 23, 2020 – Government

DHS warns against using Chinese hardware and digital services Full Text

Abstract The US Department of Homeland Security has published a "business advisory" today warning US companies against using hardware equipment and digital services created or linked to Chinese companies.

ZDNet

December 23, 2020 – Breach

European medicines regulator says cyberattack limited to one IT application Full Text

Abstract Data related to COVID-19 medicines and vaccines was the target of a cyberattack earlier this month, and the hackers accessed documents belonging to third parties, the regulator said.

Reuters

December 23, 2020 – Hacker

Cellebrite claims to be able to access Signal messages Full Text

Abstract Israeli cyber security firm Cellebrite claims that it can decrypt messages from the popular Signal's messaging app. Israeli security firm Cellebrite has claimed that it can decrypt messages from the Signal highly secure messaging app. The BBC reported...

Security Affairs

December 23, 2020 – Hacker

Lazarus covets COVID-19-related intelligence Full Text

Abstract While tracking the Lazarus group’s campaigns targeting various industries, Kaspersky found that they recently went after COVID-19-related entities, including a pharma firm and a government ministry.

Kaspersky Labs

December 23, 2020 – Policy and Law

Google Faces its 3rd Major Antitrust Lawsuit for Using Monopolistic Powers to Control Pricing Full Text

Abstract Recently Google faced the 3rd antitrust lawsuit, and it's one of the major lawsuits for using Monopolistic powers to control different pricing....

Cyber Security News

December 23, 2020 – Policy and Law

Google Faces its 3rd Major Antitrust Lawsuit for Using Monopolistic Powers to Control Pricing Full Text

Abstract Recently Google faced the 3rd antitrust lawsuit, and it's one of the major lawsuits for using Monopolistic powers to control different pricing....

Cyber Security News

December 23, 2020 – Government

US agencies conclude Iran is likely behind website aimed at stoking violence against election officials Full Text

Abstract The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have concluded that Iran is very likely behind a website apparently aimed at inciting violence against election officials as well as the FBI director.

Cyberscoop

December 23, 2020 – Ransomware

Jefferson County PVA office hit by ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract The Jefferson County Property Valuation Administrator's office has been hit by a ransomware attack, in which hackers are holding the agency's data hostage, PVA Colleen Younger said in an interview.

WDRB

December 23, 2020 – Malware

SolarWinds Campaign Focuses Attention on ‘Golden SAML’ Attack Vector Full Text

Abstract According to Sygnia, the Golden SAML technique involves attackers first gaining administrative access to an organization's ADFS server and stealing the necessary private key and signing certificate.

Dark Reading

December 23, 2020 – Covid-19

How to Defend Against Malware, Phishing, and Scams During COVID-19 Crisis Full Text

Abstract As if the exponential rise in phishing scams and malware attacks in the last five years wasn't enough, the COVID-19 crisis has worsened it further. The current scenario has given a viable opportunity to cybercriminals to find a way to target individuals, small and large enterprises, government corporations. According to Interpol's  COVID-19 Cybercrime Analysis Report , based on the feedback of 194 countries, phishing/scam/fraud, malware/ransomware, malicious domains, and fake news have emerged as the biggest digital threats across the world in the wake of the pandemic. Image source: interpol.int There are primarily two reasons for emerging cyber threats in 2020: Most of the population is working, learning, shopping, or running their business from home, where they're using personal devices from the home/public internet connection, which are usually unsafe and hence highly vulnerable to cybercrimes. The cybercriminals are using the COVID-19 theme to exploit people and

The Hacker News

December 23, 2020 – Business

Cyber Insurance Market Expected to Surge in 2021 Full Text

Abstract Orgs increasingly looking to protect themselves from the impact of cyber-attacks

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Phishing

Does a friend “need money urgently”? Check your facts before paying out Full Text

Abstract In this scam, the cybercriminals were using stolen Messenger passwords to phish for yet more Messenger passwords by sending messages that genuinely seemed to come from friends and family.

Sophos

December 23, 2020 – Breach

Leaky Server Exposes 12 Million Medical Records to Meow Attacker Full Text

Abstract Extortion and fraud risks persist for tens of thousands of patients

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Education

Three reasons why context is key to narrowing your attack surface Full Text

Abstract Today’s typical six-layer enterprise technology stack consists of networking, storage, physical servers, as well as virtualization, management, and application layers, which increases security challenges.

Help Net Security

December 23, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Web Page Layout Can Trick Users into Divulging More Info Full Text

Abstract Ben-Gurion University researchers reveal new tactics for marketers and cyber-criminals

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

CISA Issues ICS Advisory for New Vulnerabilities in Treck TCP/IP Stack Full Text

Abstract The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an advisory to warn organizations using industrial control systems (ICS) about the risks posed by these flaws.

Security Week

December 23, 2020 – Government

US: Buying Chinese Tech is a “Grave Threat” to Your Data Security Full Text

Abstract DHS advisory warns businesses of state-mandated IP theft risks

Infosecurity Magazine

December 23, 2020 – Phishing

Emotet Campaign Restarts After Seven-Week Hiatus Full Text

Abstract Multiple security researchers note the return of an email campaign attempting to spread the malware, which is often used to drop the Ryuk ransomware and Trickbot banking Trojan.

Dark Reading

December 23, 2020 – Policy and Law

Law enforcement take down three bulletproof VPN providers Full Text

Abstract The three services were active at insorg.org [2014 snapshot], safe-inet.com [2013 snapshot], and safe-inet.net before the domains were seized and replaced with law enforcement banners on Monday.

ZDNet

December 23, 2020 – General

Research: nearly all of your messaging apps are secure Full Text

Abstract CyberNews Investigation team analyzed the 13 most popular messaging apps to see if the apps are really safe.  Source: https://cybernews.com/security/research-nearly-all-of-your-messaging-apps-are-secure/ In recent research, the CyberNews Investigation...

Security Affairs

December 22, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

New Critical Flaws in Treck TCP/IP Stack Affect Millions of IoT Devices Full Text

Abstract The US Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency (CISA) has  warned  of critical vulnerabilities in a low-level TCP/IP software library developed by Treck that, if weaponized, could allow remote attackers to run arbitrary commands and mount denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. The four flaws affect Treck TCP/IP stack version 6.0.1.67 and earlier and were reported to the company by Intel. Two of these are rated critical in severity. Treck's embedded TCP/IP stack is deployed worldwide in manufacturing, information technology, healthcare, and transportation systems. The most severe of them is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability ( CVE-2020-25066 ) in the Treck HTTP Server component that could permit an adversary to crash or reset the target device and even execute remote code. It has a CVSS score of 9.8 out of a maximum of 10. The second flaw is an out-of-bounds write in the IPv6 component ( CVE-2020-27337 , CVSS score 9.1) that could be exploited by an unauthenticated

The Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Government

Biden blasts Trump administration over SolarWinds attack response Full Text

Abstract U.S. President-Elect Joe Biden has criticized the Trump administration over the lack of response regarding the SolarWinds response and for failing to officially attribute the attacks.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – General

Hillicon Valley: Google denies allegations in DOJ antitrust complaint | Biden faults Trump after hack | Biden campaign says Twitter will wipe POTUS account’s followers Full Text

Abstract DENY, DENY, (PARTIALLY) DENY: Google formally responded to the Department of Justice’s antitrust complaint against it Monday night, denying or partially denying nearly all of the 200 allegations in the lawsuit.

The Hill

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Researchers shared the lists of victims of SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Security experts shared lists of organizations that were infected with the SolarWinds Sunburst backdoor after decoding the DGA mechanism. Security experts started analyzing the DGA mechanism used by threat actors behind the SolarWinds hack to control...

Security Affairs

December 22, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Vulnerabilities found in Dell Wyse thin clients could enable access to arbitrary files Full Text

Abstract In the U.S. alone, some 6,000 companies and organizations run Dell Wyse thin clients inside their networks, many of which are health care providers.

SCMagazine

December 22, 2020 – Phishing

Holiday Puppy Swindle Has Consumers Howling Full Text

Abstract Those buying German Shepherd puppies for Bitcoin online are in for a ruff ride.

Threatpost

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Roanoke College delays spring semester after cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Roanoke College has delayed their spring semester by almost a month after a cyberattack has impacted files and data access.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – Government

Biden faults Trump administration on cybersecurity following massive hack Full Text

Abstract President-elect Joe Biden on Tuesday accused the Trump administration of failing to prioritize cybersecurity in the wake of a far-reaching breach of private and government systems and promised a serious response when he takes office.

The Hill

December 22, 2020 – Education

The SolarWinds hack, and the danger of arrogance Full Text

Abstract As a journalist I’ve spent years reporting about both our country’s strengths and weaknesses, mostly within the tech and government space. And yet, even in my own reporting and that of my peers, there is this precept that the U.S. is among the most advanced – superior even – in most every area of consequence.

SCMagazine

December 22, 2020 – Ransomware

Backups are a tool – not a silver bullet – in the fight against ransomware Full Text

Abstract How a company sets up their IT environment, where they place their backups in relation to the rest of their network and how they communicate with their cloud providers all make a difference in how effectively a business can insulate itself from ransomware.

SCMagazine

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

Safe-Inet, Insorg VPN services shut down by law enforcement Full Text

Abstract Law enforcement agencies around the world in a coordinated effort took down and seized the infrastructure supporting Safe-Inet and Insorg VPN and proxy services known for catering cybercriminal activity.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – Malware

Hackers Hide Malware in RubyGems Packages Full Text

Abstract Actors are using malicious RubyGems packages in a supply chain attack to steal cryptocurrency from potential victims. Such attempts by cyber adversaries signal growing threats from various software components.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Phishing

Phishers Spoof New York Department of Labor Full Text

Abstract Attacker impersonates New York State to steal sensitive data from seekers of COVID-19 financial relief

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Criminals

Thousands of Emulated Mobile Devices Used to Steal Millions of Dollars Full Text

Abstract IBM Trusteer researchers laid bare an automated mobile fraud operation that initiated illicit transactions and stole millions from the bank accounts of thousands of customers.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Malware

Brand New Agent Tesla Now has Improved Data Exfiltration Features Full Text

Abstract Less-popular web browsers and email clients are under attack by the infamous keylogger Agent Tesla, which is also expanding in its targets with improved data exfiltration features.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds hackers breached US Treasury officials’ email accounts Full Text

Abstract US Senator Ron Wyden said that dozens of US Treasury email accounts were compromised by the threat actors behind the SolarWinds hack.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

Shabang Banged to Rights Full Text

Abstract Silk Road lies send computer programmer “Shabang” to prison

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Workplace Pension Provider ‘NOW: Pensions’ Informs 1.7 Million Customers of Data Leakage Incident Full Text

Abstract Workplace pension provider NOW: Pensions has emailed 1.7 million UK customers to warn about a data leakage caused by contractor error involving the posting of user data to a "public software forum".

The Register

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

The New IOT Security Act Shows the Limits of Congressional Policymaking for Cybersecurity Full Text

Abstract The new legislation is largely a ratification of measures already underway or completed.

Lawfare

December 22, 2020 – Education

Farmers get their own security advice as cyberattacks increase Full Text

Abstract With an eye on the future of agriculture and tech, the UK's NCSC has published guidance to help the farming sector respond to the same threats many other organizations face.

ZDNet

December 22, 2020 – General

The Need for Socialization of Machines in Cybersecurity Full Text

Abstract New technologies such as cyber fusion are enhancing security automation further by supporting end-to-end orchestration between machines and humans within a single unified environment, with minimal manual intervention.

LinkedIn

December 22, 2020 – Outage

Google Explains YouTube, Gmail, Cloud Service Outage Full Text

Abstract Google said one of its automated tools used to manage the quota of various resources allocated for services contained a bug that caused error in authentication results, leading to the service outage.

Security Week

December 22, 2020 – Criminals

Police Seize VPN Service Beloved by Cyber-criminals Full Text

Abstract German police lead operation to shut down Safe-Inet service and seize its infrastructure

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Privacy

Tech Giants Lend WhatsApp Support in Spyware Case Against NSO Group Full Text

Abstract Google, Microsoft, Cisco Systems and others want appeals court to deny immunity to Israeli company for its alleged distribution of spyware and illegal cyber-surveillance activities.

Threatpost

December 22, 2020 – Criminals

Cybercriminals’ Favorite Bulletproof VPN Service Shuts Down In Global Action Full Text

Abstract Law enforcement agencies from the US, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, France, along with Europol's European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), announced today the coordinated takedown of Safe-Inet, a popular virtual private network (VPN) service that was used to facilitate criminal activity. The three domains in question — insorg[.]org, safe-inet[.]com, and safe-inet[.]net — were shut down, and their infrastructure seized as part of a joint investigation called "Operation Nova." Europol called Safe-Inet a cybercriminals' " favorite ." A crucial reason for the domains' seizure has been their central role in facilitating ransomware, carrying out web-skimming, spear-phishing, and account takeover attacks. The service, which comes with support for Russian and English languages and has been active for over a decade, offered " bulletproof hosting services " to website visitors, often at a steep price at a high price to the criminal underworld. As of

The Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Covid-19

FBI warns of ongoing COVID-19 vaccine related fraud schemes Full Text

Abstract US federal agencies have warned about scammers exploiting the public's interest in the COVID-19 vaccine to harvest personal information and steal money through multiple ongoing and emerging fraud schemes.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – Criminals

Bulletproof VPN services took down in a global police operation Full Text

Abstract A joint operation conducted by law European enforcement agencies resulted in the seizure of the infrastructure of three bulletproof VPN services. A joint operation conducted by law enforcement agencies from the US, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands...

Security Affairs

December 22, 2020 – Breach

TennCare announces privacy breach impacting 3,300 members Full Text

Abstract TennCare, Gainwell Technologies LLC, and Axis Direct, Inc. announced a privacy breach impacting the health information of around 3,300 Tennessee Medicaid members in a joint statement on Monday.

WKRN

December 22, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds victims revealed after cracking the Sunburst malware DGA Full Text

Abstract Security researchers have shared lists of organizations where threat actors deployed Sunburst/Solarigate malware, after ongoing investigations of the SolarWinds supply chain attack.

BleepingComputer

December 22, 2020 – Ransomware

Microsoft and McAfee headline newly-formed ‘Ransomware Task Force’ Full Text

Abstract A group made up of 19 security firms, tech companies, and non-profits, including Microsoft and McAfee, announced on Monday plans to form a new coalition to deal with the rising threat of ransomware.

ZDNet

December 22, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Dozens of US organizations also used software targeted by Russian hackers: analysis Full Text

Abstract Several major technology and accounting firms are among 24 U.S. organizations that used software targeted by Russian hackers in a cyberattack that breached federal agencies, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The Hill

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Ministry of Justice Suffers 17 Serious Data Breaches Last Year Full Text

Abstract The breaches affected 121,355 people

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Ransomware

Ellensburg is the victim of a ransomware cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Officials from the City of Ellensburg announced that it was the victim of a cyberattack. The city is now working with both local and federal law enforcement to better understand the issue.

Yaktri News

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Huntsville City Schools warns about personal information possibly compromised in cyber attack Full Text

Abstract The impacted information includes State Student Identification numbers and social security numbers of employees from 2013, 2016, and 2020, along with email addresses of parents this year.

WAAY TV

December 22, 2020 – Hacker

Threat Actors Increasingly Using VBA Purging in Attacks Full Text

Abstract Initially detailed in February 2020, VBA purging involves the use of VBA source code only within Office documents, instead of the typically compiled code, and ensures better detection evasion.

Security Week

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Reflections on the SolarWinds Breach Full Text

Abstract The timeline of the breach is still unfolding, but it is not too early to offer a number of high-level observations and predictions.

Lawfare

December 22, 2020 – Hacker

Patrick Wardle on Hackers Leveraging ‘Powerful’ iOS Bugs in High-Level Attacks Full Text

Abstract Noted Apple security expert Patrick Wardle discusses how cybercriminals are stepping up their game in targeting Apple users with new techniques and cyberattacks.

Threatpost

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Stealthy Magecart Attack Accidentally Leaks the List of Infected Stores Full Text

Abstract Recently, Sansec has found a clever remote access trojan (RAT), that has been sneaking in the lanes of hacked eCommerce servers. According...

Cyber Security News

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

European Commission Proposes Bold Steps on Cybersecurity Full Text

Abstract NIS 2 seeks to promote voluntary cyberthreat information sharing by directing Member States to ensure that covered entities can share cyberthreat information among themselves to improve cybersecurity.

Palo Alto Networks

December 22, 2020 – Business

Cybereason Adopts Oracle Cloud Infrastructure to Enhance its Platform Security Full Text

Abstract The two companies will also jointly market and sell solutions

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – General

Firefox to ship ‘network partitioning’ as a new anti-tracking defense Full Text

Abstract The new Firefox feature is based on "Client-Side Storage Partitioning," a new standard currently being developed by the World Wide Web Consortium's Privacy Community Group.

ZDNet

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

Tech Giants Support Facebook in Case Against Spyware Maker Full Text

Abstract Israeli firm NSO Group is claiming sovereign immunity

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – General

Russia Officially Denies Large-scale US Hack Full Text

Abstract While the US has not publicly identified the attackers, Reuters reported that "three of the people familiar with the investigation said Russia is currently believed to be responsible for the attack."

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Education

Just 8% of Firms Offer Regular Security Training Full Text

Abstract Remote workers exposed as businesses ignore cyber risk

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Breach

Cisco, SAP, Intel, Nvidia, and Many Others Named in List of Organizations Infected by Sunburst Malware Full Text

Abstract The biggest names on this list include Cisco, SAP, Intel, Cox Communications, Deloitte, Nvidia, Fujitsu, Belkin, Amerisafe, Lukoil, Rakuten, Check Point, Optimizely, Digital Reach, and Digital Sense.

ZDNet

December 22, 2020 – Ransomware

Big Tech Joins Up to Ransomware Task Force Full Text

Abstract Institute for Security and Technology hoping to make a big impact

Infosecurity Magazine

December 22, 2020 – Education

Here is what we know — and don’t know — about the suspected Russian hack Full Text

Abstract U.S. officials are deeply concerned about a massive and ongoing cyberattack targeting large companies and U.S. agencies, including the U.S. Treasury and Commerce Department.

CBS News

December 22, 2020 – Phishing

Researchers Warn Consumers to Not Use Bitcoin to Buy “Hatched” German Shepherds This Holiday Season Full Text

Abstract Anomali found 17 websites engaging in pet fraud activities for birds and cats, as well as one phone number match for a Facebook page car fraud scheme, and one number for an essential oils scam.

Anomali

December 22, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

An Unfixed Kubernetes Man-in-the-Middle Vulnerability (CVE-2020-8554) Full Text

Abstract On December 4, 2020, the Kubernetes Product Security Committee disclosed a new medium-severity vulnerability (CVE-2020-8554) affecting all Kubernetes versions and is currently unpatched.

Palo Alto Networks

December 22, 2020 – Hacker

A Second Hacker Group May Have Also Breached SolarWinds, Microsoft Says Full Text

Abstract As the probe into the  SolarWinds supply chain attack  continues, new digital forensic evidence has brought to light that a separate threat actor may have been abusing the IT infrastructure provider's Orion software to drop a similar persistent backdoor on target systems. "The investigation of the whole SolarWinds compromise led to the discovery of an additional malware that also affects the SolarWinds Orion product but has been determined to be likely unrelated to this compromise and used by a different threat actor," Microsoft 365 research team  said  on Friday in a post detailing the Sunburst malware. What makes the newly revealed malware, dubbed "Supernova," different is that unlike the Sunburst DLL,  Supernova  ("app_web_logoimagehandler.ashx.b6031896.dll") is not signed with a legitimate SolarWinds digital certificate, signaling that the compromise may be unrelated to the previously disclosed supply chain attack. In a  standalone write-up ,

The Hacker News

December 22, 2020 – Phishing

Phishing Campaign Uses New York Department of Labor Logo and Pandemic Aid Info to Steal Private Information Full Text

Abstract Security researchers have identified a new phishing campaign using a message purportedly from the New York Department of Labor to trick people into giving the attackers personal data.

Bit Defender

December 22, 2020 – Privacy

IMF could track your browsing history to determine credit score Full Text

Abstract IMF researchers hinted at the possibility of using a user’s browsing history, including search and purchasing data, for more accurately determining the person or business’ credit rating.

Hackread

December 22, 2020 – Policy and Law

Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Dell join legal battle against hacking company NSO Full Text

Abstract The tech giants on Monday joined Facebook’s legal battle against hacking company NSO, filing an amicus brief in federal court that warned that the Israeli firm’s tools were “powerful, and dangerous.”

Reuters

December 22, 2020 – Government

‘Dozens of email accounts’ were hacked at U.S. Treasury -Senator Wyden Full Text

Abstract Dozens of email accounts at the U.S. Treasury Department were compromised by hackers in the recent cyber-espionage campaign, the office of U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said on Monday.

Reuters

December 22, 2020 – Breach

VMware and Cisco also impacted by the SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract The IT giants VMware and Cisco revealed they were impacted by the recently disclosed SolarWinds supply chain attack. VMware and Cisco confirmed to have been both impacted by the recent SolarWinds hack. A recent advisory published by the NSA is warning...

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – Government

Senate Democrat says cyberattack on Treasury ‘appears to be significant’ Full Text

Abstract Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said on Monday that a cyberattack at the Department of Treasury reported by media outlets last week “appears to be significant.”

The Hill

December 21, 2020 – Ransomware

Trucking giant Forward Air hit by new Hades ransomware gang Full Text

Abstract Trucking and freight logistics company Forward Air has suffered a ransomware attack by a new ransomware gang that has impacted the company's business operations.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Millions of Unpatched IoT and OT Devices at Risk Full Text

Abstract According to researchers at Armis, around 97 percent of the OT devices affected by URGENT/11 (a group of vulnerabilities) are not patched, even though fixes are being delivered.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Two Critical Flaws — CVSS Score 10 — Affect Dell Wyse Thin Client Devices Full Text

Abstract A team of researchers today unveils two critical security vulnerabilities it discovered in Dell Wyse Thin clients that could have potentially allowed attackers to remotely execute malicious code and access arbitrary files on affected devices. The flaws, which were uncovered by healthcare cybersecurity provider CyberMDX and reported to Dell in June 2020, affects all devices running ThinOS versions 8.6 and below. Dell has addressed both the vulnerabilities in an  update  released today. The flaws also have a CVSS score of 10 out of 10, making them critical in severity. Thin clients are typically computers that run from resources stored on a central server instead of a localized hard drive. They work by establishing a remote connection to the server, which takes care of launching and running applications and storing relevant data. Tracked as CVE-2020-29491 and CVE-2020-29492 , the security shortcomings in Wyse's thin clients stem from the fact that the FTP sessions used to pull

The Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – General

Russia Officially Denies Large-scale US Hack Full Text

Abstract Kremlin spokesperson states that Russia was not behind hack of SolarWinds’ Orion software

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Dell Wyse ThinOS flaws allow hacking think clients Full Text

Abstract Multiple Dell Wyse thin client models are affected by critical vulnerabilities that could be exploited by a remote attacker to take over the devices. Critical vulnerabilities tracked as CVE-2020-29492 and CVE-2020-29491 affect several...

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – Education

Breach alerts dismissed as junk? New guide for sending vital emails may help Full Text

Abstract The SolarWinds supply chain attack will likely prompt scores of compromised companies to send critical data breach notifications to their customers. But steps may be required to ensure these and other critical messages don’t get ignored, bounced or quarantined.

SCMagazine

December 21, 2020 – Education

Nosy Ex-Partners Armed with Instagram Passwords Pose a Serious Threat Full Text

Abstract A survey of single people found almost a third are still logging into their ex’s social-media accounts, some for revenge.

Threatpost

December 21, 2020 – Breach

EXMO cryptocurrency exchange hacked, loses 5% of total assets Full Text

Abstract British cryptocurrency exchange EXMO has disclosed that unknown attackers withdrew almost 5% of its total assets after compromising its hot wallets.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Malware

New AridViper Malware Targets Outlook Users Full Text

Abstract Palo Alto’s Unit42 research team has recently found hacking group AridViper (aka APT-C-23) dropping a new malware called PyMicropsia to target victims in the Middle Eastern region.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – Government

Barr says Russia appears to be behind massive hack Full Text

Abstract Attorney General William Barr on Monday said that Russia is likely behind the unprecedented hack into multiple federal agencies and thousands of private entities, becoming the second senior administration official to place the blame on Moscow in contradiction to statements by President TrumpDonald TrumpTrump signs bill extending government funding for 24 hours Congress passes one-day stopgap bill ahead of shutdown deadline What is in the 0 billion coronavirus relief bill MORE. 

The Hill

December 21, 2020 – Business

BlueHalo Acquires Base2 and Fortego Full Text

Abstract BlueHalo announces acquisition of Maryland companies Base2 and Fortego

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

SUPERNOVA, a backdoor found while investigating SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract While investigating the recent SolarWinds Orion supply-chain attack security researchers discovered another backdoor, tracked SUPERNOVA. The investigation of the SolarWinds Orion supply-chain attack revealed the existence of another backdoor that...

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – 5G

Migrating to standalone networks won’t secure 5G Full Text

Abstract The stack of technologies that 5G uses could allow attacks aimed at operator networks as well as subscribers, launched from international roaming networks, operator networks or even partner networks providing access to services.

SCMagazine

December 21, 2020 – Education

Defending Against State and State-Sponsored Threat Actors Full Text

Abstract Saryu Nayyar of Gurucul discusses state and state-sponsored threat actors, the apex predators of the cybersecurity world.

Threatpost

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Critical bugs in Dell Wyse ThinOS allow thin client take over Full Text

Abstract Almost a dozen Dell Wyse thin client models are vulnerable to critical issues that could be exploited by a remote attacker to run malicious code and gain access to arbitrary files.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Phishing

Subway UK Marketing System Hacked to Send TrickBot-Laden Phishing Emails Full Text

Abstract The threat actors were successful in gaining access to Subway UK customers' names and email addresses by hacking a Subcard server responsible for its email campaigns.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – Government

Breakup Plan for Cyber Command and NSA Full Text

Abstract Trump administration reveals plan to split up leadership of US Cyber Command and the National Security Agency

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Education

Simplifying Proactive Defense With Threat Playbooks Full Text

Abstract FortiGuard Labs’ Derek Manky talks about how threat playbooks can equip defense teams with the tools they need to fight back against evolving attacker TTPs.

Threatpost

December 21, 2020 – Phishing

US seizes domains used for COVID-19 vaccine phishing attacks Full Text

Abstract The US Department of Justice has seized two domain names used to impersonate the official websites of biotechnology companies Moderna and Regeneron involved in the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – General

Another Avalanche of Zero-day Threats has Arrived Full Text

Abstract In recent months, there has been a barrage of zero-day vulnerabilities affecting popular software and devices, including several WordPress plugins, VMware products, Google Chrome, and others.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – Breach

Hacker Dumps Crypto Wallet Customer Data; Active Attacks Follow Full Text

Abstract Customer data from a June attack against cryptocurrency wallet firm Ledger is now public and actively being used in attacks.

Threatpost

December 21, 2020 – Hacker

A second hacking group has targeted SolarWinds systems Full Text

Abstract Security researchers have discovered a second threat actor that has exploited the SolarWinds software to plant Supernova and CosmicGale malware on corporate and government networks.

ZDNet

December 21, 2020 – Ransomware

Institute for Security and Technology launches multisector ransomware task force Full Text

Abstract The goal is not to reinvent the wheel, but to synthesize the work that has already been done into coherent solutions.

SCMagazine

December 21, 2020 – Breach

VMware latest to confirm breach in SolarWinds hacking campaign Full Text

Abstract VMware is the latest company to confirm that it had its systems breached in the recent SolarWinds attacks and said that the hackers did not make any attempts of further exploitation after gaining access through the deployed backdoor.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware Attacks Surge in Q3 as Cyber-Criminals Shift Tactics Full Text

Abstract Ransomware accounts for over half of all malware attacks in Q3

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Privacy

Open source privacy project TinyCheck turns your Raspberry Pi into a stalkerware detection unit Full Text

Abstract TinyCheck is open source software designed to be used on a Raspberry Pi with WiFi dongle and touchscreen. It was developed by Félix Aimé, a senior security researcher at Kaspersky Lab.

The Daily Swig

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Script for detecting vulnerable TCP/IP stacks released Full Text

Abstract Forescout released an open-source tool for detecting whether a network device runs one of the four open-source TCP/IP stacks (and their variations) affected by the Amnesia:33 vulnerabilities.

Help Net Security

December 21, 2020 – Business

Gallagher Appoints Three New Cybersecurity Specialists Full Text

Abstract The move is designed to help clients protect themselves against attacks

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

New SUPERNOVA backdoor found in SolarWinds cyberattack analysis Full Text

Abstract While analyzing artifacts from the SolarWinds Orion supply-chain attack, security researchers discovered another backdoor that is likely from a second threat actor.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Business

OneTrust raises $300 million to automate data governance and compliance Full Text

Abstract This latest cash infusion comes after roughly a year, during which time OneTrust grew its customer base to more than 7,000 organizations across 100 countries, up from 3,000 as of July 2019.

Venture Beat

December 21, 2020 – Government

Security experts warn of long-term risk tied to Energy Department breach Full Text

Abstract The department formally confirmed the hackers’ tentacles had reached into the agency, but that the malware injected had been isolated to its business networks. Some security experts argue, however, that visibility into the IT network may give hackers a path to the OT network.

SCMagazine

December 21, 2020 – General

Well, on the bright side, the SolarWinds Sunburst attack will spur the cybersecurity field to evolve all over again Full Text

Abstract We still don't know the full harm done by Sunburst, the splendidly evil hack of its Orion network monitoring platform, but it was global in scope, deep in reach, and hit only the highest-value assets.

The Register

December 21, 2020 – Education

How do we stop cyber weapons from getting out of control? Full Text

Abstract It's vital that all countries follow international rules and norms if deploying cyber weapons, but some nations aren't being responsible when it comes to how they use cyber powers, officials said.

ZDNet

December 21, 2020 – General

Disruption in 2020 paves the way for threat actors in 2021 and beyond Full Text

Abstract As the global pandemic in the year 2020 accelerated trends like remote working and digital transformation, it has also created new cybersecurity challenges for organizations.

Help Net Security

December 21, 2020 – Breach

Unsecured Cloud Storage Server Exposed 587,000 Confidential Files From Probase’s CRM Customers Full Text

Abstract The blob containing 587,000 customer files was operated by Surrey-based app developer Probase, and appeared to be in the public cloud underpinning one of its CRM products.

The Register

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Common Security Misconfigurations and Their Consequences Full Text

Abstract Everyone makes mistakes. That one sentence was drummed into me in my very first job in tech, and it has held true since then. In the cybersecurity world, misconfigurations can create exploitable issues that can haunt us later - so let's look at a few common security misconfigurations. The first one is development permissions that don't get changed when something goes live. For example, AWS S3 buckets are often assigned permissive access while development is going on. The issues arise when security reviews aren't carefully performed prior to pushing the code live, no matter if that push is for the initial launch of a platform or for updates. The result is straight-forward; a bucket goes live with the ability for anyone to read and write to and from it. This particular misconfiguration is dangerous; since the application is working and the site is loading for users, there's no visible indication that something is wrong until a threat actor hunting for open buckets stum

The Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – General

Stolen Card Prices Soar 225% in Two Years Full Text

Abstract Flashpoint claims pandemic has had big impact on dark web pricing

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Policy and Law

Why Schrems II Might Not Be a Problem for EU-U.S. Data Transfers Full Text

Abstract Nearly all U.S. companies should have no difficulty showing that U.S. surveillance authorities at issue will not interfere with their ability to comply with standard contractual clauses.

Lawfare

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Zero-day exploit used to hack iPhones of Al Jazeera employees Full Text

Abstract Tens of Al Jazeera employees were targeted in a cyber espionage campaign leveraging a zero-click iOS zero-day vulnerability to hack their iPhones. Researchers from Citizen Lab reported that at least 36 Al Jazeera employees were targeted in a cyber...

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – Education

Telemed Poll Uncovers Biggest Risks and Best Practices Full Text

Abstract What are the riskiest links in the virtual healthcare chain? Threatpost readers weigh in as part of an exclusive telemed poll.

Threatpost

December 21, 2020 – Breach

India: Telangana Government Exposed Sensitive Data of Its Employees, Pensioners Full Text

Abstract The CERT-In confirmed the vulnerability and replied on email in September to say that the authorities had been intimated about the issue, and Telangana IT Secretary Jayesh Ranjan assured a fix.

NDTV

December 21, 2020 – Policy and Law

New US Bill Will Punish Foreign Firms’ IP Theft Full Text

Abstract Chinese companies should be prepared for more sanctions

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Hacker

Threat Actors Overcome Fingerprint Scanning Technologies For Malicious Intent Full Text

Abstract Researchers have discovered five new attack techniques, all of which can be launched from zero-permission malicious Android apps, and one can even work against all apps that integrate fingerprint API.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 21, 2020 – Breach

Ledger data breach: Hacker leaks stolen database on hacker forum Full Text

Abstract Ledger was quick to acknowledge the breach revealing that the stolen data contained email addresses full names, postal addresses, phone numbers, and details related to products ordered by customers.

Hackread

December 21, 2020 – Government

Finnish government tables laws to protect data from cyber criminals Full Text

Abstract At present, individuals are only permitted to change their personal ID numbers in exceptional cases, and the new law will tighten regulations and controls around secure handling of personal ID codes.

Computer Weekly

December 21, 2020 – Encryption

Europol and European Commission Launch New Decryption Platform to Combat Encryption Misuse Full Text

Abstract The new platform launched by Europol and the European Commission includes both software and hardware tools to provide help in accessing the encrypted material for law enforcement investigations.

CISO MAG

December 21, 2020 – Policy and Law

US Indicts Former Zoom China Liaison for Doing PRC’s Bidding Full Text

Abstract Employee accused of disrupting meetings to commemorate Tiananmen Square massacre

Infosecurity Magazine

December 21, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Facebook bug exposed email addresses of Instagram users Full Text

Abstract A Nepal-based IT security researcher Saugat Pokharel identified a Facebook bug that exposed the private data of Instagram users, including their email addresses and birthdays.

Hackread

December 21, 2020 – Government

NATO is checking its systems to determine the impact of SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract “NATO also has cyber rapid reaction teams on standby to assist Allies 24 hours a day, and our Cyberspace Operations Centre is operational,” an unnamed NATO official told AFP.

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – Malware

Malicious Chrome & Edge Extensions Installs Over 3 Million Store Full Text

Abstract Czech Internet security giant Avast found out on December 16th that around 3 million people all over the world have been infected...

Cyber Security News

December 21, 2020 – Ransomware

Clop ransomware gang paralyzed flavor and fragrance producer Symrise Full Text

Abstract Flavor and fragrance producer Symrise is the last victim of the Clop ransomware gang that claims to have stolen 500 GB of unencrypted files. Symrise AG, a major producer of flavours and fragrances, was hit by Clop ransomware operators. The threat...

Security Affairs

December 21, 2020 – Privacy

Some UK Stores Are Using Facial Recognition to Track Shoppers Full Text

Abstract Branches of Co-op in the south of England have been using real-time facial recognition cameras to scan shoppers entering stores. It was quietly introduced for limited trials during the last 18 months.

Wired

December 21, 2020 – Breach

Physical addresses of 270K Ledger owners leaked on hacker forum Full Text

Abstract A threat actor has leaked the stolen email and mailing addresses for Ledger cryptocurrency wallet users on a hacker forum for free.

BleepingComputer

December 21, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware Operators Using SystemBC Backdoor with Tor proxy & RAT Futures to Attack New Targets Full Text

Abstract SystemBC is a commodity malware sold on undercover marketplaces; ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) operations are practicing this malware to disguise all kind of malicious...

Cyber Security News

December 21, 2020 – Malware

Dozens of Journalists’ iPhones Hacked with NSO ‘Zero-Click’ Spyware Full Text

Abstract Citizen Lab researchers say they have found evidence that dozens of journalists had their iPhones silently compromised with spyware known to be used by nation-states. The spyware was silently delivered, likely over iMessage.

TechCrunch

December 20, 2020 – Government

Romney calls for response ‘of like magnitude or greater’ to Russia hack Full Text

Abstract Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) called for a response to a cyberattack on U.S. government systems on Sunday, and said that Russia should face consequences for its alleged involvement.

The Hill

December 20, 2020 – General

Security Affairs newsletter Round 293 Full Text

Abstract A new round of the weekly SecurityAffairs newsletter arrived! Every week the best security articles from Security Affairs free for you in your email box. Hacked Subway UK marketing system used in TrickBot phishing campaignPay2Key hackers stole data...

Security Affairs

December 20, 2020 – Ransomware

Flavors designer Symrise halts production after Clop ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract Flavor and fragrance developer Symrise has suffered a Clop ransomware attack where the attackers allegedly stole 500 GB of unencrypted files and encrypted close to 1,000 devices.

BleepingComputer

December 20, 2020 – Policy and Law

Krebs: US should be ‘cautious’ about escalating cyber war with Russia Full Text

Abstract Former Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) chief Christopher Krebs in an interview on Sunday poured cold water on lawmakers' calls for retaliation in response to a cyber intrusion at numerous government agencies believed to be carried out by Russia.

The Hill

December 20, 2020 – Policy and Law

Lawfare Live: U.S. Cyber Strategy and the SolarWinds Breach Full Text

Abstract This Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 12pm EST, Robert Chesney, Lawfare founding editor and Charles I. Francis Professor in Law at the University of Texas School of Law, and Lawfare executive editor Susan Hennessey will join Lawfare chief operating officer David Priess to answer questions about the cyber breach of SolarWinds, its effects on several government agencies and the infiltration’s domestic and international ramifications.

Lawfare

December 20, 2020 – Criminals

A massive fraud operation used mobile device emulators to steal millions from online bank accounts Full Text

Abstract Experts uncovered a massive fraud operation that used a network of mobile device emulators to steal millions of dollars from online bank accounts. Researchers from IBM Trusteer have uncovered a massive fraud operation that leveraged a network of mobile...

Security Affairs

December 20, 2020 – Government

SolarWinds hackers also breached the US NNSA nuclear agency Full Text

Abstract US DOE confirmed that threat actors behind the recent SolarWinds supply chain attack also hacked the networks of the US NNSA nuclear agency. US DOE confirmed this week that threat actors behind the recent SolarWinds supply chain attack also compromised...

Security Affairs

December 20, 2020 – Government

Ending the “Dual-Hat” Arrangement for NSA and Cyber Command? Full Text

Abstract Are big changes afoot at Cyber Command? What are the relevant legal constraints?

Lawfare

December 20, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds hackers broke into U.S. cable firm and Arizona county, web records show Full Text

Abstract Suspected Russian hackers accessed the systems of a U.S. internet provider and a county government in Arizona as part of a sprawling cyber-espionage campaign disclosed this week, according to an analysis of publicly-available web records.

Reuters

December 20, 2020 – Covid-19

COVID-19 themed attacks December 6 – December 19, 2020 Full Text

Abstract This post includes the details of the COVID-19 themed attacks launched from December 6 – December 19, 2020. December 6 - Drug dealers are selling Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines on the darkweb While the United Kingdom announced the distribution of the COVID19...

Security Affairs

December 19, 2020 – Breach

NATO is checking its systems to determine the impact of SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract NATO announced it is assessing its systems after the SolarWinds supply chain attack that impacted multiple US government agencies. NATO announced it is checking its systems after the SolarWinds supply chain attack to determine if they were infected...

Security Affairs

December 19, 2020 – Botnet

Gitpaste-12 worm botnet returns with 30+ vulnerability exploits Full Text

Abstract Recently discovered Gitpaste-12 worm that spreads via GitHub and also hosts malicious payload on Pastebin, has returned with over 30 vulnerability exploits, according to researchers at Juniper Labs.

BleepingComputer

December 19, 2020 – Government

Trump downplays impact of hack, questions whether Russia involved Full Text

Abstract President TrumpDonald TrumpTrump signs bill to keep government open amid relief talks US to close two Russia consulates 'Guardians of the Galaxy' trends on social media following new Space Force name MORE on Saturday downplayed the impact of a sprawling hack on a litany of government agencies, defying officials’ assessments of its extent and indicating he disagreed with their conclusion that Russia was behind the attack.

The Hill

December 19, 2020 – Malware

The SolarWinds cyberattack: The hack, the victims, and what we know Full Text

Abstract Since the SolarWinds supply chain attack was disclosed last Sunday, there has been a whirlwind of news, technical details, and analysis released about the hack. Because the amount of information that was released in such a short time is definitely overwhelming, we have published this as a roundup of this week's SolarWinds news.

BleepingComputer

December 19, 2020 – Education

NSA warns of cloud attacks on authentication mechanisms Full Text

Abstract The US National Security Agency (NSA) warns of two techniques abused by threat actors for escalating attacks from local networks to cloud infrastructure. The US National Security Agency has published a security advisory that describes two techniques...

Security Affairs

December 19, 2020 – Government

Pompeo: Russia ‘pretty clearly’ behind massive cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Secretary of State Mike PompeoMike PompeoChampioning Democracy: How America can blunt the rise of authoritarian powers Azar tells Health Department staff his wife has COVID-19: 'Mild symptoms but otherwise doing well' Pompeo speaks with Turkish counterpart following US sanctions MORE on Friday blamed Russia for the massive cyberattack affecting multiple federal agencies and thousands of individual federal and private entities, saying it was "pretty clearly" behind the attack.

The Hill

December 19, 2020 – Business

VMware Falls on Report Its Software Led to SolarWinds Breach Full Text

Abstract VMware Inc. fell 5.4% after a cybersecurity expert said a flaw in the company’s products was partly responsible for the SolarWinds breach that is roiling U.S. companies and government agencies.

Yahoo! Finance

December 19, 2020 – Hacker

Hackers last year conducted a ‘dry run’ of SolarWinds breach Full Text

Abstract Hackers who breached federal agency networks through software made by a company called SolarWinds appear to have conducted a test run of their broad espionage campaign last year, according to sources with knowledge of the operation.

Yahoo! Finance

December 19, 2020 – Government

US government caught blindsided over sophisticated cyber hack, experts say Full Text

Abstract Russia has long been viewed as a threat in cyberspace. But after one of the most successful cyber intrusion campaigns in U.S. history, questions are being raised over how the federal government was so completely blindsided by an attack many experts have seen coming.

The Hill

December 19, 2020 – Criminals

FBI and Interpol shut down some servers of Joker’s Stash carding marketplace Full Text

Abstract Joker's Stash, the largest carding marketplace online, was shut down by a coordinated operation conducted by the FBI and the Interpol. Joker's Stash, the largest carding marketplace online, was shut down as a result of a coordinated operation conducted...

Security Affairs

December 19, 2020 – Covid-19

Hackers target COVID-19 vaccine supply chain and sell the vaccine in Darkweb Full Text

Abstract Cybersecurity experts from Cyble discovered in several forums on the dark web, the offer for enormous repositories of critical medical that wee stolen from multiple organizations.

Security Affairs

December 19, 2020 – Government

Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Mozilla ban Kazakhstan’s MitM HTTPS certificate Full Text

Abstract Browser makers Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Mozilla, have banned today a root certificate that was being used by the Kazakhstan government to intercept and decrypt HTTPS traffic for residents in the country's capital, the city of Nur-Sultan.

ZDNet

December 19, 2020 – Breach

Cyber Thieves Attack Renewable Energy Supplier to Steal Personal Info of 250,000 Customers Full Text

Abstract UK-based renewable energy supplier People’s Energy has disclosed that cybercriminals accessed the personal details of its entire 250,000 customer database in a data breach.

Bit Defender

December 19, 2020 – Policy and Law

U.S. banking regulators propose requiring banks to immediately flag computer breaches Full Text

Abstract The new proposal from U.S. banking regulators would direct banks to notify their primary regulator as soon as possible after a breach is discovered that could impair services or the organization itself.

Reuters

December 19, 2020 – APT

How the Russian hacking group Cozy Bear, suspected in the SolarWinds breach, plays the long game Full Text

Abstract As U.S. government agencies and thousands of companies around the world assess whether they’ve been compromised in the SolarWinds breach, security experts are concerned that the full reach of the suspected hackers may only be just coming to light.

Cyberscoop

December 19, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

VMware Flaw a Vector in SolarWinds Breach? — Krebs on Security Full Text

Abstract U.S. government cybersecurity agencies warned this week that the attackers behind the widespread hacking spree used weaknesses in other, non-SolarWinds products to attack high-value targets.

Krebs on Security

December 19, 2020 – Phishing

US officials shut down scam websites impersonating Moderna, Regeneron Full Text

Abstract U.S. Justice Department officials said they had seized two internet domains purporting to belong to biotechnology firms developing treatments for the coronavirus, but which really were used to collect visitors’ personal data as part of a scam.

Cyberscoop

December 18, 2020 – Breach

‘Very, very large’ telecom organization and Fortune 500 company breached in SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Noteworthy is the combination of the targets, which adds up to what one researcher described as attacks against the backbone of the nation’s critical infrastructure.

SCMagazine

December 18, 2020 – Government

Lawmakers call for Trump to take action on massive government hack Full Text

Abstract Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle criticized President Trump. Congress passes bill to avert shutdown as coronavirus talks drag into weekend Lawmakers call for Trump to take action on massive government hack Overnight Health Care: CVS, Walgreens to begin nursing home vaccinations | Pence receives coronavirus vaccine on camera | 8.2M people sign up for ObamaCare MORE for his ongoing silence on the massive suspected Russian hack of federal agencies this week, and urged him to sign the annual defense funding bill into law to take action immediately.

The Hill

December 18, 2020 – General

Cloud is King: 9 Software Security Trends to Watch in 2021 Full Text

Abstract Researchers predict software security will continue to struggle to keep up with cloud and IoT in the new year.

Threatpost

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Sunburst’s C2 Secrets Reveal Second-Stage SolarWinds Victims Full Text

Abstract Examining the backdoor’s DNS communications led researchers to find a government agency and a big U.S. telco that were flagged for further exploitation in the spy campaign.

Threatpost

December 18, 2020 – Insider Threat

Insider Threats: What Are They, Really? Full Text

Abstract “Insider threat” or “human error” shows up a lot as the major cause of data breaches across all types of reports out there. But often it’s not defined, or it’s not clearly defined, so people conjure up their own definition.

Threatpost

December 18, 2020 – Government

Lawmakers ask IRS if its systems were compromised in SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Two key House lawmakers are seeking answers from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about whether any of the agency's systems were compromised as part of a massive cyberattack.

The Hill

December 18, 2020 – Ransomware

The Week in Ransomware - December 18th 2020 - Targeting Israel Full Text

Abstract The SolarWinds supply chain attack has dominated this week's cybersecurity news, but there was still plenty of ransomware news this week.

BleepingComputer

December 18, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

HPE Patched Critical zero-day in server Management Software Full Text

Abstract HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise) has recently published a critical zero-day bug in one of the latest versions of its exclusive HPE Systems...

Cyber Security News

December 18, 2020 – General

Ukraine says faces almost daily hacker attacks Full Text

Abstract Ukraine is facing almost daily hacker attacks on its government resources and intends to sharply strengthen its cybersecurity, Ukrainian state security service SBU said on Friday.

Reuters

December 18, 2020 – Education

New ISAC for K–12 Schools Names National Director Full Text

Abstract Douglas Levin named national director of new information sharing & analysis center for US school districts

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Covid-19

Hackers target COVID-19 vaccine supply chain and sell the vaccine in Darkweb Full Text

Abstract Threat actors continue to trade critical medical data in the Dark Web while organizations are involved in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cybercrime organizations continue to be very active while pharmaceutical organizations are involved...

Security Affairs

December 18, 2020 – Ransomware

Senators push for an investigation into education ransomware conundrum Full Text

Abstract Three Democratic senators requested a federal auditing group look into how the national government assists local school districts in fighting the scourge of ransomware. In a letter dated December 16, Sens. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz, and Jackie Rosen, D-Nev., requested the Government Accountability Office look into “efforts by Education, DHS, and other relevant…

SCMagazine

December 18, 2020 – Malware

Stealthy Magecart malware mistakenly leaks list of hacked stores Full Text

Abstract A list of dozens of online stores hacked by a web skimming group was inadvertently leaked by a dropper used to deploy a stealthy remote access trojan (RAT) on compromised e-commerce sites.

BleepingComputer

December 18, 2020 – Business

Cloudhouse Technologies Acquires UpGuard Core Full Text

Abstract Cloudhouse Technologies, a London, UK-based provider of application compatibility packaging solutions, acquired UpGuard Core, from third-party risk and attack surface management platform UpGuard Inc.

FinSMEs

December 18, 2020 – Education

JIBC Launches Cybercrime Analysis Certification Full Text

Abstract Justice Institute of British Columbia launches new online Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime Analysis

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Government

Former NSA security chief details what’s happening inside DoD to respond to SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Former NSA Chief Security Officer Chris Kubic, now CSO at Fidelis, spoke with SC Media about the current focus in the Pentagon, much like the private sector, to track down any impacted systems, while scrambling to get updated detection signatures.

SCMagazine

December 18, 2020 – Encryption

Europol launches new decryption platform for law enforcement Full Text

Abstract Europol and the European Commission have launched a new decryption platform that will help boost Europol's ability to gain access to information stored in encrypted media collected during criminal investigations.

BleepingComputer

December 18, 2020 – Breach

People’s Energy data breach affects all 270,000 customers Full Text

Abstract Data stolen included names, addresses, dates of birth, phone numbers, tariff and energy meter IDs, she said. Additionally, the financial data of 15 small-business customers was also accessed.

BBC

December 18, 2020 – Business

As Microsoft confirms breach from SolarWinds hack, President Brad Smith argues for federal policy changes Full Text

Abstract Smith suggested a three-point plan he believed would prevent further supply chain attacks: Increasing intelligence sharing between government and the private sector, developing stronger international norms for acceptable behavior in cyberespionage, and finding harsher ways to hold governments accountable.

SCMagazine

December 18, 2020 – Education

NSA warns of hackers forging cloud authentication information Full Text

Abstract An advisory from the U.S. National Security Agency is providing Microsoft Azure administrators guidance to detect and protect against threat actors looking to access resources in the cloud by forging authentication information.

BleepingComputer

December 18, 2020 – Phishing

Feeling Lucky This Holiday Season? COVID-19, Google and Microsoft ‘Lotteries’ are Out for Your Info and Money Full Text

Abstract Fraudsters are using popular brand names, existing lottery names and the coronavirus to mislead recipients into believing that they have won millions of dollars in various online lotteries.

Bit Defender

December 18, 2020 – Business

Corsair Capital Acquires Majority Stake in IDIQ Full Text

Abstract IDIQ provides identity theft and dark web monitoring, identity restoration, and related family protection services in the rapidly evolving $20 billion consumer identity monitoring market.

Yahoo! Finance

December 18, 2020 – Business

Cybersecurity startup PlainID secures $11 million in capital Full Text

Abstract PlainID raised $11 Million in a Series A financing. Israeli venture capital firm Viola Ventures led the effort, with participation from Capri Ventures, Springtide Ventures and iAngels.

New York Business Journal

December 18, 2020 – Government

DIU, CISA Team Up to Coordinate Cybersecurity Tech Investments Full Text

Abstract The Defense Innovation Unit and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency are teaming up to share information and coordinate cybersecurity technology investments, DOD announced Thursday.

Nextgov

December 18, 2020 – Education

NSA warns of federated login abuse for local-to-cloud attacks Full Text

Abstract The NSA has published a security advisory on Thursday warning about two techniques hackers are using to escalate access from compromised local networks into cloud-based infrastructure.

ZDNet

December 18, 2020 – Privacy

Alibaba Facial Recognition Tech Picks Out Uyghur Minorities Full Text

Abstract Chinese tech company offers facial recognition of minorities as a cloud service

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Malware

The Strategic Implications of SolarWinds Full Text

Abstract The infiltration by Russia emphasizes the importance of implementing the layered deterrence strategy recommended by the U.S. Cyber Solarium Commission.

Lawfare

December 18, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

5 Million Sites Running ‘Contact Form 7’ WordPress Plugin Vulnerable to Takeover Attacks Full Text

Abstract A critical unrestricted file upload bug in Contact Form 7 allows an unauthenticated visitor to take over a site running the plugin. A patch for the vulnerability was released Thursday.

Threat Post

December 18, 2020 – Business

As Microsoft confirms breach, President Brad Smith argues for federal policy changes Full Text

Abstract Smith suggested a three-point plan he believed would prevent further supply chain attacks: Increasing intelligence sharing between government and the private sector, developing stronger international norms for acceptable behavior in cyberespionage, and finding harsher ways to hold governments accountable.

SCMagazine

December 18, 2020 – Policy and Law

Russia’s Hack Wasn’t Cyberwar. That Complicates US Strategy Full Text

Abstract Because states routinely spy on one another—friends and foes alike—there are a very limited number of credible punishments states can use to threaten others into not spying.

Wired

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft identifies 40+ victims of SolarWinds hack, 80% from US Full Text

Abstract Microsoft said that over 40 of its customers had their networks infiltrated by hackers following the SolarWinds supply chain attack after they installed backdoored versions of the Orion IT monitoring platform.

BleepingComputer

December 18, 2020 – General

EU Unveils Revamp of Cybersecurity Rules Days After Hack Full Text

Abstract The EU unveiled Wednesday plans to revamp the 27-nation bloc’s dated cybersecurity rules, just days after data on a new coronavirus vaccine was unlawfully accessed in a hack attack on the EMA.

Security Week

December 18, 2020 – Hacker

Chinese hackers targeted shoppers during Flipkart festive sales Full Text

Abstract Internet users in India were sent spurious links to click on and participate in a contest where individuals could win an OPPO F17 Pro (Matte Black, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB Storage) smartphone.

The Times Of India

December 18, 2020 – Covid-19

Fishy French COVID contact tracing app is a data thief pest Full Text

Abstract Earlier this month, an unknown adversary sent SMS messages to users in France urging the recipients to download what it claimed was the official French COVID-19 contact tracing app, TousAntiCovid.

Sophos

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft says systems were exposed in massive SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Microsoft’s systems were exposed as part of the suspected Russian cybersecurity hack that targeted SolarWinds and hit multiple government agencies, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The Hill

December 18, 2020 – Policy and Law

Will the US Move to a Federal Privacy Law in 2021? Full Text

Abstract Experts discuss impact of CPRA and other recent events on privacy rules in the US

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Policy and Law

The SolarWinds Breach Is a Failure of U.S. Cyber Strategy Full Text

Abstract The breach underscores the importance of integrating defend forward into a broader national cybersecurity strategy.

Lawfare

December 18, 2020 – Education

All-source intelligence: reshaping an old tool for future challenges Full Text

Abstract An enhanced version of the old all-source intelligence discipline could serve the purpose. By Boris Giannetto Hybrid, interconnected and complex threats require hybrid, interconnected and complex tools. An enhanced version of the old all-source...

Security Affairs

December 18, 2020 – Government

Lawmakers ask whether massive hack amounted to act of war Full Text

Abstract Lawmakers are raising questions about whether the attack on the federal government widely attributed to Russia constitutes an act of war.

The Hill

December 18, 2020 – Privacy

Decade-Long Data Silo to Address Google-Fitbit Privacy Concerns Full Text

Abstract Rights groups concerned over European Commission’s green light

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Malware

‘SocGholish’ Attack Framework Powers Surge in Drive-By Attacks Full Text

Abstract SocGholish impersonates legitimate browser, Flash, and Microsoft Teams updates to trick users into executing malicious ZIP files that are automatically downloaded on visiting an infected webpage.

Dark Reading

December 18, 2020 – Breach

UK Energy Firm Suffers Data Breach Impacting Entire Customer Database Full Text

Abstract Customers have been contacted following the incident

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft confirms breach in SolarWinds hack, but denies its clients were affected Full Text

Abstract Microsoft confirms that it was also breached in the SolarWinds supply chain hack, but excluded that the attack impacted its customers. Microsoft has confirmed that it was one of the companies breached in the recent SolarWinds supply chain attack,...

Security Affairs

December 18, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Bouncy Castle Bug Puts Bcrypt Passwords at Risk Full Text

Abstract Authentication bypass flaw found in popular Java crypto library

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft says it identified 40+ victims of the SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract It is now in the process of notifying all the impacted organizations, 80% of which are located in the US, with the rest spread across Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Spain, the UK, Israel, and the UAE.

ZDNet

December 18, 2020 – Government

Federal investigators find evidence of previously unknown tactics used to penetrate government networks Full Text

Abstract While many details remained unclear, revelation about new modes of attack raises fresh questions about the access that Russian hackers were able to gain in government and corporate systems globally.

Washington Post

December 18, 2020 – Government

More Hacking Attacks Found as Officials Warn of ‘Grave Risk’ to U.S. Government Full Text

Abstract The discovery suggests that the scope of the attack, which appears to extend beyond nuclear laboratories and Pentagon, Treasury and Commerce Departments, complicates the challenge for investigators.

New York Times

December 18, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft and 40+ Customers Hit in Russian Espionage Attack Full Text

Abstract Tech firms, not governments, form the largest group of victims

Infosecurity Magazine

December 18, 2020 – Ransomware

Fake mobile version of Cyberpunk 2077 spreads ransomware Full Text

Abstract A threat actor is spreading ransomware dubbed CoderWare that masquerades as Windows and Android versions of the recent Cyberpunk 2077. Crooks are spreading fake Windows and Android versions of installers for the new Cyberpunk 2077 video game that...

Security Affairs

December 18, 2020 – Government

Nuclear weapons agency breached amid massive cyber onslaught Full Text

Abstract The hackers have been able to do more damage at FERC than the other agencies, and officials there have evidence of highly malicious activity, the officials said, but did not elaborate.

Politico

December 18, 2020 – Criminals

A ‘coordinated police’ action against the Joker’s Stash took a small domain offline Full Text

Abstract An ongoing law enforcement operation has disrupted aspects of a leading website where internet scammers frequently buy and sell stolen data, according to the site’s administrators.

Cyberscoop

December 18, 2020 – Hacker

Hack Suggests New Scope, Sophistication for Cyberattacks Full Text

Abstract Suspected Russian hack involving SolarWinds software that compromised parts of the U.S. government was executed on a scale that has surprised even veteran security experts.

The Wall Street Journal

December 17, 2020 – Breach

Microsoft Says Its Systems Were Also Breached in Massive SolarWinds Hack Full Text

Abstract The massive state-sponsored  espionage campaign  that compromised software maker SolarWinds also targeted Microsoft, as the unfolding investigation into the hacking spree reveals the incident may have been far more wider in scope, sophistication, and impact than previously thought. News of Microsoft's compromise was first reported by Reuters , which also said the company's own products were then used to strike other victims by leveraging its cloud offerings, citing people familiar with the matter. The Windows maker, however, denied the threat actor had infiltrated its production systems to stage further attacks against its customers. In a statement to The Hacker News via email, the company said — "Like other SolarWinds customers, we have been actively looking for indicators of this actor and can confirm that we detected malicious SolarWinds binaries in our environment, which we isolated and removed. We have not found evidence of access to production services or custom

The Hacker News

December 17, 2020 – Government

Romney: ‘Stunning’ for White House not to respond on Russian cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Sen. Mitt RomneyWillard (Mitt) Mitt RomneyEx-teachers union leader seen as leading candidate for Biden's Education secretary No, Biden hasn't won yet — one more nightmare scenario The Hill's Morning Report - Presented by Mastercard - Moderna vaccine nears US approval; Congress cites 'progress' toward relief bill MORE (R-Utah) on Thursday said it was "stunning" for the White House to not issue a response regarding multiple alleged U.S. government cyber attacks stemming from Russia.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Government

Energy Dept., nuclear agency breached as part of massive cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Agencies within the Department of Energy (DOE), including portions of the agency charged with maintaining the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile, were breached as part of a massive hack on an IT group that has hit almost a dozen federal agencies, officials said Thursday.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Government

Federal government finds evidence hackers used multiple methods to access agency networks Full Text

Abstract The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) cybersecurity agency on Thursday warned of the “grave” threat posed to federal systems by a recent massive espionage attack by a nation state, warning that the hackers used multiple methods to access the systems for months.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Government

Biden vows to make cybersecurity ‘imperative’ following massive hack Full Text

Abstract President-elect Joe BidenJoe BidenBooker: Proposed COVID-19 relief bill is 'far short' of desired pandemic aid for states and communities Trump to name Giuliani's son to role on Holocaust Memorial Council Biden would save US .6 billion by halting border wall construction: report MORE on Thursday vowed to elevate cybersecurity as an “imperative” when he takes office and said he would not “stand idly by” in the face of cyberattacks following a massive breach that impacted the U.S. government.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Government

Senators request IRS briefing on SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract The leaders of the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday asked the IRS for a briefing about whether sensitive taxpayer information was stolen as part of the SolarWinds hack.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Bouncy Castle crypto authentication bypass vulnerability revealed Full Text

Abstract A severe authentication bypass vulnerability has been reported in Bouncy Castle, a popular open-source cryptography library. When exploited, the vulnerability (CVE-2020-28052) can allow an attacker to gain access to user and administrator accounts due to a cryptographic weakness in the manner passwords are checked.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Government

SolarWinds hackers breach US nuclear weapons agency Full Text

Abstract Nation-state hackers have breached the networks of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE).

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – General

How to Increase Your Security Posture with Fewer Resources Full Text

Abstract Plixer’s Justin Jett, Compliance & Audit director, discusses how to do more with less when your security resources are thin.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

5M WordPress Sites Running the Contact Form 7 Plugin are Open to Attack Full Text

Abstract A critical unrestricted file upload bug in Contact Form 7 allows an unauthenticated visitor to take over a site running the plugin.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Education

New ISAC for K-12 school districts fills a key cyber intelligence gap Full Text

Abstract Clobbered by cybercriminals, local school districts have lacked an outlet for sharing cyber threat info that’s relevant only to them.

SCMagazine

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Bouncy Castle fixes crypto API authentication bypass flaw Full Text

Abstract A severe authentication bypass vulnerability has been reported in Bouncy Castle, a popular open-source cryptography library. When exploited, the vulnerability (CVE-2020-28052) can allow an attacker to gain access to user and administrator accounts due to a cryptographic weakness in the manner passwords are checked.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Government

SolarWinds hackers breach agency in charge of US nuclear weapons Full Text

Abstract Nation-state hackers have breached the networks of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE).

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Malware

3 million users hit with infected Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge extensions Full Text

Abstract Google Chrome, specifically, accounts for about 70 percent of the browser market share, making its extensions an efficient mechanism for targeting users with malware.

SCMagazine

December 17, 2020 – Malware

5 million WordPress sites potentially impacted by a Contact Form 7 flaw Full Text

Abstract The development team behind the Contact Form 7 WordPress plugin discloses an unrestricted file upload vulnerability. Jinson Varghese Behanan from Astra Security discovered an unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the popular Contact Form 7 WordPress...

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Bouncy Castle fixes cryptography API authentication bypass flaw Full Text

Abstract A severe authentication bypass vulnerability has been reported in Bouncy Castle, a popular open-source cryptography library. When exploited, the vulnerability (CVE-2020-28052) can allow an attacker to gain access to user and administrator accounts due to a cryptographic weakness in the manner passwords are checked.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Breach

Nation-state hackers breached US think tank thrice in a row Full Text

Abstract An advanced hacking group believed to be working for the Russian government has compromised the internal network of a think tank in the U.S. three times.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Encryption

It’s time to prepare for fully homomorphic encryption, says IBM Full Text

Abstract In a nutshell, the capability allows computers to perform operations on encrypted information without decrypting it first – meaning data science and machine learning are possible without actually seeing the data.

SCMagazine

December 17, 2020 – Disinformation

Disinformation Spreaders Predicted by AI Full Text

Abstract New AI algorithm predicts which Twitter users will share unreliably sourced news

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Policy and Law

Police Vouch for Hacker Who Guessed Trump’s Twitter Password Full Text

Abstract No charges for Dutch ethical hacker Victor Gevers who prosecutors say did actually access Trump’s Twitter account by guessing his password, “MAGA2020!” last October.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Criminals

Healthcare.gov Data Thief Jailed Full Text

Abstract Prison for tech company employee who stole PII and used it for financial gain

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Government

CISA: Hackers breached US govt using more than SolarWinds backdoor Full Text

Abstract The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said that the APT group behind the recent compromise campaign targeting US government agencies used more than one initial access vector.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Air-Gap Attack Turns Memory Modules into Wi-Fi Radios Full Text

Abstract Attack turns SDRAM buses into a Wi-Fi radio to leak data from air-gapped computers.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Malware

RubyGems Packages Laced with Bitcoin-Stealing Malware Full Text

Abstract Two malicious software building blocks that could be baked into web applications prey on unsuspecting users.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware masquerades as mobile version of Cyberpunk 2077 Full Text

Abstract A threat actor is distributing fake Windows and Android installers for the Cyberpunk 2077 game that is installing a ransomware calling itself CoderWare.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Policy and Law

Indian Police Bust Illegal Call Center Full Text

Abstract Delhi police cybercrime unit arrests 54 over illegal call center targeting foreign nationals

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Botnet

Gitpaste-12 Botnet Evolves to Take More Devices in its Trap Full Text

Abstract The malware derives its name from GitHub, and Pastebin - which are used for propagation - and 12 different exploits for previously-known vulnerabilities.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 17, 2020 – Business

Enterprises Face the Onslaught of Brute-Force Attacks Full Text

Abstract Brute-force attacks typically are aimed at computers and devices on organizational networks to capture email addresses, passwords, passphrases, usernames, and PINs.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 17, 2020 – APT

CISA: APT group behind US govt hacks used multiple access vectors Full Text

Abstract The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said that the APT group behind the recent compromise campaign targeting US government agencies used more than one initial access vector.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Encryption

Cryptologists Crack Zodiac Killer’s 340 Cipher Full Text

Abstract The Zodiac’s serial killer’s 340 cipher, which couldn’t be solved for 50 years, has been cracked by a remote team of mathematicians.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – General

Passwords begone: GitHub will ban them next year for authenticating Git operations Full Text

Abstract Microsoft's GitHub plans to stop accepting account passwords as a way to authenticate Git operations, starting August 13, 2021, following a test period without passwords two-weeks earlier.

The Register

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

DoppelPaymer ransomware gang now cold-calling victims, FBI warns Full Text

Abstract FBI says DoppelPaymer ransomware gang is harassing victims who refuse to pay, threatening to send individuals to their homes. FBI is warning of a new escalation in the extortion activities of the DoppelPaymer ransomware gang, the operators have been...

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

Iranian nation-state hackers linked to Pay2Key ransomware Full Text

Abstract Iranian-backed hacking group Fox Kitten has been linked to the Pay2Key ransomware operation that has recently started targeting organizations from Israel and Brazil.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Malware

3M Users Targeted by Malicious Facebook, Insta Browser Add-Ons Full Text

Abstract Researchers identify malware existing in popular add-ons for Facebook, Vimeo, Instagram and others that are commonly used in browsers from Google and Microsoft.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Business

Code42 Incydr Series: Bringing Shadow IT into the light with Code42 Incydr Full Text

Abstract The massive shift to remote work has turbocharged the shadow IT problem.

Threatpost

December 17, 2020 – Business

Data Protection Firm BigID Raises $70 Million at $1 Billion Valuation Full Text

Abstract Data protection firm BigID announced on Wednesday that it has raised $70 million in a Series D funding round, bringing the valuation of the company to more than $1 billion.

Security Week

December 17, 2020 – Breach

Digging the recently leaked Chinese Communist Party database Full Text

Abstract Experts determined that the database also includes information of CCP members who worked at foreign consulates in Shanghai, as well as at the Chinese branches of different international firms.

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

WordPress plugin with 5 million installs has a critical vulnerability Full Text

Abstract The team behind a popular WordPress plugin has disclosed a critical file upload vulnerability and issued a patch. The vulnerable plugin, Contact Form 7, has over 5 million active installations making this upgrade a necessity for WordPress site owners out there.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

Phobos Ransomware: Everything You Need to Know and More Full Text

Abstract As far as its genetic makeup goes, so to speak, Phobos ransomware is a heavily similar strain to the infamous Dharma variant. Experts regard the former as a highly similar version of the latter.

Heimdal Security

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

When zombie malware leads to big-money ransomware attacks Full Text

Abstract In one recent and confronting story, an educational establishment in Scotland was confronted with an extortion demand for a surprisingly specific sum of money matching their bank balance.

Sophos

December 17, 2020 – Malware

Skimming a Little Off the Top: ‘Meyhod’ Skimmer Hits Hair Loss Specialists Full Text

Abstract Meyhod itself is simple compared to the Magecart web payment skimmers we've recently analyzed, such as the new variant of the Grelos skimmer and the Ant and Cockroach skimmer.

Risk IQ

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Trend Micro Patches Serious Flaws in Product Used by Companies, Governments Full Text

Abstract The vulnerabilities were discovered by Wolfgang Ettlinger, a researcher at Austria-based cybersecurity consultancy SEC Consult, and they were reported to Trend Micro in the summer of 2019.

Security Week

December 17, 2020 – Government

FBI, CISA officially confirm US govt hacks after SolarWinds breach Full Text

Abstract The compromise of multiple US federal networks following the SolarWinds breach was officially confirmed for the first time in a joint statement released earlier today by the FBI, DHS-CISA, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Business

LogicGate secures $8.75M in growth capital to fuel international expansion and new product offerings Full Text

Abstract LogicGate announced that it secured $8.75 million in growth capital from Greenspring Associates and Silicon Valley Bank to fuel international expansion and new product offerings.

Help Net Security

December 17, 2020 – Phishing

Two-Thirds of Orgs Expect Increase in #COVID19 Phishing Attacks Next Year Full Text

Abstract 64% of business leaders are anticipating a rise in phishing attacks in 2021

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

P2P mobile file transfer apps open to attacks, researchers find Full Text

Abstract Security vulnerabilities in the direct file transfer applications of popular smartphone makers allow attackers to send malicious files to mobile devices, a security researcher has found.

The Daily Swig

December 17, 2020 – Malware

Experts spotted browser malicious extensions for Instagram, Facebook and others Full Text

Abstract Avast researchers reported that three million users installed 28 malicious Chrome or Edge extensions that could perform several malicious operations. Avast Threat Intelligence researchers spotted malicious Chrome and Edge browser extensions that...

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware and Cyber-Extortion Payments Double in 2020 Full Text

Abstract The payment of ransoms and extortions doubled between 2019 and 2020

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

FBI Warns DoppelPaymer Ransomware Gang is Harassing Victims Who Refuse to Pay Full Text

Abstract The US FBI says it is aware of incidents where the DoppelPaymer ransomware gang has resorted to cold-calling companies in order to intimidate and coerce victims into paying ransom demands.

ZDNet

December 17, 2020 – Phishing

Experts Urge Users to Ignore Facebook Christmas Bonus Scam Full Text

Abstract Messages from ‘friends’ are fake, says Identity Theft Resource Center

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Government

Schiff calls for ‘urgent’ work to defend nation in the wake of massive cyberattack Full Text

Abstract House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff called on Congress to undertake “urgent work” to defend critical networks in the wake of a massive cyber-espionage attack on the U.S. government.

The Hill

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Top 10 Dangerous DNS Attacks Types and The Prevention Measures Full Text

Abstract From the above topic, we can guess that today, we are going to discuss the top 10 DNS attacks and how to...

Cyber Security News

December 17, 2020 – Business

Holiday deal: 40% off Malwarebytes Premium and Teams Full Text

Abstract Malwarebytes is running a holiday deal where you can get 40% off Malwarebytes Premium and the Malwarebytes for Teams business product for a limited time.

BleepingComputer

December 17, 2020 – Government

White House activates cyber emergency response under Obama-era directive Full Text

Abstract In the wake of the SolarWinds breach, the National Security Council has activated an emergency cybersecurity process that is intended to help the government plan its response and recovery efforts.

Cyberscoop

December 17, 2020 – Malware

Malicious Domain in SolarWinds Hack Turned into ‘Killswitch’ Full Text

Abstract A malicious domain used to control potentially thousands of compromised computer systems was commandeered by security experts and used as 'killswitch' to turn the cybercrime operation against itself.

Krebs on Security

December 17, 2020 – Government

India approves game-changing framework against cyber threats Full Text

Abstract In a significant decision, India on Wednesday introduced its first and biggest framework to protect itself from cyber attacks, data theft, and other vulnerabilities threatening its national security.

The Times Of India

December 17, 2020 – General

How to Use Password Length to Set Best Password Expiration Policy Full Text

Abstract One of the many features of an Active Directory Password Policy is the  maximum password age . Traditional Active Directory environments have long using password aging as a means to bolster password security. Native password aging in the default Active Directory Password Policy is relatively limited in configuration settings. Let's take a look at a few best practices that have changed in regards to password aging. What controls can you enforce in regards to password aging using the default Active Directory Password Policy? Are there better tools that organizations can use regarding controlling the maximum password age for Active Directory user accounts? What password aging best practices have changed? Password aging for Active Directory user accounts has long been a controversial topic in security best practices. While many organizations still apply more traditional password aging rules, noted security organizations have provided updated password aging guidance. Microsoft has

The Hacker News

December 17, 2020 – Malware

Malicious Chrome and Edge Extensions Affect Millions of Users Full Text

Abstract Avast urges users to uninstall now or risk phishing and data theft

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – General

Launched OSSISNa, the Observatory for the Protection of the National Strategic Industrial System Full Text

Abstract On 11th December 2020, the Observatory for the Protection of the National Strategic Industrial System (OSSISNa) was officially announced. On 11th December 2020, during the international scientific conference on CBRNe events "SICC 2020", the Observatory...

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Malware

New IRS Form Fraud Campaign Targets G Suite Users Full Text

Abstract A new scam using an IRS form as its mechanism has been found targeting users of Google's G Suite, with as many as 50,000 executives and "important" employees affected so far.

Dark Reading

December 17, 2020 – Breach

Software Supply-Chain Attack Hits Vietnam Government Certification Authority Full Text

Abstract Cybersecurity researchers today disclosed a new supply-chain attack targeting the Vietnam Government Certification Authority (VGCA) that compromised the agency's digital signature toolkit to install a backdoor on victim systems. Uncovered by Slovak internet security company ESET early this month, the "SignSight" attack involved modifying software installers hosted on the CA's  website  ("ca.gov.vn") to insert a spyware tool called  PhantomNet  or Smanager. According to ESET's telemetry, the breach happened from at least July 23 to August 16, 2020, with the  two installers  in question — "gca01-client-v2-x32-8.3.msi" and "gca01-client-v2-x64-8.3.msi" for 32-bit and 64-bit Windows systems — tampered to include the backdoor. After the attack was reported to VGCA, the certificate authority confirmed that "they were aware of the attack before our notification and that they notified the users who downloaded the trojanized softwar

The Hacker News

December 17, 2020 – Phishing

BEC Hits Double Digits as COVID-19 Scams Abound Full Text

Abstract Barracuda Networks reveals latest spear-phishing trends

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Breach

Digging the recently leaked Chinese Communist Party database Full Text

Abstract KELA researchers analyzed a database recently leaked online that contains data for 1.9 million Chinese Communist Party members in Shanghai. After the announcement of the leak of the database which contains the personal information of 1.9 million Chinese...

Security Affairs

December 17, 2020 – Malware

E-Commerce Skimming is the New POS Malware Full Text

Abstract POS malware planted on payment processing devices has enabled threat actors to steal payment card data from terminals at retail stores, hotels, restaurants and other establishments since at least 2008

Security Intelligence

December 17, 2020 – 5G

Analysis of 5G Network Security Reveals Attack Possibilities Full Text

Abstract 5G security research discloses exploit opportunities

Infosecurity Magazine

December 17, 2020 – Government

Adversary Playbook: JavaScript RAT Looking for that Government Cheese Full Text

Abstract The tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPS) of the attackers behind the JsOutprox remote access trojan (RAT) indicate that these are experienced and sophisticated threat actors.

Fortinet

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Multiple vulnerabilities discovered in NZXT CAM computer monitoring software Full Text

Abstract NZXT CAM contains several vulnerabilities that, If exploited, could allow a malicious user to elevate their privileges and disclose sensitive information on the victim machine.

Talos

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

US-CERT Reports 17,447 Vulnerabilities Recorded in 2020 Full Text

Abstract The US-CERT Vulnerability Database has confirmed 17,447 vulnerabilities were recorded in 2020, marking the fourth consecutive year with a record number of security flaws published.

Dark Reading

December 17, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware attacks on the rise even as cyber insurers scale back Full Text

Abstract Ransomware attacks increased in terms of both severity and costs in 2020, forcing insurers to become more selective and even scale back on the cover they offer, a report from a leading insurer showed.

Reuters

December 17, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Two vulnerabilities spotted in Lantronix XPort EDGE Full Text

Abstract An adversary could send the victim various requests to trigger two vulnerabilities that could later allow them to shut down access to the device and disclose sensitive information.

Talos

December 17, 2020 – Malware

New Information Stealer Torjan that Steals Browser Credentials, Outlook Files Full Text

Abstract A new information-stealing Trojan with relations to the MICROPSIA malware family has been identified, which targets Microsoft Windows systems with an onslaught of data-exfiltration capabilities–...

Cyber Security News

December 17, 2020 – Malware

FireEye, GoDaddy, and Microsoft created a kill switch for SolarWinds backdoor Full Text

Abstract Microsoft, FireEye, and GoDaddy have partnered to create a kill switch for the Sunburst backdoor that was employed in the recent SolarWinds hack. Microsoft, FireEye, and GoDaddy have created a kill switch for the Sunburst backdoor that was used in SolarWinds...

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Malicious Chrome, Edge extensions with 3M installs still in stores Full Text

Abstract Malicious Chrome and Edge browser extensions with over 3 million installs, most of them still available on the Chrome Web Store and the Microsoft Edge Add-ons portal, are capable of stealing users' info and redirecting them to phishing sites.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – Breach

45 million medical imaging files exposed online Full Text

Abstract The researchers found that openly available medical images – including up to 200 lines of metadata per record – could be accessed without the need for a user name or password.

SCMagazine

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

HPE discloses critical zero-day in Systems Insight Manager Full Text

Abstract HPE has disclosed a zero-day vulnerability in the latest versions of its HPE Systems Insight Manager (SIM) software for both Windows and Linux. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has disclosed a zero-day remote code execution flaw that affects the latest...

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – Malware

FireEye, Microsoft create kill switch for SolarWinds backdoor Full Text

Abstract Microsoft, FireEye, and GoDaddy have collaborated to create a kill switch for the SolarWinds Sunburst backdoor that forces the malware to terminate itself.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Sextortionists Deploy New Spyware Full Text

Abstract Goontact targets iOS and Android users in Asia who visit sites selling escort services

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Ransomware

Ryuk, Egregor Ransomware Attacks Leverage SystemBC Backdoor Full Text

Abstract In the past few months researchers have detected hundreds of attempted SystemBC deployments globally, as part of recent Ryuk and Egregor ransomware attacks.

Threatpost

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

The Bronze Bit Attack can Bypass Kerberos Protocol Full Text

Abstract Using this attack technique, after compromising a network, an attacker can extract password hashes to bypass and forge credentials for other systems on the same network.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – General

Life-Threatening Consequences of Digital Assaults Against Healthcare and Research Institutions Full Text

Abstract Insertion of an obfuscated DNA could create dangerous substances, including synthetic viruses or toxic material, that the software designed to implement the screening guidelines would not be able to detect.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Zebrocy’s Evolution with Golang-Based Version Enjoys Low Detection Full Text

Abstract Researchers observed a VHD file containing a PDF document and an executable file masquerading as a Microsoft Word document, which actually contained the Zebrocy malware.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – APT

SideWinder APT: Active and Targeting South-Asian Countries Full Text

Abstract SideWinder was observed using credential phishing pages copied from their victims’ webmail login pages and modified for phishing targets based in South Asian countries.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – Criminals

Emulated mobile devices used to steal millions from US, EU banks Full Text

Abstract Threat actors behind an ongoing worldwide mobile banking fraud campaign were able to steal millions from multiple US and EU banks, needing just a few days for each attack.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Israeli spy tech firm says can hack Signal app previously considered safe Full Text

Abstract Israeli phone-hacking firm Cellebrite can now break into Signal, an encrypted messaging app considered safe from external snooping, it claimed in a blog post on Thursday.

Haaretz

December 16, 2020 – Breach

New Evidence Suggests SolarWinds’ Codebase Was Hacked to Inject Backdoor Full Text

Abstract The investigation into how the attackers managed to compromise SolarWinds' internal network and poison the company's software updates are still underway, but we may one step close to understanding what appears to be a very meticulously planned and highly-sophisticated supply chain attack. A new report published by ReversingLabs today and shared in advance with The Hacker News has revealed that the operators behind the  espionage campaign  likely managed to compromise the software build and code signing infrastructure of SolarWinds Orion platform as early as October 2019 to deliver the malicious backdoor through its software release process. "The source code of the affected library was directly modified to include malicious backdoor code, which was compiled, signed, and delivered through the existing software patch release management system," ReversingLabs' Tomislav Pericin said. Cybersecurity firm FireEye earlier this week  detailed  how multiple SolarWinds

The Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – Breach

The SolarWinds Perfect Storm: Default Password, Access Sales and More Full Text

Abstract Meanwhile, Microsoft and other vendors are quickly moving to block the Sunburst backdoor used in the attack.

Threatpost

December 16, 2020 – APT

Revisiting APT1 IoCs with DNS and Subdomain Intelligence Full Text

Abstract Of the 88 domain names publicly attributed to APT1, 28 remain active in the Domain Name System as of 4 December 2020. Of the remaining 23 APT1 domain IoCs, 19 were cited as "malicious" by VirusTotal.

CircleID

December 16, 2020 – Business

Refinitiv Acquires GIACT Full Text

Abstract Refinitiv boosts cybercrime-fighting abilities with acquisition of Giact Systems

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Researchers find multiple security flaws in Dualog Connection Suite used in ships Full Text

Abstract Infosec consultancy Pen Test Partners said it took all of 90 minutes to discover enough problems with Dualog Connection Suite to submit six CVE number requests for the discovered flaws.

The Register

December 16, 2020 – Breach

Lithuania Suffers “Most Complex” Cyber-attack in Years Full Text

Abstract Cyber-attack during government’s transition is the most complex to hit Lithuania in years

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Policy and Law

Additional CCPA Regulations Proposed by California AG Full Text

Abstract The recommended changes build off of updates proposed back in October regarding consumer opt-out requests. Those interested in submitting a comment for the proposed regulations have until December 28.

Digital Guardian

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Sextortionist Campaign Targets iOS, Android Users with New Spyware Full Text

Abstract Goontact lures users of illicit sites through Telegram and other secure messaging apps and steals their information for future fraudulent use.

Threatpost

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Malicious RubyGems packages used in cryptocurrency supply chain attack Full Text

Abstract New malicious RubyGems packages have been discovered that are being used in a supply chain attack to steal cryptocurrency from unsuspecting users.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – APT

APT Group Targeting Governmental Agencies in East Asia - Avast Threat Labs Full Text

Abstract The LuckyMouse APT group planted backdoors and keyloggers to gain long-term access to government networks and then uploaded a variety of tools that they used to perform additional activities.

Avast

December 16, 2020 – Business

Cloudhouse Acquires UpGuard Core to Help Customers Resolve Compliance Issues Full Text

Abstract Cloudhouse acquires UpGuard Core as it looks to expand its offerings and reach

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Disinformation

Facebook Closes Disinformation Accounts Linked to French Military Full Text

Abstract Facebook said Tuesday that it had removed two networks based in Russia and one linked to the French military, accusing them of carrying out interference campaigns in Africa.

Security Week

December 16, 2020 – Malware

New Goontact spyware discovered targeting Android and iOS users Full Text

Abstract Named Goontact, this mobile malware has the ability to collect from infected victims data such as phone identifiers, contacts, SMS messages, photos, and location information.

ZDNet

December 16, 2020 – Policy and Law

EU Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts aim at setting new rules for tech giants Full Text

Abstract The European Union is going to unveil two laws, the Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts, that will impose new rules for tech giants. The European Union is set to unveil two laws, the Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts, that aim at defining...

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

HPE discloses critical zero-day in server management software Full Text

Abstract Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has disclosed a zero-day bug in the latest versions of its proprietary HPE Systems Insight Manager (SIM) software for Windows and Linux.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – Criminals

Massive Fraud Operation Used Mobile Emulator Farms to Steal Millions of Dollars Full Text

Abstract The scale of this fraud operation is one that has never been seen before, in some cases, over 20 emulators were used in the spoofing of well over 16,000 compromised devices.

Security Intelligence

December 16, 2020 – General

Society at Increasingly High Risk of Cyber-Attacks Full Text

Abstract Kevin Curran outlines the ease in which cyber-attacks can be conducted

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware gangs automate payload delivery with SystemBC malware Full Text

Abstract SystemBC, a commodity malware sold on underground marketplaces, is being used by ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) operations to hide malicious traffic and automate ransomware payload delivery on the networks of compromised victims.

BleepingComputer

December 16, 2020 – General

The Private Sector Needs a Cybersecurity Transformation Full Text

Abstract Cybersecurity capabilities must get to the point where it's equated with actually stopping an attack by identifying the methods the bad guys use and taking those methods away.

Dark Reading

December 16, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware Attackers Using SystemBC Malware With RAT and Tor Proxy Full Text

Abstract Cybercriminals are increasingly outsourcing the task of deploying ransomware to affiliates using commodity malware and attack tools, according to new research. In a new analysis published by Sophos today and shared with The Hacker News, recent deployments of  Ryuk  and  Egregor  ransomware have involved the use of  SystemBC  backdoor to laterally move across the network and fetch additional payloads for further exploitation. Affiliates are typically threat actors responsible for gaining an initial foothold in a target network. "SystemBC is a regular part of recent ransomware attackers' toolkits," said Sophos senior threat researcher and former Ars Technica national security editor Sean Gallagher. "The backdoor can be used in combination with other scripts and malware to perform discovery, exfiltration and lateral movement in an automated way across multiple targets. These SystemBC capabilities were originally intended for mass exploitation, but they have now be

The Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Flaws in Medtronic MyCareLink can allow attackers to take over implanted cardiac devices Full Text

Abstract Experts from IoT security firm Sternum discovered flaws discovered in Medtronic’s MyCareLink Smart 25000 Patient Reader product that could be exploited to take control of a paired cardiac device.

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – 5G

New 5G Network Flaws Let Attackers Track Users’ Locations and Steal Data Full Text

Abstract As 5G networks are being gradually rolled out in major cities across the world, an analysis of its network architecture has revealed a number of potential weaknesses that could be exploited to carry out a slew of cyber assaults, including denial-of-service (DoS) attacks to deprive subscribers of Internet access and intercept data traffic. The findings form the basis of a new " 5G Standalone core security research " published by London-based cybersecurity firm Positive Technologies today, exactly six months after the firm released its " Vulnerabilities in LTE and 5G Networks 2020 " report in June detailing high impact flaws in LTE and 5G protocols. "Key elements of network security include proper configuration of equipment, as well as authentication and authorization of network elements," Positive Technologies said. "In the absence of these elements, the network becomes vulnerable [to] subscriber denial of service due to exploitation of vulnerabil

The Hacker News

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

POS Device Makers Push Patches for Vulnerabilities Full Text

Abstract The vulnerabilities in the default password settings as well as arbitrary code execution affect the Verifone VX520 and Verifone MX series and the Ingenico Telium 2 series.

Info Risk Today

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Sextortion campaign uses Goontact spyware to target Android and iOS users Full Text

Abstract Security experts spotted a new malware strain, named Goontact, that allows its operators to spy on both Android and iOS users. Security researchers from Lookout have discovered new spyware, dubbed Goontcat, that could target both Android and iOS users. Goontact...

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – Business

Russian hacks weigh on private equity’s software investments Full Text

Abstract Some of the world’s biggest private equity firms, including Blackstone Group, Silver Lake Partners, and Thoma Bravo, own major stakes in software firms that were breached by suspected Russian hackers.

Reuters

December 16, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds’ FTP password was apparently ‘leaked on GitHub in plaintext’ Full Text

Abstract Vinoth Kumar, a security researcher, claimed on Tuesday he had made such a report to SolarWinds last November, warning that it could be used to upload files to the server.

The Register

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Microsoft Set to Block SolarWinds Orion Binaries Full Text

Abstract Malicious updates were responsible for recent Russian attacks

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Business

Microsoft partnered with security firms to sinkhole the C2 used in SolarWinds hack Full Text

Abstract Microsoft and its partners have seized the primary domain used in the SolarWinds attack to identify the victims through sinkholing. Microsoft partnered with other cybersecurity firms to seize the primary domain used in the SolarWinds attack (avsvmcloud[.]com)...

Security Affairs

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Vast Majority of OT Devices Affected by Urgent/11 Vulnerabilities Still Unpatched Full Text

Abstract A vast majority of operational technology (OT) devices affected by the Urgent/11 vulnerabilities and many devices impacted by the CDPwn flaws remain unpatched, IoT security firm Armis reported.

Security Week

December 16, 2020 – General

NCSC Names Academic Centers of Excellence in Cybersecurity Education Full Text

Abstract Eight universities named by NCSC as Dundee sees major investment in local cyber-infrastructure

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – Malware

Microsoft to quarantine SolarWinds apps linked to recent hack starting tomorrow Full Text

Abstract Microsoft announced today plans to start forcibly blocking and isolating versions of the SolarWinds Orion app that are known to have contained the Solorigate (SUNBURST) malware.

ZDNet

December 16, 2020 - General

New Account Fraud Surges 28% in the UK as Global Rates Drop Full Text

Abstract No sharp increase worldwide despite COVID-19 effect

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 - General

Countries that retaliate too much against cyberattacks make things worse for themselves Full Text

Abstract In contrast to conventional national security thinking, such skirmishes in the cyber world call for a new strategic outlook, according to a new paper co-authored by an MIT professor.

Help Net Security

December 16, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Total Published CVEs Hits Record High for Fourth Year Full Text

Abstract Number of vulnerabilities in US NVD is now 17,447

Infosecurity Magazine

December 16, 2020 – General

Your Digital Persona at Risk: Around 26 Unique Data Items from… Full Text

Abstract An in-depth analysis of Bitdefender’s Digital Identity Protection community has uncovered an alarming rate of exposure of users' personal data over the past eight months.

Bit Defender

December 16, 2020 – Malware

PyMICROPSIA Windows malware includes checks for Linux and macOS Full Text

Abstract Experts discovered a new Windows info-stealer, named PyMICROPSIA, linked to AridViper group that is rapidly evolving to target other platforms. Experts from Palo Alto Networks's Unit 42 discovered a new Windows info-stealing malware, named PyMICROPSIA,...

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Malware

Microsoft to quarantine compromised SolarWinds binaries tomorrow Full Text

Abstract Microsoft has announced today that Microsoft Defender will begin quarantining compromised SolarWind Orion binaries starting tomorrow morning.

BleepingComputer

December 15, 2020 – Malware

Adrozek Malware Silently Hijacks Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Yandex & Firefox Browsers Full Text

Abstract Recently, Microsoft 365 Defender Research affirmed that they had recorded a new malware that has been continuously attacking popular browsers like Google...

Cyber Security News

December 15, 2020 – Ransomware

MountLocker Ransomware Gets Trimmed, Joins Hands with Affiliates Full Text

Abstract The Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) and affiliate program deploy MountLocker widely across corporate networks, seeking multimillion-dollar payments for decryption services.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Criminals

Ohio Couple Sold Secrets to China Full Text

Abstract Husband of researcher who sold hospital’s secrets to China admits his part in conspiracy

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Business

Here are the critical responses required of all businesses after SolarWinds supply-chain hack Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds customers – over 300,000 of them, including most of the Fortune 500 – must determine what was breached, mitigate the damage before using the software again, and explore new supply chain safeguards.

SCMagazine

December 15, 2020 – Phishing

Subway Sandwich Loyalty-Card Users Suffer Ham-Handed Phishing Scam Full Text

Abstract Subway loyalty program members in U.K. and Ireland have been sent scam emails to trick them into downloading malware.

Threatpost

December 15, 2020 – Malware

New Windows malware may soon target Linux, macOS devices Full Text

Abstract Newly discovered Windows info-stealing malware linked to an active threat group tracked as AridViper shows signs that it might be used to infect computers running Linux and macOS.

BleepingComputer

December 15, 2020 – APT

Chinese APT Groups Exploiting Corporate Software to Target Mongolian Organizations Full Text

Abstract The operators behind Operation StealthyTrident have launched supply-chain attacks against hundreds of Mongolian government agencies by exploiting a legitimate software called Able Desktop.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Breach

California Hospital Notifies 67k Patients of Data Breach Full Text

Abstract October cyber-attack may have exposed data belonging to 67k patients of Sonoma Valley Hospital

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Flaws in Medtronic MyCareLink can allow attackers to take over implanted cardiac devices Full Text

Abstract Experts reported flaws in Medtronic ’s MyCareLink Smart 25000 Patient Reader product that could be exploited to take control of a paired cardiac device. Experts from IoT security firm Sternum discovered vulnerabilities discovered in Medtronic’s...

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Business

A safe return to office may mean higher burden for companies to collect, protect medical data Full Text

Abstract For many businesses, recovery from the pandemic fallout hinges in part on employees working safely and virus-free outside their homes. That leaves organizations facing the very real possibility that they will serve as both trackers and guardians of health data to ensure the safety of employees.

SCMagazine

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Easy WP SMTP Security Bug Can Reveal Admin Credentials Full Text

Abstract A poorly configured file opens users up to site takeover.

Threatpost

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Pandemic year increases bug bounties and report submissions Full Text

Abstract Vulnerability submissions have increased over the past 12 months on at least one crowdsourced security platform, with critical issue reports recording a 65% jump.

BleepingComputer

December 15, 2020 – Malware

Global Campaign Uses Sunburst Malware to Target Government Agencies Worldwide Full Text

Abstract The campaign has targeted consulting, technology, telecom, and other entities such as multiple federal government agencies, including the US Treasury and Commerce departments.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Policy and Law

Twitter Fined Half a Million Dollars for Privacy Violation Full Text

Abstract Violating EU data protection rules has costly repercussions for social media giant

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Ransomware

Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten was hit by a ransomware Full Text

Abstract Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten disclosed a cyber attack that impacted its entire worldwide digital infrastructure. The Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten announced its entire worldwide digital infrastructure was the victim of a cyber attack. "It's...

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Malware

Kaspersky researchers found 360,000 malicious files per day in 2020 Full Text

Abstract The vast majority of the malicious files detected – 89.8 percent – occurred via Windows PE files, a file format specific to Windows operating systems.

SCMagazine

December 15, 2020 – Malware

Gitpaste-12 Worm Widens Set of Exploits in New Attacks Full Text

Abstract The worm returned in recent attacks against web applications, IP cameras and routers.

Threatpost

December 15, 2020 – Ransomware

Ransomware attack causing billing delays for Missouri city Full Text

Abstract The City of Independence, Missouri, suffered a ransomware attack last week that continues to disrupt the city's services.

BleepingComputer

December 15, 2020 – Government

How bad is the hack that targeted US agencies? Full Text

Abstract The hack began as early as March when malicious code was snuck into updates to the popular SolarWinds Orion software that monitors computer networks of businesses and governments.

The Times Of India

December 15, 2020 – Business

Businesses Often Do Not Inform Customers of Tracking Full Text

Abstract 72% of businesses admit tracking of customer data happens

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Firefox Patches Critical Mystery Bug, Also Impacting Google Chrome Full Text

Abstract Mozilla Foundation releases Firefox 84 browser, fixing several flaws and delivering performance gains and Apple processor support.

Threatpost

December 15, 2020 – Business

HackerOne, Verizon Media weigh pros and cons of making live hacking contests virtual Full Text

Abstract Among all the ways COVID-19 has affected the cybersecurity world, perhaps nothing is more impossible than live hacking events, which were once a staple of the security industry.

Cyberscoop

December 15, 2020 – Criminals

#BSEC: Staying Alert to the Growing Dangers of Cybercrime Full Text

Abstract Cybercrime is becoming easier to conduct and successful attacks more consequential

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Indian defense tech service provider gets hacked, the company claims major loss Full Text

Abstract Critical and classified data of a Noida-based private company, providing technology solutions to Indian defense forces, has been allegedly hacked, leading to the theft of confidential information.

The Times Of India

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Millions of Medical Imaging Files Freely Accessible on Unprotected Servers Full Text

Abstract Sensitive medical images including X-rays and CT scans are readily available

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Malware

SolarWinds Orion and UNC2452 – Summary and Recommendations Full Text

Abstract The Russia-linked UNC2452 threat actor group has been observed leveraging a supply chain compromise to serve backdoored updates for the SolarWinds Orion Platform software.

TrustedSec

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Over 2,000 Unsecured Servers Containing Millions of Medical Records Found Online Full Text

Abstract Two thousand servers containing 45 million images of X-rays and other medical scans were left online during the course of the past twelve months, freely accessible by anyone.

The Register

December 15, 2020 – Government

DHS, CISA and NCSC Issue Warnings After SolarWinds Attack Full Text

Abstract Government agencies issue advice after apparent nation state attacks

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Malware

SoReL-20M Sophos & ReversingLabs release 10 million disarmed samples for malware study Full Text

Abstract Sophos and ReversingLabs released SoReL-20M, a database containing 20 million Windows Portable Executable files, including 10M malware samples. Sophos and ReversingLabs announced the release of SoReL-20M, a database containing 20 million Windows Portable...

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Covid-19

Ransomware and IP Theft: Top COVID-19 Healthcare Security Scares Full Text

Abstract From ransomware attacks that crippled hospitals, to espionage attacks targeting COVID-19 vaccine supply chain, Beau Woods discusses the top healthcare security risks.

Threatpost

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Apple addressed multiple code execution flaws in iOS and iPadOS Full Text

Abstract Apple addressed this week serious code execution vulnerabilities that affect its iOS and iPadOS mobile operating systems. Apple released security updates to fix multiple severe code execution vulnerabilities in its iOS and iPadOS mobile operating...

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Business

Bank regulators mull stricter rules for reporting of data breaches Full Text

Abstract The FDIC is poised to take the first public action on the issue with the agency’s board scheduled to vote Tuesday on a proposed rulemaking dealing with “computer-security incident notification.”

American Banker

December 15, 2020 – Business

#BSEC: The Continuous Evolution of Cyber-Attacks Full Text

Abstract Microsoft outlines the changing tactics being employed

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Global security teams assess impact of suspected Russian cyber attack Full Text

Abstract Global security teams moved on Monday to contain fallout of a widespread cyberattack by suspected Russian hackers, who have been able to spy on the customers of SolarWinds for more than eight months.

Reuters

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Spotify Resets Passwords After Leaking User Data to Partners Full Text

Abstract Breach went undetected for seven months

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Malware

SoReL-20M: Sophos & ReversingLabs release 10 million disarmed samples for malware study Full Text

Abstract Sophos and ReversingLabs announced the release of SoReL-20M, a database containing 20 million Windows Portable Executable (PE) files, including 10 million malware samples.

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Government

Government Threatens Tech Firms with Fines of 10% of Turnover Full Text

Abstract UK’s Online Safety Bill set to cause controversy

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds: Our Office 365 Emails Were Compromised Full Text

Abstract Company also reveals fewer than 18,000 customers affected by nation state attack

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Criminals

Former Cisco Engineer Gets Two Years for $2.4M Insider Attack Full Text

Abstract Sudhish Kasaba Ramesh, 31, of San Jose, pleaded guilty back in August to one count of intentionally accessing a protected computer without authorization and recklessly causing damage to Cisco.

Infosecurity Magazine

December 15, 2020 – Botnet

Wormable Gitpaste-12 Botnet Returns to Target Linux Servers, IoT Devices Full Text

Abstract A new wormable botnet that spreads via GitHub and Pastebin to install cryptocurrency miners and backdoors on target systems has returned with expanded capabilities to compromise web applications, IP cameras, and routers. Early last month, researchers from Juniper Threat Labs documented a crypto-mining campaign called " Gitpaste-12 ," which used GitHub to host malicious code containing as many as 12 known attack modules that are executed via commands downloaded from a Pastebin URL. The attacks occurred during a 12-day period starting from October 15, 2020, before both the Pastebin URL and repository were shut down on October 30, 2020. Now according to Juniper, the  second wave of attacks  began on November 10 using payloads from a different GitHub repository, which, among others, contains a Linux crypto-miner ("ls"), a file with a list of passwords for brute-force attempts ("pass"), and a local privilege escalation exploit for x86_64 Linux systems. Th

The Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Data Trove Containing Details of 1.9 Million Members of Chinese Communist Party Leaked on Hacking Forum Full Text

Abstract During routine Dark web monitoring, the experts from Cyble found a post on a Russian-speaking forum offering the details of 1.9 million members of the Chinese Communist Party.

Security Affairs

December 15, 2020 – Business

Download the Essential Guide to Response Automation Full Text

Abstract In the classic children's movie 'The Princess Bride,' one of the characters utters the phrase, " You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means ." It's freely used as a response to someone's misuse or misunderstanding of a word or phrase. "Response Automation" is another one of those phrases that have different meanings to different people. It's bantered around by the security vendor community so much that its precise meaning, when used, is unclear. Many vendors throw the term out without explaining exactly what they mean by the phrase. One vendor's response automation might, and often do, perform very differently from another vendor's response automation capabilities. But, hey, they have "response automation!" A recently published guide is meant to make sense of Response Automation ( Download here ). It discusses the evolution of response automation and distinguishes five increasingly capabl

The Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds, in SEC Filings, Says 18,000 Customers Were Impacted by Recent Hack Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds disclosed on Sunday that a nation-state hacker group breached its network and inserted malware in updates for Orion, a software application for IT inventory management and monitoring.

ZDNet

December 15, 2020 – Covid-19

How COVID-19 has impacted the security threat landscape Full Text

Abstract “As the impact of COVID-19 continues to unfold, our threat intelligence provides key insight into how attackers are adjusting their tactics,” said Corey Nachreiner, CTO at WatchGuard.

Help Net Security

December 15, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Proportion of Exploited Vulnerabilities Continues to Drop Full Text

Abstract While number of identified vulnerabilities has increased significantly in recent years, the percentage of flaws that are exploitable or been exploited has been dropping, according to Kenna Security.

Security Week

December 15, 2020 – Covid-19

Update: Moderna COVID-19 vaccine documents accessed in EMA cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Moderna said it was informed by the EMA certain documents related to pre-submission talks of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate were unlawfully accessed in a cyberattack on the medicines regulator.

Reuters

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Nearly 18,000 SolarWinds Customers Installed Backdoored Software Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds, the enterprise monitoring software provider who found itself at the epicenter of the most  consequential supply chain attacks , said as many as 18,000 of its high-profile customers might have installed a tainted version of its Orion products. The acknowledgment comes as part of a new filing made by the company to the US Securities and Exchange Commission on Monday. The Texas-based company serves more than 300,000 customers worldwide, including every branch of the US military and four-fifths of the Fortune 500 companies. The "incident was likely the result of a highly sophisticated, targeted and manual supply chain attack by an outside nation state," SolarWinds said in the  regulatory disclosure , adding it "currently believes the actual number of customers that may have had an installation of the Orion products that contained this vulnerability to be fewer than 18,000." The company also reiterated in its  security advisory  that besides 2019.4 HF 5

The Hacker News

December 15, 2020 – Breach

Threat Advisory: SolarWinds supply chain attack Full Text

Abstract The adversaries leverage administrative privileges obtained during the on-premise compromise to access the victim's global administrator account and/or trusted SAML token-signing certificate.

Talos

December 15, 2020 – Breach

PgMiner Botnet Attacks PostgreSQL Databases to Install a Cryptocurrency Miner Full Text

Abstract The security researchers of Palo Alto Networks have detected a unique Linux-based cryptocurrency mining botnet. This botnet exploits a disputed PostgreSQL remote...

Cyber Security News

December 15, 2020 – Government

DHS, State, and NIH join list of 5 (and counting) federal agencies confirmed hacked in massive Russian cyberespionage campaign Full Text

Abstract The DHS, the State Department, and the NIH joined the list of known victims of a months-long, highly sophisticated digital spying operation by Russia whose damage remains uncertain but is presumed to be extensive, experts say.

Boing Boing

December 14, 2020 – Malware

The SolarWinds Breach: Why Your Work Computers Are Down Today Full Text

Abstract The information security news cycle went into overdrive yesterday afternoon. First, Reuters revealed that the Commerce and Treasury departments suffered significant intrusions. The Washington Post soon followed up with multiple sources attributing the attack to the Russian foreign intelligence service, the SVR—in particular, a portion of the SVR known as Cozy Bear—although there is no official attribution yet. Within a few hours, FireEye and Microsoft announced that this was a “supply chain attack” involving SolarWinds Orion software, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued an emergency directive. Today, it turns out that the attackers also compromised the Department of Homeland Security. SolarWinds revealed to the Securities and Exchange Commission that the breach may affect 18,000 customers.

Lawfare

December 14, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Critical Golang XML parser bugs can cause SAML authentication bypass Full Text

Abstract This week, Mattermost, in coordination with Golang has disclosed 3 critical vulnerabilities within Go language's XML parser. If exploited, these vulnerabilities, also impacting multiple Go-based SAML implementations, can lead to a complete bypass of SAML authentication which powers prominent web applications today.

BleepingComputer

December 14, 2020 – Government

CISA Published Emergency Directive on SolarWinds Orion Code Compromise Full Text

Abstract SolarWinds Orion products (affected versions are 2019.4 through 2020.2.1 HF1) are currently being exploited by malicious actors. This tactic permits an attacker to gain access to network traffic management systems.

DHS

December 14, 2020 – Breach

SolarWinds Supply Chain Attack Compromised Multiple Global Victims With SUNBURST Backdoor Full Text

Abstract The attacker’s post-compromise activity leverages multiple techniques to evade detection and obscure their activity, but these efforts also offer some opportunities for detection.

FireEye

December 14, 2020 – Malware

PyMICROPSIA: New Information-Stealing Trojan from AridViper Full Text

Abstract Unit 42 researchers have been tracking the threat group AridViper, which has been targeting the Middle Eastern region, and identified a new information stealer with relations to the MICROPSIA malware.

Palo Alto Networks

December 14, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Googles Gives a New Perspective to Web Security Threats via XS-Leaks Full Text

Abstract Google has announced the launch of a knowledge base called XS-Leaks to help web browser developers and security engineers prepare defense mechanisms against rising side-channel threats.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 14, 2020 – Business

Cyber Threats Crawling Across Manufacturing Organizations Full Text

Abstract Manufacturers are increasingly being targeted not just by traditional malicious actors such as unorganized cybercriminals, but by competing companies and nations engaged in corporate espionage.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 14, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

This New Zero-Click Cross-platform Flaw in Microsoft Teams Could Spread Like a Worm Full Text

Abstract Security researchers have uncovered a critical flaw in Microsoft Teams that could allow an attacker to access confidential conversations and files from the communications service.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 14, 2020 – Business

Cyberattacks on the Rise for Digital Media and Entertainment Organizations Full Text

Abstract Cybercrime against digital media and entertainment organizations is on the rise. Hackers formulate new and innovative ways to defeat security measures and controls to pilfer sensitive data.

Cyware Alerts - Hacker News

December 14, 2020 – Ransomware

PLEASE_READ_ME Ransomware Campaign Targeting MySQL Servers Full Text

Abstract Guardicore first spotted the attack back in January 2020. After that, it witnessed a total of 92 attacks emanate from 11 IP addresses, with most based in Ireland and the UK at the time of analysis.

Tripwire

December 14, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Office 365 users put on alert about critical bugs with SharePoint, here’s how to fix it Full Text

Abstract The two critical remote code execution flaws in SharePoint are classified as CVE-2020-17121 and CVE-2020-17118, with the latter can be exploited remotely without any authentication.

Express

December 14, 2020 – Phishing

Text messages promising $1,200 stimulus checks are actually scams, IRS warns Full Text

Abstract Scammers are sending texts promising a $1,200 stimulus check. The IRS and a coalition of state tax agencies and tax industry officials are warning individuals who receive such messages not to respond.

CNBC

December 14, 2020 – Breach

US govt, FireEye breached after SolarWinds supply-chain attack Full Text

Abstract Trojanized versions of SolarWinds' Orion IT monitoring and management software have been used in a supply chain attack leading to the breach of government and high-profile companies after attackers deployed a backdoor dubbed SUNBURST or Solorigate.

BleepingComputer

December 14, 2020 – Breach

Spotify notifies customers of breach, files under CCPA Full Text

Abstract Streaming service Spotify has notified an unspecified number of its customers of a data breach, responding by resetting passwords on the accounts that were attacked. The company filed the breach under California’s new privacy law, the California Consumer Privacy Act, which went into effect on Jan. 1. While the notice did not specify the precise…

SCMagazine

December 14, 2020 – Breach

Spotify Changes Passwords After Another Data Breach Full Text

Abstract This is the third breach in the past few weeks for the world’s most popular streaming service.

Threatpost

December 14, 2020 – Government

Cybersecurity in a fishbowl: How North Carolina’s Board of Elections handled it Full Text

Abstract Election security has never been more scrutinized than the 2020 presidential elections. It left election boards fighting not only to protect the election from outside influences, but also to justify the legitimacy of their own work.

SCMagazine

December 14, 2020 – Outage

Google outage tied to authentication system outage, not supply chain attacks Full Text

Abstract A number of Google applications were offline Monday morning due to an authentication system outage, the technology giant confirmed. The outage Monday morning caused a stir among security experts, wondering whether the incident might have ties to a major hacking event over the weekend that resulted in breaches at both the Treasury and Commerce departments.…

SCMagazine

December 14, 2020 – Government

After high profile hacks hit federal agencies, CISA demands drastic SolarWinds mitigation Full Text

Abstract Impact of the supply chain attacks are not limited to government, with consulting, technology, and telecom sectors all caught in the crosshairs.

SCMagazine

December 14, 2020 – Malware

SoReL-20M: A Huge Dataset of 20 Million Malware Samples Released Online Full Text

Abstract Cybersecurity firms Sophos and ReversingLabs on Monday jointly released the first-ever production-scale malware research dataset to be made available to the general public that aims to build effective defenses and drive industry-wide improvements in security detection and response. " SoReL-20M " (short for  So phos- Re versing L abs –  20   M illion), as it's called, is a dataset containing metadata, labels, and features for 20 million Windows Portable Executable (.PE) files, including 10 million disarmed malware samples, with the goal of devising machine-learning approaches for better malware detection capabilities. "Open knowledge and understanding about cyber threats also leads to more predictive cybersecurity," Sophos AI group said. "Defenders will be able to anticipate what attackers are doing and be better prepared for their next move." Accompanying the release are a set of  PyTorch  and  LightGBM -based machine learning  models pre-trained

The Hacker News

December 14, 2020 – Business

Four ways CISOs should talk to the board Full Text

Abstract When thinking about the modern security operations center (SOC), it’s clear that security touches every part of the business in today’s enterprises. This means the SOC analyst team—which many perceive as a dark war room separated from everyone else—must become more integrated with teams from across the company, from product development to sales to the…

SCMagazine

December 14, 2020 – Malware

Hacking group’s new malware abuses Google and Facebook services Full Text

Abstract Molerats cyberespionage group has been using in recent spear-phishing campaigns fresh malware that relies on Dropbox, Google Drive, and Facebook for command and control communication and to store stolen data.

BleepingComputer

December 14, 2020 – Criminals

Sipulimarket Dark Web Marketplace Seized by Finnish Customs Full Text

Abstract Finnish Customs (Tulli) closed the Sipulimarket dark web marketplace on Friday and seized all its content. This recent hit...

Cyber Security News

December 13, 2020 – Policy and Law

FTC Filed a Lawsuit Against Facebook for Illegal Monopolization Full Text

Abstract The Attorney General Letitia James of the Federal Trade Commission recently declared a new antitrust lawsuit upon Facebook. This lawsuit clearly justifies...

Cyber Security News

December 13, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Amnesia:33 – 33 Vulnerabilities That Impact Four Open-source TCP/IP Stacks Affects Millions of IoT Devices Full Text

Abstract The cybersecurity researchers have been warning regarding a set of very severe vulnerabilities that are continuously affecting TCP/IP stacks let hackers attack...

Cyber Security News

December 13, 2020 – Ransomware

Intel’s Habana Labs hacked by Pay2Key ransomware, data stolen Full Text

Abstract ​Intel-owned AI processor developer Habana Labs has suffered a cyberattack where data was stolen and leaked by threat actors.

BleepingComputer

December 13, 2020 – Business

From the startup to the enterprise: where cyber fits in a business’s growth trajectory Full Text

Abstract As one expert told me, enterprise security is built for stability, while startup security is built for speed. And in all cases, investment in vulnerability can make or break a business.

SCMagazine

December 12, 2020 – Phishing

Subway marketing system hacked to send TrickBot malware emails Full Text

Abstract Subway UK has disclosed that a hacked system used for marketing campaigns is responsible for the malware-laden phishing emails sent to customers yesterday.

BleepingComputer

December 12, 2020 – Business

Adobe releases final Flash Player update, warns of 2021 kill switch Full Text

Abstract After 24 years of fun games and abuse by threat actors, Adobe has released their final Flash Player update and thanked everyone for the fantastic content that they have released over the years.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Ransomware

The Week in Ransomware - December 11th 2020 - Targeting K-12 Full Text

Abstract This week we continued to see ransomware target businesses, education, and healthcare with cyberattacks that disrupt operations and lead to school closings.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Covid-19

Employees 85% more likely to leak files today vs pre-COVID Full Text

Abstract The vast majority of that 85 percent are malicious insiders and the rest are caused by employee carelessness.

SCMagazine

December 11, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Security Issues in PoS Terminals Open Consumers to Fraud Full Text

Abstract Point-of-sale terminal vendors Verifone and Ingenico have issued mitigations after researchers found the devices use default passwords.

Threatpost

December 11, 2020 – Ransomware

MountLocker ransomware gets slimmer, now encrypts fewer files Full Text

Abstract MountLocker ransomware received an update recently that cut its size by half but preserves a weakness that could potentially allow learning the random key used to encrypt files.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Ransomware

New ransomware campaign exploits weak MySQL credentials to lock thousands of databases Full Text

Abstract Researchers have tracked 92 separate attacks since January, but the group’s website indicates it has compromised tens of thousands of internet-exposed databases.

SCMagazine

December 11, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Samsung fixes critical Android bugs in December 2020 updates Full Text

Abstract This week Samsung has started rolling out Android's December security updates to mobile devices to patch critical security vulnerabilities in the operating system. This comes after Android had published their December 2020 security updates bulletin, which includes patches for critical bugs.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Covid-19

Sacramento turns COVID layoffs into a cyber training opportunity Full Text

Abstract Sacramento began offering free, comprehensive cybersecurity training for workers displaced from jobs due to COVID-19. It’s a model that could have legs for a national program, with the right government commitment.

SCMagazine

December 11, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Microsoft Office security updates fix critical SharePoint RCE bugs Full Text

Abstract Microsoft has addressed critical remote code execution vulnerabilities in multiple SharePoint versions with this month's Office security updates.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Criminals

Ex-Cisco engineer who nuked 16k WebEx accounts goes to prison Full Text

Abstract Sudhish Kasaba Ramesh, a former Cisco engineer, was sentenced on Wednesday to two years in prison and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine for shutting down more than 16,000 WebEx Teams accounts and over 450 virtual machines in 2018,

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Covid-19

Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Targeted in EU Cyberattack Full Text

Abstract Threat actors accessed Pfizer vaccine documentation submitted to EU regulators in the latest cyberattack trying to profit off pandemic suffering.  

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Ransomware

PLEASE_READ_ME Ransomware Attacks 85K MySQL Servers Full Text

Abstract Ransomware actors behind the attack have breached at least 85,000 MySQL servers, and are currently selling at least compromised 250,000 databases.

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Cisco fixes new critical code execution bug in Jabber for Windows Full Text

Abstract Cisco has addressed a new critical severity remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting several versions of Cisco Jabber for Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms after patching a related security bug in September.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – APT

Facebook unmasks Vietnam’s APT32 hacking group Full Text

Abstract The Facebook security team has revealed today the real identity of APT32, a Vietnam-backed hacking group active in cyberespionage campaigns targeting foreign government, multi-national corporations, and journalists since at least 2014.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Malware

Skimmers hide in social media buttons and CSS files, but the next big threat lies with the server Full Text

Abstract Happy shopping: Beyond standard skimming techniques that focus on the client-side, attackers are increasingly focusing on back-end applications.

SCMagazine

December 11, 2020 – Malware

Microsoft: New malware can infect over 30K Windows PCs a day Full Text

Abstract Microsoft has warned of an ongoing campaign pushing a new browser hijacking and credential-stealing malware dubbed Adrozek which, at its peak, was able to take over more than 30,000 devices every day.

BleepingComputer

December 11, 2020 – Phishing

Massive Subway UK phishing attack is pushing TrickBot malware Full Text

Abstract A massive phishing campaign pretending to be a Subway order confirmation is underway distributing the notorious TrickBot malware.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Covid-19

U.S. warns of increased cyberattacks against K-12 distance learning Full Text

Abstract K-12 educational institutions in the U.S. are being targeted by malicious actors for extortion, data theft, and general disruption of normal activity. The trend will continue through the 2020/2021 academic year.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Business

App visibility startup Bionic comes out of stealth with $17 million in funding Full Text

Abstract The company, which built a platform designed to reverse engineer and map out application environments and was founded by two former members of the Israeli Defense Force’s cyber division, plans to focus growth on the U.S. market.

SCMagazine

December 10, 2020 – Business

Defending the Intelligent Edge from Evolving Attacks Full Text

Abstract Fortinet’s Aamir Lakhani discusses best practices for securing company data against next-gen threats, like edge access trojans (EATs).

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Phishing

Fake data breach alerts used to steal Ledger cryptocurrency wallets Full Text

Abstract A phishing scam is underway that targets Ledger wallet users with fake data breach notifications used to steal cryptocurrency from recipients.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Covid-19

Pfizer-BioNTech data stolen in cyberattack on European Medicines Agency Full Text

Abstract The European Medicines Agency reported Wednesday that it was the focus of a cyberattack involving some of the data around the first COVID-19 vaccine that’s being distributed in Europe. In a brief statement yesterday, the EMA – which assesses medicines and vaccines for the European Union – only said it was the subject of a…

SCMagazine

December 10, 2020 – APT

MoleRats APT Returns with Espionage Play Using Facebook, Dropbox Full Text

Abstract The threat group is increasing its espionage activity in light of the current political climate and recent events in the Middle East, with two new backdoors.

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Sophos fixes SQL injection vulnerability in their Cyberoam OS Full Text

Abstract Sophos has deployed a hotfix for their line of Cyberoam firewalls and routers to fix a SQL injection vulnerability.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Business

Thales, Google Cloud collaboration puts private keys in hands of the enterprise Full Text

Abstract The agreement that will compel quicker migration of sensitive data between public clouds, private clouds and private IT infrastructure.

SCMagazine

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Zero-Click Wormable RCE Vulnerability in Cisco Jabber Gets Fixed, Again Full Text

Abstract A series of bugs, patched in September, still allow remote code execution by attackers.

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

250,000 stolen MySQL databases for sale on dark web auction site Full Text

Abstract Hackers have set up an auction site on the dark web to sell 250,000 databases stolen from tens of thousands of breached MySQL servers.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Business

North America lags behind Europe on proactive security initiatives in Q3 Full Text

Abstract More encouraging, the Cybersecurity Resource and Spending Allocation (CRAE) Index found that North America added focus to responding and recovering from cyber events.

SCMagazine

December 10, 2020 – Business

Cyber Monday is Every Monday: Securing the ‘New Normal’ Full Text

Abstract From eCommerce threats, to attacks at the smart edge, Fortinet researchers discuss the top evolving threats of 2020, heading into the new year.

Threatpost

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Windows Kerberos Bronze Bit attack gets public exploit, patch now Full Text

Abstract Proof-of-concept exploit code and full details on a Windows Kerberos security bypass vulnerability have been published earlier this week by Jake Karnes, the NetSPI security consultant and penetration tester who reported the security bug to Microsoft.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Cisco fixes new Jabber for Windows critical code execution bug Full Text

Abstract Cisco has addressed a new critical severity remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting several versions of Cisco Jabber for Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms after patching a related security bug in September.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Malware

Hackers can use WinZip insecure server connection to drop malware Full Text

Abstract The server-client communication in certain versions of the WinZip file compression tool is insecure and could be modified to serve malware or fraudulent content to users.

BleepingComputer

December 10, 2020 – Criminals

Teen who shook the Internet in 2016 pleads guilty to DDoS attacks Full Text

Abstract One of the operators behind a Mirai botnet pleaded guilty to their involvement in a huge DDoS attack that caused a massive Internet disruption during October 2016.

BleepingComputer

December 9, 2020 – Ransomware

Palo Alto creates visualization tool to guide response to Egregor ransomware attacks Full Text

Abstract In the Unit 42 ATOM Viewer, security pros can view in a table what tactics the attackers used, then click on a chart to see what to enable on a Palo Alto firewall.

SCMagazine

December 9, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Record Levels of Software Bugs Plague Short-Staffed IT Teams in 2020 Full Text

Abstract As just one symptom, 83 percent of the Top 30 U.S. retailers have vulnerabilities which pose an “imminent” cyber-threat, including Amazon, Costco, Kroger and Walmart.

Threatpost

December 9, 2020 – Policy and Law

Lawyer up: Following a breach, companies often call outside counsel first Full Text

Abstract BakerHostetler assisted in about 1,600 cases tied to cyber breaches this year — about 60 percent more than 2019.

SCMagazine

December 9, 2020 – Phishing

Phishing campaign spoofs Microsoft domain. Is lack of DMARC enforcement to blame? Full Text

Abstract Researchers observed a spear phishing campaign that exactly spoofed a Microsoft email domain to trick Office 365 users. This suggests Microsoft’s servers were not enforcing protective DMARC authentication protocols when communications were received – and perhaps still are not.

SCMagazine

December 9, 2020 – Business

Microsoft’s GitHub adds dependency review to new code submitted from programmers Full Text

Abstract Modern software is typically a patchwork of interdependent code from multiple sources. GitHub will now deliver an advanced warning of potential vulnerabilities detected so programmers can catch issues early on.

SCMagazine

December 09, 2020 – Malware

Qbot malware switched to stealthy new Windows autostart method Full Text

Abstract A new Qbot malware version now activates its persistence mechanism right before infected Windows devices shutdown and it automatically removes any traces when the system restarts or wakes up from sleep.

BleepingComputer

December 9, 2020 – Business

New Gula Tech Foundation pledges to award millions in grants to cyber nonprofits Full Text

Abstract In an interview with SC Media, the former leaders and founders of Tenable explained why they believe cybersecurity nonprofits have long been overlooked for funding, despite playing a key role in creating a more secure world.

SCMagazine

December 09, 2020 – Covid-19

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine documents accessed in EMA cyberattack Full Text

Abstract The European Medicines Agency (EMA) responsible for COVID-19 vaccine approval has suffered a cyberattack of an undisclosed nature, according to a statement posted on their website.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

DHS-CISA urges admins to patch OpenSSL DoS vulnerability Full Text

Abstract This week OpenSSL has released fixes for a high severity Denial of Service (DoS) vulnerability, CVE-2020-1971. U.S. DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has warned admins to upgrade their vulnerable OpenSSL instances immediately.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Malware

Credit card stealer hides in CSS files of hacked online stores Full Text

Abstract Credit card stealer scripts are evolving and become increasingly harder to detect due to novel hiding tactics. The latest example is a web skimmer that uses CSS code to blend within the pages of a compromised store and to steal customers' personal and payment information.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Malware

Russian hackers hide Zebrocy malware in virtual disk images Full Text

Abstract Russian-speaking hackers behind Zebrocy malware have changed their technique for delivering malware to high-profile victims and started to pack the threats in Virtual Hard Drives (VHD) to avoid detection.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Adobe fixes critical security vulnerabilities in Lightroom, Prelude Full Text

Abstract Adobe has released security updates to address critical severity security bugs affecting Windows and macOS versions of Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Prelude.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Vulnerabilities

Microsoft fixes new Windows Kerberos security bug in staged rollout Full Text

Abstract Microsoft has issued security updates to address a Kerberos security feature bypass vulnerability impacting multiple Windows Server versions in a two-phase staged rollout.

BleepingComputer

December 09, 2020 – Books

New Book - RIGHTS OF MAN, By Thomas Paine Full Text

Abstract Chapter 1
It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. Winston Smith, his chin nuzzled into his breast in an effort to escape the vile wind, slipped quickly through the glass doors of Victory Mansions, though not quickly enough to prevent a swirl of gritty dust from entering along with him.

December 08, 2020 – APT

FireEye Shares Details of Recent Cyber Attack, Actions to Protect Community Full Text

Abstract FireEye is on the front lines defending companies and critical infrastructure globally from cyber threats. We witness the growing threat firsthand, and we know that cyber threats are always evolving. Recently, we were attacked by a highly sophisticated threat actor, one whose discipline, operational security, and techniques lead us to believe it was a state-sponsored attack. Our number one priority is working to strengthen the security of our customers and the broader community. We hope that by sharing the details of our investigation, the entire community will be better equipped to fight and defeat cyber attacks.

December 07, 2020 – Encryption

Law Enforcement Is Accessing Locked Devices Quite Well, Thank You Full Text

Abstract Apple introduced the iPhone in 2007—and discovered it was a great target for street theft. The device was small and expensive, and it could easily be grabbed from someone’s hand. Apple worked to secure the phone, developing Find My iPhone. Thefts dropped. But criminals are nothing if not creative, and it soon became clear that street theft was the least of Apple’s security problems. Hackers in China used data from the devices to commit identity theft. And later the criminals started selling instructional videos to other criminals, showing how to do these hacks themselves.

December 07, 2020 – Phishing

Microsoft O365 Fails to Block Spoofed Emails Sent from Microsoft.com Full Text

Abstract The 200 million Microsoft Office 365 (O365) users worldwide are now being targeted by a new global spear-phishing attack spoofing Microsoft.com. Two weeks ago, IRONSCALES researchers first identified what we can now confirm to be a well-coordinated email spoofing campaign targeting O365 users particularly within the financial services, healthcare, insurance, manufacturing, utilities, and telecom industries, among others. giant suffered a ransomware attack at a Mexican facility over the Thanksgiving weekend, where attackers stole unencrypted files before encrypting devices.

December 07, 2020 – Ransomware

Foxconn electronics giant hit by ransomware, $34 million ransom Full Text

Abstract Foxconn electronics giant suffered a ransomware attack at a Mexican facility over the Thanksgiving weekend, where attackers stole unencrypted files before encrypting devices.

December 07, 2020

Russian State-Sponsored Malicious Cyber Actors Exploit Known Vulnerability in Virtual Workspaces Full Text

Abstract Ft. MEADE, Md., Dec. 7, 2020 — The National Security Agency (NSA) released a Cybersecurity Advisory today detailing how Russian state-sponsored actors have been exploiting a vulnerability in VMware® products to access protected data on affected systems. This advisory emphasizes the importance for National Security System (NSS), Department of Defense (DoD), and Defense Industrial Base (DIB) system administrators to apply vendor-provided patches to affected VMware® identity management products and provides further details on how to detect and mitigate compromised networks.

December 06, 2020 – Ransomware

GBMC HealthCare detected a ransomware incident Full Text

Abstract On the morning of Sunday, December 6, 2020, GBMC HealthCare detected a ransomware incident that impacted information technology systems. Although many of our systems are down, GBMC HealthCare has robust processes in place to maintain safe and effective patient care. We are collectively responding in accordance with our well-planned process and policies for this type of event.

December 06, 2020 – Terrorist

Rethinking Global Counterterrorist Financing Full Text

Abstract The terrorism and extremism landscape has shifted significantly over the past several years, but global counterterrorism and particularly counterterrorist financing (CTF) practices have been slow to adapt. CTF has traditionally been conceptualized as stopping the flow of funds to terrorists or “following the money,” but CTF has much more utility than just those narrow ideas in the fight against terrorism. The way the international community thinks about CTF is out of date, and global efforts to prevent and detect terrorist financing are falling short. Fortunately, a conceptual shift and a broader scope for CTF policy and practice can yield significant benefits. Improved policies should expand the criminalization and financial intelligence approach to CTF to include covert and disruptive action against terrorist financiers and financial activity, and reevaluate financial exclusion—such as sanctions and derisking—and their utility against both new and old threats.

December 06, 2020 – Law Article

New Article - The Freedom of Information Act, 5 USC 552: Public information; agency rules, opinions, orders, records, and proceedings Full Text

Abstract (a) Each agency shall make available to the public information as follows: (1) Each agency shall separately state and currently publish in the Federal Register for the guidance of the public- (A) descriptions of its central and field organization and the established places at which, the employees (and in the case of a uniformed service, the members) from whom, and the methods whereby, the public may obtain information, make submittals or requests, or obtain decisions; (B) statements of the general course and method by which its functions are channeled and determined, including the nature and requirements of all formal and informal procedures available; (C) rules of procedure, descriptions of forms available or the places at which forms may be obtained, and instructions as to the scope and contents of all papers, reports, or examinations; (D) substantive rules of general applicability adopted as authorized by law, and statements of general policy or interpretations of general applicability formulated and adopted by the agency; and (E) each amendment, revision, or repeal of the foregoing. Except to the extent that a person has actual and timely notice of the terms thereof, a person may not in any manner be required to resort to, or be adversely affected by, a matter required to be published in the Federal Register and not so published. For the purpose of this paragraph, matter reasonably available to the class of persons affected thereby is deemed published in the Federal Register when incorporated by reference therein with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register.

December 05, 2020 – General

A National Cybersecurity Agenda for Resilient Digital Infrastructure Full Text

Abstract In 1858, a public health crisis gripped the city of London. Successive cholera outbreaks spread by contaminated water were killing thousands. The river Thames was so polluted that Parliament refused to meet. As London’s population exploded, no one had invested in the basic wastewater infrastructure necessary to manage the consequences of cramming millions of people into one of the world’s first metropolises. After decades of failing to safeguard access to clean water, the government finally embarked on an unprecedented civil works project to retrofit the entire city with its first sewer system.

December 04, 2020 – Law Article

New Article - Privacy Act of 1974, 5 USC 552a - Records maintained on individuals Full Text

Abstract (a) Definitions.-For purposes of this section- (1) the term “agency” means agency as defined in section 552(e) of this title; (2) the term “individual” means a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence; (3) the term “maintain” includes maintain, collect, use, or disseminate; (4) the term “record” means any item, collection, or grouping of information about an individual that is maintained by an agency, including, but not limited to, his education, financial transactions, medical history, and criminal or employment history and that contains his name, or the identifying number, symbol, or other identifying particular assigned to the individual, such as a finger or voice print or a photograph;

December 03, 2020 – Quantum

Quantum computational advantage using photons Full Text

Abstract Quantum computers promises to perform certain tasks that are believed to be intractable to classical computers. Boson sampling is such a task and is considered as a strong candidate to demonstrate the quantum computational advantage. We perform Gaussian boson sampling by sending 50 indistinguishable single-mode squeezed states into a 100-mode ultralow-loss interferometer with full connectivity and random matrix—the whole optical setup is phase-locked—and sampling the output using 100 high-efficiency single-photon detectors. The obtained samples are validated against plausible hypotheses exploiting thermal states, distinguishable photons, and uniform distribution. The photonic quantum computer generates up to 76 output photon clicks, which yields an output state-space dimension of 1030 and a sampling rate that is ~1014 faster than using the state-of-the-art simulation strategy and supercomputers.

December 03, 2020 – Law Article

What to expect from a Biden FCC on Section 230, net neutrality, and 5G Full Text

Abstract Inauguration Day promises sweeping change across the federal government—and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is no exception. Ajit Pai, the FCC’s current Republican chairman appointed by President Trump, will depart the agency on January 20, as is customary with past agency leaders. With his departure may come some sweeping changes at the Commission. The FCC’s current policy and enforcement priorities may shift, especially with the Republicans slated to lose their majority with the departures of Pai and Commissioner Mike O’Rielly (whose replacement Nathan Simington from the Commerce Department was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee).

December 03, 2020 – Events

State of Alaska’s Online Voter Registration System victim of data exposure Full Text

Abstract December 3, 2020 (Anchorage, AK) – The State of Alaska was the victim of data exposure by outside actors that targeted the Division of Elections Online Voter Registration System, which was built and maintained by an outside vendor and operated by the Division. Although some voters’ personal information was exposed, the Division has determined that no other elections systems or data were affected. The Division’s ballot tabulation systems, 2020 general election results, and voter database remain secure.

December 03, 2020 – Events

Randstad statement on cyber incident. Full Text

Abstract Randstad NV (“Randstad”) recently became aware of malicious activity in its IT environment and an internal investigation into this incident was launched immediately with our 24/7 incident response team. Third party cyber security and forensic experts were engaged to assist with the investigation and remediation of the incident.

December 03, 2020 – Ransomware

Egregor Ransomware, Used in a String of High-Profile Attacks, Shows Connections to QakBot Full Text

Abstract Egregor ransomware is a complex piece of malware that appears to be associated with the operators of QakBot. The ransomware has been used against organizations across many industries since its debut in September 2020 and is likely to continue to present a threat to organizations in the future. Unlike most ransomware variants, Egregor’s payload cannot be executed or decrypted fully without the correct cryptographic key provided to the malware at runtime, rendering static or dynamic analysis impossible. Because very little is known about the deployment of the ransomware in open sources and how the threat actors target victims, Recorded Future recommends employing mitigations for technical threats used by other “big game hunting” threat actors to mitigate the threat prior to ransom, using the provided hunting package to threat hunt Egregor and ensuring that internet-facing systems are appropriately configured to provide only the minimum needed access.

December 03, 2020 – Events

US, Estonia Partnered to Search Out Cyber Threat From Russia Full Text

Abstract WASHINGTON - In a modern twist on old-fashioned war games, the U.S. military dispatched cyber fighters to Estonia this fall to help the small Baltic nation search out and block potential cyber threats from Russia. The goal was not only to help a NATO partner long targeted by its powerful neighbor but also to gain insight on Russian tactics that could be used against the U.S. and its elections.

December 03, 2020 – Events

Phishing Ploy Targets COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Effort Full Text

Abstract BOSTON - IBM security researchers say they have detected a cyberespionage effort using targeted phishing emails to try to collect vital information on the World Health Organization's initiative for distributing COVID-19 vaccine to developing countries.

December 03, 2020 – Books

New Book - 1984, By George Orwell Full Text

Abstract Chapter 1
It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. Winston Smith, his chin nuzzled into his breast in an effort to escape the vile wind, slipped quickly through the glass doors of Victory Mansions, though not quickly enough to prevent a swirl of gritty dust from entering along with him.

December 02, 2020 – Ransomware

Alabama school district shut down by ransomware attack Full Text

Abstract Ransomware operators have attacked the Huntsville City Schools district in Alabama, forcing them to shut down schools for the rest of the week and possibly next week.
The Huntsville City Schools district is the sixth-largest school district in Alabama, with almost 24,000 students, 2,300 employees, and thirty-seven schools. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school district offered both in-school instruction and a fully online learning experience.

December 01, 2020 – APT

Alert (AA20-336A) - Advanced Persistent Threat Actors Targeting U.S. Think Tanks Full Text

Abstract The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have observed persistent continued cyber intrusions by advanced persistent threat (APT) actors targeting U.S. think tanks. This malicious activity is often, but not exclusively, directed at individuals and organizations that focus on international affairs or national security policy.[1] The following guidance may assist U.S. think tanks in developing network defense procedures to prevent or rapidly detect these attacks.

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