Friday, May 31, 2019

Ransomeware is increasing at an alarming rate..

As you’ve probably noticed from tuning into our weekly newsletter, ransomware attacks are increasing in scope and severity at an alarming rate.

Security researchers are now tracking a new ransomware that is infecting computers by disguising itself as anti-virus software. Talk about a malicious advancement for an already meticulous cybersecurity threat!

This latest file-locking malware is disguised as an anti-virus installation that users willingly download on their computers. Victims are lured by the false request  through phishing emails that prompt users to “update and verify” their anti-virus software with an embedded link.

When users click on the link, the malware downloads ransomware and an outdated anti-virus software. The download begins encrypting files in the background while unknowing users complete the anti-virus software installation.

While this tactic isn’t necessarily new, its reemergence should compel companies to train their employees to spot malicious materials and to create a comprehensive plan for dealing with phishing scams, malware, and ransomware attacks. Consider partnering with an MSP that can offer phishing simulation training, like BullPhish ID from ID Agent, that can help support such initiatives with state-of-the-art solutions.


Bit by bit helps client networks run smooth and secure.. visit our website at www.bitxbit.com

Thursday, May 30, 2019

In Other News: Card Data Stolen From 201 Online Campus Stores

In Other News:

Card Data Stolen From 201 Online Campus Stores 

201 online campus stores for universities based in the U.S. and Canada were victimized by the popular Magecart attack, where hackers plant malicious JavaScript code on a website. This code collects payment information from customers using an affected platform. Once the financial data is collected, it is remotely stored by hacking groups who subsequently sell that information on the Dark Web.

The Magecart skimming code has been identified on at least ten other platforms and has spread to e-commerce sites as well.

Interestingly, cybersecurity researchers noticed that Magecart groups often don’t pursue e-commerce sites directly. Instead, they target components that often accompany their online store, such as chat and support widgets.

The weight of this incident serves as a reminder: companies need to invest in a holistic suite of cybersecurity solutions that accounts for today’s entire evolving threat landscape.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/hackers-steal-card-data-from-201-online-campus-stores-from-canada-and-the-us/

Bit by bit helps client networks run smooth and secure.. visit our website at www.bitxbit.com

Monday, May 27, 2019

Friday, May 24, 2019

E-retail theft is a lucrative business

E-retail theft is a lucrative business 

Traditionally, payment credentials stolen from brick-and-mortar stores were able to command a higher price on the Dark Web than card-not-present data (also known as CNP). However, it seems like the market dynamics have recently shifted, as this information is now being used to target online retailers.

Consequently, the demand for these credentials is far outpacing supply, driving up the price. The economics can be explained by the recent US migration towards chip-based payment cards, which offer a superior level of fraud protection for in-store purchases.

Such news has broad implications for both consumers and companies operating in today’s digital ecosystem. Security has to be a constant priority, since payment trends will give way to new threats, and tomorrow’s vulnerabilities will not be the same as those existing today. In order to keep a continuous pulse on your employee and customer data, consider partnering up with an MSP that implements proactive Dark Web monitoring (like ours).

https://krebsonsecurity.com/2019/04/data-e-retail-hacks-more-lucrative-than-ever/

Bit by bit helps client networks run smooth and secure.. visit our website at www.bitxbit.com