A ransomware attack is one of the main threats that affects both home and business users. Ransomware can affect your capital and reputation with a temporary or permanent loss of data and information. It’s significant to protect your assets against ransomware attacks before it’s too late to prevent potential harmful consequences.
Ransomware attacks have received quite a bit of media coverage lately. You may have heard several stories of attacks on large companies, organizations, and government agencies, or you may know individuals whose unique devices and data were targeted in a ransomware attack. For more information about ransomware, please continue reading our article.
How Shall You Act If Your Systems Are Locked Due to Ransomware?
Once your computer is locked, the ransomware infection can be removed with a fully up-to-date antivirus program. However, the main difficulty is usually accessing the infected computer and locking it. Fortunately, this can be resolved by booting from a different source such as Windows Safe Mode, alternative boot methods such as Command Prompt, various hard drive partitions, or an external memory device.
What Are The Typical Ransom Fees?
Ransom fees differ in ransomware attacks. But in general, the ransom amount can be between 150-500 dollars for an individual person. It can also be worth thousands of dollars to an organization.
How to Handle The Ransom Payment?
When organizations pay the ransom, attackers use a decryption tool and may not release the stolen data. Also, this payment does not guarantee that all data will be restored. The following list contains the possible results of paying for a ransomware:
On average, only 65% of data is recovered, and only 8% of organizations manage to recover all data.
Encrypted files are generally unrecoverable. Attacker-supplied decryptors may crash or fail. You may need to create a new decryption tool by extracting the keys from the device provided by the attacker.
Recovering data can take several weeks, especially if most of it is encrypted.
There is no guarantee that hackers will delete the stolen data. A person may sell or disclose the information later if it has value.
Can You Trust The Hacker to Act Ethically After Receiving The Ransom?
Ransomware is lucrative for cybercriminals. This cybercrime puts every organization that uses the technology at risk. In most cases, paying the ransom is easier and cheaper than recovering from a backup. But supporting the attackers’ business model can only lead to more ransomware. It is generally recommended not to pay the seedling. In some cases, paying the ransom may even be illegal as it provides financing for criminal activity.
You should contact a professional incident response team, and regulatory agencies before meeting with attackers. This way, you can avoid this scam.
As Bugbounter, we have established an ecosystem of experts so that you can always be prepared for preventing cyber threats. Our platform connects a network of ethical hackers and security researchers with organizations, enabling security teams to test their risks under any circumstances. Please do not hesitate to contact us to benefit from our services.
Today, we perform almost all of our transactions on digital platforms. Even if we do not take any action, we use digital platforms or applications to spend time, have fun or chat with someone close to us. On these platforms, we often have to register and enter our personal information. In the face of such a situation, there are always many internet attackers standing by. These people try to access personal information or accounts by catching security vulnerabilities in these platforms or applications.
Institutions, businesses, companies, and individuals try to take the necessary precautions to protect their information and avoid material damage. Before these measures are taken, the company or service provider wants to detect security vulnerabilities in its platform. For this, the company takes help from experts. These experts detect and report security vulnerabilities in the application or page with Security Tests. On the other hand, Bug bounty hunters or Security Testers gain in this process and benefit the other party.
What Is Security Testing? How To Do Security Testing?
Security Test is a type of Software Test that reveals the vulnerabilities of the system and protects the data and resources of the system from possible internet attackers/hackers. Security Testing aims to prevent the loss of software systems, applications, and websites. It enables to foresee and repair of possible dangers. The security test of any system detects all security vulnerabilities of the system that may cause loss of information, the reputation of the organization or material damage. Emerging security vulnerabilities are reported and repaired before they are announced to the public to be fixed.
Why Is Security Testing Important?
Security tests are very important. Security tests don’t just find vulnerabilities. It also allows us to detect any additional action that can be taken on the system, web page or application when it is hijacked. With security tests, when a vulnerability is found, the application or page has the opportunity to be repaired before it is put into service. Since security tests have very well-equipped and advanced software, the domain is also quite large. Recently, it has become mandatory for most pages and applications. You can prevent financial losses with security tests.
Types Of Security Testing
Security Tests are created to identify threats in the system, measure potential security vulnerabilities of the system, help detect all possible security risks in the system, and help developers solve security problems through coding. There are different types of Security Tests. Each security test has basic principles such as confidentiality and integrity. The Security Test types are the following:
Vulnerability Scanning
Security Scanning
Penetration Test
Risk Assessment
Security Auditing
Ethical Hacking
Posture Assessment
What Is Security Testers Job Description? What Do Security Testers Do?
The Security Testers are responsible for finding security vulnerabilities in a network, application or web page, detecting and reporting actions that can be taken when it is seized by the attackers. When they detect security vulnerabilities, they can provide solutions. Since these people are experts in software and coding, they can see all kinds of security vulnerabilities.
As Bugbounter, we aim to provide you with the best service. Follow us to learn more about Security Tests and to benefit from our current services.
There are many types of cyber security certifications. The main purpose of cyber security certification is to demonstrate that you are competent to use specific tools and technologies. In addition, more experienced people and networking professionals also seek certification to validate their skills.
Like other areas of information technology, cyber security certifications play a significant role in the hiring process within the field of cyber security. You can continue reading our article to learn why you need certificates in cyber security and to get some information about their benefits.
Why do you need a certification?
Due to the increase in cyber threats, cyber security experts are needed. Obtaining a cyber security certification sets you apart from ordinary cyber security professionals as it validates your skills and demonstrates that you are fully trained and equipped for the certification you hold.
There are several advantages of cyber security certificates. A cyber security degree will only be useful if it demonstrates your level of competence and commitment to the job. In other words, it would be misleading to have the certificate and not the knowledge. A cyber security certificate demonstrates your commitment, experience, and competence in a particular field.
Top 5-10 cyber security certification programs
CompTIA Security+ is the first security certification that IT professionals must acquire. This certification program covers the basics required for any cyber security profession. It also helps you to access intermediate cyber security positions. There are many certificate programs available. These programs are as follows:
1.CompTIA Security+
Security+ is a beginner-level cyber security certificate. It assesses your ability to set up and maintain security systems, minimize risks, and respond to security breaches.
There are no formal criteria for taking the exam. CompTIA requires candidates to have several years of IT security management experience along with Network+ credentials.
2.Microsoft (MTA) Security Fundamentals
One of the “entry-level” cyber security certifications is MTA Security Fundamentals. MTA Security Fundamentals aims to understand the security fundamentals, network fundamentals, and software security. It is suitable for high school and college students as well as individuals in the workforce looking to develop their skills.
3.System Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
The SSCP is an entry-level certification from ISC2. The main focus of this document is on IT infrastructure security. Mostly recommended for system administrators, security analysts, network security engineers, database administrators, and professionals alike.
4.Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
To have a CCSP certificate, you must have five years of relevant experience. Internships (paid and unpaid) and part-time jobs are also viable options.
5.Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) primarily deals with penetration testing. Network administrators, and other security professionals can be supported by OSCP to demonstrate their understanding of hacking techniques and tools.
You do not need to have any previous work experience. However, completing the PEN-200 training course offered by Offensive Security is a basic requirement.
Which certificates would you need to become a bug bounty expert?
There are various certifications in the field of cyber security. The certifications you need to obtain to become a bug bounty expert are as follows:
CISSP
CISA
CISM
Security+
CEH
GSEC
SSCP
CASP
GCIH
OSCP
As Bugbounter, we have established an ecosystem of experts so that you can always be prepared for preventing cyber threats. Our platform connects a network of ethical hackers and security researchers with organizations, enabling security teams to test their risks under any circumstances. Please do not hesitate to contact us to benefit from our services.
August 2022 has been an eventful month as the concept of cybersecurity took new turns in the digital world. Keeping oneself updated about cybersecurity threats via cybersecurity news is integral for enterprises to take the required security measures to protect their data and ensure privacy over sensitive information.
Everyone who runs a business should have at least the required knowledge about cyber security protocols so that they do not cause any harm to others’ right to privacy and can be prepared well against cyber attacks. Here are some of BugBounter’s recap of August 2022 highlights of cyber security.
In a recent cyber attack, Iran-based hackers exploit unpatched systems running log4j to target Israeli entities, indicating severe vulnerabilities. The hackers used SysAid server instances to enter the logging framework Log4J shell. VMware applications have been leveraged to breach target environments. The leading tech-giant Microsoft observed that by gaining access to the logging framework, personalized and popular hacking tools were used to move laterally within the network of target organizations by making cyber attacks on the hands-on-keyboard attacks without credentials. The internal intelligence team of Microsoft also observed that the attacks were staged between July 23 and 25, 2022.
The Estonian government has repelled a wave of cyberattacks that came with the DDoS attacks following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This move came after the government had opted to remove soviet monuments in a plane inhabited by the Russian majority. A Russian cybercrime group Killnet has reportedly claimed responsibility for the DDoS attacks against a few websites of public and private sector organizations which were ineffective. Though the cyberattack was extensive, like that of 2007, it went largely unnoticed and caused little to no damage to the Estonian government. Except for some brief disruptions, the services were not disrupted and remained fully available throughout the day.
One of the critical hack news! Atlassian’s security response team has been notified with an urgent warning about a severe security vulnerability in several API points in its bitbucket server. Though the Atlassian cloud repositories were not affected by the issue, it was a brutal hit on the Australian company’s product software. The Atlassian observed that as the vulnerability score is high, it could be further exploited to roll out code injection attacks remotely. A hacker with an entry or read permission to a public or private bitbucket repository will be able to hack the system by sending a harmful HTTP request. All versions released after 6.10.17 were infected and exploited because of their vulnerability.
Password management service LastPass confirmed one of the cyber security attacks was a threat to the specific source code and technical information. The security breach occurred around the middle of August, targeting the software development environment. Customer data or encrypted passwords were not compromised, Although the company did not reveal anything regarding the cyber security challenges. Lastpass CEO Karim Toubab revealed that an unauthorized party accessed certain sections of the Lastpass developer system through one developer account from which the source code and proprietary technical information were stolen. Amidst identifying the cyber security risks, the company said it had hired leading cybersecurity and forensics firms to take measures against cyber security attacks and mitigate them.
Malware reaches suitable targets as a North Korean hacking group named Kimsuky demonstrates its capability of staging cyber attacks. Targeting large companies and high-profile individuals from the Korean peninsula, Kimsuky uses phishing emails to connect with the control and command server before a malicious payload is downloaded by the user. Politicians, university research professors, and journalists in North and South Korea are targeted for retrieving sensitive information from their systems. The system and network are not infected if the victim is not on the targeted list.
Hackers used Deepfake technology to create fake copies of the Finance official application, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange with a massive daily trading volume. The Binance has become a popular target for hackers even with several layers of security protocols they must navigate.
Attackers gained access to the active directory and confidential data such as user logins and passwords for moving within the application. CCO Patrick Hillmann revealed that he received online messages from several users and traders who thanked him for online meets and sharing information on potential opportunities to list users’ assets on the Binance application, which he did not initiate. Attackers had utilized AI technology to impersonate Hillmann using his previous appearances in news interviews and TV shows.
Cyber attackers associated with Trickbot, Bazarloader, and IcedID malware deploy the Bumblebee loader to break into target networks and for subsequent activities related to cyber threats. The Google threat analysis group discovered the ransomware in March 2022. The Cybereason global security operations center (Gsoc) Team identified the recent ransomware deployment and warned about the Bumblebee loaders. After infecting a system, the Bumblebee operators disrupt the reconnaissance activities by rerouting the executed command outputs to source files to exfiltrate data. The information in the active directory is leveraged to access confidential data such as user logins and passwords to move within the network laterally.
Cyber Security Measures: BugBounter
The increasing cyber security concern is one reason every organization should take necessary steps before they face permanent damage with cyber security attacks that can lead to years of effort in building their businesses in vain. BugBounter offers bug bounty services, including bug bounty programs and enhanced data management and privacy. With a team of 2700+ cybersecurity experts, bug bounty thrives on providing its customers with what works best for them. They are available 24/7 to provide customized tests to help you mitigate risks. Contact us to know more about our services at the best prices!
Over 50% of SMEs are hacked every year. Many of them have no or basic cyber protection.
As technology has been developing, people’s dependence and reliance on it is arising day by day, and as this happens, a new concept emerges: being cyber smart. We share our daily life on different platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Sharing our lives and connecting with people has become an indispensable part of our lives. And with technology being a decisive part of companies being cyber smart is something everyone should do.
What does “Cyber Smart” mean?
Being Cyber Smart means being aware of the motivations and tactics of those who would attack your device’s security and adopting measures to protect yourself and the systems you are responsible for. It’s paramount to know the capabilities of the attackers you are defending against and think like the attacker as much as possible.
Dark Side of Technology
With the starting of the pandemic, whole world started living their both personal and professional lives online. This significant change made cyber smart even more important as people started sharing more delicate data through online systems due to COVID-19.
Why Being Cyber Smart is Important?
Most of us have a presence on social networks, even if it’s for business or personal use. Thus, we exchange large amounts of data every day and a cyber attack can penetrate into our system in no time. That means, we need to get cyber smart enough to protect our digital assets. To not jeopardize the security of your accounts and confidentiality of your sensitive files, everyone needs to be cyber smart. Don’t forget that it never hurts to have security software at your disposal. They can protect you while you are browsing, and we should also note that there are a good number of security software options to choose from.
What to do to be Cyber Smart?
First of all, remember to use a strong password! It should include numbers and special characters and not be too short and guessable. Additionally, you should use a different password for every single account you have. But having a strong password is not enough for your cyber security. To prevent your account from being accessed by cybercriminals, you should enable multi-factor authentication, which is also known as two-factor authentication (2FA). Enabling multi-factor authentication will allow you to use multiple types of credentials before logging into your account, like confirming access through your mobile phone. A cyber smart person thinks carefully before clicking on links or opening an attachment. Remember to keep your devices, browsers, and apps up to date. Protect your security by deleting sensitive information if you no longer need it, and if you see something questionable, do not hesitate to report it! If you are downloading a program or application, check the security and privacy features to know what can access your data or documents.
As an essential part of our everyday and business lives, technology has a significant role in making almost everything much easier for us. Yet, we must remember that it also has a darker side, threatening our lives. Therefore, it is crucial to consider “being cyber smart” and learn how to apply it. Click here to take the first step for being cyber smart!
How to start being cyber smart:
Use strong password!
Enable Multi Factor Authentication
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