Tag: cyberattacks

Breaking Down the Rise of AI-Powered Cyber Attacks in 2024

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

The digital revolution has brought incredible benefits to our lives, but it’s also opened a Pandora’s box of security threats. In recent years, cyber attacks have become increasingly sophisticated, causing significant financial losses and reputational damage to businesses of all sizes. Now, a new wave of threats is emerging — AI-powered cyber attacks. 

These attacks leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to personalize scams and exploit vulnerabilities faster than ever before. In this article, we’ll delve into the growing landscape of AI-powered cyber attacks in 2024. 

Understanding AI-Powered Cyber Attacks

The landscape of cyber threats is undergoing a significant transformation with the emergence of AI-powered attacks. These attacks use machine learning algorithms to automate tasks, analyze vast amounts of data, and even adapt their tactics based on defensive responses. This translates to cybercrime on a whole new level: faster, more targeted, and potentially far more devastating.

Most obviously, the evolution of AI in cybercrime represents a significant leap from basic scripting tools. These threats are not limited to a single attack vector; today’s advanced AI can perform a range of harmful activities.

For instance, AI can analyze social media profiles and email histories to personalize phishing emails with alarming accuracy. These tailored messages appear more believable, often bypassing traditional spam filters and tricking unsuspecting users. Similarly, AI-powered deepfakes create videos or audio recordings that mimic familiar people with uncanny realism. Attackers leverage these deepfakes for various malicious purposes, such as extremely sophisticated and convincing social engineering scams. 

Another type of AI-powered cyber attack is less direct. AI can analyze vast amounts of code with exceptional efficiency, pinpointing vulnerabilities in software much faster than traditional security researchers. This allows attackers to exploit these zero-day vulnerabilities before they can be patched, leaving businesses exposed and scrambling for defense. 

Emerging Cyber Threats Powered by AI

As AI continues to evolve, so too will the cyber threats it enables. These potential threats include supply chain attacks, wherein AI can be used to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in software supply chains. Imagine a scenario where malware is injected into a widely used software program, affecting countless organizations downstream. 

Ransomware with AI-powered negotiation is another potential concern. Attackers could use AI to analyze a victim’s financial data and resources, enabling them to tailor their ransom demands and pressure negotiation.

Compromising and Weaponizing Existing AI Models

AI-driven cyber threats are not a one-way street. Several potential attack vectors that can be used to corrupt AI systems have already been identified within the industry. 

Cybercriminals are adept at repurposing existing AI models for malicious ends. Everything from facial recognition programs to natural language processing models can be hijacked to create sophisticated malware or automate social engineering schemes, amplifying the threat landscape.

The key takeaway here is that AI-powered cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and adaptable. They can bypass traditional security measures and target individuals or organizations with laser focus. 

The Importance of Data Provenance in the Age of AI

In the age of AI, data is king — and protecting its integrity is paramount. This is where the concept of data provenance comes in. Data provenance refers to the entire lifecycle of your data, tracking its origin, ownership, and any transformations it undergoes. 

Detecting Data Manipulation

AI can be used to subtly alter data to hide malicious activity or manipulate results. By maintaining a clear data provenance trail, you can verify the authenticity of your data and identify any unauthorized changes.

Identifying Bias in AI Models

AI models are only as good as the data they’re trained on. Biased data can lead to biased AI models, which could be exploited by attackers. By tracing data provenance, you can identify potential biases and ensure your AI models are fair and reliable. 

Building Trust in the Digital World

Transparency with data provenance fosters trust with customers and partners, instilling confidence that their data is being handled responsibly and securely.

A Data-Centric Approach to Secure Data Management

Traditional perimeter-based security has its limitations. Firewalls and intrusion detection systems can be bypassed by sophisticated AI attacks. This is where a data-centric security approach comes into play, moving the focus from protecting the perimeter to protecting the data itself. 

Moreover, data-centric security solutions can play a crucial role in enhancing data provenance tracking. These solutions focus on protecting data regardless of its location or storage environment. This empowers organizations to maintain a clear audit trail and detect unauthorized access or manipulation attempts.

Data Encryption and Access Controls

Data-centric security solutions encrypt data at rest and in transit, making it unreadable even if attackers breach your network defenses. Additionally, granular access controls ensure that only authorized users can access specific data sets. 

Perhaps the most revolutionary form of data-centric security comes in the form of self-protecting data files. These files are created with the ability to detect and respond to threats built into the data files themselves. 

Data Anomaly Detection

Data anomaly solutions employ advanced analytics to identify unusual patterns of data access or manipulation. This allows you to detect potential attacks in their early stages before they can cause significant damage.

Proactive Protection in a Time of AI-Powered Threats

The rise of AI-powered cyber attacks presents a significant challenge, but it’s not insurmountable. By understanding these threats, prioritizing data provenance, and implementing a data-centric security approach, organizations can significantly enhance their cyber defenses.

As a leader in data-level security and self-protecting data technology, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself. These protocols mean that all stored data remains secure even if systems are compromised or accessed from the inside. 

At Sertainty, we know that maintaining secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered intelligent and actionable data solutions that help companies and agencies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that adapt and grow to defend sensitive data. Security threats may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be.

5 Things to Do Immediately Upon Discovering a Data Breach

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

In today’s digital age, where businesses collect and store vast amounts of customer data, data breaches have become a constant threat. These security incidents can have devastating consequences, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and legal repercussions. Even if you have the most cutting-edge security in place, it’s essential to have contingency plans for a swift and well-coordinated response. Today, we’ll look at five vital steps to take if you discover a data breach. 

1. Secure the Breach: Stop the Bleeding

Imagine a burst pipe flooding your house. Your first priority is to stop the flow of water – at its source. Similarly, when a data breach occurs, the initial focus should be on containing the incident and preventing further damage. 

Isolate Affected Systems and Networks

Should a breach occur, what comes immediately to mind is a quarantine or shut down of any compromised systems within your network. Isolating the places where attackers can operate prevents them from moving laterally within your network and accessing any more of your system. This can sometimes be achieved through firewalls or micro-perimeters, which are essentially security zones created around specific applications or data sets. 

In addition to creating these barriers, you should temporarily sever the connection between compromised systems and/or the broader network entirely. This disrupts the attacker’s ability to continuously exfiltrate data or launch further attacks. While creating silos like this is not an ideal long-term solution, these measures can provide a working stopgap until more comprehensive data-level security protocols can be implemented. 

2. Assess the Damage: Understanding the Impact

After containing the breach, an assessment of the extent of the damage is triggered. This involves a cause-and-effect analysis of how the breach occurred and what data may have been compromised. 

Identify the Source of the Breach

Uncovering the root cause of the breach is essential for closing access and preventing similar incidents in the future. This might involve analyzing logs, identifying system vulnerabilities, or even engaging forensic investigators. Understanding how the attacker gained access allows you to patch vulnerabilities and tighten your security posture. 

While one may indeed find a software vulnerability that needs to be patched or a backdoor that needs closing, it’s important to remember that,v- in the overwhelming majority of cases, the weakest element of any security system is the people using it. Therefore, it’s suggested to conduct a thorough audit of user interactions to identify any potential cases of social engineering or even insider attacks. 

Proactive measures like vulnerability scanning and penetration testing are invaluable in identifying weaknesses before they are exploited. Regular vulnerability assessments are like security check-ups for your IT infrastructure, helping you identify and address potential security gaps before attackers can leverage them. 

Evaluate Compromised Data

Determining the type of data exposed in the breach is critical for understanding the severity of the incident and any legal notification requirements. Was it customer names and email addresses or more sensitive information like Social Security numbers or financial data? The classification of the exposed data dictates the appropriate course of action. 

Here’s where data lineage comes into play. Data lineage tracks the movement of data throughout its lifecycle, from origin to destination. Having a clear understanding of data lineage enables pinpointing exactly which data sets were compromised and who may be impacted. This facilitates a more targeted response and communication strategy. 

3. Respond with Transparency: Communication Is Key

In the aftermath of a data breach, transparency and clear communication are paramount. As tempting as it can be to keep things under wraps for as long as possible, keeping stakeholders informed demonstrates your commitment to addressing the situation and helps rebuild trust. 

Timely notification allows affected individuals to take necessary precautions, such as changing passwords or monitoring for fraudulent activity. Depending on the nature of the breach, you may need to notify regulators, law enforcement, customers, clients, insurers, and even third-party vendors. 

A well-crafted communication plan that outlines the scope of the breach, the steps being taken to address it, and the resources available to affected individuals demonstrates a commitment to responsible data stewardship. 

4. Mitigate Future Risks: Lessons Learned

A data breach, while a serious incident, can be an opportunity to learn and improve your company’s security posture. Here’s how to turn this setback into a stepping stone for a more secure future. 

Implement New Security Measures 

Following a breach, it’s vital to patch any vulnerabilities identified as entry points. However, a comprehensive approach goes beyond simply fixing the immediate problem. Consider enacting additional security measures based on the findings of your breach investigation. 

This might involve strengthening access controls, deploying data encryption solutions, or implementing multi-factor authentication protocols. Data-centric security, which focuses on protecting data itself rather than just network perimeters, can be a valuable tool. By encrypting data at rest and in transit, data-centric security renders it unusable even if intercepted, significantly reducing the potential impact of a breach. 

Train Staff on Updated Protocols

Your employees are often the first line of defense against cyberattacks. Security awareness training empowers employees to identify suspicious activity, such as phishing attempts, and report them promptly. Regular training sessions ensure that your staff is equipped with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to potential threats. 

5. Seek Expert Help: Partnering for Recovery

While the initial response to a data breach is crucial, the recovery process can be intricate and overwhelming. Consider partnering with data security professionals who can offer valuable expertise and support throughout this challenging time. These professionals can guide you in developing a comprehensive incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in case of a breach. They can also help execute the plan, ensuring a swift and coordinated response that minimizes damage.

Data breaches can also trigger legal and regulatory reporting requirements. Data security professionals can help you navigate these complexities, as well, and ensure compliance with relevant data privacy regulations. These trained professionals can also help you develop a communication strategy that addresses relevant concerns and rebuilds trust.

Long-Term Data Security Planning

Discovering a data breach can be a stressful experience, but by following these five critical steps, you can minimize the damage and take control of the situation. A swift, well-coordinated response, coupled with expert guidance, can help your organization recover from a data breach and emerge stronger. 

In sum, data security is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Implementing robust security measures, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among your staff, and continuously monitoring your systems remain crucial in today’s ever-evolving threat landscape. By prioritizing data security best practices and adopting a proactive approach, you can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and safeguard your valuable information. 

Complete Data Security with Sertainty

As a leader in data-level security and self-protecting data technology, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself. These protocols mean that even if systems are compromised or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered data solutions that are intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that adapt and grow to defend sensitive data. Security threats may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be. 

What Can Protect Your Network from DoS Attacks? A Guide to Building a Fortress

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

Organizations across industries rely heavily on the uninterrupted operation of their digital infrastructure. Denial-of-service (DoS) and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks pose a significant threat to this stability, potentially causing service outages, financial losses, and reputational damage. Today, we’ll look at these threats and examine what can protect your network from DoS attacks.

Understanding the DoS/DDoS Landscape

DoS Attacks and Their Methods

In simple terms, DoS attackers try to overwhelm a system with a flood of requests – like opening millions of web pages simultaneously. This overload consumes resources and cripples the system’s ability to respond to legitimate users.

DoS attackers employ various tactics, such as:

  • Flooding Attacks: Bombarding your network with a massive influx of data packets, overwhelming your bandwidth and causing a system crash.
  • Application-Layer Attacks: Targeting specific vulnerabilities in applications or websites, causing them to malfunction or become unresponsive.
  • Ping of Death: Sending malformed data packets that exploit system weaknesses, leading to crashes and instability.

These attacks can have severe consequences. Imagine a hospital’s network being crippled during a medical emergency or an online banking platform crashing during peak hours, causing financial losses and frustration.

The Amplified Threat of DDoS Attacks

DoS attacks are just one member of a larger family of attacks. A more advanced version of these attacks, the distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack, takes things further. Here, attackers leverage a network of compromised devices, often called a “botnet,” to launch a massive, coordinated assault. 

Botnets can take advantage of various hardware vulnerabilities, like hijacked computers or IoT devices. Each compromised device bombards the target system with traffic, creating a massive wave that overwhelms defenses.

The widespread nature of botnets makes DDoS attacks significantly more challenging to mitigate. Traditional security measures like firewalls might struggle to distinguish between legitimate and malicious traffic originating from numerous sources.

A notable example of the impact and scale of DDoS attacks is the record-breaking assault on Amazon Web Services (AWS) in February 2020. This attack, which peaked at 2.3 terabits per second (Tbps), is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities even major platforms face.

Key Takeaways:

  • Preparedness is Crucial: AWS’s rapid recovery showcased the importance of having automated and robust DDoS mitigation measures.
  • Addressing Vulnerabilities: Regularly auditing and configuring servers can significantly reduce the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited.

Essential Safeguards for a Fortified Defense

Protecting your network from DoS attacks often means managing the traffic to your network. Network traffic filtering utilizes a set of rules and algorithms to analyze incoming and outgoing data packets. This process aims to identify and block suspicious or malicious traffic patterns that could potentially compromise system security or disrupt normal network operations.

Network filtering typically involves creating pre-established rules and flagging suspicious activity based on factors like unusual source addresses, port usage outside the norm, and sudden surges in data packet size or volume — all telltale signs of a potential DoS attack. Beyond pre-defined rules, sophisticated systems employ machine learning algorithms. These algorithms continuously learn and adapt, recognizing emerging attack patterns by analyzing historical network traffic data.

Whether powered by AI tools or undertaken manually, traffic filtering provides two major benefits to network security and stability.

  1. Proactive Defense: Suspicious traffic gets identified and blocked before it can overwhelm your system, preventing service disruptions caused by DoS attacks.
  2. Improved Network Performance: By filtering out unnecessary traffic, the strain on your network infrastructure is reduced, leading to smoother operation and better overall performance.

Traffic filtering is a foundational security measure, offering protection against various cyber threats, not just DoS attacks. Combining traffic filtering with a multi-layered approach can significantly strengthen your network’s defenses and minimize the risk of DoS attacks disrupting your operations.

DDoS Mitigation Strategies

While the above measures provide a strong foundation, additional layers of protection are crucial for mitigating DDoS attacks.

  • Rate Limiting: Set thresholds on the number of requests a user or IP address can send within a specific timeframe. Rate limiting helps prevent a single source from overwhelming your system. 
  • DDoS Attack Scrubbing Services: These services act as traffic filters on a larger scale. They can divert and analyze suspicious traffic, filtering out malicious requests before they reach your network. 
  • External Cloud Security Solutions: Cloud storage providers often offer DDoS mitigation solutions that leverage their extensive infrastructure and resources to absorb and deflect large-scale attacks. 

Holistic Network and Data Protection

Conventional measures, like solid access controls and user authentication protocols, are essential no matter what kind of threats you’re hoping to manage. A robust system ensures that only authorized users can access your network and resources. Likewise, regularly patching vulnerabilities in software and firmware addresses potential weaknesses that attackers could exploit.

While many cybersecurity systems don’t specifically mitigate DoS/DDoS attacks, having the right measures in place strengthens your overall security posture. This can include a number of strategies, all of which can play a role in a defense-in-depth framework. 

Data-Level Security

While traffic filtering, rate limiting, and conventional defense methods all form a strong foundation for network defense, a data-centric security approach adds another powerful layer of protection. Self-protecting data technology transcends traditional perimeter-based security by enabling data to monitor its integrity and continuously detect suspicious behavior. This proactive approach grants data the ability to take self-protective actions in the event of an attack. 

Securing Your System

The ever-evolving threat landscape necessitates constant vigilance. Don’t wait for an attack to happen. As a leader in self-protecting data, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes to ensure that even if systems are compromised or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

Data-centric security offers a unique defense layer that complements the above strategies. Our solutions empower data to protect itself actively, adding another line of defense against unauthorized access and malicious activities. Empowering data to defend itself creates an additional hurdle for attackers attempting to exploit vulnerabilities or gain unauthorized access. 

In an era where cyber threats continue to morph and infiltrate, Sertainty data-level security technology shines as a sentinel of data integrity. As we look to the future of cyber defense, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. Cyber threats may continue to advance, and security perimeter breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be. 

Securing Data in Transit: A Data-Centric Revolution

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

The digital age thrives on the constant flow of information. Every click, every message, and every financial transaction represents potentially sensitive data in transit. However, this ubiquitous movement of data presents a significant challenge: ensuring its security in transit. While historically effective, traditional perimeter-based security struggles to keep pace with the growing sophistication of cyberattacks and the ever-expanding attack surface created by cloud computing. 

The Evolving Threat Landscape

For years, the primary line of defense for data security involved fortifying network perimeters. Firewalls acted as digital gatekeepers, access controls limited entry points, and encrypted communication channels served as secure tunnels for data transmission. 

However, cybercriminals are constantly innovating, making it crucial to find solutions that address multiple threat vectors. This is especially true in an age when cybercrime transcends geographical boundaries. Cybercriminals can operate from anywhere in the world, making it crucial for organizations to have a global security posture that considers the international threat landscape. 

While there is still an undeniable benefit in maintaining secure networks, focusing solely on this angle of attack leaves significant vulnerabilities. The limitations of solely relying on perimeter security stem from several key factors. 

The Expanding Attack Surface

Cloud adoption has fundamentally altered the data landscape. Sensitive information now journeys across more channels than ever before — from on-premises environments to cloud storage and back to collaborating partners — significantly increasing its exposure to potential vulnerabilities. Every hop and every connection represents an opportunity for attackers to exploit weaknesses. 

The Rise of AI

Artificial intelligence is no longer the realm of science fiction. Malicious actors are increasingly leveraging AI to automate tasks, identify vulnerabilities, and launch large-scale cyberattacks. AI-powered tools can automate reconnaissance, exploit software weaknesses, and help criminals find new ways to intercept information as it travels across supposedly secure channels. With the help of AI, social engineering techniques have also become more sophisticated, with impersonation tactics that can better trick victims into compromising credentials and network security. 

Quantum Computing Threats

While still in its nascent stages, the potential of quantum computing looms large. Traditional encryption methods rely on complex mathematical algorithms that are difficult to crack with today’s computers. However, quantum computers have the potential to break these ciphers with relative ease, rendering currently secure data vulnerable in the future. 

Increased Focus on Insider Threats

Disgruntled employees, negligent individuals, or those with access privileges can pose a significant security risk. Insider threats can intentionally or unintentionally compromise systems and leak sensitive data, highlighting the importance of robust access control measures and employee awareness training. 

Data-Centric Security: A Shield Embedded Within

With all of these threats in mind, there is a clear imperative to find a more comprehensive framework for securing data in transit. Data-centric security offers a revolutionary approach to secure data governance that moves beyond traditional network security. It equips the data itself with the ability to fight back against unauthorized access and malicious activities. 

Transitioning sensitive data to the cloud can be a daunting task. Data-centric security safeguards the data itself during the migration process. Continuous monitoring and automated response mechanisms offer an additional layer of protection even if temporary vulnerabilities arise during the transfer. 

Similarly, sharing data with business partners or vendors often involves transferring it across networks. Data-centric security protects the information throughout the exchange. This means that even if transmission channels (or devices storing the data) are compromised by malware or unauthorized access, data-centric security measures remain in place. 

Beyond Data in Transit: The Broader Benefits of Data-Centric Security 

A comprehensive data protection approach demands going beyond any one layer of security. This is where data-centric security and data governance work in tandem to create a multi-layered defense system. Because data-centric security equips the data itself with the ability to fight back against unauthorized access attempts, it carries a number of benefits beyond simply securing data in transit. 

Perhaps most obviously, data-centric security’s active protection of files themselves is a significant asset in the realm of data resiliency. In addition to being more resistant to breaches and unauthorized access, the potential for any disruptions to information’s integrity from the inside decreases significantly. 

Additionally, securing data throughout its lifecycle, including while in transit, ensures consistent adherence to data privacy regulations like HIPAA for health-related data, GDPR for data pertaining to EU subjects, and a wide range of state-specific laws. 

The Future of Data Security: A Layered Defense

Data-centric security represents a crucial step forward in the ever-evolving battle against cyber threats. However, it’s essential to remember that it functions best as part of a comprehensive security strategy. In order for information to be truly secure, a multi-layered approach that combines data-centric security with other robust security measures is required. 

  • Network Protection: Think of firewalls and Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) as vigilant guards on your network. They monitor traffic, block unauthorized access attempts, and act as the first line of defense.
  • Authentication: Essentially another layer of securing network credentials, authentication is an essential aspect of network security. Tools like multi-factor authentication (MFA) ensure that only authorized users access information. 
  • Encryption: This is perhaps the most fundamental way to secure data, whether at rest or in transit. Without the correct decryption key, the data appears unreadable. (Data-level security solutions like self-protecting files also incorporate sophisticated forms of encryption.) 

By combining data-centric security with these additional measures, organizations can create a thorough defense system that safeguards their data across all stages of its lifecycle, from creation to storage and transit.

Sertainty: Your Partner in Data Protection

In a world where data is the new currency, many organizations are paying increasing attention to data in transit. Secure data governance is the unsung hero that ensures this data remains safe, compliant, and trustworthy. 

With the changing nature of cybersecurity threats and the limitations of traditional security measures, organizations must adapt to stay secure. At Sertainty, we understand the critical nature of data security in today’s digital landscape. Our commitment lies in providing innovative data protection solutions that empower businesses to combat evolving cyber threats.

Sertainty technology bridges the gap between cutting-edge security technologies like self-protecting files and zero-trust network access with a software development kit that can be seamlessly integrated into a wide range of applications. Explore Sertainty’s solutions to protect your data assets and position your organization to thrive in today’s digital world.

EtherHiding: Understanding and Mitigating the New Cybersecurity Threat

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

The world of technology is ever-advancing, opening new doors to interoperability and global connectivity. However, cybersecurity threats keep pace with each new evolution, becoming as consistent as the advancements themselves. One such emerging threat in the blockchain space, catching the attention of security experts worldwide, is EtherHiding. This new method of cyberattack poses unique challenges and necessitates a fresh approach to data protection. 

What Is EtherHiding?

EtherHiding is a sophisticated cybersecurity threat that utilizes blockchain technology to conceal malicious code. This technique represents a significant shift in the landscape of digital threats, merging the advanced capabilities of blockchain with the nefarious intentions of hackers.

At the heart of these attacks lies an ingenious exploitation of the Binance Smart Chain (BSC), a blockchain platform known for its efficiency and versatility in handling smart contracts. Cybercriminals often target WordPress sites, which are widely used due to their versatility and popularity. These sites become unwitting conduits in a sophisticated cyberattack chain. 

The attack begins with the defacement of these websites, often masked under the guise of legitimate-looking browser update prompts. Unsuspecting users, believing these prompts to be authentic, are tricked into downloading malware. This deceitful strategy represents a departure from conventional hacking methods that typically target system vulnerabilities directly. Instead, EtherHiding exploits the trust and routine behaviors of users, turning regular web interactions into potential security breaches.

Once the user interacts with these deceptive overlays, the attack leverages the Binance Smart Chain to embed malicious code within the blockchain transactions. This method effectively circumvents traditional cybersecurity measures, which are primarily designed to shield against direct intrusions into the system rather than insidious code embedded in an otherwise legitimate blockchain transaction. The seamless integration of the malicious code into the blockchain makes it a particularly resilient form of malware, benefiting from the blockchain’s decentralized and immutable nature.

As such, these techniques represent a confluence of cyberattack methodologies — combining social engineering to lure victims with the advanced use of blockchain technology to execute the attack. This novel approach necessitates a reevaluation of standard cybersecurity practices and highlights the need for more sophisticated, adaptive, and comprehensive digital security strategies. 

Impacts on Cybersecurity

The introduction of EtherHiding into the cybersecurity landscape marks a significant escalation in cyber threats, particularly given its use of blockchain technology. This innovative method has broad implications.

  • Increased Vulnerability of Sensitive Data: This type of attack targets not just financial systems but any blockchain-based platform, putting a wide range of sensitive data at risk. This could include personal identification information, trade secrets, and even national security data. The confidentiality and integrity of this data are compromised, leading to potential identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of cybercrime. 
  • Erosion of Trust in Blockchain: Blockchain technology is lauded for its security and immutability. However, EtherHiding exploits these features to hide malicious code, thereby undermining trust in blockchain networks. This could slow down the adoption of blockchain technology in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and government. 
  • Financial Implications: For businesses, the costs associated with breaches like these can be multifaceted. They range from direct financial losses due to theft or fraud to indirect costs such as damage control, system audits, increased insurance premiums, and loss of customer trust. 
  • Regulatory and Compliance Challenges: Companies that fall victim to attacks may face regulatory scrutiny and compliance issues, especially in industries where data protection is heavily regulated. This can result in hefty fines and legal costs, further exacerbating the financial impact. 

Challenges in Detecting and Mitigating EtherHiding

Detecting and mitigating EtherHiding poses significant challenges, predominantly due to its advanced nature and the incorporation of blockchain technology. Traditional cybersecurity measures, typically geared towards identifying code anomalies or unauthorized access, often fall short in the face of these attacks. This is because the malicious code is cleverly embedded within blockchain transactions, enabling it to evade detection and remain a hidden threat for prolonged periods. This stealthy characteristic allows the malicious code to inflict considerable damage before being discovered. 

Another critical challenge is the immutable nature of blockchain technology. Once EtherHiding embeds its malicious code into a blockchain, altering or removing it becomes an impossible task due to the blockchain’s inherent design. This characteristic of blockchain renders traditional mitigation strategies, which often involve removing or altering the code, ineffective. 

Furthermore, these attacks exhibit a dynamic and adaptive nature. Attackers can modify and update the embedded code, constantly changing the threat’s behavior and making it a moving target for cybersecurity teams. This necessitates continuous and vigilant monitoring and frequent updating of security protocols, which can be both complex and resource-intensive. 

Responding to Incidents

The process of responding to an EtherHiding attack is multifaceted, extending beyond mere technical resolution. It involves navigating legal, regulatory, and reputational aspects, adding layers of complexity to the response strategy. Organizations must balance these considerations while striving to secure their systems against such attacks.

Effectively combatting sophisticated breaches of this nature demands specialized knowledge in both cybersecurity and blockchain technology. This specialized knowledge is not always readily available, presenting an additional hurdle for many organizations in their efforts to secure their systems against this sophisticated cyber threat. The convergence of these factors makes EtherHiding a particularly formidable challenge in the field of cybersecurity.

Best Practices to Protect Against EtherHiding

To guard against this new style of cyber threat, organizations must adopt a multi-layered security strategy. This includes staying vigilant, regularly updating security protocols, and educating employees about the risks of such sophisticated attacks. Implementing comprehensive cybersecurity is key to protecting sensitive data. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of threats like EtherHiding calls for adaptive cybersecurity measures that can evolve to overcome groundbreaking attack vectors.

Comprehensive Data Security Solutions 

In response to the evolving digital landscape, Sertainty technology offers a robust cybersecurity solution. Our data-level security approach is uniquely equipped to combat the new, sophisticated generation of threats. By empowering data to protect itself, Sertainty provides a resilient line of defense against advanced cyberattacks — no matter where, when, or how they occur.

Understanding and addressing emerging cyber threats is crucial in today’s digital age, and staying proactive can make a significant difference in safeguarding against such advanced attacks. For those looking to fortify their cybersecurity defenses against innovative threats like EtherHiding, exploring Sertainty’s solutions is a step toward achieving advanced cybersecurity protection.

Emerging Data Security Threats to Watch in 2024

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

In today’s digital world, data is the lifeblood of organizations. It fuels decision-making, drives innovation, and is at the heart of every successful operation. However, as we march forward into 2024, the landscape of data security is more challenging and dynamic than ever before. New data security threats, both technological and human-driven, are on the horizon, demanding heightened vigilance and innovative solutions. 

The ability to proactively recognize and mitigate these threats is key to both protecting your most vital assets and maintaining regulatory compliance. In this article, we’ll examine some of the most prominent emerging data security threats to watch in 2024 as well as how organizations can comprehensively address them. 

Top Emerging Data Security Threats in 2024

AI-Powered Cyberattacks: The Rise of Adversarial AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a double-edged sword. While it powers many of our conveniences, it can also be harnessed for malicious purposes. In practical terms, AI technology has given rise to two distinct data security threats.

Firstly, generative AI’s ability to create convincing, human-like personas has made social engineering threats increasingly difficult to detect. The newfound accessibility of sophisticated machine learning tools also makes it easier for hackers to set an AI program to break through firewalls by trying endless combinations of possible credentials in “brute force” style attacks. 

This is not to say that AI is all bad news for cybersecurity. New tools, such as the innovative Protective Cloud Services (PCS) platform from GuardDog AI, can scan and analyze network traffic, proactively automating incident response steps to save precious time when responding to perimeter breaches. 

The Ransomware Evolution: Double Extortion and Beyond

Ransomware is evolving, and it’s not just about encrypting your data anymore. Ransomware capabilities and tactics have undergone a significant transformation in recent times, extending beyond the conventional act of encrypting data and posing even more potent threats to organizations. 

One notable evolution in this malicious strategy is the adoption of “double extortion” tactics. Instead of merely locking data away, cybercriminals are now leveraging the stolen data as an additional weapon in their arsenal. This entails a two-pronged approach. Alongside encrypting the victim’s data, attackers also threaten to publicly expose sensitive information unless a ransom is paid. This strategic shift underscores a fundamental realization made by cybercriminals — that data is not just valuable to the targeted organizations, but can be equally valuable to the attackers themselves. 

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Data Risks Beyond Your Control

The global digital supply chain is intricate, and data flows through it like a circulatory system. But it’s also a point of vulnerability. Attacks on this supply chain can have catastrophic repercussions, extending far beyond the organization directly targeted. 

The interconnected nature of supply chains means that a breach in one part of the network can potentially impact the data and operations of countless partners, creating a domino effect of data risks. As supply chains become increasingly global and digitally driven, safeguarding sensitive data throughout this intricate web has become crucial.

IoT and IIoT Devices: A Growing Attack Surface

The Internet of Things (IoT) is expanding exponentially, but so are its security risks. This is true in both private applications and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). These devices collect and transmit data, which, while extremely useful, also widens the network edge, increasing the number of potential entry points into your system. 

Improperly secured IoT and IIoT devices can quickly transform from convenient tools to potential entry points for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities. These devices frequently lack robust security measures, leaving them susceptible to a variety of threats. Whether it’s a smart thermostat in a home or a sensor controlling a vital manufacturing process in an industrial setting, the security of these devices is paramount. 

Quantum Computing: A New Frontier for Cyber Threats

Quantum computing, once a realm of science fiction, is now becoming a reality. As we inch closer to practical quantum applications, the implications for data security are profound. Current encryption methods, which rely on the computational difficulty of factoring large numbers, may crumble in the face of quantum algorithms. 

Data security has traditionally provided a layered defense against intrusions. This is largely predicated on the assumption that a sufficiently layered defense-in-depth framework can counter intrusions. However, these defenses are built on computational limitations that quantum computers are poised to obliterate. Once useable quantum computing capability reaches the hands of malicious actors, the standard security algorithms that guard much of our most sensitive data today could be effortlessly decrypted. 

Insider Threats: The Danger Within

Insider threats, whether due to malice or negligence, are a persistent concern. These dangers even emanate from people you trust — your employees, contractors, or business partners. The issue with insider threats is that they’re not easy to spot because they’re coming from within your trusted circle.

Whether it’s someone intentionally leaking sensitive data to competitors or a well-meaning employee accidentally clicking on a malicious link, the result can be disastrous. When addressing insider threats, it’s not about securing your network’s external perimeter; it’s about safeguarding your internal secrets from those you trust the most.

The New Foundation of Data Resilience

As we move into 2024, the evolving data security landscape is both promising and perilous. New technologies bring unprecedented opportunities, but they also open doors to novel threats. In this era of data-driven decision-making, one thing is clear: improving data security to match these emerging threat vectors is not a luxury, but a necessity.

In the face of these powerful new data security threats, incremental improvements to existing network perimeters are insufficient. Instead, leaders are looking toward a new paradigm of data security. 

To address these and other mounting data security threats, leaders have begun to approach data as not just something to be safeguarded by perimeters, but as a vigilant protector in its own right. This means that data takes on an active role in looking after itself. So, whether your data is sitting safely within your company’s computer systems, floating up in the cloud, or traveling to another business, it’s always watching out for threats. 

By integrating data-level security into your cyber defense strategy, you create a resilient fortress around your most valuable asset — your data. In the face of quantum computing, AI-powered attacks, evolving ransomware, complex supply chains, IoT vulnerabilities, insider threats, and regulatory mazes, data-level security remains your constant and reliable guardian. Instead of relying on outer defenses, you have an inner champion that keeps your data safe no matter where it is.

In the words of Sertainty CSO Amir Sternhell, “The Sertainty UXP Technology is setting the standards in the IIoT world by protecting and maintaining the integrity of a sensor command to overcome the acceleration in phishing, fakes, and sabotage, attributed to adversarial AI. Rest assured that this upcoming year will witness a glut of holistic Data-Chain-of-Provenance and Digital Twin implementations — premised on the Sertainty Zero-Trust design principles — to quell intrusions into our Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and ransomware attacks.” 

Staying Ahead of Data Security Threats with Sertainty

As a leader in data-level security and self-protecting data technology, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself. These protocols mean that even if systems are compromised or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered data solutions that are intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that adapt and grow to defend sensitive data. Security threats may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be. 

Mitigating and Responding to RDP Security Threats

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

Today, remote work has become the norm for many organizations, and the reliance on technologies like Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) has surged. As more organizations come to use RDP, the number of security risks associated with remote access has also increased exponentially. By overlooking the dangers of remote workflows, many organizations unknowingly expose themselves to numerous cybersecurity risks. For example, RDPs can be the perfect vehicle for deploying malware or targeted ransomware campaigns.

How Does RDP Work?

Remote Desktop Protocol, commonly known as RDP, serves as the digital bridge between a user’s device and a remote computer or server. It’s the technology that allows you to access and control another computer from a distance. Think of it as a virtual connection that simulates sitting in front of the remote computer.

To make this possible, RDP relies on a few key components:

  • Client: This is your device — the one you’re using to access the remote system.
  • Host: This is the remote computer or server you want to connect to.
  • RDP Protocol: The set of rules and procedures that govern the communication between the client and the host.
  • Remote Desktop Services (RDS): The host-side software that manages incoming RDP connections.

Why Is RDP Vital for Modern Businesses?

The modern work landscape has shifted. Remote work, once considered a perk, has become a necessity for businesses worldwide. RDP plays a pivotal role in enabling remote work. It allows employees to access company resources, collaborate on projects, and troubleshoot issues on remote servers, all from the comfort of their home offices.

Scalability and Efficiency

RDP doesn’t just facilitate remote work; it makes it efficient and scalable. Businesses can scale their operations seamlessly by adding or removing remote users. This allows organizations to adapt quickly to changing business needs without costly infrastructure changes.

What Are the Security Risks of RDP?

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a versatile tool, but like any technology, it has its vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals are highly skilled at identifying and exploiting these weaknesses. Below, we’ll delve into some of the most prevalent security threats associated with RDP:

Brute Force Attacks

Brute force attacks are akin to a digital guessing game. Attackers methodically try numerous combinations of usernames and passwords until they stumble upon the correct one. Essentially, it’s a trial-and-error approach that relies on the probability that, eventually, they will guess the right credentials. While this methodology may sound inefficient, quantum-enabled tools have drastically increased the potential effectiveness of brute-force attacks. 

Social Engineering and Credential Theft

Cybercriminals employ various methods to pilfer login credentials. These include (but are by no means limited to): 

  • Phishing Attacks: Attackers send deceptive emails or messages designed to trick recipients into revealing their login information.
  • Keyloggers: Malicious software silently records keystrokes, capturing usernames and passwords as users type them.
  • Credential Harvesting from Past Data Breaches: If a user’s credentials are compromised in a separate data breach, cybercriminals may employ these stolen credentials to gain unauthorized access to RDP services.

Software Vulnerabilities

Like any software, RDP software can have vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities may exist in the form of bugs, errors, or overlooked security gaps. Cybercriminals often target unpatched or outdated RDP software, as it may harbor known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access.

Case Study: The SamSam Ransomware Campaigns

RDP security threats aren’t just theoretical risks; they have real-world consequences. Take the SamSam ransomware attacks, for instance. While the initial incidents of this attack predate the remote work surge COVID-19 era, they vividly illustrate the tangible impact of RDP vulnerabilities, emphasizing the urgency of securing RDP access. 

The SamSam attacks focused on infecting internal networks to extract ransom payments from organizations that could not afford the time or risk it would take to recover their files without paying. Later analysis of the affected networks indicated that, among other means of gaining access, attackers had purchased stolen RDP credentials, which they used to grant themselves administrative access and plant the ransomware executable file. 

This malicious campaign resulted in significant financial losses, operational disruptions, and reputational damage to affected organizations. 

Responding to RDP Security Risks 

There are a number of standard methods used to reduce potential RDP vulnerabilities. First, using strong and unique passwords is essential to thwart potential attackers. Account lockout policies should also be implemented to counter brute force attacks, preventing unauthorized access attempts.

Keeping RDP software and systems up to date is equally vital, as it helps address known vulnerabilities. Furthermore, network segmentation can be employed to isolate RDP services from critical systems, effectively reducing the attack surface. 

Additionally, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) serves as a significant security enhancement. MFA requires users to provide multiple forms of identification before granting access, ensuring that even if an attacker possesses the password, they cannot access the system without the additional authentication factor.

The Role of Zero-Trust and Self-Protecting-Data

While the above methods are helpful, they fail to address the most fundamental weaknesses of network access tools like RDP. Traditionally, organizational data has been hidden behind firewalls and is left vulnerable to those already inside the system. However, Sertainty has redefined how information is protected to ensure data privacy even where firewalls and other security measures fail. 

Unlike conventional cybersecurity methods, zero-trust network access does not depend on networks and devices remaining secure. Rather than relying on security perimeters with the assumption that users within a system have the right to access its information, zero-trust security demands continuous verification. Meanwhile, Self-Protecting-Data capabilities enable files to protect themselves when faced with unauthorized access or even unauthorized actions from legitimate users.

These protocols support conventional perimeter security measures, turning firewalls into the first layer of defense rather than the sole source of protection for your files. This means that, in addition to enhancing your network access security, Self-Protecting-Data also prevents insiders from creating chaos.

Sertainty Data Security

Sertainty leverages proprietary processes through its UXP Technology that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself — whether in flight, in a developer’s sandbox, or in storage. These UXP Technology protocols mean that even if systems are compromised by AI tools or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. With the proliferation of vulnerable remote systems, security breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be.

Understanding and Responding to Different Types of Social Engineering Threats

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

Social engineering is a deceptive and manipulative tactic used by cybercriminals to exploit human psychology and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. In the current digital age, where personal and financial data is at risk, it is crucial to be aware of various social engineering threats and take steps to protect ourselves. 

Today, we’ll take an in-depth look at social engineering, explore some common types of social engineering attacks, and discuss solutions to protect your data from imposters. 

What Is Social Engineering?

At its core, social engineering is an art of deception. Instead of exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems, social engineers manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information or performing actions that benefit the attacker. By preying on human psychology and trust, they gain access to personal, financial, or sensitive data. 

These types of threats can be particularly difficult to mitigate using traditional security systems because there is no “hole in the code” that can be patched to solve the issue. That’s not to say that there is no solution to social engineering attacks; rather, addressing them in a truly secure way requires a more holistic approach than simply increasing perimeter security. 

While they can vary greatly in tactics, most types of social engineering attacks have common goals. These typically involve gaining access to your systems in order to steal or tamper with valuable information, commit financial fraud, or compromise the security of individuals or organizations. 

Types of Social Engineering Threats

Before we discuss how to keep your data safe, it’s important to understand some of the types of social engineering attacks your data may face. While there is no end to the potential number of ways in which scammers can attempt to gain your confidence, the following are a few of the most common examples you may encounter. 

Phishing

Phishing is one of the most prevalent types of social engineering attacks. These attacks involve impersonating a trustworthy entity, such as a bank or a popular online service, to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like usernames, passwords, or credit card details. Phishing attacks are typically carried out through emails, text messages, or fake websites designed to resemble legitimate ones.

Common phishing techniques include sending deceptive emails that mimic reputable organizations, creating fake login pages to steal login credentials, and using urgent or alarming language to prompt immediate action without stopping to assess the source of the message more thoroughly. 

Pretexting

Fundamentally similar to phishing, pretexting involves creating a false scenario to deceive individuals into sharing confidential information. The attacker creates a pretext to gain the target’s trust, often assuming a false identity to sell the narrative. They may pose as a co-worker, customer support representative, or contractor to manipulate victims into revealing sensitive data or performing actions that compromise security. 

Pretexting attacks often involve the scammer doing research and playing a slightly longer game to help them establish credibility. This allows them to leverage personal or emotional connections, and create a genuine sense of urgency. 

Baiting

Baiting attacks lure people into taking specific actions with an enticing or appealing offer. Unlike the previous two types of social engineering attacks, which primarily prey on fear, baiting exploits people’s natural curiosity or greed to trick individuals into compromising their security. 

Different forms of baiting attacks include leaving infected USB drives labeled as important files, offering free downloads of pirated software that contains malware, or enticing users with the promise of prizes or rewards in exchange for sensitive information. While this may seem somewhat far-fetched, research has shown that hardware-based baiting scams can be a particularly effective social engineering threat vector. 

Tailgating

Tailgating is an even more physical type of social engineering attack. Also known as piggybacking, these attacks involve an attacker gaining access to secure servers by physically following an authorized person through secured access points. This type of attack exploits the natural human tendency to hold the door open for others or be polite, allowing the attacker to gain unauthorized entry.

Tailgating attacks can occur in various settings, such as office buildings, data centers, or restricted areas. By blending in or exploiting moments of distraction, the attacker bypasses security measures and gains access to sensitive locations or systems.

Impersonation

A more in-depth alternative to tailgating is impersonation, where attackers assume the identity of legitimately authorized parties to gain access to your databases. Attackers may pose as employees, customers, and service providers in order to be let into places where they can then hack into your databases more easily.

Methods employed by impersonators can include using fake email addresses or phone numbers, manipulating caller IDs, or creating realistic social media profiles to establish credibility. 

Quid Pro Quo

Perhaps the most direct form of social engineering attacks, quid pro quo exploits involve an exchange of something valuable in return for sensitive information or access. Rather than tricking targets into unwittingly granting them access, attackers promise a benefit or favor in exchange for personal or confidential data. This type of social engineering attack often targets employees within organizations. 

Examples of quid pro quo schemes can include a scammer posing as an IT support technician offering free technical assistance in exchange for login credentials or an attacker promising a substantial discount or exclusive access to a service in return for sensitive financial information. 

Protecting Against Different Types of Social Engineering Threats

As we mentioned above, addressing social engineering threats requires a fundamentally different approach than other areas of cyber security. Increasing the strength of passwords or introducing measures to prevent software-based attacks such as cache poisoning is completely ineffective when hackers gain access to your databases using legitimate credentials. 

Contrary to popular belief, protecting your data from social engineering attacks also requires more than training. While employee training is a common step used to counter all types of social engineering scams, the human component often remains the weakest link in your security system. To this point, a 2022 study of different types of social engineering attacks concluded that “providing awareness against SE-based cyberattacks is not sufficient.” 

Zero Trust Data Security

The true key to solving all types of social engineering attacks is rethinking our entire approach to cybersecurity. Traditionally, the focus of digital privacy systems has been to keep outsiders from accessing the private networks and stores where data is hosted. While there will always be a place for maintaining this security perimeter, relying on this alone leaves all data within vulnerable to anyone who has already gained access to the servers or data files. 

This is where a Zero Trust framework for self-protecting data can be of the most use. Rather than simply trying to improve on perimeter measures, self-protecting data reimagines the entire approach to security. 

As the name implies, the goal of self-protecting data is not just to keep hackers out of your system but to create truly secure files. Instead of being left accessible to any “trusted” users, self-protecting files themselves are coded with the ability to recognize malicious activity and counter it immediately, regardless of who appears to be performing the action. 

Empower Your Data with Sertainty

Sertainty leverages proprietary and patent processes through its Data Privacy Platform and core technology that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself — whether in flight, in a developer’s sandbox, or in storage. These technology protocols mean that even if systems are compromised by AI tools or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. With the proliferation of human and AI threats, security breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be.

How Hackers Use Key Tracking to Access Your Private Data

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

In today’s digital world, data security is of paramount importance. More than ever before, companies must stay vigilant against constantly evolving cyber threats that can compromise sensitive information. Compared to AI-based threats that have only emerged in recent years, tactics like key tracking continue to fester without much success in curbing them. Recent attacks, including last year’s TikTok inquest, demonstrate that these threats are far from obsolete.

While key tracking attacks have seen a decrease in the media over the past decade, the threat is still very real. Contemporary data show that companies are still very much vulnerable to keystroke logging whilst facing newer, more direct attacks. Today, we’ll delve into the world of key log tracking, its potential dangers, and how to ensure that data remains secure, irrespective.

What Is Key Tracking?

Key tracking is a sophisticated technique used by hackers to gain unauthorized access to a computer or system by monitoring and recording keystrokes. Every time a person types on a keyboard, whether it’s entering passwords, sensitive data, or even simple messages, key tracking software records each keystroke and sends it to a server or device – as would a spyware virus, giving cybercriminals access to valuable information.

This technique is commonly associated with keyloggers, which can be hardware or software-based. Hardware keyloggers are physical devices connected between a keyboard and a computer, while software keyloggers are malicious programs that hide within the operating system, evading detection.

Many businesses invest in firewalls, antivirus software, and other security measures, believing their systems are impenetrable. However, employee credentials can be an easy entry point for cybercriminals. Similar to social engineering attacks, key tracking can bypass these defenses – entirely, leaving corporate files exposed to potential data breaches as if the threat came from the inside.

Types of Key Tracking Attacks

Keyloggers make up a significant cybersecurity concern that can be extracted in various forms, client connections, and shared logs. Some keyloggers use hypervisors to remain hidden under the operating system, while others operate at the kernel level, making them difficult to detect. Others can be integrated into hardware components or computer peripherals, acting as keyboard device drivers, accessing and recording all keyboard inputs before they reach the operating system.

Software-Based Keystroke Logging

All keylogging software has two primary components: a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file and an executable file. The executable file installs and initiates the DDL, which can then begin tracking and recording keystrokes. The specifics, however, can vary significantly. 

API-based keyloggers are particularly tricky to detect since they hook into keyboard APIs – as if they were legitimate applications – and register keystrokes in a covert manner. Form grabbing-based keyloggers – malware that works by retrieving authorization and log-in credentials – target web form submissions whilst recording sensitive data before its transmission over the Internet.

JavaScript-based keyloggers infiltrate web pages through malicious script tags, waiting for key events to record. Memory-injection-based keyloggers, like the notorious Zeus and SpyEye trojans, manipulate memory tables to bypass security mechanisms and gain access to confidential information.

To establish remote communication, keyloggers upload data to websites, databases, or FTP servers. Some opt for periodic emails to predefined addresses, while others use wireless transmission through hardware systems. As obfuscation goes, some keyloggers enable remote logins, allowing unauthorized access to locally stored data on the target machine.

Hardware-Based Keystroke Logging

Hardware-based key tracking is a fundamentally different threat vector, but similar in its outcome. While firmware-based keyloggers can modify BIOS-level firmware to intercept keyboard events while remaining hidden, hardware keyloggers use physical circuits attached between the keyboard and computer or USB connectors to record keystrokes without the need for software installation, making them difficult to detect.

Threats from hardware-based key tracking are especially relevant today when working from home or with a demand for Bring-Your-Own-Device. What this means is that company computers are not necessarily safely locked in an office at all times, even when all corporate policies and rules must be adhered to in that place. 

Moreover, wireless keyboard and mouse sniffers passively collect wireless data packets, requiring decryption for access. This is inducing criminals to employ keyboard overlays on ATMs to capture PINs, appearing as integrated while deceptive to bank customers.

In addition, acoustic keyloggers use sound monitoring to identify keystrokes based on acoustic signatures, requiring a large sampling for accurate mapping. Electromagnetic emissions can also be captured from wired keyboards at a distance, and optical surveillance can be used to observe passwords and PINs via strategically placed cameras. 

Furthermore, physical evidence can be exploited when the keypad’s security code is known, reducing the possibility of a brute-force attack. Smartphone sensors, such as accelerometers, have been used to capture nearby keyboard keystrokes with high accuracy. The most advanced keyloggers will analyze body movements to determine pressed keys and audible signals to identify keystrokes in near real-time. There are methods of key tracking which provide hackers with a way into certain systems. 

Addressing Key Tracking Threats

To combat the threat of key tracking and ensure robust data security, companies need advanced solutions like Sertainty’s self-protecting data technology. Rather than rely on a series of firewalls and trust that those with access are legitimately allowed to be there, Zero Trust security gives data the ability to protect itself. 

Unlike conventional perimeter security, Sertainty data privacy technology empowers data itself to become an active defender against threats. By embedding intelligence directly into data files, self-protecting data can recognize and thwart malicious activities, even in the presence of key-tracking malware. This means that even if a hacker gains access to sensitive information, they will be unable to access or modify sensitive data. 

Truly Secure Data with Sertainty

As the digital landscape evolves, companies need to stay one step ahead of hackers by embracing innovative and proactive data protection strategies. With the right tools and the commitment to data security, businesses can maintain the trust of their customers and protect what matters most — their invaluable data. 

Sertainty leverages proprietary processes through its UXP Technology that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself — whether in flight, in a developer’s sandbox, or in storage. These UXP Technology protocols mean that even if systems are compromised by AI tools or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. With the proliferation of human and AI threats, security breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be.

Zero-Day Exploits: What They Are and How You Can Prepare

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

Zero-day exploits are among the most elusive and dangerous cyber threats in today’s digital landscape. These sophisticated attacks target undisclosed vulnerabilities, leaving organizations defenseless and scrambling for solutions. In this article, we will explore the world of zero-day exploits and their profound impact on data security. 

What Are Zero-Day Exploits?

Zero-day exploits refer to cyberattacks that take advantage of undisclosed software vulnerabilities. The term “zero-day” indicates that organizations and their developers have no time to prepare for these attacks, as the vulnerabilities are exploited before any patch or fix is available to the flaws. These exploits pose significant challenges to cybersecurity, as they leave victims defenseless against unseen threats.

Zero-day attacks emerged around 2006, due to the collaboration between the United States NSA and Israel’s 8200 Unit which berthed a 500Kb computer worm called Stuxnet. This worm featured a design and architecture that were not domain-specific and could be utilized for attacking modern SCADA and PLC systems. This made Stuxnet capable of infecting Iranian nuclear centrifuges that were enriching weapons-grade Uranium as part of its Nuclear program.

It was the first time that a Zero-Day cyber attack was used for military purposes. This opened the floodgates for competition in the cyber arena through en-masse weaponization of zero-day attacks as part of the military doctrine of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Or, as an integral part of the Forward Defense activities of the US, UK, and Israel, to keep the cybersecurity arena from escalating further. 

Thereafter, the potential of zero-day exploits—whether by malicious organizations, nation-states and their proxies, or individual hackers—began to seep into the psyche and operations of the DoD and IT world. The threat of zero-day attacks have underlined the need to mitigate any software security vulnerabilities as soon as they are discovered. 

How Zero-Day Exploits Work

Zero-day exploits follow a well-defined technical process that malicious actors use to infiltrate systems. Attackers tirelessly search for undisclosed vulnerabilities, knowing that these are the keys to high-impact attacks. Once found, they skillfully exploit these weaknesses, gaining unauthorized access to systems, stealing sensitive data, or disrupting critical operations.

Identifying Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

Researchers and hackers use various methods to identify zero-day vulnerabilities. Vulnerability research involves analyzing software code to uncover potential weaknesses. Bug bounty programs encourage ethical hackers to report zero-day vulnerabilities in exchange for rewards. The dark web also plays a role, serving as a marketplace where hackers buy, sell, or trade information about undisclosed vulnerabilities.

The Implications of Zero-Day Exploits

The consequences of zero-day exploits can be devastating. Real-life examples have shown how these attacks compromise the security and privacy of individuals, organizations, and even critical infrastructure. The financial impact can be significant, with remediation costs and potential legal liabilities. Furthermore, the reputational damage resulting from a successful zero-day exploit can tarnish an organization’s image for years to come.

Significant Historical Zero-Day Exploits

While Stuxnet is perhaps the most widely-publicized example of a zero-day exploit, other threats of this nature have only increased in the nearly two decades since it first made waves. In fact, a 2022 report found that a shocking 40% of all zero-day exploits that happened between 2012 and 2021 happened in 2021 alone. 

Let’s take a look at some significant zero-day exploits from the last decade to better understand how these types of threats can affect your business. 

Yahoo (August 2013)

Though it’s been eight years since the Yahoo attack, this zero-day incident remains one of the most prominent to date. In 2016, the company revealed that more than 3 billion accounts had been accessed by hackers in the attack. In addition to exposing user data, the incident caused Yahoo’s value to drop significantly in the midst of a potential acquisition. 

LinkedIn (June 2021)

Another notable incident occurred in 2021 when LinkedIn reported that it had been hit by a zero-day attack that affected over 90% of its user base (700 million users). In this attack, a hacker scraped data by exploiting the site’s API. Before being taken down by law enforcement, the group responsible for CVE-2021-1879 publicly released a data set of around 500 million users. 

Microsoft (July 2023)

In July of 2023, Microsoft confirmed a shocking 132 security vulnerabilities across its product lines, including six confirmed zero-day exploits. One of these zero-days was remote code execution found within Microsoft Office and Windows HTML that could allow hackers to create Microsoft Office documents enabling them to perform remote code execution in victims’ devices.

While patches for significant exploits like these are typically quickly released, as of July 21st, Microsoft has yet to release a patch for CVE-2023-36884. The company is instead offering mitigation steps for affected users. 

Defense Strategies Against Zero-Day Exploits

Mitigating the risks posed by zero-day exploits requires a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Vulnerability management and prompt patching are essential in reducing the attack surface and limiting the window of opportunity for attackers. However, traditional security measures may not always be enough. 

Leveraging Self-Protecting Data for Zero-Day Exploit Defense

Enter self-protecting data solutions, such as Sertainty’s cutting-edge technology. By embedding intelligence directly into data files, self-protecting data can recognize and counter malicious activities, even in the absence of known vulnerabilities or patches. While firewalls and secure networks are essential elements of any complete information security plan, truly guarding data against all attacks requires Self-Protecting Data. 

As a pioneer of this approach, Sertainty redefines how information is protected to ensure data privacy where perimeters fail. Using cutting-edge protocols and embedding intelligence directly into sensitive data files or datasets, Sertainty leverages patented processes to govern, track, and defend data through the data itself. 

Instead of database security being based on granted privileges to access the network directory where the file currently resides, Sertainty Self-Protecting Data (SPD) technology empowers the files themselves to protect themselves against malicious activity immediately. The Sertainty Data Privacy Platform technology recognizes itself through a Zero-Trust framework that contextualizes the environment, behavior, and action of the intended receiver — whether human, machine, or application. With these protocols, the data remains secure even in situations where systems have been compromised. 

Zero-day exploits represent a constant and formidable challenge to data security. As cyber threats evolve, organizations must stay ahead by adopting proactive defense strategies. Sertainty Self-Protecting Data technology offers a powerful shield against the unseen dangers of zero-day exploits. By embracing innovative solutions and staying vigilant, we can fortify our data defenses and navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape with confidence. Protecting our data is not just a matter of staying one step ahead — it’s a commitment to safeguarding what matters most.

Truly Secure Data with Sertainty

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. Cyber threats may continue to advance, and security perimeter breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be. 

Protecting Critical Infrastructure from Cyberattacks

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

The last few years have seen a rise in the sophistication and frequency of attacks targeting many vital industries. In addition to the rise of international tensions bringing to light new threats aimed at critical infrastructure, advancing technologies have opened new doors for attackers. The increasing capabilities of artificial intelligence-enabled threats have been a popular topic of discussion, but many other vectors of attack pose equally dangerous threats to public safety. 

Another major driver of new cyber threats came with the discovery of a modular malware toolkit capable of targeting tens of thousands of industrial control systems (ICS) across different industry verticals. These attacks pose a serious threat to critical infrastructure, such as power grids, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing plants, many of which rely on ICS to operate. 

Some of the most potentially devastating and escalating new cybersecurity dangers have been aimed at critical infrastructure systems and public works worldwide. For example, in April 2023, Iranian state-linked hackers targeted critical infrastructure in the US and other countries in a series of novel dropper malware attacks. While not as devastating as other incidents, the previously-unheard of nature of the malware made this attack particularly concerning. 

Other attacks on other areas of critical infrastructure in recent years have raised similar fears. In late 2022, the Danish State Railways’ network was temporarily shut down by hackers. Other breaches affecting essential industries continue to be reported frequently, with a ransomware attack affecting manufacturing, communications, public and private healthcare, and education being reported by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) as recently as March 2023. 

Attacks targeting public infrastructure that have the potential to take out essential systems — such as hospitals, water facilities, electricity, and energy production — are even sometimes referred to as “killware” for their ability to cause disruption leading to real-life deaths. 

ICS and Critical Infrastructure

One reason for the increase in these attacks is the growing interconnectedness of ICS with other systems and networks. While this allows systems to benefit from the “network effect” and introduce new functionality, it also introduces new potential entry points for hackers to exploit. 

Similarly, the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has led to an increase in the number of devices and sensors connected to ICS, making it more difficult to secure the systems. 

Industrial control systems are designed to control and monitor a wide range of physical devices and processes. This can include things like valves, motors, and sensors to ensure that they operate efficiently and safely. 

Programmable logic controllers, distributed control systems, and supervisory control and data acquisition systems are all also enabled by the use of ICS. These devices and systems can be distributed across multiple locations and may be connected to other networks, such as corporate networks or the Internet. 

Because of their integral role in managing physical processes, securing ICS and IIoT environments is essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of critical industrial systems. But securing these environments can be challenging due to their inherent complexity, as well as the widespread use of outdated legacy systems and proprietary protocols. As a result, specialized security tools and techniques are required to protect ICS in IIoT environments from cyberattacks and other security threats. 

Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure

While the number of potential attack vectors is virtually endless in today’s complex, interconnected systems, there are a number of particularly concerning threats to critical infrastructure that have emerged. 

Advanced persistent threats (APTs) are a type of cyberattack specifically designed to target and compromise IIoT environments. APTs are typically carried out by highly skilled and organized threat actors using sophisticated and stealthy techniques to gain unauthorized access to vital systems and remain undetected for extended periods of time. 

APTs targeting ICS in IIoT environments typically involve multiple stages. Hackers begin by conducting extensive reconnaissance to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the target environment. They may use various techniques — such as social engineering, spear-phishing, and network scanning — to gather information about the target organization. 

Attackers are adept at identifying openings, and unpatched software vulnerabilities, stolen credentials, and compromised third-party suppliers are all potential open doors. Once inside, attackers are free to unleash zero-day exploits, custom-designed malware, or other malicious programs to gain control of the connected systems. 

Addressing APT and Other Cyberattacks

APTs and other common forms of attack can exploit a wide variety of openings to access a system, including using legitimate credentials. As such, they are particularly devastating when turned on systems that rely on conventional perimeter security. Once they get past the firewall or other perimeter security measures, they essentially have free rein to steal data or cripple internal systems.

This does not mean that vulnerable critical infrastructure cannot be protected, however. Self-protecting data can be an effective defense against APT attacks targeting IIoT environments by providing an additional layer of protection that directly addresses the greatest weaknesses in traditional network security. 

Self-protecting data works by using encryption, access controls, and other security measures to protect data throughout its lifecycle, from creation to disposal. In a Zero-Trust system, files themselves are coded with the ability to recognize malicious activity and counter it immediately, regardless of who performed the action. 

This means that even if an attacker gains access to the data, they will be unable to read or modify it without the appropriate decryption keys or credentials. Likewise, approved users are blocked from accessing or performing harmful actions, whether on purpose or by accident. 

Zero-Trust Security in Infrastructure IIoT Applications 

In an IIoT environment, self-protecting data can be used to protect sensitive information, such as configuration data, operational data, and customer data. For example, self-protecting data can be used to encrypt configuration files for ICS devices, making it more difficult for an attacker to modify the settings of these devices. Similarly, self-protecting data can be used to encrypt customer data, such as personally identifiable information (PII) or financial information, making it more difficult for an attacker to steal.

Additionally, self-protecting data can help organizations detect and respond to APT attacks by providing visibility into how data is being accessed and used within critical ICS. By monitoring access logs and other data-related activities, security teams can detect suspicious behavior and take appropriate action to mitigate the threat. 

Sertainty

Sertainty’s foray into the Transient World is manifested in multiple Bi-National Research and Development (BIRD) Proposals\Submissions. These innovative solutions have the potential to aid government agencies such as Homeland Security as well as companies in the transportation and energy industries. 

As a leader in self-protecting data, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes that enable data to govern, track, and defend itself. These protocols mean that even if systems are compromised or accessed from the inside, all data stored in them remains secure. 

At Sertainty, we know that the ability to maintain secure files is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be intelligent and actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs. 

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing self-protecting data solutions that evolve and grow to defend sensitive data. Security breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss doesn’t have to be. 

Could Zero-Trust Security Prevent Famous Data Breaches?

Posted on by Nicole Tidwell

Many security systems claim to be trustworthy, but when it comes to data security, few things are more important than real-world results. Ever-evolving claims of improved interfaces and threat detection software, “next-generation” systems, and many other promising developments, have been around for as long as we have been using computers. Yet, despite these claims, major data breaches occur all the time. Sophisticated infiltration methods match or exceed the pace of conventional security development, and social engineering and phishing scams are increasingly prevalent. 

While looking to the future is crucial to creating better data privacy solutions, security experts begin by examining the past. New systems have to not only provide solutions for emerging problems but address historic threats with meaningful changes. 

Types of Data Security

While there are many different methods and tools used to protect data, most of these measures are aimed at achieving one of two goals: keeping malicious actors out of private data systems, and ensuring that organizations are protected in the event of a breach. 

The first and most common focus in data protection is to create a secure storage environment. Tools for securing databases can include physical hardware security, passwords, firewall, proxy servers, user authentication, and more. All of these together form what is commonly referred to as perimeter security. Data destruction and proper sanitization of old devices can also play a role in protecting the integrity of data centers. 

While perimeter security is aimed at keeping criminals out, however,  traditional digital security is more reactive and perpetuates the vulnerabilities. Data backups and other redundant systems do help a company recover information in the event of ransomware and other attacks. However, it is always preferable to prevent attacks in the first place. To blaze new trails in the creation of cutting-edge data privacy measures, such as Zero-Trust methodologies, are a must if we are to preempt cyberattacks. 

Revisiting Recent Data Attacks

Perimeter security and data backups are standard measures, but neither provides a fully-integrated and comprehensive solution. This is evidenced by the fact that all of the organizations discussed below employed these methods and still suffered breaches. 

Zero-Trust protocols, on the other hand, prevent hackers from gaining the power to steal any sensitive data, even if outsiders do find a way past corporate firewalls — or are based on the inside. To understand how much of a difference Zero-Trust can make, let’s examine some of the highest-profile data breaches of the last decade and assess whether or not Zero-Trust security could have prevented these attacks. 

Yahoo

Over the course of two instances, Yahoo suffered the largest recorded data breach to date. Two attacks, one occurring in mid-2013 and the other in late 2014, were belatedly reported by the company in 2016. The breaches were accomplished using cookie-based attacks, which allowed hackers to enter the system as authenticated users. This attack has been largely attributed to “state-sponsored” agents (with many pointing fingers at the Russian government). 

Overall, over 3 billion user accounts were affected by the breaches. The fallout from these attacks not only led to class action lawsuits but also reduced the acquisition price of the company by Verizon by $350 million. 

SolarWinds

A more recent example of a high-profile breach occurred in 2020, when SolarWinds, a major US information technology firm, was the subject of a sophisticated cyberattack. Hackers broke into SolarWinds’ system and added malicious code that was later sent out as part of a routine update to clients of SolarWinds. Once installed, hackers were able to gain access to all manner of sensitive information in those customers’ own systems, including US government agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Pentagon. 

Facebook/Meta

Meta is no stranger to large-scale data breach incidents. The most recent known attack on Facebook was revealed in 2021 when private data from 533 million user accounts appeared on a public internet forum. While the attack was dismissed by Meta as the result of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) scraping, it was later revealed that hackers had accessed the information by exploiting vulnerabilities in Facebook’s Contact Import feature. This followed a June 2020 incident where Facebook accidentally shared private user data with third-party developers. 

Truly Secure Data with Zero-Trust

While each of these attacks was achieved using different methodologies, the common thread between them all (and most other data leaks) was in hackers finding a way to access private databases. This access could be the result of compromised user credentials, such as, in the case of Yahoo, code attacks on client transmission and patching (i.e., SolarWinds), system loopholes (Facebook), or even simple mistakes. 

The findings suggest that regardless of which method is used to gain entry, the real damage is done once malicious parties are inside the security perimeter. Even if backups are used to prevent data destruction or ransom, the damage of leaked private information is irreversible. 

Both, conceptually and in practice, Zero-Trust addresses data privacy’s greatest weaknesses. Rather than relying on security perimeters  – with the assumption that users within a system have the right to access its information, Zero-Trust security enables data files to protect themselves through independent verification. In a Zero-Trust security framework, users are continuously verified and authenticated, ensuring that data remains secure even if the system is compromised. 

Zero-Trust Security from Sertainty

With heightened information security threats, securing sensitive data in all sectors is more crucial than ever. Traditional perimeter security is becoming increasingly inadequate in the face of smarter, more motivated attacks. 

Sertainty has redefined how information is protected to ensure data privacy even where firewalls fail. Using cutting-edge protocols and embedding intelligence directly into data files and datasets, Sertainty leverages proprietary processes that enable data to Govern, Track, and Defend itself. These protocols mean that the data remains secure even if systems are compromised.

At Sertainty, we know that data is the most valuable asset to your organization’s continued success. Our industry-leading Data Privacy Platform has pioneered what it means for data to be Intelligent and Actionable, helping companies move forward with a proven and sustainable approach to their cybersecurity needs.

As the digital landscape evolves and networks become more widely accessible, Sertainty is committed to providing Self-Protecting Data solutions that evolve and grow to defend your crown jewels. Instead of focusing on your network’s inherent shortcomings, we enable you to safely and confidently embrace the potential of a new online-oriented world. Data breaches may be inevitable, but with Sertainty, privacy loss is moot.