#Cyber threats

[diaper-bottom]

Want to put this profile on blast to protect others. Please report this profile and block them. They messaged me and started off nice like all fake mommies/mistresses do. But literally within a minute she had screen captured some of my photos from my blog and was threatening blackmail. Fortunately I never show my face or use my name. Protect yourselves everyone. These people are everywhere and don’t trust someone just because they say the things you want to hear

[nando161mando]

Capitol rioter charged after tweeting death threat to AOC

[lacilou]

Diatribe For A Fandom

I can not wait until Jared, Jensen and Misha get so fed up - with the hate, the threats on their lives, the lies and harassment - that they put an end to the cons. And it WILL happen. (A person can only take so much.) Once it happens, all the miscreants who have thrown around all this ugliness will have no one else to blame but themselves.

In an age where cyberbullying is at an all time high, a small, but very loud part of this fandom shamelessly partake in it. I don't care if the targets are adults, it's still bullying. It's harassment. It's threatening. And all of you who partake should face some kind of consequences. What kind of person are you to think that threatening another person's life is a normal thing to do? Especially if it's for the dumbest, most selfish, insane, ridiculous reasons (that person doesn't fit your narrative, the character they play isn't your favorite, they're friends with someone you don't like). YOU DO NOT OWN THESE PEOPLE. THEY ARE NOT YOURS TO DEMAND THINGS FROM. THEY ARE NOT CIRCUS PERFORMERS!!

If you are one of these POS who think its okay to do this, I am disgusted by your actions. And I'm sure I'm not alone. A small group of degenerates will ruin things for the rest of us. I, for one, don't care if cons are canceled. But as an adult who was raised to respect others, I will NEVER sit idly by and not call you out. I will NOT silence myself when it comes to defending other people who have done NOTHING WRONG TO YOU PERSONALLY. Maybe this comes with age. Maybe it doesn't. I don't know. And I'll never pretend to understand why people are so hateful and ugly.

"Demons I Get. People Are Crazy." - Dean Winchester

(Dean would be ashamed of all of you.)

[jcmarchi]

Is your iPhone listening to you? Here's what to know... - CyberTalk

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/is-your-iphone-listening-to-you-heres-what-to-know-cybertalk/

Is your iPhone listening to you? Here's what to know... - CyberTalk

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Have you ever found yourself wondering about whether (or not) your iPhone is listening to you? If the phone is on your person nearly 24/7, what is it hearing that you might prefer for someone not to know about or use against you? (For example, that shouting match with your spouse)

As great as the iPhone is – it’s one of the best, if not the best phone around – it’s awkward to feel like you’re continually being overheard by an invisible third-party.

So, what’s really happening? In this article, discover the truth behind iPhone eavesdropping myths, unravel misconceptions and maximize your phone’s potential.

Gain insights into the nuances of iPhone listening (or lack thereof) and see how to protect your privacy in an era rife with hacking and data compromises.

Is your iPhone listening to you?

It’s true that your iPhone might be passively listening, but perhaps not in the lawless, intrusive ways that you might imagine. Apple does not sell data to third-parties for marketing purposes. The company has explicitly stated that:

“The customer is not our product and our business model does not depend on collecting vast amounts of personally identifiable information…,” in response to a 2018 U.S. congressional inquiry.

If that’s the case, why are iPhones listening?

One of the primary reasons as to why iPhone listening occurs is to detect voice commands, like “Hey Siri”.

While highly unlikely due to Apple’s rules and compliance processes, apps could also be “listening”.

When it comes to advertising, the term “listening” really refers to the use of sophisticated machine learning algorithms, which parse apart language to find ad targeting opportunities.

It’s probably not a coincidence if you’ve had a conversation about buying a new car, and shortly thereafter, corresponding advertisements appear.

Note: This isn’t at all common to iPhones, unless they’ve been jailbroken, and typically only occurs on other device types.

What about Siri?

Siri continuously “listens” for the specific “Hey Siri” cue (and for a small number of similar sounds indicating that a person may have attempted to say “Hey Siri”).

Once a person has said “Hey Siri,” the information is largely processed locally; a somewhat recent departure from the past configuration, where information was processed on Apple’s servers.

Is the iPhone listening illegally?

For iPhones, third-party apps are required to obtain explicit user consent when collecting microphone data. At the outset, Apple reviews apps to ensure that they’re compliant.

All apps must go through the Apple Review Process for privacy compliance ahead of being green-lighted for the app store. That said, the process doesn’t guarantee that app developers can’t misbehave at a later point in time.

In other words, in regards to apps, Apple does its best to ensure that iPhones don’t eavesdrop. Accidents could theoretically occur, although the probabilities are slim and they would be clear violations of Apple’s rules.

Is iPhone listening a cause for concern?

Generally, no. If you’re concerned about iPhone listening, note that the newer generations of iPhones have an indicator at the top of the screen that shows when the mic and camera are on.

The light becomes orange when the mic is on. It turns green when the camera is on. This recently added privacy feature assists users in detecting when an app is accessing their device’s systems.

In exceptional circumstances, spyware could be deployed on a phone, resulting in listening. Typically, this only pertains to higher-profile individuals, uniquely targeted individuals, and/or to jailbroken phones.

iPhone listening privacy tips (2024)

If concerned about iPhone privacy, consider the tips below:

1. Shut off the mic for Siri and for individual applications.

To switch off your iPhone’s microphone for Siri, go to Settings > Siri & Search. Then toggle off the following:

Listen for ‘Hey Siri’

Press side button for Siri

Allow Siri when locked

To review permissions and turn off the mic for individual applications, navigate to Settings and then click on individual apps. If you don’t want the mic for that app to remain on, simply toggle the switch.

2. Consider use of a VPN, which will make your device less vulnerable to threats by providing an encrypted, private connection. Do your research and find a reputable VPN provider. Avoid VPN providers who sell your contact information to advertisers. Carefully read through a VPN provider’s privacy policy ahead of agreeing to use their service.

3. Opt for a comprehensive solution like ZoneAlarm mobile security, which uses enterprise-grade technology to protect individuals’ phones and tablets from all kinds of cyber threats.

Related resources

Zero-click iMessage exploits hit iPhones – Read story

The CISO’s Guide to Mobile Device Security – Get eBook

Top mobile security threats and how to prevent them – Learn more

[globallancers]

The Future of Finance: How Fintech Is Winning the Cybersecurity Race

In the cyber age, the financial world has been reshaped by fintech's relentless innovation. Mobile banking apps grant us access to our financial lives at our fingertips, and online investment platforms have revolutionised wealth management. Yet, beneath this veneer of convenience and accessibility lies an ominous spectre — the looming threat of cyberattacks on the financial sector. The number of cyberattacks is expected to increase by 50% in 2023. The global fintech market is expected to reach $324 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 25.2% from 2023 to 2028. This growth of the fintech market makes it even more prone to cyber-attacks. To prevent this there are certain measures and innovations let's find out more about them

Cybersecurity Measures in Fintech

To mitigate the ever-present threat of cyberattacks, fintech companies employ a multifaceted approach to cybersecurity problems and solutions. Here are some key measures:

1. Encryption

Encrypting data at rest and in transit is fundamental to protecting sensitive information. Strong encryption algorithms ensure that even if a hacker gains access to data, it remains unreadable without the decryption keys.

2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification (e.g., passwords, fingerprints, or security tokens) before gaining access to their accounts.

3. Continuous Monitoring

Fintech companies employ advanced monitoring systems that constantly assess network traffic for suspicious activities. This allows for real-time threat detection and rapid response.

4. Penetration Testing

Regular penetration testing, performed by ethical hackers, helps identify vulnerabilities in systems and applications before malicious actors can exploit them.

5. Employee Training

Human error is a significant factor in cybersecurity breaches. Companies invest in cybersecurity training programs to educate employees about best practices and the risks associated with cyber threats.

6. Incident Response Plans

Having a well-defined incident response plan in place ensures that, in the event of a breach, the company can respond swiftly and effectively to mitigate the damage.

Emerging Technologies in Fintech Cybersecurity

As cyber threats continue to evolve, so do cybersecurity technologies in fintech. Here are some emerging technologies that are making a significant impact:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI and machine learning algorithms are used to analyse vast amounts of data and identify patterns indicative of cyber threats. This allows for proactive threat detection and quicker response times.

2. Blockchain

Blockchain technology is employed to enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions. It ensures that transaction records are immutable and cannot be altered by malicious actors.

3. Biometrics

Fintech companies are increasingly adopting biometric authentication methods, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, to provide a higher level of security than traditional passwords.

4. Quantum-Safe Encryption

With the advent of quantum computing, which poses a threat to current encryption methods, fintech companies are exploring quantum-safe encryption techniques to future-proof their security measures.

Conclusion

In the realm of fintech, where trust and security are paramount, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Fintech companies must remain vigilant, employing a combination of advanced digital transformation solutions, employee training, and robust incident response plans to protect sensitive financial data from cyber threats. As the industry continues to evolve, staying one step ahead of cybercriminals will be an ongoing challenge, but one that fintech firms must embrace to ensure their continued success and the safety of their customers' financial well-being.

[algoworks]

Don't let cyber threats take you down - fortify your digital assets with a Digital Immune System! 🔒🛡️ 

Discover the key elements, including threat intelligence, data encryption, and network security, that keep your data safe and secure.

[productiveandfree]

The Future of Ecommerce: Trends and Predictions for 2025

Many trends await the future of ecommerce. With global retail ecommerce sales expected to reach an estimated $6.9 trillion by 2025, online shopping is becoming the new norm.

New technologies and changing consumer behaviors are reshaping how businesses connect with customers.

To stay ahead of the curve, businesses should watch out for key trends and predictions in ecommerce.

In this article, I’ll talk about the seven major trends that will shape the future of ecommerce by 2025. Understanding these changes can help businesses adapt and thrive in a highly competitive and rapidly changing industry.

The Future of Ecommerce: 7 Trends and Predictions to Watch Out For

Around 2.77 billion people are predicted to shop online by 2025, creating many business growth opportunities in ecommerce.

However, this also means more competition and higher expectations from your customers. If you want to succeed, you must stay updated on the following trends shaping the future of ecommerce in 2025.

1. Growing Focus on Enhanced Ecommerce Security

The ecommerce industry isn't a stranger to security challenges, making security a top priority to ensure success. To protect customers from identity theft and other forms of data breaches, online businesses have been putting more emphasis on security.

According to Keeper Security, 92% of IT leaders believe these attacks are happening more often now than in 2023. Additionally, Check Point Research reported a 30% increase in cyber attacks worldwide.

To address this increase in cyber threats, online businesses have added more robust security measures, such as two-factor authentication, data encryption, AI-based fraud detection, and more. New laws, such as The Digital Services Act, have also been implemented to keep customer data safe.

Moreover, the Global Financial Stability Report also warns that the risk of big losses from cyber incidents is rising.

This risk is something that ecommerce businesses have been working to avoid.

2. Increased Adoption of Headless Ecommerce Solutions

Headless ecommerce has become a game-changer in the future of ecommerce. Unlike traditional ecommerce platforms, headless commerce separates the front end (what customers see) from the back end (how everything works) of your website. This approach gives businesses the flexibility to customize their storefronts without impacting the back end.

According to Attrock, businesses are recognizing the benefits of headless ecommerce. It allows faster site speeds, increased customizations, better user experiences, and easier integrations across multiple devices. It also makes it easier to add new features and updates to your website, helping you keep up with the latest trends.

This is in line with a recent Salesforce report stating that 76% of businesses agree that headless ecommerce provides more flexibility to enhance digital experiences.

Furthermore, businesses using headless architecture are growing into new sales channels faster, with 77% doing so compared to only 54% of companies without it.

The headless commerce market is expected to grow at a rate of 22.1%, reaching $5,528.5 million by 2032, up from $751.6 million in 2022. This shows how increasingly this approach is being adopted by ecommerce businesses to stay competitive and meet evolving customer expectations.

3. A Surge in Social Commerce Integration

Social commerce is already popular, but it's going to get even bigger by 2025. The chance to sell through social media is projected to grow three times faster than traditional ecommerce, reaching around $1.2 trillion by 2025.

By then, 20% of all ecommerce sales will come from social commerce, up from 19% in 2024.

As a result, creating engaging social media content will be essential for grabbing attention and boosting sales. With features like one-click checkout and live shopping events, social commerce will keep growing.

With this trend, ecommerce businesses are provided with new ways to reach customers where they already spend most of their time online. However, to leverage this trend, businesses have to use social media benchmarking to see how they compare to competitors and improve their strategies.

4. Growing Emphasis on Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

The future of ecommerce is looking green. Businesses will continue to adopt technologies that support environmental sustainability in 2025.

Consumers are driving this change towards sustainability practices, with a 2023 Buying Green survey revealing that 66% of shoppers consider themselves environmentally conscious.

This means that online brands that reduce their carbon footprints, offer eco-friendly shipping, use sustainable packaging, and prioritize ethical sourcing will appeal to this growing segment.

For instance, the ecommerce brand AllBirds uses sustainable products to reduce its carbon footprint. They utilize wool, tree fiber, sugarcane, and Trino®.

If you want to appeal to these environmentally conscious consumers and boost your brand’s reputation, now is the time to go green and become an eco-friendly business.

5. Rise of Mobile Ecommerce and Shopping Apps

Mobile ecommerce and shopping apps are shaping the future of ecommerce. Mobile ecommerce sales have surged from $2.2 trillion in 2023 to an estimated $3 trillion by 2025.

This significant increase shows how crucial mobile shopping has become over the years.

As more people turn to their phones and tablets to shop, businesses have adopted a mobile-first strategy to succeed in ecommerce marketing and stay competitive. Mobile shopping apps and websites offer unmatched convenience, making them the go-to choice for many consumers.

These websites and apps offer fast load times, easy navigation, and secure payment options. Offering a smooth, reliable mobile experience will be a growing trend well into 2025.

6. Expansion of AI-Driven Hyper-Personalization

AI plays an integral role in the future of ecommerce. By 2030, AI-powered ecommerce solutions are projected to be worth $16.8 billion.

The use of AI tools will continue to grow, allowing ecommerce businesses to deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences by analyzing customer behavior, making recommendations, and optimizing marketing strategies.

Thanks to data availability and smarter algorithms, AI chatbots, which Gartner forecasts will become a major customer service channel within five years, will continue to be utilized to efficiently handle customer queries.

The future of ecommerce will continue to rely on AI to build personalized experiences that boost customer loyalty. For example, Virgin Voyages partnered with Jennifer Lopez to launch Jen A.I., allowing sailors to create custom invites from J.Lo to drive cruise bookings.

7. Increased Use of Augmented Reality (AR) for More Immersive Shopping Experiences

AR will take the future of ecommerce to a new level. By 2025, one-third of American shoppers will have used this technology when shopping online.

AR lets customers try on clothes, see how certain furniture fits in their homes, or test makeup without leaving their houses. It makes consumers feel more confident about their purchases, effectively increasing purchase conversions by 94%.

Major brands like Lowe's already use AR for virtual try-ons and 3D views. For example, Lowe's Holoroom Test Drive lets customers test tools and equipment virtually.

Brands that adopt AR will provide engaging shopping experiences, reducing return rates, and boosting customer satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

The future of ecommerce is bright and full of exciting possibilities. Whether you already have an ecommerce store or planning to have one soon, these trends have a significant impact on how ecommerce businesses operate and how consumers shop.

Remember, the digital world is always evolving, and those who can keep up will reap the rewards. Staying informed and adapting to these changes will be key to success. 

So, get ready for the exciting changes ahead!

Reena Aggarwal

Reena is Director of Operations and Sales at Attrock, a result-driven digital marketing company. With 10+ years of sales and operations experience in the field of e-commerce and digital marketing, she is quite an industry expert. She is a people person and considers the human resources as the most valuable asset of a company. In her free time, you would find her spending quality time with her brilliant, almost teenage daughter and watching her grow in this digital, fast-paced era.

LinkedIn, Twitter

Share in the comments below: Questions go here

[gronteq01]

Comprehensive IT Security Services: Why You Need a Trusted IT Security Company

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, securing your business’s data and IT infrastructure is more important than ever. With cyber threats growing more sophisticated, partnering with a professional IT security services company is essential for protecting your business. This article explores the key services provided by an IT security company, why businesses need them, and how a reliable provider like Gronteq can safeguard your organization from cyber risks.

Comprehensive IT Security Services: Why You Need a Trusted IT Security Company

As businesses become more reliant on digital tools and systems, the threat of cyberattacks has grown significantly. Whether you’re a small startup or a large corporation, protecting your sensitive data and IT infrastructure is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. This is where a professional IT security services company comes in. Their role is to safeguard your business from cyber threats, protect your data, and ensure your systems are running smoothly and securely.

In this article, we will discuss the various IT security services offered by reputable providers, why businesses need these services, and how partnering with a trusted IT security company like Gronteq can help you maintain a secure and resilient digital environment.

1. Understanding the Importance of IT Security

The growing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats are major concerns for businesses worldwide. Hackers, cybercriminals, and malicious insiders are always on the lookout for vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure. From phishing attacks and data breaches to ransomware and DDoS attacks, the risks are constantly evolving.

Without the right IT security services, businesses risk losing valuable data, experiencing system downtime, and suffering reputational damage. Moreover, data protection regulations, such as GDPR and HIPAA, require businesses to implement robust security measures to avoid penalties and fines.

This is where an experienced IT security company can help. By working with a trusted provider, businesses can implement proactive security strategies that prevent attacks before they occur, ensuring a safe, compliant, and resilient online environment.

2. Key IT Security Services Offered by Companies

The scope of IT security services provided by security companies varies, but some common services include:

a. Network Security

Network security involves implementing measures to protect your internal network from unauthorized access, attacks, and data breaches. This includes firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and secure VPNs. With strong network security, your business can defend against external and internal threats.

b. Data Protection and Encryption

Protecting sensitive data is critical to prevent unauthorized access or leaks. IT security agencies provide encryption services to ensure that data is stored and transmitted securely. By implementing data loss prevention (DLP) tools, businesses can safeguard intellectual property, customer information, and financial data from cybercriminals.

c. Vulnerability Management

Vulnerability management involves identifying and addressing weaknesses in your systems before they can be exploited. This includes regular security assessments, penetration testing, and patch management. A thorough vulnerability management program helps keep your business ahead of potential threats.

d. Endpoint Security

With more employees working remotely, endpoint security has become a top priority. This includes securing devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets that access your company’s network. Endpoint security services protect these devices from malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access, ensuring the integrity of your entire IT infrastructure.

e. Incident Response and Disaster Recovery

In the event of a cyberattack or data breach, having a well-defined incident response plan is essential. IT security services companies offer incident response and disaster recovery services to help businesses quickly recover from cyberattacks. This includes identifying the source of the breach, mitigating damage, and restoring normal operations.

f. Managed Security Services

For businesses that lack an in-house security team, managed security services (MSS) are an excellent solution. These services provide 24/7 monitoring, threat intelligence, and proactive response to security incidents. MSS ensures continuous protection for your business without the need for an internal team.

3. Why Your Business Needs IT Security Services

The question remains: why is it so critical for your business to partner with a reliable IT security company? Here are the main reasons:

a. Proactive Threat Prevention

A trusted IT security services company works proactively to protect your business. By continuously monitoring your systems, implementing security protocols, and conducting regular security audits, a professional provider helps to prevent potential attacks before they happen.

b. Protecting Business Reputation

A cyberattack can lead to loss of trust from customers, partners, and stakeholders. With IT security services, your company can protect its reputation and avoid the costly consequences of a data breach.

c. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting your data—it’s also about complying with industry regulations. An IT security company helps ensure that your business complies with relevant laws like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS, avoiding fines and penalties.

d. Cost Savings in the Long Run

While the upfront costs of IT security services may seem significant, they can actually save your business money in the long run. By preventing attacks, reducing downtime, and avoiding the cost of data breaches, investing in security is a smart financial decision.

e. Expertise and Knowledge

Cybersecurity is a complex field that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. A reputable IT security company brings in-depth understanding of the latest threats, tools, and strategies to ensure your business is always protected.

4. How Gronteq Can Help Protect Your Business

At Gronteq, we specialize in providing comprehensive IT security services to businesses of all sizes. Our team of cybersecurity professionals is dedicated to safeguarding your business from cyber threats, ensuring compliance with regulations, and helping you maintain a secure and resilient IT environment.

We offer customized IT security solutions, including network security, data protection, vulnerability management, endpoint security, and disaster recovery. With our proactive approach to cybersecurity and 24/7 monitoring, we ensure your business is always one step ahead of potential threats.

5. Contact Gronteq for Your IT Security Needs

If you’re ready to take your business’s security to the next level, Gronteq is here to help. Our IT security experts are ready to provide tailored solutions that meet your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your business from cyber threats and ensure your IT systems are secure, compliant, and optimized for success.

Conclusion The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and so are the risks that come with it. Partnering with a professional IT security services company like Gronteq ensures your business is well-protected, compliant, and prepared for any challenges that arise. From proactive threat prevention to disaster recovery, our team provides end-to-end security solutions to keep your business safe.

Contact Gronteq today to learn how our IT security services can protect your organization and give you peace of mind knowing your business is secure.

[blacklocksecuritynz]

What Are Top 3 Vulnerability Management Metrics to Measure in 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, staying ahead of potential threats is essential. Companies face a relentless onslaught of security vulnerabilities, and effectively managing these vulnerabilities has become critical for safeguarding data and maintaining regulatory compliance. One of the primary methods to assess the security posture of any organization is through vulnerability management and penetration testing. In 2024, certain key metrics have emerged as essential for effectively managing vulnerabilities, aiding businesses in minimizing risks while optimizing their security strategy.

This article will explore the top three vulnerability management metrics to measure in 2024, focusing on their significance in shaping a robust security program, and highlighting how penetration testing plays an integral role.

1. Vulnerability Detection Rate

The Vulnerability Detection Rate is a metric that reflects how effectively your organization identifies security vulnerabilities within its IT infrastructure. A higher detection rate indicates that the organization has robust tools and processes in place for continuous monitoring and assessment, which is crucial for early-stage vulnerability management.

Why It Matters: In 2024, the growing sophistication of cyber threats makes the Vulnerability Detection Rate a key performance indicator (KPI) for cybersecurity teams. An accurate and high detection rate allows teams to discover potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited. It also helps organizations quantify the effectiveness of their scanning tools, Vulnerability Scanning protocols, and penetration testing procedures.

How to Measure It: The Vulnerability Detection Rate is typically calculated by dividing the number of detected vulnerabilities by the total vulnerabilities present, which can be estimated based on past data and testing results. Organizations should strive for real-time detection capabilities using tools that integrate vulnerability management with penetration testing solutions. This hybrid approach allows for both automated and manual detection of weaknesses across endpoints, applications, and networks.

Penetration Testing's Role: Penetration testing acts as a simulated attack on the system, testing the detection capabilities of an organization. Conducting regular penetration tests helps verify that vulnerabilities are detected accurately and promptly, which can reveal any gaps in detection mechanisms. A comprehensive penetration test offers insights into vulnerabilities that automated tools may overlook, helping cybersecurity teams to refine their detection tools and strategies.

2. Mean Time to Remediation (MTTR)

Mean Time to Remediation (MTTR) is a crucial metric for understanding the efficiency of an organization’s response to identified vulnerabilities. MTTR calculates the average time taken to fix a vulnerability after its detection. Keeping this metric low is essential for preventing the exploitation of vulnerabilities and ensuring that identified threats do not remain in the system long enough to cause harm.

Why It Matters: The faster an organization remediates a vulnerability, the less time attackers have to exploit it. With the increasing rate of zero-day vulnerabilities in 2024, cybersecurity teams must act quickly once vulnerabilities are identified. A short MTTR not only indicates an agile response capability but also helps in meeting regulatory requirements and reducing potential financial or reputational damage.

How to Measure It: To measure MTTR, calculate the time between when a vulnerability is identified and when it is resolved. Divide the total remediation time across all vulnerabilities by the number of resolved vulnerabilities within a specific timeframe. It is best practice to track MTTR by severity level (e.g., high, medium, low), as high-risk vulnerabilities should generally have a shorter MTTR than low-risk ones.

Penetration Testing's Role: Penetration testing supports MTTR by identifying specific weaknesses in systems and applications, thereby guiding prioritized remediation efforts. It helps highlight vulnerabilities that pose the greatest risk, allowing teams to allocate resources effectively and improve response times. When Penetration Testing is conducted regularly, it can also reveal recurring vulnerabilities, helping teams streamline their remediation processes and reduce MTTR.

3. Vulnerability Reopen Rate

The Vulnerability Reopen Rate metric measures the frequency at which previously remediated vulnerabilities reappear, indicating that previous fixes may have been insufficient or temporary. A high reopen rate suggests that there are issues within the patch management or remediation processes, or that vulnerabilities have returned due to configuration changes, software updates, or inadequate fixes.

Why It Matters: In 2024, complex infrastructures and third-party dependencies mean that vulnerabilities can recur due to software updates or overlooked configurations. A high Vulnerability Reopen Rate can indicate a need for improved patching practices, better configuration management, or more thorough penetration testing to verify that vulnerabilities are completely resolved. Reducing the reopen rate not only boosts security posture but also conserves resources by minimizing repetitive work for security teams.

How to Measure It: Calculate the Vulnerability Reopen Rate by dividing the number of vulnerabilities that have reappeared after initial remediation by the total number of vulnerabilities resolved over a given period. Tracking this metric over time helps organizations understand the consistency and effectiveness of their remediation efforts.

Penetration Testing's Role: Penetration testing is critical in validating that vulnerabilities have been properly remediated. After a vulnerability is patched or mitigated, conducting a follow-up penetration test ensures that the issue has been fully addressed. This practice not only helps to keep the Vulnerability Reopen Rate low but also verifies that patches have not inadvertently created new vulnerabilities. Regular penetration tests are instrumental in keeping this metric under control by providing an extra layer of verification and reducing the chances of vulnerability reoccurrence.

The Role of Penetration Testing in Vulnerability Management Metrics

Incorporating penetration testing into vulnerability management goes beyond simply identifying security gaps; it enhances the entire vulnerability management process. Penetration testing, when conducted consistently, provides a real-world perspective on the security posture of an organization, helping cybersecurity teams to accurately assess and improve each metric. Here’s how:

Improving Detection Accuracy: Penetration testing helps assess the accuracy and coverage of detection tools, enabling organizations to fine-tune their scanning and monitoring systems.

Prioritizing Remediation Efforts: By highlighting high-risk vulnerabilities, penetration tests help in prioritizing and reducing MTTR, as they show which areas need immediate attention and streamline the remediation process.

Ensuring Lasting Remediation: Penetration testing verifies that vulnerabilities have been remediated effectively, which in turn helps in maintaining a low Vulnerability Reopen Rate.

Conclusion

In 2024, vulnerability management metrics like Vulnerability Detection Rate, Mean Time to Remediation (MTTR), and Vulnerability Reopen Rate will be pivotal in measuring and improving an organization’s cybersecurity resilience. Penetration testing plays an indispensable role in supporting these metrics, offering a comprehensive approach to identifying, prioritizing, and validating remediation efforts. By focusing on these metrics and integrating regular penetration testing, organizations can bolster their security posture and reduce their risk of cyber-attacks. Emphasizing these metrics helps companies build a proactive and effective vulnerability management strategy, making 2024 a year of fortified defenses against an evolving threat landscape.

[sonampol]

Top Cyber Threats: Key Challenges in Modern Cybersecurity

In today’s increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. As technology advances, so do the tactics employed by cybercriminals. Understanding the top cyber threats is essential for businesses and individuals alike to stay protected from data breaches, identity theft, and financial loss. Here are some of the most significant cybersecurity challenges that organizations face in the modern age.

Cybersecurity is a critical field dedicated to protecting digital assets, sensitive information, and personal privacy from a wide array of cyber threats. As our reliance on digital technologies grows, the need for strong cybersecurity measures becomes even more vital—not only to protect corporate and governmental data but also to preserve individual privacy. The increasing complexity of cyberattacks has led cybersecurity to become one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving areas within technology. Below are key concepts, common threats, and strategies essential to cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity focuses on defending computer systems, networks, and data from various cyber risks, including hacking, data breaches, and malicious software. With the continuous advancement of cyber threats, understanding advanced tactics such as shimming has become increasingly important. Shimming is a technique where attackers insert a "shim"—a piece of malicious code—into a software system to manipulate its behavior without detection. This method enables cybercriminals to bypass security defenses, underscoring the necessity for robust cybersecurity strategies to defend against such sophisticated threats.

1. Phishing AttacksPhishing is one of the most common and effective cyber threats. Attackers send fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that appear to come from legitimate sources to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, or personal identification. These attacks often look highly convincing and can be difficult to identify, making them a constant challenge for both employees and consumers.

2. RansomwareRansomware has grown to be a major concern for businesses worldwide. This type of malware locks a victim’s data or computer system and demands payment in exchange for restoring access. The impact of a ransomware attack can be devastating, with organizations losing important data and facing significant financial and reputational damage. Cybercriminals have even targeted critical infrastructure, such as healthcare systems and government agencies, making it a growing national security threat.

3. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)APTs are prolonged and targeted attacks often carried out by well-funded and skilled hackers, sometimes state-sponsored. These attacks are designed to infiltrate networks quietly and remain undetected for an extended period. APTs are particularly dangerous because they can steal intellectual property, sensitive data, or disrupt operations without being noticed. They require advanced detection tools and expertise to mitigate.

4. Insider ThreatsNot all cyber threats come from external actors. Insider threats, where employees or trusted individuals misuse their access to cause harm, are another significant challenge. This can involve anything from stealing confidential data to sabotaging systems. Managing insider threats requires robust internal security measures, including monitoring employee activities and enforcing strict access controls.

5. Internet of Things (IoT) VulnerabilitiesAs more devices become connected to the internet, the potential attack surface for cybercriminals continues to grow. IoT devices, from smart home gadgets to industrial equipment, often have weak security measures, making them easy targets. Once compromised, these devices can serve as entry points to larger networks, posing significant risks to both individuals and businesses.

In conclusion, as technology evolves, so do cyber threats. Businesses must be proactive in implementing strong cybersecurity measures, such as regular software updates, employee training, and advanced threat detection systems. By understanding and addressing these key threats, organizations can better protect themselves and minimize the risk of a devastating cyberattack.

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The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program – Defense Contractors Must Rapidly Prepare and Implement

The Department of Defense (DoD) has officially launched the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program, which requires federal contractors and subcontractors across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) to comply with strict cybersecurity standards. The CMMC program aims to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in DoD contracts from…

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Understanding Social Engineering: The Art of Manipulating Human Psychology in Cybersecurity

Understanding Social Engineering: The Art of Manipulating Human Psychology in Cybersecurity When it comes to cybersecurity, people often think of firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption. However, one of the most effective ways hackers breach systems isn’t through sophisticated technical hacks – it’s through manipulating human psychology. This tactic is known as social engineering. Social…

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Arik Solomon, Co-Founder & CEO of Cypago – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/arik-solomon-co-founder-ceo-of-cypago-interview-series/

Arik Solomon, Co-Founder & CEO of Cypago – Interview Series

Arik Solomon, Co-Founder and CEO of Cypago, is on a mission to eliminate the hassle of compliance for businesses. Cypago’s Cyber GRC Automation Platform transforms the traditionally manual, time-consuming process of meeting security standards into an efficient, AI-driven workflow. By integrating with existing software stacks, Cypago streamlines compliance from start to finish, making it easier for organizations to stay secure and compliant.

What inspired you and your co-founder to start Cypago, and what initial challenges did you face in bringing the Cyber GRC Automation (CGA) platform to life?

The inspiration for Cypago came from our firsthand experience in the cybersecurity and compliance domains, where we constantly saw the challenge companies faced in keeping up with an evolving landscape of regulations, standards, and cybersecurity threats. These challenges were amplified by the lack of integration between compliance processes and the practical needs of security teams. We realized that by automating these processes, we could simplify compliance management for companies and make it scalable.

One of the initial hurdles we encountered was designing a solution that could balance automation with the flexibility required to cater to the unique needs of different organizations. Compliance frameworks vary widely and rely on data from multiple sources, so we needed to build a platform that was both robust and adaptable. Additionally, getting early buy-in from stakeholders in an emerging sector like Cyber GRC required educating the market on the advantages of Cyber GRC Automation (CGA) over traditional manual compliance tools.

Can you share more about the transition from your role as CTO at EY to founding a startup? What made you take the leap into entrepreneurship?

Transitioning from my role as CTO at EY to founding Cypago was both a natural evolution and a leap of faith. At EY, I gained extensive experience in understanding the complexities of cybersecurity and compliance across various industries. I saw how the manual nature of compliance processes was bogging down teams, eating into budgets, and leaving companies vulnerable to human error and emerging threats.

The shift to entrepreneurship was driven by my desire to solve these problems at scale, with a solution that would redefine how companies approach security and compliance. Partnering with my co-founder Yahav Peri, who shared this vision, made the transition possible and ultimately brought it to life. We were excited by the opportunity to innovate without the typical constraints of a large organization, allowing us to bring our vision for Cypago’s Cyber GRC Automation platform to life.

For readers who are not familiar with these terms, what are GRC solutions and why do they matter?

GRC stands for Governance, Risk, and Compliance. These solutions are designed to help organizations manage and streamline their processes for meeting regulatory requirements, mitigating risks, and ensuring they operate in line with internal and external standards.

GRC solutions are essential because they provide a structured way for organizations to protect themselves against regulatory fines, cyber threats, and reputational risks. In today’s digital world, companies face an overwhelming number of regulatory standards and security requirements. GRC solutions, particularly ones that incorporate automation like Cypago’s platform, reduce the complexity and cost of managing these obligations. This ultimately allows companies to focus on growth, knowing they have a solid foundation for compliance and risk management.

What makes Cypago’s platform distinct from other Cyber GRC solutions, especially with its use of AI and automation?

Cypago’s platform stands out in the crowded Cyber GRC space due to its advanced integration of AI-driven automation. Unlike traditional solutions that rely heavily on manual processes, Cypago streamlines compliance and risk management by automating key workflows, data collection, and analysis. This allows organizations to respond proactively to compliance requirements and potential risks in real time.

The platform’s intelligent automation not only speeds up audit and compliance tasks but also reduces human error, enhances data accuracy, and frees up resources, enabling teams to focus on strategic activities rather than tedious operational work.

How has the recent integration of AI frameworks like the EU AI Act and NIST AI RMF influenced Cypago’s platform capabilities?

Cypago’s integration of modern AI frameworks such as the EU AI Act and the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) has bolstered the platform’s compliance and risk mitigation capabilities.

These frameworks provide guidelines that help ensure that AI is used responsibly, addressing issues related to transparency, bias, and accountability. By incorporating these standards, Cypago’s platform aligns with emerging regulatory requirements and industry best practices, enhancing user trust and compliance with international AI governance. This forward-thinking approach ensures that organizations using Cypago can keep pace with evolving AI legislation while maintaining robust, scalable Cyber GRC practices.

Could you walk us through the role of natural language processing (NLP) in the platform’s chatbot? How does it enhance the compliance process for your users?

Cypago’s platform incorporates advanced natural language processing (NLP) to power its intelligent chatbot, which acts as a virtual compliance assistant. This feature is designed to simplify and streamline the compliance process by transforming complex regulatory language into actionable insights. With NLP, the chatbot can interpret user questions in everyday language and provide contextually relevant responses, facilitating a seamless, user-friendly interaction.

The chatbot leverages NLP to assist with tasks such as retrieving compliance documentation, explaining policy requirements, and guiding users through audit processes. This capability enables users to navigate compliance requirements more efficiently, reducing the need for time-consuming manual research and enhancing the overall compliance experience.

By using NLP to deliver personalized, accurate, and prompt assistance, Cypago’s platform empowers teams to handle compliance with greater confidence and speed, ensuring that they stay informed and prepared in a fast-paced regulatory environment.

With AI compliance gaining momentum, what role do you see AI playing in regulatory frameworks moving forward?

AI has the potential to revolutionize regulatory frameworks by enabling more proactive, adaptive compliance approaches. In a regulatory landscape that’s constantly evolving, specifically within the cybersecurity domain, AI can help detect emerging risks faster, streamline audits, and allow organizations to respond dynamically to changes.

AI will likely play a significant role in monitoring and analyzing data in real time, identifying patterns of non-compliance, and providing predictive insights to prevent issues before they escalate.

How does Cypago’s automation approach address the challenge of maintaining continuous compliance in a constantly evolving threat landscape?

Cypago’s automation approach, anchored in continuous control monitoring, ensures that organizations maintain continuous compliance even as the threat landscape and regulatory environment evolve. By leveraging AI-driven automation, the platform continuously tracks and monitors compliance controls, promptly identifies potential risks, and updates compliance statuses in real-time. This proactive monitoring allows organizations to detect vulnerabilities and respond to changes swiftly, minimizing the need for manual intervention.

Continuous control monitoring also facilitates the seamless integration of new regulations and security frameworks as they arise, keeping organizations aligned with the latest standards. Additionally, Cypago automates the collection and analysis of compliance-related data from various systems, providing a comprehensive and current view of an organization’s compliance posture.

This holistic approach reduces the time and effort required for compliance management and enhances the organization’s ability to swiftly adapt to emerging risks and regulatory changes, ensuring a robust, agile compliance strategy.

What are the biggest risks or challenges you foresee in AI compliance, and how is Cypago preparing to address them?

One of the biggest challenges is the ambiguity of regulatory standards, which vary widely across jurisdictions and industries. As a result, companies are left navigating a patchwork of requirements, increasing the complexity of maintaining compliance. Additionally, AI’s complexity and opacity make it difficult to explain and validate AI-driven decisions, a growing concern for regulators focused on transparency and accountability.

At Cypago, we’re building solutions that address these challenges by creating transparency in compliance and cyber risk management processes and incorporating tools that can adapt to new standards. Our platform is designed to offer companies real-time insights and automated assessments that reduce the guesswork involved in managing AI-related compliance.

By focusing on adaptability and transparency, we aim to help organizations stay compliant even as regulatory expectations evolve.

How do you envision Cypago’s platform evolving as new AI-driven security regulations emerge globally?

We see Cypago’s platform evolving to include more advanced capabilities for monitoring, managing, and documenting AI compliance in an ongoing and continuous fashion. We’re investing in capabilities that will allow our platform to adapt to new regulatory demands seamlessly, providing companies with an intuitive, automated way to ensure their AI deployments meet the highest standards of compliance.

By staying at the forefront of AI compliance technology, Cypago aims to be a trusted partner for organizations worldwide, enabling them to confidently leverage AI while remaining aligned with global standards.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit Cypago.

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