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How to Protect Yourself from Vishing

“Vishing” occurs when criminals cold-call victims and attempt to persuade them to divulge personal information over the phone. These scammers are generally after credit card numbers and personal identifying information, which can then be used to commit financial theft. Vishing can occur both on your landline phone or via your cell phone.

The term is a combination of “voice,” and “phishing,” which is the use of spoofed emails to trick targets into clicking malicious links. Rather than email, vishing generally relies on automated phone calls that instruct targets to provide account numbers. Techniques scammers use to get your phone numbers include:

  • Data Breaches: Scammers often obtain phone numbers from data breaches where personal information is exposed and sold on the dark web.
  • Public Records: Phone numbers can be found in public records, such as court documents, voter registration lists, and property records, which are often accessible online.
  • Social Media: Many people share their contact information on social media profiles or posts, making it easy for scammers to collect phone numbers.
  • Online Surveys and Contests: Scammers create fake online surveys or contests that require participants to enter their phone numbers, which are then harvested for vishing.
  • Dumpster Diving: Physical documents thrown away without shredding, such as old phone bills or bank statements, can provide scammers with phone numbers. Once a visher has the list, he can program the numbers into his system for a more targeted attack.
  • Wardialing: A visher uses an automated system to target specific area codes with a phone call involving local or regional banks or credit unions. When someone answers the phone a generic or targeted recording begins, requesting that the listener enter a bank account, credit, or debit card number and PIN.

Once vishers have phone numbers, they employ various strategies to deceive their targets and obtain valuable personal information:

  • VoIP: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) facilitates vishing by enabling vishers to easily spoof caller IDs, use automated dialing systems, and leverage AI-powered voice manipulation, all while operating from virtually anywhere with an internet connection. This combination of technologies makes it easier for scammers to appear legitimate and efficiently target numerous victims.
  • Caller ID Spoofing: Caller ID spoofing works by manipulating the caller ID information that appears on the recipient’s phone, making it seem as though the call is coming from a trusted or local source. Scammers use specialized software or VoIP services to alter the displayed number, which can mimic the number of a reputable institution, such as a bank or government agency.
  • Social Engineering: In live calls, vishers use social engineering techniques to build trust and manipulate the target into divulging personal information. They might pose as customer service representatives, tech support agents, or officials from financial institutions to convince you to hand over personal information.
  • Voice Manipulation Technology: Advanced AI-powered voice manipulation tools can mimic the voices of known individuals or create convincing synthetic voices, adding credibility to the call.
  • Urgency and Threats: Vishers often create a sense of urgency or fear, claiming immediate action is required to prevent serious consequences, such as account closure, legal action, or financial loss.

To protect yourself from vishing scams, you should:

  • Educate Yourself: Knowledge is the key to defending yourself from vishing. The more you understand it, the better off you’ll be, so read up on vishing incidents. As this crime becomes more sophisticated, you’ll want to stay up to date.
  • Use Call Blocking Tools: Utilize call blocking and caller ID spoofing detection tools offered by your phone service provider or third-party apps to filter out potential scam calls.
  • Be Skeptical of Caller ID: With phone spoofing, caller ID is no longer trustworthy. Since caller ID can be tampered with, don’t let it offer a false sense of security.
  • Do Not Share Personal Information: Never provide personal information, such as Social Security numbers, credit card details, or passwords, to unsolicited callers.
  • End the Call: If you receive a phone call from a person or a recording requesting personal information, hang up. If the call purports to be coming from a trusted organization, call that entity directly to confirm their request.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: Call your bank and report any fraud attempts immediately, noting what was said, what information was requested, and, if possible, the phone number or area code of the caller. Also report any suspicious calls to relevant authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to help prevent others from falling victim to the same scams.

Staying vigilant and informed is your best defense against vishing scams. By verifying caller identities, being skeptical of unsolicited requests for personal information, and using call-blocking tools, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these deceptive practices. Additionally, investing in identity theft protection services can provide an extra layer of security. These services monitor your personal information for suspicious activity and offer assistance in recovering from identity theft, giving you peace of mind in an increasingly digital world. Remember, proactive measures and awareness are key to safeguarding your personal information against vishing threats.

The post How to Protect Yourself from Vishing appeared first on McAfee Blog.

How To Prevent Your Emails From Being Hacked

My mother recently turned 80, so of course a large celebration was in order. With 100 plus guests, entertainment, and catering to organise, the best way for me to keep everyone updated (and share tasks) was to use Google Docs. Gee, it worked well. My updates could immediately be seen by everyone, the family could access it from all the devices, and it was free to use! No wonder Google has a monopoly on drive and document sharing.

But here’s the thing – hackers know just how much both individuals and businesses have embraced Google products. So, it makes complete sense that they use reputable companies such as Google to devise phishing emails that are designed to extract our personal information. In fact, the Google Docs phishing scam was widely regarded as one of the most successful personal data extraction scams to date. They know that billions of people worldwide use Google so an invitation to click a link and view a document does not seem like an unreasonable email to receive. But it caused so much grief for so many people.

It’s All About Phishing

Emails designed to trick you into sharing your personal information are a scammer’s bread and butter. This is essentially what phishing is. It is by far the most successful tool they use to get their hands on your personal data and access your email.

‘But why do they want my email logins?’ – I hear you ask. Well, email accounts are what every scammer dreams of – they are a treasure trove of personally identifiable material that they can either steal or exploit. They could also use your email to launch a wide range of malicious activities from spamming and spoofing to spear phishing. Complicated terms, I know but in essence these are different types of phishing strategies. So, you can see why they are keen!!

But successful phishing emails usually share a few criteria which is important to know. Firstly, the email looks like it has been sent from a legitimate company e.g. Microsoft, Amex, or Google. Secondly, the email has a strong ‘call to action’ e.g. ‘your password has been changed, if this is not the case, please click here’. And thirdly, the email does not seem too out of place or random from the potential victim’s perspective.

What To Do To Prevent Your Email Being Hacked?

Despite the fact that scammers are savvy tricksters, there are steps you can take to maximise the chances your email remains locked away from their prying eyes. Here’s what I suggest:

  1. Don’t Fall Victim to a Phishing Scam

Never respond to an unexpected email or website that asks you for personal information or your login details no matter how professional it looks. If you have any doubts, always contact the company directly to verify.

  1. Protect Yourself!

Make sure you have super-duper internet security software that includes all the bells and whistles. Not only does internet security software McAfee+ include protection for daily browsing but it also has a password manager, a VPN, and a social privacy manager that will lock down your privacy settings on your social media accounts. A complete no-brainer!

  1. Say No to Public Wi-Fi and Public Computers

Avoid using public Wi-Fi to log into your email from public places. It takes very little effort for a hacker to position themselves between you and the connection point. So, it’s entirely possible for them to be in receipt of all your private information and logins which clearly you don’t want. If you really need to use it, invest in a Virtual Private Network (VPN) which will ensure everything you share via Wi-Fi will be encrypted. Your McAfee+ subscription includes a VPN.

Public computers should also be avoided even just to ‘check your email’. Not only is there a greater chance of spyware on untrusted computers but some of them sport key-logging programs which can both monitor and record the keys you strike on the keyboard – a great way of finding out your password!

  1. Passwords, Passwords, Passwords

Ensuring each of your online accounts has its own unique, strong, and complex password is one of the best ways of keeping hackers out of your life. I always suggest at least 10-12 characters with a combination of upper and lower case letters, symbols, and numbers. A crazy nonsensical sentence is a great option here but better still is a password manager that will remember and generate passwords that no human could! A password manager is also part of your McAfee+ online security pack.

What To Do If Your Email Is Hacked?

Even if you have taken all the necessary steps to protect your email from hackers, there is the chance that your email logins may be leaked in a data breach. A data breach happens when a company’s data is accessed by scammers and customers’ personal information is stolen. You may remember the Optus, Medibank and Latitude hacks of 2022/23?

If you have had your personal information stolen, please be assured that there are steps you can take to remedy this. The key is to act fast. Check out my recent blog post here for everything you need to know.

So, next time you’re organising a big gathering don’t hesitate to use Google Docs to plan or Microsoft Teams to host your planning meetings. While the thought of being hacked might make you want to withdraw, please don’t. Instead, cultivate a questioning mindset in both yourself and your kids, and always have a healthy amount of suspicion when going about your online life. You’ve got this!!

Till next time,
Stay safe!
Alex

The post How To Prevent Your Emails From Being Hacked appeared first on McAfee Blog.

U.S. Treasury Sanctions Russian Money Launderer in Cybercrime Crackdown

The U.S. Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions against a 37-year-old Russian woman for taking part in the laundering of virtual currency for the country's elites and cybercriminal crews, including the Ryuk ransomware group. Ekaterina Zhdanova, per the department, is said to have facilitated large cross border transactions to assist Russian individuals to gain access to Western financial

Celebrities Are Lures For Scammers

By: McAfee

In the age of digital data and Internet access, the potential for scams is more significant than ever. These scams often involve leveraging popular search queries to trap unsuspecting netizens into their malicious schemes. Among the top searches in the online world, celebrities hold a prime spot. Through this guide, we aim to shed light on how scammers take advantage of the global fascination with celebrities to target their potential victims.

As digital users, most of us are likely well-acquainted with the phrase “Just Google it.” The search engine has become a go-to source for any information ranging from essential daily needs to entertainment gossip. But it’s crucial to remember that while you’re in pursuit of data, scammers are in search of their next victim.

Celebrity Bait: The Evolution of Modern Scams

Scammers have significantly evolved with the advancement of technology. They’ve mastered the art of creating fake or infected websites that can harm your computer systems, extract your financial information, or even steal your identity. Their strategies often include luring victims through popular searches, such as the latest Twitter trends, breaking news stories, major world events, downloads, or even celebrity images and gossip. The higher the popularity of the search, the greater the risk of encountering harmful results.

McAfee has conducted research for six consecutive years on popular celebrities to reveal which ones are riskiest to search for online. For instance, Emma Watson outplaced Heidi Klum as the most dangerous celebrity to look up online. Interestingly, it was the first year that the top 10 list comprised solely of women. Cybercriminals commonly exploit the names of such popular celebrities to lead users to websites loaded with malicious software, consequently turning an innocent search for videos or pictures into a malware-infected nightmare.

Dig Deeper: Emma Watson Video Scam: Hackers Use Celeb’s Popularity to Unleash Viruses 

The Lure of “Free”

Scammers are well aware of the allure the word “free” holds for most Internet users. They cleverly exploit this to get your attention and draw you into their traps. For instance, when you search for “Beyonce” or “Taylor Swift” followed by prompts like “free downloads”, “Beyonce concert photos”, or “Taylor Swift leaked songs”, you expose yourself to potential online threats aiming to steal your personal information. It’s always prudent to maintain a healthy level of skepticism when encountering offers that seem too good to be true, especially those labeled as “free.”

While the internet can be a dangerous playground, it doesn’t mean that you cannot protect yourself effectively. Using common sense, double-checking URLs, utilizing safe search plugins, and having comprehensive security software are some strategies to help ensure your online safety. This guide aims to provide you with insights and tools to navigate the online world without falling prey to its many hidden dangers.

Practical Tips To Guard Against Celebrity Scams

Truth be told, the responsibility for online safety lies primarily with the user. Just as you would not walk into any shady-looking place in real life, it requires a similar instinct to avoid shady sites while browsing online. One important piece of advice – if something appears too good to be true, in all probability, it is. So, take note of these practical tips to help you guard against celebrity scams and other online threats:

  • Exercise Skepticism: The first line of defense against online scams is skepticism. If something seems too good to be true, chances are it probably is. Be highly cautious when encountering online content that promises unbelievable giveaways, jaw-dropping discounts, or exclusive access to celebrities. Scammers often use these enticing offers to lure unsuspecting victims.
  • Inspect Web Addresses: Take a careful look at the web address you are directed to. For instance, if you are searching for Amazon.com but are taken to “Amazzon.cn,” be alert. This could be a phishing site looking to steal your information.

Dig Deeper: How to Tell Whether a Website Is Safe or Unsafe

  • Install Safe Search Plugins: To bolster your online safety, consider installing safe search plugins such as McAfee Web Advisor software. These plugins integrate with your web browser and provide real-time safety ratings for websites that appear in your search results. They act as a virtual safety net, warning you about potentially harmful or deceptive sites before you click on them.
  • Verify Celebrity Accounts: When interacting with celebrity content or profiles on social media platforms, take a moment to verify their authenticity. Look for verified badges or check marks that indicate the account is genuine. Celebrities often have official accounts that are authenticated by the platform.
  • Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common online scams and tactics used by cybercriminals. Knowledge is a powerful defense. Familiarize yourself with the latest scams and phishing techniques to recognize and avoid potential threats.
  • Regularly Update Software: Keep your operating system, web browsers, and security software up to date. Software updates often contain important security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities

Dig Deeper: The Big Reason Why You Should Update Your Browser (and How to Do It)

Why Comprehensive Security Software is Essential

Having comprehensive security software installed on your devices is another crucial step towards preventing scams. Good antivirus software can protect against the latest threats, alert you about unsafe websites, and even detect phishing attempts. Furthermore, always keep your security software and all other software updated. Cybercriminals are known to exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to infiltrate your devices and steal your data.

Apart from ensuring you have security software, be cautious about what you download on your devices. Trojans, viruses, and malware are often hidden in downloadable files, especially in sites that offer ‘free’ content. Cybercriminals tempting users to download infected files often use popular celebrity names. Therefore, download wisely and from reputed sources.

McAfee Pro Tip: Before committing to a comprehensive security plan, it’s crucial to evaluate your security protection and analyze your requirements. This proactive stance forms the bedrock for crafting strong cybersecurity measures that cater precisely to your unique needs and potential vulnerabilities. For more information about our acclaimed security solutions, explore our range of products

Final Thoughts

In the digital world, where information and entertainment are available at our fingertips, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against scams, especially those involving celebrities. By exercising prudent online practices like scrutinizing URLs, using safe search plugins, and installing comprehensive security software, we can significantly reduce our risk of falling prey to these scams.

It’s imperative to understand that the popularity of a search term or trend is directly proportional to the risk it carries. So next time, before you search for your favorite celebrity, remember, the more famous the celebrity, the greater the risk. Together with McAfee, let’s promote safer browsing practices and contribute to a safer online community for all.

The post Celebrities Are Lures For Scammers appeared first on McAfee Blog.

What Makes My Passwords Vulnerable?

By: McAfee

One of the essential aspects of digital security resides in the strength of our passwords. While they are the most convenient and effective way to restrict access to our personal and financial information, the illusion of a fully secure password does not exist. The reality is that we speak in terms of less or more secure passwords. From a practical perspective, we must understand the behind-the-scenes actions that could potentially compromise our passwords and consequently, our digital lives.

Unfortunately, most users frequently overlook this crucial part of their digital existence. They remain largely ignorant of numerous common techniques that hackers employ to crack passwords, leading to the potential loss of personal details, financial information, or even identity theft. Therefore, this blog aims to enlighten readers on how they might be unknowingly making their passwords vulnerable.

Common Techniques for Cracking Passwords

Passwords serve as the first line of defense against unauthorized access to our online accounts, be it email, social media, banking, or other sensitive platforms. However, the unfortunate reality is that not all passwords are created equal, and many individuals and organizations fall victim to password breaches due to weak or compromised credentials. Let’s explore the common techniques for cracking passwords, and learn how to stay one step ahead in the ongoing battle for online security.

Dictionary Attacks

In the world of cyber-attacks, dictionary attacks are common. This approach relies on using software that plugs common words into the password fields in an attempt to break in. It’s an unfortunate fact that free online tools exist to make this task almost effortless for cybercriminals. This method spells doom for passwords that are based on dictionary words, common misspellings, slang terms, or even words spelled backward. Likewise, using consecutive keyboard combinations such as qwerty or asdfg is equally risky. An excellent practice to deflect this attack is to use unique character combinations that make dictionary attacks futile.

Besides text-based passwords, these attacks also target numeric passcodes. When over 32 million passwords were exposed in a breach, nearly 1% of the victims used ‘123456’ as their password. Close on its heels, ‘12345’ was the next most popular choice, followed by similar simple combinations. The best prevention against such attacks is avoiding predictable and simple passwords.

Dig Deeper: Cracking Passwords is as Easy as “123”

Cracking Security Questions

While security questions help in password recovery, they also present a potential vulnerability. When you forget your password and click on the ‘Forgot Password’ link, the website generally poses a series of questions to verify your identity. The issue here is that many people use easily traceable personal information such as names of partners, children, other family members, or pets as their answers, some of which can be found on social media profiles with little effort. To sidestep this vulnerability, it’s best not to use easily accessible personal information as the answer to security questions.

McAfee Pro Tip: Exercise caution when sharing content on social media platforms. Avoid making all your personal information publicly accessible to thwart hackers from gathering sensitive details about you. Learn more about the dangers of oversharing on social media here.

Password Reuse Across Multiple Platforms

A common mistake that many internet users make is reusing the same password for multiple accounts. This practice is dangerous as if one data breach compromises your password, the hackers can potentially gain access to other websites using the same login credentials. According to a report published by LastPass in 2022, a recent breach revealed a shocking password reuse rate of 31% among its victims. Hence, using unique passwords for each of your accounts significantly reduces the risk associated with password reuse.

Moreover, it’s also advisable to keep changing your passwords regularly. While this might seem like a hassle, it is a small price to pay for ensuring your digital security. Using a password manager can help you remember and manage different passwords for different websites.

Social Engineering

Social Engineering is a non-technical strategy that cybercriminals use, which relies heavily on human interaction and psychological manipulation to trick people into breaking standard security procedures. They lure their unsuspecting victims into revealing confidential data, especially passwords. Therefore, vigilance and skepticism are invaluable weapons to have in your arsenal to ward off such attacks.

The first step here would be not to divulge your password to anyone, no matter how trustworthy they seem. You should also be wary of unsolicited calls or emails asking for your sensitive information. Remember, legitimate companies will never ask for your password through an email or a phone call.

Methods to Enhance Password Security

Despite the vulnerabilities attached to passwords, much can be done to enhance their security. For starters, creating a strong password is the first line of defense. To achieve this, you need to use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Making the password long, at least 12 to 15 characters, significantly improves its strength. It’s also advisable to avoid using common phrases or strings of common words as passwords- they can be cracked through advanced versions of dictionary attacks.

In addition to creating a strong password, adopting multi-factor authentication can greatly enhance your account security. This technology requires more than one form of evidence to verify your identity. It combines something you know (your password), something you have (like a device), and something you are (like your fingerprint). This makes it more difficult for an attacker to gain access even if they have your password.

Dig Deeper: 15 Tips To Better Password Security

Future of Passwords

The future of passwords looks promising. Scientists and tech giants are working relentlessly to develop stronger and more efficient access control tools. Biometrics, dynamic-based biometrics, image-based access, and hardware security tokens are some of the emerging technologies promising to future-proof digital security. With biometrics, users will no longer need to remember complex passwords as access will be based on unique personal features such as fingerprints or facial recognition.

Another promising direction is the use of hardware security tokens, which contain digital certificates to authenticate the user. These tokens can be used in combination with a password to provide two-factor authentication. This makes it more difficult for an attacker to gain access as they would need both your token and your password. While these technologies are still developing, they suggest a future where access control is more secure and user-friendly.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, while there’s no such thing as a perfectly secure password, much can be done to enhance their security. Understanding the common techniques for cracking passwords, such as dictionary attacks and security questions’ exploitation, is the first step towards creating more secure passwords. Using unique complex passwords, combined with multi-factor authentication and software tools like McAfee’s True Key, can greatly improve the security of your accounts.

The future of passwords looks promising with the development of biometrics and hardware security tokens. Until then, it’s crucial to adopt the best password practices available to protect your digital life. Remember, your online security is highly dependent on the strength and uniqueness of your passwords, so keep them complex, unique, and secure.

The post What Makes My Passwords Vulnerable? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

How Secure is Your Car’s Computer?

By: McAfee

In the modern era, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. Our cars are no longer just pieces of mechanical engineering but have evolved into highly advanced machines equipped with state-of-the-art computer systems. From engine performance to preventive maintenance and from passenger comfort to safety assistance, the computer software in our cars control a vast array of operations.

However, just like any other technological device, car computer systems aren’t immune to cyber threats. Cybersecurity attacks on cars can pose serious safety threats and privacy issues, with hackers potentially taking control of vehicle functions or stealing personal data. This brings us to an essential question – how secure is your car’s computer software?

Understanding the Threat Landscape

There are several possible instances where a cyber attack could take place. For example, software vulnerabilities could allow hackers to access the car’s system and manipulate its operations. Additionally, insecure network interfaces can be exploited to introduce malicious code or extract sensitive information. Thus, understanding where these vulnerabilities lie is the first step towards enhancing your car’s computer software security.

The Rise of Connected Cars

With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), our cars are becoming more connected than ever before. Modern vehicles have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, GPS navigation systems, and even mobile applications allowing us to interact remotely with our cars. While these features enhance convenience and improve driving experiences, they also introduce new vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.

Just as your smartphone or computer can be attacked by malware or hackers, so can your car’s computer system. Sophisticated cybercriminals can potentially breach the car’s software to manipulate vehicle functions, steal personal data, or even take complete control of the vehicle. The threat is even greater with autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles that rely heavily on software systems.

The Reality of Car Hacking

Car hacking may seem like a concept straight out of a science fiction movie, but it’s a harsh reality in today’s technologically advanced world. Various demonstrations by security researchers have proven the vulnerability of car computer systems. In some cases, hackers could remotely kill a car’s engine, disable brakes, or take control of steering — all of these while the car was in motion.

The risk doesn’t stop at vehicle control. Many car owners sync their smartphones with their car systems, allowing access to personal data such as contacts, messages, or even GPS history. A successful breach could give hackers access to this sensitive information, resulting in privacy issues or identity theft.

Keeping Your Car’s Computer Software Secure

Car manufacturers play a crucial role in ensuring the cybersecurity of their vehicles. They are responsible for designing and implementing security measures right from the initial stages of vehicle design. This includes adopting secure coding practices, conducting regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, and providing regular software updates to address any identified security flaws.

At McAfee, we are actively collaborating with various car manufacturers to help identify potential weak points in their vehicle computer systems. By proactively addressing these vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, we aim to better safeguard our customers’ vehicles against potential cyber threats.

The Importance of Regular Software Updates

Just like your smartphone or computer, the software in your car needs regular updates. These updates not only provide new features and enhancements but also patch security vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Ignoring these updates can leave your car’s computer system open to potential cyber-attacks.

Ensuring your vehicle’s software is up-to-date is always a good practice. Most modern cars will notify you when a software update is available, or you can check with your car manufacturer or dealership. While it may seem like a hassle, updating your car’s software can go a long way in keeping it secure.

Practical Steps Towards Car Computer Software Security

While car manufacturers are responsible for creating secure systems, users also share the responsibility for maintaining the security of their vehicle’s computer software. Keeping up-to-date with the fast-paced progress in cybersecurity can help in preventing possible threats.

Adopting Defensive Driving For Your Car’s Computer

Just as defensive driving helps you anticipate potential hazards on the road, adopting a defensive mindset towards your car’s computer software can help protect it against potential cyber threats. Familiarize yourself with your car’s digital features and understand what each does. Engage with these systems conscientiously and avoid reckless behavior, such as downloading suspicious apps or clicking on suspicious links that may appear on your car’s infotainment system.

You should also consider using a strong, unique password for any connected apps or services you use with your car. Many hacking attempts are made possible because users re-use passwords across multiple services, making it easier for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access.

Using Antivirus and Firewalls

While it may seem odd to think of installing antivirus software or a firewall in your car, these traditional computer protection methods could soon become standard practice in vehicle cybersecurity. Just like how these tools protect your computer or smartphone, they can also safeguard your car’s computer system by detecting and blocking potential threats.

Some car manufacturers and cybersecurity companies are already exploring the development of such protective tools specifically for cars. Until these become widely available, you can reduce risk by being cautious about what devices you connect to your car and what data you share through its systems.

The Future of Car Software Security

The future of car software security is evolving with the advancement in technology. Car manufacturers and cybersecurity companies continually work together to create robust security systems and innovate techniques to prevent potential threats.

Towards More Secure Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, represent the next frontier in vehicle technology. They rely heavily on software systems to function, making them prime targets for potential cyberattacks. However, they also present a unique opportunity to develop more advanced security measures.

Several autonomous vehicle manufacturers are at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, integrating robust security measures into their cars’ software right from the design phase. These include advanced encryption methods, intrusion detection systems, and even artificial intelligence that can learn and adapt to new threats. While these solutions aren’t foolproof, they represent important steps towards a more secure future for autonomous vehicles.

Increased Regulatory Oversight

As cars become more connected, regulatory authorities worldwide are beginning to note the associated security risks. New laws and regulations are being developed to ensure car manufacturers take cybersecurity seriously and have measures in place to safeguard their customers’ data and safety.

For example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released cybersecurity best practices for modern vehicles in the United States. Such guidelines aim to standardize security measures across the auto industry and ensure all manufacturers are committed to protecting their customers’ security.

Final thoughts

Advancements in car computer software have transformed our driving experiences, offering increased convenience and performance. However, with these benefits come new cybersecurity challenges. As cars become more connected and autonomous, the threat landscape expands, highlighting the urgent need for robust vehicle cybersecurity measures.

Securing your car’s computer software requires awareness, proactive behavior, and the adoption of new security technology. Car manufacturers, security experts, and regulatory authorities all have a role to play in this evolving field. However, as an individual, staying informed about potential risks and remaining vigilant in your usage of digital car features is a crucial first step towards protecting your car and your data from cyber threats.

Remember, security is a continuous journey, not a destination. As such, we at McAfee are committed to staying ahead of the curve and providing you with the information, tools, and assistance you need to navigate the world of car computer software security safely and confidently.

The post How Secure is Your Car’s Computer? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

The Future of Work: How Technology & the WFH Landscape Are Making an Impact

By: McAfee

As of the writing of this article, the height of the pandemic seems like a distant but still vivid dream. Sanitizing packages, sparse grocery shelves, and video conferencing happy hours are things of the past for the majority of the population. Thank goodness.

A “new normal” society is adapting to today’s working culture. The work landscape changed significantly since 2020, and it might never return to what it once was. In 2022, workers spent an average 3.5 days in the office per week, which is 30% below the prepandemic in-office average.1

The work-from-home movement is likely here to stay, to the joy of employees seeking a better work-life balance and flexibility; however, some responsibility does fall upon people like you to secure home offices to protect sensitive company information.

To make sure you’re not the weak cyber link in your company’s security, make sure to follow these three tips for a secure home office.

1. Lock Your Screen, Stow Your Device

When you’re not physically in front of your work computer, best practices dictate that you lock the screen or put your device to sleep. No matter how much you trust your family, roommates, or the trustworthy-looking person seated next to you at a café, your company device houses all kinds of corporate secrets. A stray glance from the wrong person could put that information’s secrecy in jeopardy. Plus, imagine your cat walking across your keyboard or a toddler mashing your mouse, deleting hours’ worth of work. Disastrous.

Then, when you’re done with work for the day, stow your device in a secure location, preferably a drawer with a lock. Even if your work computer is 10 times faster and sleeker than your personal laptop, keep each device in its designated sphere in your life: work devices only for work, personal devices only for personal activities.

2. Secure Your Home Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi networks that are not password protected invite anyone off the street to surf on your network and eavesdrop on your online activities. A stranger sneaking on to your home Wi-Fi could be dangerous to your workplace. There would be very little stopping a stranger from spying on your connected work devices and spreading confidential information onto the dark web or leaking company secrets to the media.

There are a few steps you can take to secure your home office’s internet connection. First, make sure to change the default name and password of your router. Follow password best practices to create a strong first defense. For your router name, choose an obscure inside joke or a random pairing of nouns and adjectives. It’s best to omit your address and your real name as the name of your router, because that could alert a cybercriminal that that network belongs to you. Better yet, you can hide your router completely from strangers and only make it searchable to people who know the exact name of your network.

For an additional layer of protection, connect to a virtual private network (VPN). Your company may offer a corporate VPN. If not, signing up for your own VPN is easy. A VPN encrypts the traffic coming in and going out of your devices making it nearly impossible for a cybercriminal to burst into your online session and see what’s on your screen.

3. Take Your Security Training Seriously

The scenarios outlined in your company’s security training may seem far-fetched, but the concepts of those boring corporate videos actually happen! For example, the huge Colonial Pipeline breach in 2021 originated from one employee who didn’t secure the company’s VPN with multifactor authentication (MFA).2 Cutting small corners like disabling MFA – which is such a basic and easy-to-use security measure – can have dire consequences.

Pay attention to your security training and make sure to follow all company cybersecurity rules and use security tools as your IT team intends. For example, if your company requires that everyone use a password manager, a corporate VPN, and multi-factor authentication, do so! And use them correctly every workday!

Secure Home Office, Secure Home

These tips are essential to a secure home office, but they’re also applicable to when you’re off the clock. Password- or passcode-protecting your personal laptop, smartphone, and tablet keeps prying eyes out of your devices, which actually hold more personally identifiable information (PII) than you may think. Password managers, a secure router, VPNs, and safe browsing habits will go a long way toward maintaining your online privacy.

To fill in the cracks to better protect your home devices and your PII, partner with McAfee+. McAfee+ includes a VPN, safe browsing tool, identity monitoring and remediation services, a password manager, and more for a more secure digital life.

In one global survey, 68% of people prefer hybrid work models, and nearly three-quarters of companies allow employees to work from home some of the time.3,4 The flexibility afforded by hybrid work and 100% work-from-home policies is amazing. Cutting out the time and cost of commuting five days a week is another bonus. Let’s make at-home work a lasting and secure way of professional life!

1McKinsey Global Institute, “How hybrid work has changed the way people work, live, and shop

2The Hacker News, “Hackers Breached Colonial Pipeline Using Compromised VPN Password

3World Economic Forum, “Hybrid working: Why there’s a widening gap between leaders and employees

4International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans, “Employee Benefits Survey: 2022 Results

 

The post The Future of Work: How Technology & the WFH Landscape Are Making an Impact appeared first on McAfee Blog.

USB Drives – Protecting Your Humble Workhorse from Malware and Loss

By: McAfee

The humble USB drive—the workhorse of students, professionals, and everyday computer users. No wonder hackers put USB drives in their crosshairs. 

Why such a target? All the things that make USB drives attractive to us make them attractive to hackers. They’re inexpensive, portable, and often swap between users. Taken together, that creates the perfect medium for hosting and distributing malware. 

Likewise, USB drives can get lost or stolen quite easily. An absentminded or careless moment could put sensitive information at risk. 

However, that’s not to say you should avoid using USB drives. Not at all. In fact, you can use them securely by taking a few straightforward steps. 

How to protect your USB drive from malware and loss 

Encrypt your USB drive.

Encryption gives you huge peace of mind in the event you lose your USB drive. It prevents others from accessing the data and files on it by scrambling them. Only a person with the password can access them. Windows users can check out this “how to” article on encryptionApple users can learn about encryption on their support site as well.  

Purchase a USB drive with encryption built in.

If you’d rather skip those steps, you can purchase a USB drive that uses hardware-based encryption built in. These drives cost a little more, yet they more than make up for that in the protection that they offer.  

Keep your USB drive on you.

Physical security is important too. You can prevent loss and theft by toting around your drive in your pocket, bag, or purse. Locking it away in a secure location while you’re not using it stands as a solid option as well. 

Mind your sharing.

You never know what malware might be lurking on someone else’s device. Sharing a USB drive with someone else can help malware make the jump from their device to yours. Think twice before sharing. 

Watch out for USB devices in the wild.

Don’t put it past hackers to load a USB drive with malware in the hopes that someone will pick it up. In fact, several large malware campaigns got their start by mailing “free” USB drives to thousands and thousands of households, businesses, and government agencies. 

Disable AutoPlay.

On Windows computers, you can prevent USB drives from automatically running any files. Some malware will run when the drive gets inserted into the device. Head to Settings > Devices > AutoPlay to disable that feature.  

Deleting isn’t enough—shred your old files.

Deleting a file doesn’t erase data from a drive. It makes space available on a drive, so that old data might still be there—and recoverable. Comprehensive online protection like ours includes a file shredder that will completely erase old data and files. 

Use online protection software.

Malware can easily make its way onto a USB drive. Comprehensive online protection can spot, block, and remove malware before it can do any harm.  

The post USB Drives – Protecting Your Humble Workhorse from Malware and Loss appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Be on the Lookout for Scam Tech Support Calls

By: McAfee

Instead of getting you out of a jam, tech support scams get you into one. And they can get costly.

Tech support scammers had a banner year in 2022. They raked in more than $800 million in the U.S. alone, according to the FBI’s list of reported cases. The actual figure climbs higher when you factor in all the unreported cases. And it goes yet higher still when you consider all the victims worldwide.

In all, tech support scams make up a multi-billion-dollar industry.

They make their money several ways. Sometimes the scammers who run them charge large fees to fix a non-existent problem. Other times, they’ll install information-stealing malware under the guise of software that’s supposed to correct an issue. In some cases, they’ll ask for remote access to your computer to perform a diagnosis, but access your computer to steal information instead. Or they could hit you with several of the above.

You can stumble across these scams on your own as you go about your day online. Other times, they find you, such as when the scammer calls you directly.

One of our employees shared his story when a tech support scammer called his wife out of the blue:

I was messing around on my computer before dinner. My wife came in with a strange look on her face as she told the person on the phone, “I think you might want to talk to my husband about that.” Once on the phone I was greeted with, “Hi, this is Rick from Windows support and we’re calling because your computer is sending junk files to the internet.” I knew there was no way he was from “Windows support” since a reputable company isn’t going to call me up out of the blue like this, but as a security researcher I was curious, so I jumped right in.

“Rick” said that to fix my issue he needed me to install a free remote access tool and give him access to my system. Letting an unknown person access my actual computer seemed like a bad idea, so I let him log on to a “virtual machine” that I use for security testing. The first thing he did was turn off my security software, including the antivirus and firewall. After doing that, he downloaded a file that he tried to install. Since I had additional security software in place he wasn’t aware of, the installation failed each time he tried to run it. At this point, I had the file he was trying to install, the IP address he was connecting from, and the site he used to get the malicious file. I told “Rick” that I work for a security company and would like to know what he was actually looking for. I’m fairly certain he hung up before I completed my sentence.

Sure enough, after the call, a malware scan confirmed that “Rick” wanted to install a remote access tool (RAT) that would have given him full control of the computer.

That’s one example of how these scams go. They get costly too. The FBI further reported that the average loss for a tech support scam approached $25,000. In some cases, pop-up “security alert” ads spearheaded scams that cost people $200,000 and upwards to $1 million.

Fortunately, these scams are rather easy to spot. And avoid. If you know what to look for.

 What do tech support scams look like?

Let’s start with a quick overview of tech support scams. They tend to work in two primary ways.

First, there are the scams that track you down.

This might be a phone call that comes from someone posing as a rep from “Microsoft” or “Apple.” The scammer on the other end of the line will tell you that there’s something wrong with your computer or device. Something urgently wrong. And then offers a bogus solution to the bogus problem, often at a high cost. Similarly, they might reach you by way of a pop-up ad. Again telling you that your computer or device needs urgent repairs. These can find you a few different ways:

  • By clicking on links from unsolicited emails.
  • From pop-up ads from risky sites.
  • Via pop-ups from otherwise legitimate sites that have had malicious ads injected.
  • By way of spammy phone calls made directly to you, whether by robocall or a live operator.

Second, there are the scams that lie in wait.

These are phony services and sites that pose as legitimate tech support but are anything but. They’ll place search ads, post other ads on social media, and so forth, ready for you to look up and get in touch with when you have a problem that you need fixed. Examples include:

  • Online classified ads, forum posts, and blog sites.
  • Ads on Social media sites such as Facebook, Reddit, YouTube, and Tumblr.
  • Search results—scammers place paid search ads too!

How to spot and avoid tech support scams

  • With regards to ads and search results, keep an eye open for typos, awkward language, or poor design and logos that look like they could be a knockoff of a trusted brand. Check our top tips to spot tech support scams of what these ads and search results look like.
  • Don’t fall for the call. If someone calls you with an offer of “tech support.” Chances are, it’s a scam. And if they ask for payment in gift cards or cryptocurrency like bitcoin, it’s absolutely a scam. Just hang up.
  • Note that big tech companies like Apple and Microsoft won’t call you with offers of tech support or an alert that “something is wrong with your computer.” Such calls come from imposters. Moreover, in many cases, the company will offer free support as part of your purchase or subscription that you can get on your own when you need it. (For example, that’s the case with our products.)
  • Don’t click or tap on any links or call any numbers that suddenly appear on your screen and warn you of a computer problem. Again, this is a likely sign of an attempted scam. Often, this will happen while browsing. Simply close your browser and open a fresh browser window to clear the ad or link.
  • Go to the source. Contact the company directly for support, manually type their address into your browser, or call the number that came with the packaging or purchase. Don’t search. This will help you avoid imposters that clog up search results with bogus ads.
  • Protect your browsing. Use a web protection extension that can spot malicious sites and help prevent you from clicking on them by mistake. Comprehensive online protection software will offer protection for your browsing, in addition to protection from malware and viruses.
  • Remove your personal info from data broker sites. How did that scammer get your phone number in the first place? Scammers often purchase personal information in bulk from data broker sites, which can include your phone number. Our Personal Data Cleanup can help you remove your information from some of the riskiest data broker sites out there.

Lastly, a good piece of general advice is to keep your devices and apps up to date. Regular updates often include security fixes and improvements that can help keep scammers and hackers at bay. You can set your devices and apps to download them automatically. And if you need to get an update or download on your own, get it from the company’s official website. Stay away from third-party sites that might host malware.

What to do if you think you’ve been scammed:

  1. Change your passwords. This will provide protection if the scammer was able to access your account passwords in some form. While this can be a big task, it’s a vital one. A password manager that’s part of comprehensive online protection can make it much easier.
  2. Run a malware and virus scan right away. Delete files or apps that the software says is an issue. Do the same for other devices on your network too. Experienced and determined scammers can infect them as well by gaining access to one device on your network.
  3. Stop payment. Contact your bank, credit card company, or online payment platform to reverse the charges. File a fraud complaint as well. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of recovering some or all your money. (Note that this is a good reason to use credit cards for online purchases, as they afford extra protection that debit cards and other payment services don’t.)
  4. Report the scam. In the U.S., you can contact the Federal Trade Commission, which reports the claim to thousands of law enforcement agencies. While they can’t resolve your individual issue, your report can help with broader investigations and build a case against scammers—which can make the internet safer for others. Their list of FAQs is particularly helpful too, answering important questions like “how do I get my money back?”

The post Be on the Lookout for Scam Tech Support Calls appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Are You Getting Caught by Click Bait?

It all feels so harmless. Who isn’t even alittle curious which celebrity is their look-a-like or what ’80s song best matches their personality? While some of these fun little quizzes and facial recognition-type games that pop up on social media are advertiser-generated and harmless, others have been carefully designed to steal your data.

According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) consumers need to beware with the IQ tests, quizzes that require you to trade information. Depending on the goal of the scam, one click could result in a new slew of email or text spam, malicious data mining, or even a monthly charge on your phone bill.

 

Besides the spammy quizzes, scammers also use click bait, that are headlines designed to get your click and your data. Such headlines often promise juicy info on celebrities and may even legitimate human interest stories that claim, “and you won’t believe what happened next.” While some of those headlines are authored by reputable companies simply trying to sell products and compete for clicks, others are data traps that chip away at your privacy.

The best defense against click bait is knowledge. Similar to the plague of fake news circulating online, click bait is getting more sophisticated and deceptive in appearance, which means that users must be even more sophisticated in understanding how to sidestep these digital traps.

5 Tips to Help You Tame Your Clicks

  1. Just say no, help others do the same. Scammers understand human digital behavior and design quizzes they know will get a lot of shares. “Fun” and “wow!” easily goes viral. Refuse to pass on the information and when you see it, call it out like blogger David Neilsen did (right). A scammers goal is access to your data and access to your social pages, which gives them access to your friend’s data. If you want to find out which Harry Potter character you are most like, just know you will pay with your privacy — so just practice saying no.
  2. Vet your friends. Gone are the days of hundreds of thousands of “friends and followers” to affirm our social worth. With every unknown friend you let into your digital circle, you increase your chances of losing more privacy. Why take the risk? Also, take a closer look at who is sharing a contest, quiz, or game. A known friend may have been hacked. Go through their feed to see if there’s anything askew with the account.
  3. Beware of click jacking. This malicious technique tricks a web user into clicking on something different from what the user perceives they are clicking on, which could result in revealing confidential information or a scammer taking control of their computer.
  4. Be aware of ‘Like Farming’ scams. Quizzes can be part of a scam called “Like Farming.” In this scenario, scammers create a piece of legitimate content, then swap it out for something else less desirable once the post has gone viral.
  5. Adjust your settings. Since these quizzes mainly show up on Facebook, start adjusting your settings there. You will be prompted from your Settings to select/deselect the level of permissions that exist. This is one easy way to stop the madness. Another way is to go to the actual post/quiz and click on the downward facing arrow to the top right of the post. Tell Facebook to block these types of ads or posts, or if you are sure it’s a scam, report the post.
  6. Value your online time. Click bait is an epic waste of time. When a headline or quiz teases users to click without giving much information about will follow, those posts get a lot more clicks, which moves them up the Facebook food chain. Keep in mind click bait is a trap that A) tricks you B) wastes valuable time and C) edges out content from your friends and Facebook pages that you actually want to see.

Our digital landscape is peppered with fake news and click bait, which makes it difficult to build trust with individuals and brands who have legitimate messages and products to share. As you become savvy to the kinds of data scams, your discernment and ability to hold onto your clicks will become second nature. Continue to have fun, learn, connect, but guard your heart with every click. Be sure to keep yor devices protected while you do!

The post Are You Getting Caught by Click Bait? appeared first on McAfee Blog.

Why You Need to Watch Out When Using Public Wi-Fi

By: McAfee

If you’re like most people, you like to stay connected whether you are traveling or just on the go. That’s why it can be tempting to connect to free, public Wi-Fi networks, but you should know that these networks could open you up to some serious risks.

Public Wi-Fi networks often lack a security measure called encryption, which scrambles the information sent from your computer or device to the router so strangers cannot read it. Without this security measure in place, the information you send over these networks can potentially be intercepted by cybercrooks.

This information could include your banking and social media passwords, as well as your identity information. A nosy cybercriminal could also potentially snoop on you by watching which websites you visit, and what you type into web forms.

In fact, it is so easy to steal your information over unsecured networks cybercrooks sometimes set up malicious Wi-Fi hotspots in high-traffic areas, like airports, with the intention of grabbing users’ information.

That’s why if you have to connect when you’re away, you should only use secure and well-advertised Wi-Fi networks. You can usually tell if they use encryption because they require a password to join.

If you have to do something sensitive online, like check your bank account balance or make a purchase, try to stick to webpages that start with “HTTPS” rather than just “HTTP”. The “S” stands for secure and indicates that the site uses encryption to protect your data. You can also look for a green lock icon at the beginning of the browser address, which indicates that the website connection is secure.

If you are on your mobile phone, you can skip the Wi-Fi network altogether and connect using the cellular network. It is somewhat more secure since it’s harder for cybercrooks to sniff out your individual data from others on the network.

If you travel a lot, consider investing in a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which is a piece of software that allows you to create a secure connection to another network over the Internet. Anyone potentially trying to snoop on you will only see that you are connected to the VPN, and not what you are doing.

Of course, the most important thing is to remember that using public Wi-Fi is always risky, and requires some extra steps to protect your data.

Here are some more tips to help keep you safe:

  • Think twice before connecting to any public Wi-Fi network, especially if it does not require a password to join.
  • Avoid using free, public computers. Cybercriminals sometimes place compromised computers in legitimate Wi-Fi hotspots with the intention of spreading malware or stealing your data.
  • Try to save sensitive transactions, like banking and online shopping, for your secure home or work networks.
  • If you do use a public network, stick to sites that begin with “HTTPS” so you know they are secure. The HTTPS Everywhere browser extension can direct you to encrypted pages when available. Also, look for the green lock icon in the browser’s address bar.
  • When using your laptop, make sure to turn off “sharing” of your folders and devices so no one else on the network can access them. A quick web search can tell you how to do this on your operating system.
  • Use comprehensive security software and keep it up-to-date. If your software includes a firewall, make sure to enable it.

The post Why You Need to Watch Out When Using Public Wi-Fi appeared first on McAfee Blog.

COVID-bit: New COVert Channel to Exfiltrate Data from Air-Gapped Computers

An unconventional data exfiltration method leverages a previously undocumented covert channel to leak sensitive information from air-gapped systems. "The information emanates from the air-gapped computer over the air to a distance of 2 m and more and can be picked up by a nearby insider or spy with a mobile phone or laptop," Dr. Mordechai Guri, the head of R&D in the Cyber Security Research

Uber Says It's Investigating a Potential Breach of Its Computer Systems

Ride hailing giant Uber disclosed Thursday it's responding to a cybersecurity incident involving a breach of its network and that it's in touch with law enforcement authorities. The New York Times first reported the incident.  The company pointed to its tweeted statement when asked for comment on the matter. <!--adsense--> The hack is said to have forced the company to take its internal

Aussies Fear Snakes, Spiders and Getting Hacked

Fears and phobias. We all have them. But what are your biggest ones? I absolutely detest snakes but spiders don’t worry me at all. Well, new research by McAfee shows that cybercriminals and the fear of being hacked are now the 5th greatest fear among Aussies.

With news of data breaches and hacking crusades filling our news feed on a regular basis, many of us are becoming more aware and concerned about the threats we face in our increasingly digital world. And McAfee’s latest confirms this with hackers making their way into Australia’s Top 10 Fears.

According to research conducted by McAfee, snakes are the top phobia for Aussies followed by spiders, heights and sharks. Cybercriminals and the fear of being hacked come in in 5th place beating the dentist, bees, ghosts, aeroplane travel and clowns!

Aussie Top 10 Fears and Phobias

  1. Snakes
  2. Spiders
  3. Heights
  4. Sharks
  5. Hackers/Cybercriminals
  6. The dentist
  7. Bees or wasps
  8. Ghosts
  9. Aeroplane travel
  10. Clowns

Why Do We Have Phobias?

Fears and phobias develop when we perceive that we are at risk of pain, or worse, still, death. And while almost a third of respondents nominated snakes as their number one fear, there is less than one-in-fifty thousand chance of being bitten badly enough by a snake to warrant going to hospital in Australia, according to research from the Internal Medicine Journal.

In contrast, McAfee’s analysis of more than 108 billion potential online threats between October and December, identified 202 million of these threats as genuine risks. With a global population of 7.5 billion, that means there is approximately a one in 37 chance of being targeted by cybercrime. Now while this is not a life-threatening situation, these statistics show that chance of us being affected by an online threat is very real.

What Are Our Biggest Cyber Fears?

According to the research, 82% of Aussies believe that being hacked is a growing or high concern. And when you look at the sheer number of reported data breaches so far this year, these statistics make complete sense. Data breaches have affected Bunnings staff, Federal Parliament staff, Marriott guests, Victorian Government staff, QLD Fisheries members, Skoolbag app users and Big W customers plus many more.

Almost 1 in 5 (19%) of those interviewed said their top fear at work is doing something that will result in a data security breach, they will leak sensitive information or infect their corporate IT systems.

The fear that we are in the midst of a cyberwar is another big concern for many Aussies. Cyberwar can be explained as a computer or network-based conflict where parties try to disrupt or take ownership of the activities of other parties, often for strategic, military or cyberespionage purposes. 55% of Aussies believe that a cyberwar is happening right now but we just don’t know about it. And a fifth believe cyber warfare is the biggest threat to our nation.

What Can We Do to Address Our Fear of Being Hacked?

Being proactive about protecting your online life is the absolute best way of reducing the chances of being hacked or being affected by a data breach. Here are my top tips on what you can now to protect yourself:

  1. Be Savvy with Your Passwords

Using a password manager to create unique and complex passwords for each of your online accounts will definitely improve your online safety. If each on your online accounts has a unique password and you are involved in a breach, the hacker won’t be able to use the stolen password details to log into any of your other accounts.

  1. Stop AutoFill on Chrome

Storing your financial data within your browser and being able to populate online forms quickly within seconds makes the autofill function very attractive however it is risky. Autofill will automatically fill out all forms on a page regardless of whether you can see all the boxes. You may just think you are automatically entering your email address into an online form however a savvy hacker could easily design an online form with hidden boxes designed to capture your financial information. So remove all your financial information from Autofill. I know this means you will have to manually enter information each time you purchase but your personal data will be better protected.

  1. Think Before You Click

One of the easiest ways for a cybercriminal to compromise their victim is by using phishing emails to lure consumers into clicking links for products or services that could lead to malware, or a phoney website designed to steal personal information. If the deal seems too good to be true, or the email was not expected, always check directly with the source.

  1. Stay Protected While You Browse

It’s important to put the right security solutions in place in order to surf the web safely. Add an extra layer of security to your browser with McAfee WebAdvisor.

  1. Always Connect with Caution

I know public Wi-Fi might seem like a good idea, but if consumers are not careful, they could be unknowingly exposing personal information or credit card details to cybercriminals who are snooping on the network. If you are a regular Wi-Fi user, I recommend investing in a virtual private network or (VPN) such as McAfee Secure VPN which will ensure your connection is completely secure and that your data remains safe.

While it is tempting, putting our head in the sand and pretending hackers and cybercrime don’t exist puts ourselves and our families at even more risk! Facing our fears and making an action plan is the best way of reducing our worry and stress. So, please commit to being proactive about your family’s online security. Draw up a list of what you can do today to protect your tribe. And if you want to receive regular updates about additional ways you can keep your family safe online, check out my blog.

‘till next time.

Alex x

The post Aussies Fear Snakes, Spiders and Getting Hacked appeared first on McAfee Blog.

From Bugs to Zoombombing: How to Stay Safe in Online Meetings

The COVID-19 pandemic, along with social distancing, has done many things to alter our lives. But in one respect it has merely accelerated a process begun many years ago. We were all spending more and more time online before the virus struck. But now, forced to work, study and socialize at home, the online digital world has become absolutely essential to our communications — and video conferencing apps have become our “face-to-face” window on the world.

The problem is that as users flock to these services, the bad guys are also lying in wait — to disrupt or eavesdrop on our chats, spread malware, and steal our data. Zoom’s problems have perhaps been the most widely publicized, because of its quickly rising popularity, but it’s not the only platform whose users have been potentially at risk. Cisco’s WebEx and Microsoft Teams have also had issues; while other platforms, such as Houseparty, are intrinsically less secure (almost by design for their target audience, as the name suggests).

Let’s take a look at some of the key threats out there and how you can stay safe while video conferencing.

What are the risks?

Depending on the platform (designed for work or play) and the use case (business or personal), there are various opportunities for the online attacker to join and disrupt or eavesdrop on video conferencing calls. The latter is especially dangerous if you’re discussing sensitive business information.

Malicious hackers may also look to deliver malware via chats or shared files to take control of your computer, or to steal your passwords and sensitive personal and financial information. In a business context, they could even try to hijack your video conferencing account to impersonate you, in a bid to steal info from or defraud your colleagues or company.

The bad guys may also be able to take advantage of the fact that your home PCs and devices are less well-secured than those at work or school—and that you may be more distracted at home and less alert to potential threats.

To accomplish their goals, malicious hackers can leverage various techniques at their disposal. These can include:

  • Exploiting vulnerabilities in the video conferencing software, particularly when it hasn’t been updated to fend off the latest threats
  • Stealing your log-ins/meeting ID via malware or phishing attacks; or by obtaining a meeting ID or password shared on social media
  • Hiding malware in legitimate-looking video apps, links and files
  • Theft of sensitive data from meeting recordings stored locally or in the cloud.

Zooming in on trouble

Zoom has in many ways become the victim of its own success. With daily meeting participants soaring from 10 million in December last year to 200 million by March 2020, all eyes have been focused on the platform. Unfortunately, that also includes hackers. Zoom has been hit by a number of security and privacy issues over the past several months, which include “Zoombombing” (meetings disrupted by uninvited guests), misleading encryption claims, a waiting room vulnerability, credential theft and data collection leaks, and fake Zoom installers. To be fair to Zoom, it has responded quickly to these issues, realigning its development priorities to fix the security and privacy issues discovered by its intensive use.

And Zoom isn’t alone. Earlier in the year, Cisco Systems had its own problem with WebEx, its widely-used enterprise video conferencing system, when it discovered a flaw in the platform that could allow a remote, unauthenticated attacker to enter a password-protected video conferencing meeting. All an attacker needed was the meeting ID and a WebEx mobile app for iOS or Android, and they could have barged in on a meeting, no authentication necessary. Cisco quickly moved to fix the high-severity vulnerability, but other flaws (also now fixed) have cropped up in WebEx’s history, including one that could enable a remote attacker to send a forged request to the system’s server.

More recently, Microsoft Teams joined the ranks of leading business videoconferencing platforms with potentially deadly vulnerabilities. On April 27 it surfaced that for at least three weeks (from the end of February till the middle of March), a malicious GIF could have stolen user data from Teams accounts, possibly across an entire company. The vulnerability was patched on April 20—but it’s a reminder to potential video conferencing users that even leading systems such as Zoom, WebEx, and Teams aren’t fool-proof and require periodic vulnerability and security fixes to keep them safe and secure. This is compounded during the COVID-19 pandemic when workers are working from home and connecting to their company’s network and systems via possibly unsecure home networks and devices.

Video conferencing alternatives

So how do you choose the best, most secure, video conferencing software for your work-at-home needs? There are many solutions on the market today. In fact, the choice can be dizzying. Some simply enable video or audio meetings/calls, while others also allow for sharing and saving of documents and notes. Some are only appropriate for one-on-one connections or small groups, while others can scale to thousands.

In short, you’ll need to choose the video conferencing solution most appropriate to your needs, while checking if it meets a minimum set of security standards for working at home. This set of criteria should include end-to-end encryption, automatic and frequent security updates, the use of auto-generated meeting IDs and strong access controls, a program for managing vulnerabilities, and last but not least, good privacy practices by the company.

Some video conferencing options alongside Zoom, WebEx, and Teams include:

  • Signal which is end-to-end encrypted and highly secure, but only supports one-to-one calls.
  • FaceTime, Apple’s video chat tool, is easy-to-use and end-to-end encrypted, but is only available to Mac and iOS users.
  • Jitsi Meet is a free, open-source video conferencing app that works on Android, iOS, and desktop devices, with no limit on participants beyond your bandwidth.
  • Skype Meet Now is Microsoft’s free, popular conferencing tool for up to 50 users that can be used without an account, (in contrast to Teams, which is a paid, more business-focused platform for Office 365 users).
  • Google Duo is a free option for video calls only, while the firm’s Hangouts platform can also be used for messaging. Hangouts Meet is a more business-focused paid version.
  • Doxy.me is a well-known telemedicine platform used by doctors and therapists that works through your browser—so it’s up to you to keep your browser updated and to ensure the appropriate security and privacy settings are in place. Secure medical consultation with your healthcare provider is of particular concern during the shelter- and work-from-home quarantine.

How do I stay safe?

Whatever video conferencing platform you use, it’s important to bear in mind that cyber-criminals will always be looking to take advantage of any security gaps they can find — in the tool itself or your use of it. So how do you secure your video conferencing apps? Some tips listed here are Zoom-specific, but consider their equivalents in other platforms as general best-practice tips. Depending on the use case, you might choose to not enable some of the options here.

  • Check for end-to-end encryption before getting onboard with the app. This includes encryption for data at rest.
  • Ensure that you generate one-off meeting IDs and passwords automatically for recurring meetings (Zoom).
  • Don’t share any meeting IDs online.
  • Use the “waiting room” feature in Zoom (now fixed), so the host can only allow attendees from a pre-assigned list.
  • Lock the meeting once it’s started to stop anyone new from joining.
  • Allow the host to put attendees on hold, temporarily removing them from a meeting if necessary.
  • Play a sound when someone enters or leaves the room.
  • Set screen-sharing to “host only” to stop uninvited guests from sharing disruptive content.
  • Disable “file transfers” to block possible malware.
  • Keep your systems patched and up-to-date so there are no bugs that hackers can target.
  • Only download conferencing apps from official iOS/Android stores and manufacturer websites.
  • Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited mail.
  • Check the settings in your video conferencing account. Switch off camera access if you don’t want to appear on-screen.
  • Use a password manager for video conferencing app log-ins.
  • Enhance passwords with two-factor authentication (2FA) or Single-Sign-On (SSO) to protect access, if available.
  • Install anti-malware software from a reputable vendor on all devices and PCs. And implement a network security solution if you can.

How Trend Micro can help

Fortunately, Trend Micro has a range of capabilities that can support your efforts to stay safe while using video conferencing services.

Trend Micro Home Network Security (HNS) protects every device in your home connected to the internet. That means it will protect you from malicious links and attachments in phishing emails spoofed to appear as if sent from video conferencing firms, as well as from those sent by hackers that may have covertly entered a meeting. Its Vulnerability Check can identify any vulnerabilities in your home devices and PCs, including work laptops, and its Remote Access Protection can reduce the risk of tech support scams and unwanted remote connections to your device. Finally, it allows parents to control their kids’ usage of video conferencing applications, to limit their exposure.

Trend Micro Security also offers protection against email, file, and web threats on your devices. Note too, that Password Manager is automatically installed with Maximum Security to help users create unique, strong passwords for each application/website they use, including video conferencing sites.

Finally, Trend Micro WiFi Protection (multi-platform) / VPN Proxy One (Mac and iOS) offer VPN connections from your home to the internet, creating secure encrypted tunnels for traffic to flow down. The VPN apps work on both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. This could be useful for users concerned their video conferencing app isn’t end-to-end encrypted, or for those wishing to protect their identity and personal information when interacting on these apps.

The post From Bugs to Zoombombing: How to Stay Safe in Online Meetings appeared first on .

The Everyday Cyber Threat Landscape: Trends from 2019 to 2020

The past 12 months have been another bumper year for cybercrime affecting everyday users of digital technology. Trend Micro blocked more than 26.8 billion of these threats in the first half of 2019 alone. The bad news is that there are many more out there waiting to steal your personal data for identity fraud, access your bank account, hold your computer to ransom, or extort you in other ways.

To help you stay safe over the coming year we’ve listed some of the biggest threats from 2019 and some trends to keep an eye on as we hit the new decade. As you’ll see, many of the most dangerous attacks will look a lot like the ones we warned about in 2019.

As we enter 2020 the same rules apply: stay alert, stay sceptical, and stay safe by staying protected.

Top five threats of 2019

Cybercrime is a chaotic, volatile world. So to make sense of the madness of the past 12 months, we’ve broken down the main type of threats consumers encountered into five key areas:

Home network threats: Our homes are increasingly powered by online technologies. Over two-thirds (69%) of US households now own at least one smart home device: everything from voice assistant-powered smart speakers to home security systems and connected baby monitors. But gaps in protection can expose them to hackers. As the gateway to our home networks, routers are particularly at risk. It’s a concern that 83% are vulnerable to attack. There were an estimated 105m smart home attacks in the first half of 2019 alone.

Endpoint threats: These are attacks aimed squarely at you the user, usually via the email channel. Trend Micro detected and blocked more than 26 billion such email threats in the first half of 2019, nearly 91% of the total number of cyber-threats. These included phishing attacks designed to trick you into clicking on a malicious link to steal your personal data and log-ins or begin a ransomware download. Or they could be designed to con you into handing over your personal details, by taking you to legit-looking but spoofed sites. Endpoint threats sometimes include social media phishing messages or even legitimate websites that have been booby-trapped with malware.

Mobile security threats: Hackers are also targeting our smartphones and tablets with greater gusto. Malware is often unwittingly downloaded by users, since it’s hidden in normal-looking Android apps, like the Agent Smith adware that infected over 25 million handsets globally this year. Users are also extra-exposed to social media attacks and those leveraging unsecured public Wi-Fi when using their devices. Once again, the end goal for the hackers is to make money: either by stealing your personal data and log-ins; flooding your screen with adverts; downloading ransomware; or forcing your device to contact expensive premium rate phone numbers that they own.

Online accounts under attack: Increasingly, hackers are after our log-ins: the virtual keys that unlock our digital lives. From Netflix to Uber, webmail to online banking, access to these accounts can be sold on the dark web or they can be raided for our personal identity data. Individual phishing attacks is one way to get these log-ins. But an increasingly popular method in 2019 was to use automated tools that try tens of thousands of previously breached log-ins to see if any of them work on your accounts. From November 2017 through the end of March 2019, over 55 billion such attacks were detected.

Breaches are everywhere: The raw materials needed to unlock your online accounts and help scammers commit identity fraud are stored by the organizations you interact with online. Unfortunately, these companies continued to be successfully targeted by data thieves in 2019. As of November 2019, there were over 1,200 recorded breaches in the US, exposing more than 163 million customer records. Even worse, hackers are now stealing card data direct from the websites you shop with as they are entered in, via “digital skimming” malware.

What to look out for in 2020

Smart homes under siege: As we invest more money in smart gadgets for our families, expect hackers to double down on network attacks. There’s a rich bounty for those that do: they can use an exposed smart endpoint as a means to sneak into your network and rifle through your personal data and online accounts. Or they could monitor your house via hacked security cameras to understand the best time to break in. Your hacked devices could even be recruited into botnets to help the bad guys attack others.

Social engineering online and by phone: Attacks that target user credulity are some of the most successful. Expect them to continue in 2020: both traditional phishing emails and a growing number of phone-based scams. Americans are bombarded by 200 million automated “robocalls” each day, 30% of which are potentially fraudulent. Sometimes phone fraud can shift quickly online; for example, tech support scams that convince the user there’s something wrong with their PC. Social engineering can also be used to extort money, such as in sextortion scams designed to persuade victims that the hacker has and is about to release a webcam image of them in a “compromising position.” Trend Micro detected a 319% increase in these attacks from 2H 2018 to the first half of 2019.

Threats on the move: Look out for more mobile threats in 2020. Many of these will come from unsecured public Wi-Fi which can let hackers eavesdrop on your web sessions and steal identity data and log-ins. Even public charging points can be loaded with malware, something LA County recently warned about. This comes on top of the escalating threat from malicious mobile apps.

All online accounts are fair game: Be warned that almost any online account you open and store personal data in today will be a target for hackers tomorrow. For 2020, this means of course you will need to be extra careful about online banking. But also watch out for attacks on gaming accounts.  Not only your personal identity data and log-ins but also lucrative in-game tokens will become highly sought after. Twelve billion of those recorded 55 billion credential stuffing attacks were directed at the gaming industry.

Worms make a comeback: Computer worms are dangerous because they self-replicate, allowing hackers to spread attacks without user interaction. This is what happened with the WannaCry ransomware attacks of 2017. A Microsoft flaw known as Bluekeep offers a new opportunity to cause havoc in 2020. There may be more out there.

How to stay safe

Given the sheer range of online threats facing computer users in 2020, you’ll need to cover all bases to keep your systems and data safe. That means:

Protecting the smart home with network monitoring solutions, regular checks for security updates on gadgets/router, changing the factory default logins to strong passwords, and putting all gadgets onto a guest network.

Tackling data-stealing malware, ransomware and other worm-style threats with strong AV from a reputable vendor, regular patching of your PC/mobile device, and strong password security (as given below).

Staying safe on the move by always using VPNs with public Wi-Fi, installing AV on your device, only frequenting official app stores, and ensuring you’re always on the latest device OS version. And steer clear of public USB charging points.

Keeping accounts secure by using a password manager for creating and storing strong passwords and/or switching on two-factor authentication where available. This will stop credential stuffing in its tracks and mitigate the impact of a third-party breach of your log-ins. Also, never log-in to webmail or other accounts on shared computers.

Taking on social engineering by never clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails, texts or social media messages and never giving out personal info over the phone.

How Trend Micro can help

Fortunately, Trend Micro fully understands the multiple sources for modern threats. It offers a comprehensive range of security products to protect all aspects of your digital life — from your smart home, home PCs, and mobile devices to online accounts including email and social networks, as well as when browsing the web itself.

Trend Micro Home Network Security: Provides protection against network intrusions, router hacks, web threats, dangerous file downloads and identity theft for every device connected to the home network.

Trend Micro Security: Protects your PCs and Macs against web threats, phishing, social network threats, data theft, online banking threats, digital skimmers, ransomware and other malware. Also guards against over-sharing on social media.

Trend Micro Mobile Security: Protects against malicious app downloads, ransomware, dangerous websites, and unsafe Wi-Fi networks.

Trend Micro Password Manager: Provides a secure place to store, manage and update your passwords. It remembers your log-ins, enabling you to create long, secure and unique credentials for each site/app you need to sign-in to.

Trend Micro WiFi Protection: Protects you on unsecured public WiFi by providing a virtual private network (VPN) that encrypts your traffic and ensures protection against man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.

Trend Micro ID Security (Android, iOS): Monitors underground cybercrime sites to securely check if your personal information is being traded by hackers on the Dark Web and sends you immediate alerts if so.

The post The Everyday Cyber Threat Landscape: Trends from 2019 to 2020 appeared first on .

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