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Privacy
Browsing Cache Chrome Cookies Privacy

Why Clearing Cache and Cookies Matters for Safe Browsing

 


It seems to be a minor step, clearing your cache and cookies, but it is really a big factor in improving online safety and making your browsing easier. While these tools are intended to make navigation on the web faster and easier, they can sometimes create problems. Let's break this down into simple terms to help you understand why refreshing your browser is a good idea.

What are cache and cookies?

Cache: Think of the cache as your browser's short-term memory. When you visit a website, your browser saves parts of it—like images, fonts, and scripts—so the site loads faster the next time. For example, if you shop online more often, product images or banners might pop out quickly because they have been stored in your cache. This feature improves your surfing speed and reduces internet usage.

Cookies: Cookies are tiny text files that are stored on your browser. They help the websites remember things about you, such as your login details or preferences. For instance, they can keep you logged in to your email or remember items in your shopping cart. There are two main types of cookies:  

  • First-party cookies: Created by the website you're visiting to improve your experience.
  • Third-party cookies: From other websites, usually advertisers, and will be tracking your activities across various different sites.

Why Cache and Cookies Can Be Slippery

Cache Risks: The cache does help speed up things. Sometimes, however, it creates problems. The files in the cache may get outdated or corrupt and hence load a website wrongly. Web hackers can exploit the cached data by "web cache poisoning" which makes the user download bad content.

Cookie Risks: Cookies can be misused too. If someone steals your cookies, they could access your accounts without needing your password. Third-party cookies are particularly invasive, as they track your online behavior to create detailed profiles for targeted advertising.  

Why Clear Cache and Cookies?  

1. Fix Website Problems: Clearing the cache deletes outdated files, helping websites function smoothly.  

2. Protect Your Privacy: Removing cookies stops advertisers from tracking you and reduces the risk of hackers accessing your accounts.  

3. Secure Common Devices: If you’re using a public or shared computer, clearing cookies ensures your data isn’t accessible to the next user.  

How to Clear Cache and Cookies  

 Here is a quick tutorial for Google Chrome.

1. Open the browser and click on the three dots in the top-right corner.  

2. Go to Settings and select Privacy and Security.  

3. Click Clear Browsing Data.  

4. Check the boxes for "Cookies and other site data" and "Cached images and files."  

5. Select a time range (e.g., last hour or all time) and click Clear Data.

Clearing your cache and cookies is essentially the refresh button for your browser. It helps resolve problems, increases security, and guarantees a smoother, safer browsing experience. Regularly doing this simple task can make all the difference to your online privacy and functionality.


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online games
Cookies Cyber Fraud Discord Email malware online games

Watch Out: Fake Game Invites on Discord Are Stealing Your Personal Data

 



There is a new online scam, where cyber criminals trick people into downloading harmful software under the pretext of beta testing a game. This campaign targets people on platforms such as Discord, email, and even text messages, aiming at stealing personal information and compromising accounts online. 


How does this work?

The scam starts by sending a harmless message. In this case, a user on Discord or elsewhere receives a direct message from a purported game developer claiming to have sent them a new game to play. The user is asked whether they would want to try the supposed game. In most cases, these messages come from compromised accounts, so the request seems all the more real.

If the victim consents, the attacker shares a download link and password to the target so that they can actually access and start downloading the game file. These links are usually Dropbox or even Discord's network because most malware authors upload their creations to an existing, popular platform. But what users download aren't games-these are referred to as information stealers.


What Do These Malware Applications Do?

Once installed, these programs, such as Nova Stealer, Ageo Stealer, or Hexon Stealer, begin extracting sensitive data. This may include: 

1. Saved browser passwords

2. Session cookies for services like Discord or Steam

3. Wallet information for cryptocurrencies

4. Credit card information

6. Two-factor authentication (2FA) backup codes

The Nova Stealer and Ageo Stealer are the new wave called Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS). This enables cybercriminals to rent these tools to conduct attacks. Nova Stealer even leverages a feature called a Discord webhook, allowing it to send information directly to hackers so they could know right away how much data had been stolen and not have to manually check.

Another tool that is used in these scams is the Hexon Stealer. It is a highly dangerous tool since it can gather a wide variety of personal information. Using such information, it hacks into Discord accounts and enables the attackers to send similar fake messages to the contacts of the victim, thereby further spreading the malware. 


Why Do Hackers Target Discord?

The main focus of these attacks is the Discord credentials. When hackers get access to a person's account, they can pretend to be that person, deceive their friends, and expand their network of victims. This cycle of exploitation of trust makes the scam so effective. 


How to Identify Fake Game Websites

Fake download pages are usually built using common web templates. Such sites appear legitimate but host malware. Among them are the following:  

  • dualcorps[.]fr
  • leyamor[.]com 
  • crystalsiege[.]com 
  • mazenugame[.]blogspot.com

These sites are hosted on platforms that are resistant to takedown requests, making it difficult for researchers to shut them down. If one site is removed, attackers can quickly set up a new one. 


How Can You Protect Yourself? 

To keep yourself safe, follow these simple guidelines:

1. Be cautious with unsolicited messages: If someone you don’t know—or even a known contact—sends a download link, verify its authenticity through another platform.  

2. Avoid downloading unknown files: Don’t download or install anything unless you’re certain it’s legitimate.  

3. Use updated security software: An active anti-malware program can block known threats.

4. Be watchful of phony websites: Be on the lookout for amateurism or copy-and-paste designs when viewing suspicious sites.


In the end, this scamming attack is meant to reap a financial reward; it may come in the form of stolen cryptocurrency, credit card information, or other sensitive details. Knowing how this attack works can help you safeguard your data from cybercrime attacks.

Stay informed and be careful—your online safety depends on it.

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Rapid7
Cookies Data Theft LodaRat malware Rapid7

Guess Who's Back? LodaRAT, A Global Cybersecurity Threat



LodaRAT, a remote access tool active since 2016, has resurfaced in a new campaign that’s taking the cybersecurity world by storm. Originally designed for basic information theft, this tool has transformed into a sophisticated malware capable of carrying out global cyber-espionage operations. What’s alarming is that while LodaRAT hasn’t been updated since 2021, its reach and effectiveness have grown, making it a pressing concern for individuals and organisations worldwide.  

A Global Campaign with Far-Reaching Impact  

What sets this latest campaign apart is its global nature. Unlike previous efforts that targeted specific regions, LodaRAT is now aiming at victims across the world. Around 30% of related malware samples uploaded to VirusTotal came from the United States, suggesting widespread infection. This shift indicates that LodaRAT is no longer confined to limited geographic boundaries, and its operators are adapting to target more diverse networks and systems.  


How LodaRAT Works  

LodaRAT’s tactics have become more complex, allowing it to infiltrate systems and operate undetected. Its distribution relies on a mix of phishing emails, system vulnerabilities, and other malware like DonutLoader and Cobalt Strike. It also disguises itself as trusted software such as Skype, Discord, or Windows Update to trick users into installing it.  

Once installed, the malware carries out a variety of harmful activities, including:  

  • Spying on users by recording audio and video through webcams and microphones.  
  • Stealing credentials and cookies from popular browsers like Microsoft Edge and Brave.  
  • Disabling security measures such as the Windows Firewall to create backdoors.  
  • Spreading through networks, using SMB protocol exploits to infect other devices.  
  • Hiding its tracks by storing stolen data in concealed locations on the victim's system.  


Increased Risks for Organizations  

This new campaign has heightened risks for businesses and organisations. LodaRAT is capable of spreading within internal networks by exploiting specific vulnerabilities, particularly via port 445. This allows attackers to move laterally, targeting multiple devices in the same network. Such breaches can lead to stolen data, operational disruptions, and significant financial losses.  


Protecting Against LodaRAT 

To defend against LodaRAT, organisations and individuals need to take proactive measures:  

1. Strengthen security systems by using advanced endpoint protection tools.  

2. Monitor network activity to detect unusual behaviours that could indicate malware presence.  

3. Educate users on phishing tactics to prevent accidental downloads.  

4. Adopt strong authentication practices to make credential theft harder.  

5. Use tools like Rapid7’s Insight Agent to identify potential threats and weak points.  


The return of LodaRAT shows how minor tweaks to existing malware can make it highly effective. This campaign is a reminder that even older threats can evolve and remain dangerous. Staying vigilant and updating cybersecurity measures regularly are key to staying ahead of such attacks.  

By understanding how LodaRAT operates and taking the necessary precautions, organisations and individuals can better protect themselves in an increasingly complex digital ecosystem.  

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Online Security
cookie theft Cookies Cyber Security cybercriminals FBI Hacking https MFA Bypass Online Security

FBI Warns of Cybercriminals Stealing Cookies to Bypass Security

 

Cybercriminals are now targeting cookies, specifically the “remember-me” type, to gain unauthorized access to email accounts. These small files store login information for ease of access, helping users bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA). However, when a hacker obtains these cookies, they can use them to circumvent security layers and take control of accounts. The FBI has alerted the public, noting that hackers often obtain these cookies through phishing links or malicious websites that embed harmful software on devices. Cookies allow websites to retain login details, avoiding repeated authentication. 

By exploiting them, hackers effectively skip the need for usernames, passwords, or MFA, thus streamlining the process for unauthorized entry. This is particularly concerning as MFA typically acts as a crucial security measure against unwanted access. But when hackers use the “remember-me” cookies, this layer becomes ineffective, making it an appealing route for cybercriminals. A primary concern is that many users unknowingly share these cookies by clicking phishing links or accessing unsecured sites. Cybercriminals then capitalize on these actions, capturing cookies from compromised devices to access email accounts and other sensitive areas. 

This type of attack is less detectable because it bypasses traditional security notifications or alerts for suspicious login attempts, providing hackers with direct, uninterrupted access to accounts. To combat this, the FBI recommends practical steps, including regularly clearing browser cookies, which removes saved login data and can interrupt unauthorized access. Another strong precaution is to avoid questionable links and sites, as they often disguise harmful software. Additionally, users should confirm that the websites they visit are secure, checking for HTTPS in the URL, which signals a more protected connection. 

Monitoring login histories on email and other sensitive accounts is another defensive action. Keeping an eye on recent activity can help users identify unusual login patterns or locations, alerting them to possible breaches. If unexpected entries appear, changing passwords and re-enabling MFA is advisable. Taking these actions collectively strengthens an account’s defenses, reducing the chance of cookie-based intrusions. While “remember-me” cookies bring convenience, their risks in today’s cyber landscape are notable. 

The FBI’s warning underlines the importance of digital hygiene—frequently clearing cookies, avoiding dubious sites, and practicing careful online behavior are essential habits to safeguard personal information.
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Cyber Security
APT-29 CISA Cookies Cozy Bear Cyber Security

How F5 BIG-IP Cookies Are Being Exploited for Network Snooping: A CISA Warning

 



US Government's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a warning regarding cyberattackers use of unencrypted cookies managed by the F5 BIG-IP Local Traffic Manager, by which they gather information about private networks. In this manner, these attackers identify the internal, non-public devices through the use of this cookie, thereby potentially targeting the vulnerabilities on that network. While CISA does not disclose who is behind this attack and for what reasons, the activity surely indicates serious threat potential to organisational security.

Confidence and Data Integrity Exposed

According to CISA's advisory, these cookies would probably allow attackers to understand the network structures and discover some areas where the attack can be performed. It is true that cybersecurity has compared with physical security, some delicate balances of trust on which companies dealing with sensitive information depend. The attackers may go through the data contained in these cookies while studying it and realise and use key resources in a network to escalate access or tamper with data.

Recommendations for the Protection of F5 BIG-IP Cookies

CISA recommends that all the organisations that use the F5 BIG-IP equipment encrypt those cookies. The encryption can be set up on these devices through HTTP profile settings so it can act as an added layer of protection against unauthorised access. CISA further recommends use of the BIG-IP iHealth diagnostic tool by F5, which conducts full system evaluation against potential weaknesses and vulnerabilities. The tool offers tailored recommendations for bettering security circumstances, including configuration issues or outdated code.

Warnings of Broader Cyber Threats

The U.S. and the U.K. cybersecurity agencies have simultaneously warned about the Russian-backed hacking group APT29, which is also known as Cozy Bear or Midnight Blizzard. This group has consistently targeted areas in the areas of diplomatic, defence, tech, and financial sectors to obtain sensitive foreign intelligence. APT29, which links back to Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), practises low-key in conducting operations and utilises TOR and other tools of similar nature to mask its operations.

APT29: Tactics of Persistence, Stealth, Strategy

APT29's infrastructure is complicated, and the actors often lease servers through fake identities and low-reputation email addresses in North America. This makes detecting the activity in the network more challenging because it imitates legitimate network traffic. In addition to intelligence gathering, APT29 often tries to create enduring access within targeted systems through spear-phishing or exploiting widely known, but unpitched, vulnerabilities. Other notable vulnerabilities of interest recently include CVE-2022-27924 in Zimbra Collaboration and CVE-2023-42793, a TeamCity Server authentication bypass flaw that could help facilitate remote code execution.

Defending Against APT29 Threats

APT29 is famous for changing its tactics to evade detection and will destroy its infrastructure if it detects that it is under surveillance. To mitigate this, organisations are encouraged to implement and track baseline network activity, which makes it easier to recognize aberrant access patterns. The hackers' strategies include proxy networks and mobile and residential IP addresses to mirror legitimate users. Thus, companies should look at access attempts with a magnifying glass to identify deviations from normal behaviour.

Importance of Regular Security Patches

Tenable, a cybersecurity firm, claims that the only way to win against APT29 and other advanced persistent threats (APTs) is by having recent versions of the software. The main way of countering such attacks is by keeping security updates and patches on known vulnerabilities. Tenable Senior Research Engineer Satnam Narang said that the long-term targeting of organisations operating within the U.S. and Europe by APT29 underlines its foreign intelligence gathering and ensures long-term access to compromised systems.

It is a necessity both for the advisory put out by CISA and the joint bulletin by the U.S. and U.K. in light of the evolution of these threats. For organisations, keeping sensitive information safe and establishing trust becomes of utmost importance. The use of security measures like encrypting F5 BIG-IP cookies and keeping updated on threat intelligence can stop attackers from exploiting their weaknesses. Proactive defences have to be built up in these systems because they are becoming increasingly complex in nature and ensuring the integrity of data and avoiding malicious intrusion into it.


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Security
Brave Browser Cookies phishing Privacy Security

Brave Browser: The Secure and Private Way to Surf the Web

 



Data is more precious in today's digital world than ever. Companies are trying to collect as much as possible to sell it to third-party data brokers. Cybercrime is growing steadily and targeting unsuspecting victims. Addressing both issues is one of the reasons the more mindful browser, Brave, is integrating an array of features to keep data secure and private.

Another feature that differentiates Brave is that it has a built-in use of Brave Shields- the application engaged in blocking harmful elements that may track the behaviour of your browsing. In other types of browsers, users have to install third-party ad blockers. Brave Shields are installed directly in the browser and prevent intrusive ads and trackers from retrieving data regarding the activities you perform online.

It also solves a very common problem with ad blockers, which is that some websites break when the ads are blocked. To solve this issue, Brave replaces tracking codes with privacy-friendly alternatives while ensuring that the integrity of the webpage is maintained and your data is kept secure. As companies continue to devise new ways to hide trackers, Brave is countering this through CNAME uncloaking techniques by uncovering such hidden threats before they manage to collect data from you.

Blocking Cross-Site Cookies

Cookies are small files that download onto your computer, which track your surfing and, more often than not, targeted advertisements will follow you around the web. Cross-site cookies are blocked, by default, on Brave so websites cannot track movements from one site to the other. Brave provides temporary cookies for functionality, though without exposing any private data, for the occasional cookie-dependent website.

Phishing Protection with Google Safe Browsing

Though it puts much emphasis on privacy, Brave remembers security. It uses Google Safe Browsing, which won't enable a user to reach a phishing site or download harmful files. Being built upon Chromium, the same platform that Google Chrome runs on, Brave ensures users protection from known threats to their developers, hence making browsing safer.

While Google Safe Browsing is a service that compromises privacy within Google Chrome, it only serves Brave to block harmful websites without the collection of any personal data from browsing.

A Search Engine Respecting Your Privacy

Most search engines log your search history, accumulating information about the queries you made and selling that information to customise ads or even sell. In contrast, Brave Search does not collect, store, or share search queries when accessed through the browser. This is a completely private browser that does not believe in logging and selling your browsing habits. Additionally, Brave Search serves less biased results because it crawls the web itself rather than prioritising by SEO schemes or the behaviour of prior users.

Another advantage of Brave Search is that it can be utilised independently of the download of the Brave browser – so anyone can have private searches.

Inbuilt VPN and Firewall

It also has a built-in VPN and firewall from Brave, that's available on free trial for seven days, after which you can subscribe to it at $9.99 a month. This will ensure your activity is completely hidden from all the potential threats looking at you, and you won't let any malicious content get inside or leave your network. A VPN encrypts internet traffic so nobody can track your activity online, while the firewall keeps unwanted data from appearing in your system.

It's probably refreshing about Brave, considering it is committed to protecting personal data. Most companies have either policies or strategies that collect and sell a user's data. With Brave, what is striking is the no-sharing policy, full compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and as such, all users' benefit from strong data protection law, irrespective of their region.

For people who place importance on privacy and safety, Brave is a full answer. This is because the provider separates itself from the rest of the browsers by its focus on protecting the user from risks connected with the misuse of data or cybercrime through features like Brave Shields, cross-site cookie blocking, private search options, and built-in VPN and firewall services. These have extended to ensure that your web experience remains secure and private; from stopping trackers, malicious websites, and unwanted ads.


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Tracking
Apple Chrome Cookies Google Privacy Tracking

Google Delays Plan to Replace Cookies, Leaving Users and Industry in Limbo


In unexpected turn of events, Google has delayed its plan to replace tracking cookies in its Chrome browser, affecting its three billion users worldwide. The company had intended to transition to new, anonymised tracking methods to enhance user privacy, but these alternatives have faced regulatory and privacy challenges.

Cookie Controversy and Privacy Concerns

Originally, Google aimed to retire cookies and introduce Privacy Sandbox, which would use less invasive tracking methods by grouping users into like-minded cohorts. However, this initiative encountered significant pushback due to concerns over its effectiveness and potential industry impact. Critics argue that these new methods might still compromise user privacy and could harm the digital advertising ecosystem.

Google's Alex Cone, Product Manager for Privacy Sandbox, recently acknowledged the lack of progress, stating, “We’re at work on those [new] designs, and we’ll discuss those with regulators as we advance… there’s no new information to provide.” This indefinite delay has left many in the industry frustrated and uncertain about the future of digital tracking.

Reports indicate that Google is now in "damage control mode," attempting to soothe the industry's nerves. Meetings, forums, and panels have been held to address concerns, but concrete solutions remain elusive. Many ad tech executives feel like they're at the mercy of Google's decisions, which immensely impact their operations.

The Privacy Sandbox was seen as a necessary evolution from cookies, but now, with no clear timeline, the advertising industry is left in limbo. This delay means that the status quo of invasive tracking will continue for the foreseeable future, much to the dismay of privacy advocates.

Google vs. Apple: A Privacy Battle

The timing of these developments is noteworthy. Apple's recent ad campaign criticised Chrome's privacy practices, aligning closely with Google’s announcement of cookie delays. Apple has been a strong proponent of privacy, introducing features like App Tracking Transparency (ATT) that significantly restrict user tracking. The effectiveness of Apple's approach has been debated, with opt-in rates for tracking remaining low.

Google’s struggle with Privacy Sandbox could lead to similar outcomes as Apple’s ATT, where user tracking becomes more transparent but less prevalent. However, this shift requires careful consideration and regulatory approval, which is currently lacking.

The Future of Digital Tracking

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is closely watching Google's revised approach, emphasising the need for balanced solutions that protect consumers and market dynamics. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has long advocated for banning behavioural advertising based on online activity, underscoring the urgent need for robust privacy legislation.

The advertising industry, having prepared for a post-cookie world, now faces uncertainty. Investments in Privacy Sandbox-related technologies may stall, and the transition to new tracking methods could be delayed indefinitely.

For Chrome users, this means continued exposure to current tracking practices, with no immediate improvements in privacy. Meanwhile, the digital advertising industry grapples with Google's unpredictable policy changes. As the debate over user privacy and tracking continues, the need for clear, effective, and timely solutions becomes ever more critical.

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Privacy
Android devices Browsers Cookies Data Storage Google Chrome junk files Mozilla Firefox Privacy

Why You Should Clear Your Android Browser’s Cache and Cookies



The web browsers of your Android devices, whether it's Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Samsung Internet, stores a variety of files, images, and data from the websites you visit. While this data can help load sites faster and keep you logged in, it also accumulates a lot of unnecessary information. This data buildup can potentially pose privacy risks.

Over time, your browser’s cookies and cache collect a lot of junk files. Some of this data comes from sites you’ve visited only once, while others track your browsing habits to serve targeted ads. For example, you might see frequent ads for items you viewed recently. Clearing your cache regularly helps eliminate this unnecessary data, reducing the risk of unknown data trackers lurking in your browser.

Though clearing your cache means you’ll have to log back into your favourite websites, it’s a small inconvenience compared to the benefit of protecting your privacy and freeing up storage space on your phone.

How to Clear Cookies and Cache in Google Chrome

To clear cookies and cache in Google Chrome on your Android device, tap the More button (three vertical dots) in the top right corner. Go to History and then Delete browsing data. Alternatively, you can navigate through Chrome’s Settings menu to Privacy and Security, and then Delete browsing data. You’ll have options under Basic and Advanced settings to clear browsing history, cookies and site data, and cached images and files. You can choose a time range to delete this data, ranging from the past 24 hours to all time. After selecting what you want to delete, tap Clear data.

How to Get Rid Of Unnecessary Web Files in Samsung Internet

For Samsung Internet, there are two ways to clear your cookies and cache. In the browser app, tap the Options button (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner, then go to Settings, and select Personal browsing data. Tap Delete browsing data to choose what you want to delete, such as browsing history, cookies, and cached images. Confirm your choices and delete.

Alternatively, you can clear data from the Settings app on your phone. Go to Settings, then Apps, and select Samsung Internet. Tap Storage, where you’ll find options to Clear cache and Clear storage. Clear cache will delete cached files immediately, while Clear storage will remove all app data, including cookies, settings, and accounts.

How to Declutter in Mozilla Firefox

In Mozilla Firefox, clearing cookies and cache is also straightforward. Tap the More button (three vertical dots) on the right of the address bar, then go to Settings and scroll down to Delete browsing data. Firefox offers options to delete open tabs, browsing history, site permissions, downloads, cookies, and cached images. Unlike Chrome, Firefox does not allow you to select a time range, but you can be specific about the types of data you want to remove.

Firefox also has a feature to automatically delete browsing data every time you quit the app. Enable this by going to Settings and selecting Delete browsing data on quit. This helps keep your browser tidy and ensures your browsing history isn’t accessible if your phone is lost or stolen.

Regularly clearing cookies and cache from your Android browser is crucial for maintaining privacy and keeping your device free from unnecessary data. Each browser—Google Chrome, Samsung Internet, and Mozilla Firefox—offers simple steps to manage and delete this data, boosting both security and performance. By following these steps, you can ensure a safer and more efficient browsing experience on your Android device.


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