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training
Awareness Cyber Attacks Cyberattacks Cybersecurity Data protection Digital Security Education human error legislation malware training

Addressing Human Error in Cybersecurity: The Unseen Weak Link

 

Despite significant progress in cybersecurity, human error remains the most significant vulnerability in the system. Research consistently shows that the vast majority of successful cyberattacks stem from human mistakes, with recent data suggesting it accounts for 68% of breaches.

No matter how advanced cybersecurity technology becomes, the human factor continues to be the weakest link. This issue affects all digital device users, yet current cyber education initiatives and emerging regulations fail to effectively target this problem.

In cybersecurity, human errors fall into two categories. The first is skills-based errors, which happen during routine tasks, often when someone's attention is divided. For instance, you might forget to back up your data because of distractions, leaving you vulnerable in the event of an attack.

The second type involves knowledge-based errors, where less experienced users make mistakes due to a lack of knowledge or not following specific security protocols. A common example is clicking on a suspicious link, leading to malware infection and data loss.

Despite heavy investment in cybersecurity training, results have been mixed. These initiatives often adopt a one-size-fits-all, technology-driven approach, focusing on technical skills like password management or multi-factor authentication. However, they fail to address the psychological and behavioral factors behind human actions.

Changing behavior is far more complex than simply providing information. Public health campaigns, like Australia’s successful “Slip, Slop, Slap” sun safety campaign, demonstrate that sustained efforts can lead to behavioral change. The same principle should apply to cybersecurity education, as simply knowing best practices doesn’t always lead to their consistent application.

Australia’s proposed cybersecurity legislation includes measures to combat ransomware, enhance data protection, and set minimum standards for smart devices. While these are important, they mainly focus on technical and procedural solutions. Meanwhile, the U.S. is taking a more human-centric approach, with its Federal Cybersecurity Research Plan placing human factors at the forefront of system design and security.

Three Key Strategies for Human-Centric Cybersecurity

  • Simplify Practices: Cybersecurity processes should be intuitive and easily integrated into daily workflows to reduce cognitive load.
  • Promote Positive Behavior: Education should highlight the benefits of good cybersecurity practices rather than relying on fear tactics.
  • Adopt a Long-term Approach: Changing behavior is an ongoing effort. Cybersecurity training must be continually updated to address new threats.
A truly secure digital environment demands a blend of strong technology, effective policies, and a well-educated, security-conscious public. By better understanding human error, we can design more effective cybersecurity strategies that align with human behavior.
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Virtual Reality
Artificial Intelligence Education Machine learning Technology Virtual Reality

Here's How Technology is Enhancing the Immersive Learning Experience

 

In the ever-changing environment of education, a seismic shift is taking place, with technology emerging as a change agent and disrupting conventional approaches to learning. Technology bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, especially in the transformative realm of immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These technologies give educators unparalleled possibilities for expanding learning experiences beyond the constraints of traditional textbooks and lectures. 

VR: A pathway to boundless exploration

Virtual reality (VR), previously considered a futuristic concept, is now a powerful force in education. It immerses students in computer-generated settings, promoting deep engagement and comprehension. VR integration in education is more than just a change; it is a revolution. From simulated field trips to historical recreations, the many applications of virtual reality in education allow students to delve into subjects like never before, discovering the world without leaving their seats. VR and AR can accommodate different learning styles. 

According to Deloitte, students who use immersive technologies are 30 times more likely to complete their schoolwork than their traditional counterparts. The rise of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and other cutting-edge technology has considerably improved problem-solving abilities across multiple sectors. These immersive technologies promote inventive problem-solving approaches, allowing students to visualise complex situations and devise effective solutions in sectors such as engineering and design. 

A research published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction states that incorporating immersive technologies into education improves critical thinking and problem-solving skills by giving students hands-on experience in simulated environments. 

The convergence of immersive technology goes beyond VR and AR. The introduction of these technologies aligns with a larger trend in industry recognition. According to Forbes, companies that use AR/VR see improved decision-making processes as a result of greater data visualisation and collaborative issue solving. In summary, the emergence of AR/VR, along with other sophisticated technologies, demonstrates its critical role in catalysing novel problem-solving approaches across varied sectors, hence increasing efficiency and understanding. 

Multiple sectors have begun to recognise the importance of AR and VR skills. The demand for employees with experience in these technologies is expanding. According to research by Burning Glass Technologies, job postings requiring VR skills surged by over 800% between 2014 and 2019. As we embrace the present, we must also consider the future. Predicting trends helps us plan for what comes next, keeping education at the forefront of technology breakthroughs.
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World Economic Forum
Artificial Intelligence Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cybersecruity CyberThreat Education Technology World Economic Forum

Redefining Education: The AI Revolution in Classrooms Everywhere

 


There is a new report from the World Economic Forum that discusses how artificial intelligence can revolutionize education systems and help educators and students have a better experience. AI has a huge amount of potential, ranging from personalizing learning experiences to streamlining administrative tasks to integrating AI into educational curricula – and the researchers conclude that, if these technologies are appropriately applied, the world of education could enter into a new era. 

An analysis of the emerging technologies can assist educational systems in meeting the increasing demands for digital literacy and personalized learning environments, as illustrated in the new report, Shaping the Future of Learning: The Role of AI in Education 4.0. This book demonstrates the benefits that innovative artificial intelligence applications are already transforming education by providing students with the future skills they need while improving learning outcomes, empowering teachers, and empowering students.

In a statement, Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum, said that artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the global education landscape. Well-deployed artificial intelligence can help educators adapt their teaching to the needs and requirements of their students in a way that enhances student engagement and the effectiveness of educators, which is crucial for both student engagement and educator effectiveness. 

AI brings several opportunities to the education sector, but the report emphasizes the importance of refining assessment processes to provide more timely, holistic and in-depth assessments of student performance. The article also discusses how artificial intelligence can assist educators in optimizing their roles by automating and augmenting up to 20% of the clerical duties of educators, reducing administrative burdens enabling teachers to spend more time on individualized learning, improving pedagogy, and providing social-emotional support to their students. 

Besides providing students with essential future skills and knowledge, the integration of AI into education curricula allows for the development of tailored educational pathways for varied student needs, using personalized learning content and experiences. A proactive approach is required to harness the opportunities and challenges provided by artificial intelligence to further improve the quality of education while addressing the challenges that these technologies can pose at the same time. 

Several issues must be dealt with to ensure equitable access to technology, address data privacy concerns, and facilitate the transition into a world in which traditional teaching positions may be rendered obsolete.  By implementing robust data privacy and security protocols in their education systems, the report calls on policymakers and leaders in education to ensure the protection of sensitive information within their systems to ensure a responsible integration of AI into educational systems. 

Additionally, the paper argues for a stronger level of collaboration between AI developers and educators so that new AI tools will help students achieve better educational outcomes. Education 4.0 is the term used to describe the fourth industrial revolution in education and it is presented as a revolution in education primarily marked by the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to transform how education is taught and learned. 

There is a strong potential for the adoption of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, in education to revolutionize teaching methodologies, personalise learning experiences, and streamline administrative processes by revolutionising education, according to the paper. As a result of global education system being at a crossroads as a result of three factors: a global teacher shortage, administrative and assessment shortages and digital skills shortages, the paper concludes that global education systems are at a crossroads. 

Several key aspects of lifelong learning can be impacted by artificial intelligence (AI) in education and skills development, a process in which AI can play a huge role. In an age where the digital economy is rapidly evolving, the power of artificial intelligence (AI) can help us to create better and more engaging learning experiences and empower individuals to flourish within the rapidly evolving digital economy by harnessing the power of AI. 

In the design and deployment of AI-enabled educational technologies, however, it is essential that fairness, transparency, and inclusivity are put at the forefront of the implementation process, and that the ethical, social, and pedagogical implications are carefully considered. As important as it is to understand that AI is capable of automating certain tasks in the classroom, serving up personalised learning experiences, and providing enhanced data-driven insights and analytics, it still will not be able to replace the human element in teaching in its entirety. 

In the realm of education, there exists a prevailing concern regarding Al's deficiency in empathy and emotional intelligence, thus hindering its capacity to effectively address the diverse needs and emotions of students. It is widely acknowledged that educators wield a pivotal influence in fostering meaningful relationships with students, providing essential emotional support, and cultivating a profound sense of belonging and self-assurance in their capabilities. 

Central to effective pedagogy is the facilitation of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and the cultivation of creativity and innovation in students' educational pursuits. Distinguishing itself from AI, human educators are adept at steering discussions, employing incisive questioning techniques, and nurturing a culture of deep reflection on theoretical frameworks and their practical application in real-world scenarios. 

Moreover, educators possess the invaluable ability to tailor their instructional approaches in real time, drawing insights from student engagement levels and accommodating diverse learning modes. AI technology is profoundly influencing the landscape of education, particularly in what is heralded as Education 4.0, through its promotion of personalized, adaptive, and data-informed methodologies in teaching and learning. 

By harnessing the capabilities of AI, educators stand to unlock novel avenues for augmenting student engagement, enhancing learning outcomes, and equipping learners with the requisite competencies for success in the digital era. The trajectory of AI's integration into education is rife with promise, with ongoing innovations poised to catalyze transformative shifts in pedagogical paradigms. 

Furthermore, the advent of AI holds the potential to democratize access to education, foster inclusivity, and empower learners to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape with confidence. As AI technology continues to evolve, its role in shaping the future of education will become increasingly indispensable, as it equips learners with the requisite skills and acumen to thrive amidst the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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Technology
AI Artificial Intelligence Cyberattacks Cyberchackers CyberCrime Ed Tech Education Technology

From Classrooms to Cyberspace: The AI Takeover in EdTech

 


Recently, the intersection between artificial intelligence (AI) and education technology (EdTech) has become one of the most significant areas of concern and growth within the educational industry. The rapid adoption of AI-based EdTech tools is creating a unique set of challenges and opportunities for educators, students, and parents who are faced with the rapid acceleration of online learning that is catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

With the rise of these technologies in education, there has been a significant discussion about student data security and privacy and the effectiveness and ethical concerns associated with utilizing these technologies. 

With the advent of artificial intelligence in EdTech, we have seen innovative solutions to personalize learning and boost student engagement as well as substantial security risks associated with data privacy. It has become increasingly obvious that unbiased data and transparent technology use are crucial to evaluating student work and managing educational content, a situation underscored by the use of artificial intelligence algorithms in evaluating student work and managing educational content. 

EdTech companies have been forced to reevaluate their security measures and data handling practices after incidents of data breaches and unauthorized data use have highlighted vulnerabilities within the sector. It has been said that the ability of artificial intelligence to customize learning experiences and meet individual needs has made education technology a popular subject because it can optimize educational outcomes. 

The education platforms will be able to identify patterns by analyzing vast datasets and tailoring content accordingly if they use artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze large amounts of data. This will allow them to identify patterns and tailor content to meet the unique needs of students. There is no doubt that artificial intelligence is making a significant impact in the development of intelligent tutoring systems, which is one of the key areas where AI is making a significant impact on the educational environment in terms of engaging and effective education. 

A machine learning algorithm is used to identify a student's strengths and weaknesses and provide targeted feedback and individualized learning plans based on the assessment results. In this way, students receive tailored support that enables them to understand better and retain their academic content.

Moreover, AI is revolutionizing the assessment landscape, bringing automated grading systems to the classroom and streamlining the evaluation process for educators, thus transforming education’s landscape. By doing this, educators will be able to save valuable time as well as foster an interactive learning atmosphere as they will be able to focus on giving constructive feedback and providing constructive criticism. 

It is becoming more apparent that stringent security protocols and transparent data practices are essential to prevent significant security breaches, such as the lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission against Edmodo for improper data use. As a result of these incidents, researchers have begun to reexamine how AI-based EdTech tools are used by educators in conjunction with how educators themselves safeguard information about their students.

AI has the prospect of bringing many benefits to education, but integrating it into the system requires a balanced approach that utilizes the advantages of technology while minimizing any potential risks associated with the process. 

There is an urgent need for educators and schools to establish strong data protection agreements with EdTech vendors, which will ensure privacy laws are adhered to, and clarity is provided on how personal data will be used, protected, and protected from unauthorized access. There is a need for transparency with stakeholders - parents, students, and teachers – about the use of AI tools, the data they collect, and the protective measures they are taking. 

To successfully navigate this complex terrain, it is essential to conduct regular reviews of privacy policies, monitor the effectiveness of EdTech tools, and engage with the evolving AI landscape daily. The use of artificial intelligence can enhance the learning experience and enhance student responses if educators adopt a proactive, informed approach to the use of AI to enhance student outcomes while maintaining a vigilant stance on the security and privacy of student data. 

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) is integrating into classrooms and classroom practices more and more, it is heralding an era that offers remarkable opportunities for innovation and personalized learning in teaching and learning. 

The ethical, privacy, and security implications of these technologies, however, call for a critical review of their potential use. There will be a crucial need to orchestrate a concerted effort by educators, policymakers, and technology providers to be able to realize the potential of AI in educational settings responsibly and effectively as the educational landscape continues to evolve.
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Technology
AI Ai Data Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence Education Data data security Education Safety Security. Data Technology

Optimizing Education: Unleashing the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom

 

The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into educational settings holds the promise of transforming both the learning experience for students and the teaching methods employed by educators. AI algorithms, when integrated into the classroom, have the capability to offer personalized feedback and recommendations, enhancing the overall efficacy and engagement in learning. 

Despite these potential advantages, educators encounter various challenges in integrating AI into the curriculum. This article explores the benefits, challenges, and best practices associated with the inclusion of AI in education, emphasizing the ongoing need for research and development to fully harness its potential.

Artificial Intelligence is progressively becoming an integral part of our daily lives, with the potential to revolutionize work, communication, and learning. In the educational realm, AI stands to provide students with personalized and engaging learning experiences, aiding teachers in addressing individual student needs more effectively. 

However, along with these benefits, educators face challenges such as the requirement for technical expertise, limited resources, and ethical considerations.

Benefits of Incorporating AI into the Classroom

One significant advantage of integrating AI into classrooms is the ability to tailor learning experiences to individual students. AI algorithms analyze student data, adapting to their learning styles and offering feedback and recommendations customized to their needs. This personalized approach can enhance student engagement, motivation, and ultimately contribute to improved academic performance. 

Additionally, incorporating AI into the curriculum provides an opportunity to deepen students' understanding of this rapidly-evolving technology, fostering a critical perspective and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Moreover, exposure to AI tools and applications helps students develop crucial 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Challenges of Incorporating AI into the Classroom

While the advantages of incorporating AI into education are evident, educators face significant challenges. The foremost obstacle is the need for technical expertise, as teachers unfamiliar with AI may struggle to seamlessly integrate it into their teaching practices. 

Addressing this challenge requires adequate support and training. Another hurdle is the cost associated with AI tools and applications, posing resource constraints for many educational institutions. Additionally, ethical concerns regarding privacy, security, and the impact on the job market require careful consideration to ensure responsible implementation.

To champion the cause of AI, one must adopt a critical stance and acknowledge the potential for misuse or mishandling. It is crucial to identify these potential pitfalls and initiate discussions on effective mitigation strategies.

Instances of students leveraging generative AI services, such as ChatGPT, for academic dishonesty have surfaced. Relying solely on algorithms and AI for the learning journey is not the objective.

The emphasis should be on enhancing, not overshadowing, the learning experience. While tools like ChatGPT can be potent aids, their effectiveness depends on how thoughtfully they are integrated. Educating both students and teachers on the strategic use of AI tools is essential. For instance, rather than allowing unrestricted use, schools can integrate ChatGPT into project-based learning, fostering a research-oriented mindset. Students can employ ChatGPT as a co-pilot, supplementing their own hypotheses and interpretations, thereby making classroom learning engaging and enriching.

To effectively integrate AI into teaching practices, several best practices are recommended:

1. Partner with a Reliable AI Provider:Collaborate with trustworthy AI partners, such as technology companies, local universities, or non-profit organizations specializing in AI education. These partners can offer support, training, and guidance for seamless integration.

2. Start Small:Begin by implementing AI in specific areas rather than attempting a comprehensive curriculum overhaul. This incremental approach allows teachers to gain experience, build confidence, and refine their teaching methods gradually.

3. Foster Ethical and Critical Thinking:Encourage students to think critically about the ethical implications of AI and its societal impact. This promotes responsible and informed digital citizenship, empowering students to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

Overall, the integration of Artificial Intelligence into education presents a unique opportunity for both educators and students. 

While AI holds the potential to offer personalized learning experiences and develop essential 21st-century skills, its incorporation requires careful consideration of challenges and adherence to best practices. Ongoing research and development are essential to fully unlock the transformative potential of AI in education.
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threats
Awareness Budget Cyber Security Cyberattacks CyberCrime Data Education Internet National Cyber Security Centre phishing Protection Ransomware Schools SonicWall Students threats

Fortifying Cybersecurity for Schools as New Academic Year Begins

 

School administrators have received a cautionary alert regarding the imperative need to fortify their defenses against potential cyberattacks as the commencement of the new academic year looms. 

The National Cyber Security Centre has emphasized the necessity of implementing "appropriate security measures" to safeguard educational institutions from potential threats and to avert disruptions.

While there are no specific indicators of heightened threats as schools prepare to reopen, the onset of a fresh academic term underscores the potential severity of any cyberattacks during this period. 

Don Smith, the Vice President of the counter-threat unit at Secureworks, a cybersecurity firm, has highlighted the current transitional phase as an opportune moment for cybercriminals. He pointed out that the creation of new accounts for students and staff, as well as the school's approach to portable devices like laptops and tablets, can introduce vulnerabilities.

Smith explained, "Summer is a time when people are using their devices to have fun, play games, that sort of thing. If you've allowed teachers and pupils to take devices home, or let them bring their own, these devices may have picked up infections and malware that can come into the school and create a problem."

Last September, six schools within the same academy trust in Hertfordshire suffered internal system disruptions due to a cyberattack, occurring shortly after the new term had started. 

Additionally, just recently, Debenham High School in Suffolk fell victim to a hack that temporarily crippled all of its computer facilities, prompting technicians to work tirelessly to restore them before the commencement of the new term.

Schools are generally not the primary targets of concentrated cyberattack campaigns, unlike businesses, but they are considered opportunistic targets due to their comparatively less robust defenses. 

Don Smith emphasized that limited budgets and allocation priorities may result in schools having inadequate cybersecurity measures. Basic digital hygiene practices, such as implementing two-factor authentication and keeping software up to date, are crucial for safeguarding vital data.

Moreover, it is imperative for both students and teachers to be regularly educated about cybersecurity threats, including the importance of strong passwords, vigilance against suspicious downloads, and the ability to identify phishing attempts in emails. Mr. Smith noted that cybersecurity is no longer solely the responsibility of a small IT team; instead, all users are on the frontline, necessitating a general understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals.

A recent study revealed that one in seven 15-year-olds is susceptible to responding to phishing emails, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds with weaker cognitive skills. Professor John Jerrim, the study's author, emphasized the need for increased efforts to help teenagers navigate the increasingly complex and perilous online landscape.

The National Cyber Security Centre, a division of GCHQ, has previously issued warnings regarding the growing prevalence of ransomware attacks targeting the education sector. Ransomware attacks involve criminals infiltrating a network and deploying malicious software that locks access to computer systems until a ransom is paid. Although ransomware attacks temporarily declined during the first quarter of 2023, they have been steadily increasing since then.

SonicWall, a cybersecurity company, emphasized that schools, being repositories of substantial data, are attractive targets for hackers pursuing financial and phishing scams. As schools rely more heavily on internet-based tools in the classroom, they must prioritize cybersecurity, both in terms of budget allocation and mindset, as the new school year approaches.

In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for the Department for Education affirmed that educational institutions bear the responsibility of being aware of cybersecurity risks and implementing appropriate measures. This includes establishing data backups and response plans to mitigate potential incidents.

"We monitor reports of all cyberattacks closely and in any case where there has been an attack, we instruct the department's regional team to offer support," they added. "There is no evidence to suggest that attacks like this are on the rise."
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Schools
Cyber Attacks Cyber Threats Cybersecurity Data Theft Education Hackers Online attacks ransomware attacks Schools

Surge in Ransomware Attacks: Hackers Set Sights on Schools

 

With the growing dependence of educational districts on technology for their operations, the occurrence of cyberattacks on K-12 schools is on the rise.

In the year 2023, there have been ransomware attacks on at least 48 districts, surpassing the total number recorded in the entirety of 2022. This data comes from Emsisoft, a cybersecurity firm. Of these attacked districts, all but 10 of them had their data stolen as well, as per the findings of the cybersecurity company.

The previous year saw ransomware attacks on educational institutions in the United States, including schools and colleges, resulting in nearly $10 billion in costs due to downtime alone.

The mechanics of these attacks are as follows: Hackers, frequently associated with Russia and China, employ network-encrypting malware to pilfer data. They achieve this by enticing unsuspecting teachers or school administrators to click on infected emails or attachments.

Once the virus gains access, it bars entry to the entire system's data, encompassing sensitive information like social security numbers, financial records, and confidential student data. To add leverage, the hacker often threatens to expose this information online unless they receive payment in cryptocurrency.

Comparitech's Editor and Consumer Privacy Expert, Paul Bischoff, highlighted the heightened vulnerability of schools due to the imperative nature of attendance. The regular functioning of the school system and the contentment of parents are jeopardized if children are forced to stay out of school for extended periods due to cyberattacks.

Bischoff clarified that hackers generally target fundamental information like names, addresses, and email addresses. While these details might not have an immediate monetary impact on students, they render them susceptible to future attacks, whether from sexual predators or thieves.

Recently, the Cleveland City School District identified ransomware on some of its devices. Thanks to proactive measures such as system backups, the level of disruption was contained.

However, there have been instances where other school districts weren't as fortunate. One Connecticut school district suffered a loss exceeding $6 million due to a cyberattack, although they have managed to recover roughly half of that amount.

In a notable case in March, ransomware groups made public 300,000 files after Minneapolis Public Schools declined to pay a $1 million ransom. These leaked files contained sensitive information about student sexual assaults, cases of psychiatric hospitalization, abusive parents, and even suicide attempts.

According to data from Comparitech, the year before saw 65 ransomware attacks affecting over 1,400 educational institutions, impacting around one million students. Although some hackers demanded ransoms ranging from $250,000 to $1 million, many schools refrain from disclosing ransom details due to concerns about attracting further attacks.

In a bid to address the issue, the White House organized its inaugural "cybersecurity summit" earlier this month.

Bischoff emphasized the necessity of training school staff to recognize phishing emails and other potential hacker entry points. He also advised ensuring that antivirus software is kept updated and that data is regularly backed up. He added that storing these backups off-site can safeguard them against ransomware attacks.
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Technology
API Cyber Attacks CyberCrime Cybersecurity Education Microsoft 365 Phishing Attacks Technology

Microsoft 365 Phishing Attacks Made Easier With 'Greatness'

 


It is a method of stealing money, or your identity, by attempting to get you to reveal personal information through websites that pretend to be legitimate websites, such as credit cards, bank details, or passwords, that aim to get you to reveal your personal information. Cybercriminals often pose as reputable companies, friends, or acquaintances and send fake messages with a link to a phishing website.  

By enticing people to reveal personal information like passwords and credit card numbers, phishing attacks are intended to steal sensitive data or damage it by damaging users' computers. 

Even script kiddies have constructed convincing, effective phishing attacks against businesses using a service never heard of before, called phishing-as-a-service (PaaS). 

As many organizations around the world use the Microsoft 365 cloud-based productivity platform, it has become one of the most valuable targets for cybercriminals. These criminals use it to steal data and credentials to compromise their networks. 

During a Cisco Talos research update, researchers explained how phishing activity on the Greatness platform exploded between December 2022 and March 2023. This was when the platform was launched in mid-2022. 

Since the tool was introduced in mid-2022, it has been used in attacks on several companies across a variety of industries. These industries include manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and banking. 

At this point, approximately half of those targeted are in the United States. Attacks have also been carried out around Western Europe, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and South Africa, but the majority are concentrated in the US. 

As a result of these attacks, a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, education, real estate, construction, finance, and business services, are being targeted. 

It contains everything you will ever need to conduct a successful phishing campaign if you intend to play at being a phishing actor in the future. 

Using the API key that they have acquired for their service, the users will have access to the 'Greatness' admin panel and provided a list of email addresses that they wish to attack. 

It is the PhaaS platform, or as it is often called, that allocates the infrastructure needed to host the phishing pages and also to build the HTML attachments. This is like the server hosting the phishing pages. 

Afterward, the affiliate builds the content for the email and provides any other material needed, and changes any default settings if necessary. 

The process of taking on an organization is simple. A hacker simply logs into the enterprise using their API key; provides a list of target email addresses; creates the content of the email (and changes any other default details as they see fit). 

Greatness will authenticate on the real Microsoft platform based on the MFA code supplied by the victim once the MFA code is provided. This allows the affiliate to receive an authenticated session cookie through the Telegram channel provided by the service or through access to their web panel. 

As a result, many companies find that stolen credentials can also be used to breach their network security. This results in more dangerous attacks, like ransomware, being launched.
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US
Cyber Attacks Cyber Safety data security Education Educational Institutes hack Schools Students Data US

Cyberattack Compels Albuquerque Public Schools to Close 144 Schools

 

Following a cyberattack that attacked the district's attendance, communications, and transportation systems, all 144 Albuquerque Public Schools are closed for the remainder of this week, according to APS's announcement on mid-day Thursday. 

APS is one of the 50 largest school districts in the country, with around 74,000 students. 

District IT staff discovered the problem on Wednesday, and APS posted a statement on its website and Twitter account that afternoon stating, “All Albuquerque Public Schools will be closed Thursday, Jan. 13, due to a cyberattack that has compromised some systems that could impact teaching, learning, and student safety. … The district is working with contracted professionals to fix the problem.” 

"The district continues to examine a cyberattack that affected the student information system used to take attendance, contact families in emergencies, and ensure that students are picked up from school by authorised people," APS stated online on Thursday afternoon and cancelled classes for Friday. 

APS said it will reopen schools on Tuesday, Jan. 18, after being closed on Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, specifying that administrative offices stayed open. The attack was detected Wednesday morning when instructors attempted to enter onto the student information system and were unable to obtain access to the site, according to APS Superintendent Scott Elder in a brief statement uploaded to the district's APS Technology YouTube page. 

Elder further stated, “APS is working with local and national law enforcement as well as teams of cyber specialists to as quickly as possible limit our exposure to this attack, to protect all systems in our network and ensure a safe environment to return to school and business as usual.” 

He noted that the district's IT department had been "mitigating attacks" in recent weeks. A spokeswoman told the Albuquerque Journal she was sceptical about what kind of attack it was and said she didn’t know whether those responsible had demanded a ransom.
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Zoom
Coronavirus E-learning Education Online courses Online learning Online lectures Technology Universities Video Conferencing Zoom

Universities Switch to Online Learning but Is it Enough?


With there being no apparent end in view of the pandemic, everyone has been forced to live within a confined space and spend their days not doing anything that needs going out.

Especially students all over the world are having a hard time managing things without the actual physical classes to dote on. Not that online lectures and a virtual education aren’t lucrative but most students find a lack of motivation a common problem.

With the dearth of options, available students are managing to adjust to the online learning life given most institutions have switched to various online mediums like Zoom, which is a great step, globally.

Universities are trying their best to make do with all the possible resources they have at their disposal. But is it okay to consider that online classes shall suffice?

What the students need at such a gloomy time is a way to make education and learning which could provide them technologically rich experience and not just a mere imitation of what otherwise happens in their classes.

The tech-world is overflowing with contemporary ideas of learning. There are hundreds of ways to create and design interactive sessions via podcasts, and virtual reality. Students, from the comfort of their homes, could be better learners if they encourage the right way and could induce better responses.

Online learning or online lectures shouldn’t just be a professor, going on and on for hours like in a physical class. There is such a variety of avenues to follow when it comes to technology-based learning that too, online.


During the past months, the number of students enrolled in online courses has increased substantially. There has also been a rise in the number of students joining full-time online courses.

People who weren’t as tech-savvy as all that lost their jobs and had to get back to studying for any possible chances of a career change.

Per sources, FutureLearn and UofPeople(University of People) have experienced a hike in demand for online courses because of people wanting to be productive in the days of quarantine by acquiring new skills.

According to reports, there has been seen a significant rise in the demand for online courses for the English language, health-related subjects, and mental health topics.

This culture of interactive online learning if does not limit itself to the pandemic times could lead to a better learning mechanism that would prove to be extremely efficacious for students all across the globe.

The availability of online platforms for students to begin or continue their education is massively contributing to lessening the number of chances of students deferring.

Even though the initial online courses that went and probably still do, by the name Moocs (Massive open online courses) weren’t so much of a big hit, but given the times of the “pandemic induced confinement”, people are warming up to them.

The current predicament has everyone bursting with uncertainty. There is no telling if universities would even begin their next sessions any time soon.

Everything can’t certainly be taught online, especially practical-learning which prompts a huge question mark to which no one has the right answer.

Realizing that there is no way to know when the universities would open and commence their normal operations with the added factor of social distancing, ‘the internet is all we have.'

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