Search This Blog
Powered by Blogger.

Blog Archive

Labels

Load More
Trendy Right Now

Popular Posts

Showing posts with label Online Data. Show all posts
Website
Cyber Security FBI Online Data Ransomware TAD Texas Website

Ransomware Strikes Tarrant Appraisal District

 



Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD) finds itself grappling with a major setback as its website falls prey to a criminal ransomware attack, resulting in a disruption of its essential services. The attack, which was discovered on Thursday, prompted swift action from TAD, as the agency collaborated closely with cybersecurity experts to assess the situation and fortify its network defences. Following a thorough investigation, TAD confirmed that it had indeed fallen victim to a ransomware attack, prompting immediate reporting to relevant authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Texas Department of Information Resources.

Despite concerted efforts to minimise the impact, TAD continues to work towards restoring full functionality to its services. Presently, while the TAD website remains accessible, the ability to search for records online has been temporarily suspended. Moreover, disruptions extend beyond the digital realm, with phone and email services also facing temporary outages. This development comes hot on the heels of a recent database failure experienced by TAD, which necessitated the expedited launch of a new website. Originally intending to run both old and new sites concurrently for a fortnight, the agency was compelled to hasten the transition following the database crash.

Chief Appraiser Joe Don Bobbitt has moved seamlessly to reassure the public, asserting that no sensitive information was compromised during the disruption. However, TAD remains vigilant and committed to addressing any lingering concerns. The agency is poised to provide further updates during an upcoming board meeting.

These recent challenges encountered by TAD underscore the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures and organisational resilience in the face of unforeseen disruptions. Against the backdrop of escalating property values across North Texas, scrutiny of appraisal processes has intensified, with TAD having previously grappled with website functionality issues. Nevertheless, the agency remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing user experience and fostering transparency.

In light of recent events, TAD remains resolute in prioritising the integrity of its operations and the safeguarding of sensitive data. The deliberate response to the ransomware attack prompts the agency's unwavering dedication to addressing emerging threats and maintaining public trust. As TAD diligently works towards restoring full operational capacity, stakeholders are urged to remain careful and report any suspicious activity promptly.

The resilience demonstrated by TAD in navigating these challenges serves as a testament to its dedication to serving the community and upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency in property valuation processes.


Read more »
VPN
Anonymous Hacker Crypto cryptocurrency Data Breach. Decentralization Digital Tokens IP Address Online Data Server User Privacy VPN

Nym's Decentralized VPN: A Game-Changer for Online Privacy


Nym, a privacy technology company, is getting ready to introduce a decentralized VPN (Virtual Private Network) that aims to completely change how we safeguard our online data and preserve our privacy in a quickly changing digital environment where online privacy is getting harder to define. An industry game-changer in the field of online security, this breakthrough is scheduled to launch in early 2024.

Nym's ambitious project has garnered significant attention from the tech and cryptocurrency community. With concerns about surveillance, data breaches, and cyberattacks on the rise, the need for robust online privacy solutions is more critical than ever. Traditional VPNs have long been a popular choice for protecting one's online identity and data. However, Nym's decentralized VPN takes privacy to the next level.

One of the key features of Nym's VPN is its decentralized nature. Unlike traditional VPNs that rely on centralized servers, Nym's VPN leverages a decentralized network, making it far more resistant to censorship and government intervention. This feature is particularly important in regions where internet freedom is limited.

Furthermore, Nym's VPN is powered by a privacy-centric cryptocurrency called NYM tokens. Users can stake these tokens to access the VPN service or earn rewards for supporting the network. This innovative approach not only incentivizes network participation but also ensures a high level of privacy and security.

The decentralized VPN is designed to protect users from surveillance and data harvesting by hiding their IP addresses and routing their internet traffic through a network of anonymous servers. This means that users can browse the web, communicate, and access online services without revealing their true identity or location.

In addition to its privacy features, Nym's VPN is being developed with a strong focus on speed and usability. This means that users can enjoy the benefits of online privacy without sacrificing their internet connection's speed and performance.

Since Nym is a big step toward a more secure and private internet, the IT industry is excited about its impending introduction. Users seeking to protect their online activity will have access to a cutting-edge, decentralized solution as 2024 draws near.

Nym's decentralized VPN stands out as a ray of light in a world where threats to internet privacy are omnipresent. Its distinctive approach to privacy, robust security features, and intuitive design have the power to revolutionize the way we safeguard our personal information and identities online. When Nym launches in early 2024, it will surely be a turning point in the continuous struggle to protect internet privacy in a connected society.

Read more »
Technology
Data Storage Datafication Digitization Online Data Technology

Datafication: What is it and Why is it Important ?


While the word ‘datafication’ will sound like an irrelevant word, being forgotten as years went by, it actually hold much importance and impacts individual on a significant basis. And, it is not the same as ‘digitization.’

But, before this conclusive statement, let us understand the difference between the two:

What is Digitization? 

Digitization refers to records created by digitizing physical data records, such as those found in books, videotapes, and CDs. These records are much easier to store, back up, share, edit, and analyze.

When computers were still a fresh invention, this was a big transition, since a lot of data was created and kept in “hard copy.”

Digitization has held its importance since its introduction, since it has helped many declutter their lives by digitizing the paper notes and records, they had horded. 

However, digitization is no longer a crucial trend as trend as it used to be, taking into account that most of that data is already created in a digital format.

And here is when Datafication kicks in.

What Is Datafication? 

"Datafication" is the process of gathering data by quantitatively analyzing previously examined qualitative events. Datafication is different from digitization, because of the fact that so much data now originates and exists in digital form.

Why Is Datafication Important? 

Datafication is significant because it reflects a compromise between internet users and the businesses that sell us products and services. The better those businesses understand us, the more they can improve the services they offer.

This is in turn a win-win situation. Online users' experience is possible when using the internet, and the better those experiences are, the more likely they are to support the businesses that make the websites they use accessible to them.

Future of Datafication

One of the reasons that make datafication so crucial in today’s world, in fact, the only reason that makes it significant is that people spend much of their time online than ever before. Not only this, the devices used today, to access online elements are becoming increasingly ubiquitous.

On a home desktop, information can be gathered from an online experience. With access to its user's camera, location, and other features, a mobile device may capture considerably more data. Additionally, many people use mobile devices more frequently than desktop PCs.

These trends are highly likely to increase. The methods used to store and manage personal data, however, may prevent a loss of privacy from being a natural consequence of an increase in data.

Currently, cookies allow users to customize the extent to which they exchange data for online efficiency, but many aspects are still beyond the control of the familiar may. This leaves the ‘developments in datafication’ a significant theme of conversation to look forward to.

Read more »
Online Data
AI-Blockchain Coinbase Crypto Cyber Security Online Data

Coinbase Sees Transformative Future of AI-Blockchain

 

Coinbase, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, acknowledges the profound potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of digital currencies. Being at the forefront of the industry, Coinbase recognizes the considerable influence AI can wield in transforming the utilization, comprehension, and regulation of cryptocurrencies. 

In a recent research conducted by Coinbase, David Duong, the head of research at Coinbase, emphasizes the increasing possibilities for collaboration and exploration of novel applications in the realms of AI and blockchain technology. 

Further, he highlights the expanding potential for these two fields to intersect and create innovative solutions. The advancement of AI and blockchain applications is poised to reshape numerous industries and offer remedies for the particular societal dilemmas raised by AI. 

Within this context, a compelling scenario emerges, involving the convergence of generative AI and decentralized data marketplaces. According to Duong's proposal, these marketplaces can effectively tackle the need for authenticated and diverse datasets, which is essential for training generative AI models. 

By leveraging decentralized data marketplaces, the demand for reliable datasets can be met, facilitating significant progress in the realm of AI. Through the utilization of blockchain technology, these marketplaces can establish a platform that ensures data exchange is both secure and transparent. 

What is Blockchain Technology? 

Blockchain is like a secure and unchangeable record book that helps keep track of transactions and things of value in a business network. It can monitor physical assets like houses, cars, or money, as well as non-physical assets like patents, copyrights, or brand names. Basically, anything valuable can be monitored and exchanged on a blockchain network, making things safer and cheaper for everyone involved. 

Token-Based Incentives 

The report suggests that in decentralized data marketplaces, a system using tokens as rewards or incentives could be introduced to improve the quality of data obtained. According to Duong, this system would motivate data providers to offer trustworthy and top-notch data, which would ultimately be beneficial for generative AI models. 

By using tokens as rewards or incentives, the data exchanged on these platforms can be made more reliable and precise. This ensures that everyone involved is encouraged to contribute high-quality data, making the whole process better for everyone. 

Collaboration of AI-Blockchain 

As blockchain and AI progress, their combined potential becomes even more exciting. By merging blockchain with AI systems, we can overcome issues surrounding data privacy, security, and trust. This collaboration opens doors to creative solutions for different societal problems, taking advantage of the strengths of AI and blockchain technologies. 

Further, he said that this convergence can lead to the development of innovative applications that tackle specific societal challenges posed by AI. In simpler terms, AI and blockchain coming together can create new ways to address the problems caused by AI.
Read more »
Vidar Stealer
Antivirus Cyber Security Email Fraud Infostealer Online Data Ransomware Attacks. Vidar Stealer

New Information-Stealing Malware Campaign Targets Online Sellers

Online sellers have become the latest targets of a new information-stealing malware campaign that aims to compromise their sensitive data. Security researchers have discovered a strain of malware called Vidar being deployed in this campaign, with attackers using various methods to distribute the malicious software.

Vidar is a well-known information-stealing malware that has been active since at least 2018. It is designed to collect sensitive data from infected systems, including login credentials, financial information, and other personal details. The malware operates by monitoring the victim's activities and capturing keystrokes, taking screenshots, and even recording audio if necessary.

In this recent campaign, attackers have specifically focused on online sellers, recognizing the potential financial gain from stealing their login credentials and gaining unauthorized access to their e-commerce platforms. By compromising online seller accounts, attackers can manipulate product listings, redirect payments, and exploit customer data for fraudulent purposes.

The distribution methods employed in this campaign are diverse. They range from phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links to infected websites that host exploit kits. Once the malware is successfully installed on the victim's system, it remains silent and works stealthily in the background, gathering valuable information without the user's knowledge.

To protect against this type of threat, online sellers and individuals should implement robust cybersecurity practices. These include regularly updating operating systems and software to patch known vulnerabilities, employing strong and unique passwords for all online accounts, and being cautious when opening email attachments or clicking on suspicious links.

Furthermore, it is crucial to educate employees and individuals about the risks of phishing attacks and social engineering techniques commonly used by cybercriminals. By raising awareness and promoting a security-conscious mindset, organizations can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to such malware campaigns.

Security solutions, including robust antivirus and anti-malware software, should be installed and kept up to date to detect and mitigate any potential threats. Regular system scans should also be conducted to identify and remove any malicious files or software.

The discovery of this new information-stealing malware campaign serves as a reminder that cybercriminals are continuously evolving their tactics and targeting specific industries for financial gain. Online sellers, in particular, should remain vigilant and implement strong security measures to safeguard their valuable data and protect their customers from fraud and identity theft.


Read more »
USA
Cyber Security Data Safety. Security Online Data US USA

Protect Your Online Data Now, Rather than Waiting for the Government

 

The old joke goes, "The opposite of pro is con, so the opposite of progress is Congress." Getting laws proposed and passed can be difficult even in a more relaxed political climate, but the present state of the US Congress makes most new legislation, regardless of content, a difficult sell. That is one of the challenges that government advisers from the cybersecurity industry face when urging politicians to suggest and pass federal data privacy laws. Other obstacles include inconsistent data privacy laws in some US states.

It's long past time for the United States to adopt the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). GDPR is a set of stringent rules that govern how EU residents' data is handled, sold, and stored. GDPR protects consumers' privacy and security rights by imposing fines on companies that fail to comply.

In conversation with Wade Barisoff of the cybersecurity firm Fortra (Opens in a new window) last week about the current state of data privacy protections in the United States. Barisoff emphasized the importance of federal data privacy regulations, citing the European Union's GDPR as an effective example.

"GDPR was significant, not only because it was a unifying act that enshrined the rights of people and their digital identities to govern how their data could be handled,” Barisoff said, “but also because it was the first legislation with real teeth.”

Consumers in the United States would benefit from federal data privacy regulations that enforce severe penalties on companies that fail to comply. If you live in the United States, you may not have much control over what companies can do with your data once they have it, so lock down your accounts with multi-factor authentication and evaluate the privacy policies of your apps today.

Analyzing Data Breach Statistics

There is little recourse for victims of identity theft in the United States whose data was stolen because a company in the United States failed to report a breach. In the Identity Theft Resource Center's (ITRC) 2022 Data Breach Report(Opens in a new window), CEO Eva Velasquez noted a significant disparity between the average number of breach notices issued each business day in the US (seven) and the 356 breach notices issued daily in the EU in 2021.

"Common sense tells us that data breaches are underreported in the United States," Velasquez explained in the report. "The result is individuals are largely unable to protect themselves from the harmful effects of data compromises which are fueling an epidemic—a scamdemic—of identity fraud committed with stolen or compromised information."

Based on the Data Breach Report, since most state governments do not require companies to include factual data surrounding data breach incidents, the majority of US-based companies do not publish this information at all. According to the ITRC, businesses may choose not to include the details surrounding these incidents in order to avoid future lawsuits for failing to protect consumer data. LastPass, the embattled password management company, was singled out in the report for failing to explain the details of a 2022 attack in which cybercriminals gained access to its customers' information.

The Legal Status of Data Privacy in the United States

According to Barisoff, data privacy regulation in the United States has a long history in certain industries. In the United States, for example, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, was signed into law nearly 30 years ago. It is still used to develop data privacy policies for healthcare organizations. Barisoff told me that going beyond decades-old industry guidelines is difficult because capitalism is such a powerful drug.

"We've never really climbed this mountain yet because data is worth money," Barisoff said. "Google has built its entire empire just on data and understanding what people are doing and selling that. There's more of a focus on capitalism, and there's a lot of powerful players here in the US that basically made their entire company off of private data."
 
Some state legislators are attempting to retaliate against tech companies by proposing and passing statewide data privacy legislation. According to Barisoff, these laws are a beginning, but imposing them may be difficult. "The only consistency will be that each new law is different," he noted.

This effect is already being felt. Texas sued Google last year, claiming that the company's Photos and Assistant apps violated state biometric privacy laws. In 2016, residents in Illinois filed and won a similar lawsuit against Google. According to Barisoff, the creation, and enforcement of state-by-state data privacy laws makes it more difficult for businesses to comply with regulations.

"As each state seeks to highlight how much they value their citizens’ rights over the next, we’ll see an element of 'What’s good for California isn’t good enough for Kansas' creep in,” warned Barisoff. 

"This developing complexity will have a significant impact on organizations operating across the country," he concluded.
Read more »
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)