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User Data
Amazon Chrome Cookie Data Facebook Safari Technology User Data

No More Internet Cookies? Digital Targeted Ads to Find New Ways


Google Chrome to block cookies

The digital advertising world is changing rapidly due to privacy concerns and regulatory needs, and the shift is affecting how advertisers target customers. Starting in 2025, Google to stop using third-party cookies in the world’s most popular browser, Chrome. The cookies are data files that track our internet activities in our browsers. The cookie collects information sold to advertisers, who use this for targeted advertising based on user data. 

“Cookies are files created by websites you visit. By saving information about your visit, they make your online experience easier. For example, sites can keep you signed in, remember your site preferences, and give you locally relevant content,” says Google.

In 2019 and 2020, Firefox and Safari took a step back from third-party cookies. Following their footsteps, Google’s Chrome allows users to opt out of the settings. As the cookies have information that can identify a user, the EU’s and UK’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) asks a user for prior consent via spamming pop-ups. 

No more third-party data

Once the spine of targeted digital advertising, the future of third-party cookies doesn’t look bright. However, not everything is sunshine and rainbows. 

While giants like Amazon, Google, and Facebook are burning bridges by blocking third-party cookies to address privacy concerns, they can still collect first-party data about a user from their websites, and the data will be sold to advertisers if a user permits, however in a less intrusive form. The harvested data won’t be of much use to the advertisers, but the annoying pop-ups being in existence may irritate the users.

How will companies benefit?

One way consumers and companies can benefit is by adapting the advertising industry to be more efficient. Instead of using targeted advertising, companies can directly engage with customers visiting websites. 

Advances in AI and machine learning can also help. Instead of invasive ads that keep following you on the internet, the user will be getting information and features personally. Companies can predict user needs, and via techniques like automated delivery and pre-emptive stocking, give better results. A new advertising landscape is on its way.

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User Data
Cloud Firm Cloudfare Data Breach Data Loss User Data

Faulty Upgrade at Cloudflare Results in User Data Loss

 

Cloudflare has disclosed a severe vulnerability with its logging-as-a-service platform, Cloudflare Logs, which resulted in user data loss due to an improper software update. The US-based connectivity cloud firm acknowledged that around 55% of log data generated over a 3.5-hour period on November 14, 2024, was permanently wiped out. This loss was caused by a succession of technical misconfigurations and system failures. 

Cloudflare logs collects event metadata from Cloudflare's global network and makes it available to customers for troubleshooting, compliance, and analytics. To speed up log delivery and avoid overloading users, the organisation uses Logpush, a system that collects and transmits data in manageable sums. An update to Logpush caused a series of system failures, disrupting services and resulting in data loss. 

The incident started with a configuration upgrade to enable support for an additional dataset in Logpush. A defect in the configuration generation system resulted in Logfwdr, a component responsible for forwarding logs, receiving an empty configuration. This error informed Logfwdr that no logs needed to be delivered. Cloudflare discovered the bug within minutes and reverted the update. 

However, rolling back the update triggered a separate, pre-existing issue in Logfwdr. This flaw, which was linked to a fail-safe technique designed to "fail open" in the event of configuration mistakes, caused Logfwdr to process and attempt to transmit logs for all customers, not just those with active setups. 

The unexpected rise in log processing overloaded Buftee, Cloudflare's log buffering system. Buftee is intended to keep distinct buffers for each customer to ensure data integrity and prevent interference between log operations. Under typical circumstances, Buftee manages millions of buffers worldwide. The large influx of data caused by the Logfwdr mistake boosted buffer demand by fortyfold, exceeding Buftee's capacity and rendering the system unresponsive. 

According to Cloudflare, addressing the issue needed a complete system reset and several hours of recovery time. During this time, the company was unable to transfer or recover the affected logs, which resulted in permanent data loss.

Cloudflare attributed the incident to flaws in its system security and configuration processes. While systems for dealing with such issues existed, they were not set up to handle such a large-scale failure. Buftee, for example, offers capabilities designed to handle unexpected surges in buffer demand, but these functions were not enabled, leaving the system vulnerable to overflow.

The company also stated that the fail-open mechanism in Logfwdr, which was established during the service's early development, has not been updated to match the much bigger user base and traffic levels. This error enabled the system to send logs for all clients, resulting in a resource spike that exceeded operational constraints. 

Cloudflare has apologised for the disruption and pledged to prevent similar instances in the future. The company is implementing new alerts to better detect configuration issues, improving its failover procedures to manage larger-scale failures, and doing simulations to verify system resilience under overload scenarios. 

Furthermore, Cloudflare is improving its logging design so that individual system components can better withstand cascading failures. While faults in complex systems are unavoidable, the company's priority is to minimise their impact and ensure that services recover fast. 

Last month, Cloudflare claimed successfully managing the largest recorded distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) assault, which reached 3.8 terabits per second (Tbps). The attack was part of a larger campaign aimed at industries such as internet services, finance, and telecommunications. The campaign consisted of over 100 hyper-volumetric DDoS attacks carried out over the course of a month, overwhelming network infrastructure with massive amounts of data.
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User Privacy
Data Laws Data Privacy Digital Rights Privacy User Data User Privacy

Balancing Act: Russia's New Data Decree and the Privacy Dilemma

Balancing Act: Russia's New Data Decree and the Privacy Dilemma

Data Privacy and State Access

Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media has introduced a draft decree specifying the conditions under which authorities can access staff and customer data from businesses operating in Russia, according to Forbes.

The decree would authorize authorities to demand anonymized personal data of customers and employees from businesses in order to protect the population during emergencies, prevent terrorism, and control the spread of infectious diseases, as well as for economic and social research purposes.

The Proposed Decree

Expected to take effect in September 2025, this draft decree follows amendments to the law On Personal Data, adopted on August 8. This law established a State Information System, requiring businesses and state agencies to upload the personal data of their staff and customers upon request.

The Big Data Association, a nonprofit that includes major Russian companies like Yandex, VK, and Gazprombank, has expressed concerns that the draft decree would permit authorities to request personal data from businesses "for virtually any reason." They warned that this could create legal uncertainties and impose excessive regulatory burdens on companies processing personal data, affecting nearly all businesses and organizations.

Global Context: A Tightrope Walk

Russia is not alone in its quest for greater access to personal data. Countries around the world are grappling with similar issues. For instance, the United States has its own set of laws and regulations under the Patriot Act and subsequent legislation that allows the government to access personal data under certain conditions. Similarly, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) provides a framework for data access while aiming to protect individual privacy.

Each country’s approach reflects its unique political, social, and cultural context. However, the core issue remains: finding the right balance between state access and individual privacy.

Ethical and Social Implications

The debate over state access to personal data is not purely legal or political; it is deeply ethical and social. Enhanced state access can lead to improved public safety and national security. For example, during a health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, having access to personal data can help in effective contact tracing and monitoring the spread of the virus.
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User Safety
Data Breach Leak Personal Data Safety Security User Data User Safety

ICBC London Branch Hit by Ransomware Attack, Hackers Steal 6.6TB of Sensitive Data

 

The London branch of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) recently fell victim to a ransomware attack, resulting in the theft of sensitive data. According to a report by The Register, which references information posted on the hackers' data leak site, the bank has until September 13 to meet the ransom demand or risk the stolen data being publicly leaked.

The attack was orchestrated by a group called Hunters International, who claim to have exfiltrated 5.2 million files, amounting to 6.6 terabytes of sensitive information. Despite being a relatively new name in the ransomware scene, some experts believe Hunters International is a rebranded version of Hive, a notorious ransomware group that was dismantled by the FBI in July 2022. At that time, the FBI successfully infiltrated the Hive group, seizing decryption keys and halting its operations.

Emerging approximately a year ago, Hunters International has shifted its focus toward data theft rather than system encryption. Some cybersecurity researchers suggest that developing and deploying encryption tools is complex and time-consuming, making data theft alone an equally profitable, yet simpler, approach for the group.

ICBC, the world’s largest bank by total assets and market capitalization, is a state-owned financial institution in China. It provides a variety of banking services, including corporate and personal banking, wealth management, and investment banking. With an extensive global presence, ICBC plays a significant role in funding infrastructure projects both domestically and abroad.

As of now, ICBC has not made any public statements regarding the attack or responded to requests for comment.
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User Data
Data Breach Data Leak Flightaware Misconfiguration User Data

Flight Aware User Data Leaked Following Misconfiguration

 

FlightAware, a flight tracking company, urges some customers to change their account login passwords after a data breach may have compromised private data. This Houston-based technology company provides aircraft tracking data in both real time and historical format.

Furthermore, it is recognised as the world's largest flight-tracking platform, with a network of 32,000 Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) ground stations spread across 200 nations.

However, the firm recently disclosed in a statement posted on the California Attorney General's website that it experienced a data security breach on January 1, 2021. The breach was triggered by a misconfiguration that led to a setup error. 

Moreover, the company only discovered the issue on July 25, 2024, exposing private user data for nearly three years. As of now, the company has yet to reveal whether the exposed data was misused or stolen during its unprotected state for three years. 

In their initial announcement, FlightAware stated that they had discovered a setup issue that might have unintentionally exposed user IDs, passwords, and email addresses associated with their accounts. Whether or not users chose to add certain data categories to their accounts—such as full names, phone numbers, IP addresses, shipping addresses, billing addresses, social network profiles, and birth dates—may have had an influence on some users.

Critical information may also be compromised for certain accounts, including the last four digits of your credit card numbers, the status of the pilot, account activity (flights seen and comments left), and your Social Security Number (SSN). 

FlightAware, on the other hand, claimed that they had rectified the configuration issue and that any account holders whose data was compromised would be advised to change their passwords when they logged back into the platform. The company also assured all clients who got the security issue notification that they would be given a free two-year identity protection package and encouraged them to report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement authorities. 

Finally, the discovery of this unintentional data breach suggests that potentially impacted users should be wary of unwanted mailings. Threat actors could have used the exposed data for nefarious purposes such as identity theft and phishing.
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User Privacy
Data Breach Data Safety data security Safety Security User Data User Privacy

National Public Data Breach Exposes Millions: Threat of Identity Theft Looms

 

Data breaches continue to be a persistent issue without a simple solution, as evidenced by the recent breach of the background-check service National Public Data. This incident highlights the escalating dangers and complexity of such breaches. After months of uncertainty, National Public Data has finally confirmed the breach, coinciding with a large amount of stolen data being leaked online.

In April, a hacker known as USDoD started selling a data set on cybercriminal forums for $3.5 million. The data, said to include 2.9 billion records, purportedly affected "the entire population of the USA, CA, and UK." As the weeks passed, samples of the data emerged, with researchers and other actors verifying its authenticity. By early June, it was confirmed that the data contained information like names, emails, and physical addresses.

Although the data's accuracy varies, it appears to consist of two main sets. One contains over 100 million legitimate email addresses along with other personal information. "There appears to have been a data security incident that may have involved some of your personal information," National Public Data announced on Monday. "The incident is believed to have involved a third-party bad actor who attempted to access data in late December 2023, with potential leaks occurring in April 2024 and summer 2024. The breached information includes names, email addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, and mailing addresses."

The company stated it is cooperating with law enforcement and government investigators. National Public Data now faces potential class action lawsuits due to the breach.

"We have become desensitized to the continuous leaks of personal data, but there is a serious risk," says security researcher Jeremiah Fowler, who has been monitoring the National Public Data situation. "It may not be immediate, and it could take years for criminals to figure out how to use this information effectively, but a storm is coming."

When data is stolen from a single source, such as Target, it is relatively easy to trace the source. However, when information is stolen from a data broker and the company does not disclose the incident, it becomes much harder to verify the data's legitimacy and origin. Often, people whose data is compromised are unaware that National Public Data held their information.

Security researcher Troy Hunt noted in a blog post, "The only parties that know the truth are the anonymous threat actors and the data aggregator. We're left with 134M email addresses in public circulation and no clear origin or accountability." Even when a data broker admits to a breach, as National Public Data has, the stolen data may be unreliable and mixed with other datasets. Hunt found many email addresses paired with incorrect personal information, along with numerous duplicates and redundancies.

"There were no email addresses in the Social Security number files," noted Hunt, who operates the website Have I Been Pwned (HIBP). "If you find your email in this data breach via HIBP, there's no evidence your SSN was leaked, and the data next to your record may be incorrect."

For those whose Social Security numbers were included in the breach, the threat of identity theft remains significant. They are forced to freeze their credit, monitor credit reports, and set up financial monitoring services. Notifications about the breach have already been sent out by credit monitoring and threat intelligence services. Although the stolen data is flawed, researchers warn that every data set attackers obtain can fuel scamming, cybercrime, and espionage when combined with other personal data compiled by criminals over the years.

"Each data breach is a puzzle piece, and bad actors and certain nations are collecting this data," Fowler says. "When combined systematically and organized in a searchable way, numerous breaches can provide a complete profile of individual citizens."
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User Security
Data Data Breach Safety Security User Data User Privacy User Safety User Security

Massive Data Leak Exposes Sensitive Information for Millions

 


A significant data breach has compromised the personal information of millions of individuals across the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The leaked data, obtained from a company called National Public Data, includes highly sensitive information such as names, mailing addresses, and social security numbers.

The leaked database, consisting of nearly 2.7 billion records, was reportedly offered for sale on the dark web. While the exact scope of the breach is still being investigated, numerous individuals have confirmed the presence of their personal data within the leaked files.

The exposed information poses a serious risk of identity theft and other malicious activities. Scammers may use this data to target individuals with phishing attempts or fraudulent transactions.

To protect yourself:

1. Be wary of suspicious emails: Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in unsolicited emails, even if they appear to be from legitimate sources.
2. Verify the sender: Double-check the sender's email address to ensure it is authentic.
3. Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for all your online accounts and avoid reusing them across different platforms.
4. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for any unauthorized activity.

If you believe your personal information may have been compromised in this data breach, it is recommended to take steps to protect your identity and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.

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User Privacy
Data Data Breach data security Safety Security Third Party Data User Data User Privacy

National Public Data Hacked: Personal Information of Millions at Risk

 


National Public Data, a company specializing in background checks and fraud prevention, has experienced a significant data breach. The data collected by the company has reportedly fallen into the hands of a hacking group known as "USDoD," which began selling access to the stolen information in April. The stolen data is said to include details of users from the US, UK, and Canada.

The company is now facing a class-action lawsuit, as reported by Bloomberg Law. The lawsuit was filed by Christopher Hoffman, a resident of California, after his identity protection service alerted him that his personal data had been compromised in the breach.

The scope of the data leak could be one of the largest ever recorded, though the full extent is still unconfirmed. National Public Data has not yet responded to requests for comment. However, in June, malware repository VX Underground reviewed the stolen data, which was initially on sale for $3.5 million.

VX Underground confirmed the authenticity of the massive 277.1GB uncompressed file, noting that the data included real and accurate information. They verified several individuals' details, who consented to the search of their information. According to VX Underground, the stolen data encompasses Social Security numbers, full names, and user address history spanning over three decades. It appears that the personal information of users who opted out of data collection was not included. USDoD acted as a broker for the sale, while a mysterious individual known as "SXUL" was behind the breach.

Although USDoD intended to sell the data to private buyers, it has reportedly been circulating freely on a popular hacker forum, posing a significant risk of identity theft. The archive is said to include dates of birth and phone numbers, though users who have downloaded the 277GB file report numerous duplicates. Some entries pertain to the same individual at different addresses, and others cover deceased persons. As a result, the actual number of affected individuals is estimated to be closer to 225 million, rather than the initially believed 2.9 billion.

National Public Data had previously advertised its People Finder tool, claiming access to over 2.2 billion merged records covering the entire adult population of the USA and its territories. In response to the breach, some identity protection services have already begun analyzing the stolen data and notifying affected consumers whose Social Security numbers were found in the archive. Hoffman's class-action lawsuit demands that National Public Data pay damages and implement several IT security changes, including the deletion of stored data on US users unless a reasonable justification is provided.
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User Privacy
Dark Web Data Breach Data Leak Personal Data User Data User Privacy

Dark Web Actor Claims Responsibility of ADT Data Breach

 

A dark web actor has claimed responsibility for a data breach affecting ADT, an American security company known for its residential and commercial alarm monitoring services. On August 1, 2024, an individual or group using the alias "netnsher" publicly admitted their role in this major breach. According to the threat actor's post, the ADT data leak compromised around 30,812 records, including nearly 30,400 unique email addresses. 

Numerous personal details, including email addresses, physical addresses, user IDs, and transaction histories, are included in the hacked data. Along with making these records public, the threat actor "netnsher" also provided a sample of the ADT breach's evidence.

The ADT data leak was first reported on July 31, 2024, and became public the next day. Notably, another data leak concerning ADT occurred earlier on July 8, 2024, when the threat actor identified as "Abu_Al_Sahrif" revealed internal ADT records from 2020 to 2023. 

It is unknown whether the new hack by "netnsher" used data from the earlier leak or was obtained in a different way. It is unknown whether the new hack by "netnsher" used data from the earlier leak or was obtained in a different way. The consequence of this ADT data breach is significant, given that ADT Inc. is a key participant in the security sector with a revenue of almost $5 billion. The disclosed documents contain sensitive information that, if exploited, could result in identity theft or phishing. 

The local media outlet contacted ADT Inc. for comment on the incident. In their response, ADT confirmed their knowledge of the occurrence, saying, "ADT is aware of this claim, and it is under investigation." The company is currently investigating every aspect of the breach and its impact on affected consumers.

This ADT breach comes after a string of similar instances using the threat actor "netnsher." On April 26, 2024, this TA was related to a new data breach accusation involving Kernel Finance, an Indian GST billing solution that allegedly exposed over 7,000 bank account details and other sensitive information. On the same day, "netnsher" disclosed critical access tokens and files from the Law Firm Banking Trustnota, showing their skills and possible threats, according to Constella Intelligence.
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User Data
Data Breach Data Leak Data Privacy Telecom Firm User Data

Indian Govt Confirms BSNL User Data Breach

 

On Wednesday, July 24, Union Minister of State for Communications Chandra Shekar Pemmasani revealed the breach at state-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) in the Lok Sabha. The breach occurred on May 20, the Minister stated in a written response to a question raised by Congress MP Amar Singh.

The Minister stated that the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), the primary organisation for dealing with cyber security incidents, discovered that one of BSNL's File Transfer Protocol (FTP) servers contained data comparable to the compromised data sample discovered during CERT-In's investigation.

“No breach in Home Location Register (HLR) of Telecom Network has been reported by the Equipment Manufacturer, therefore no service outage in BSNL’s Network,” claimed Pemmasani.

The centre government has formed an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to investigate telecom networks and recommend remedial actions to prevent future data breaches, the Minister revealed. According to reports, the breach came to light after a user dubbed "kiberphant0m" posted on Breachforums, a website infamous for selling hacked data, claiming to have stolen nearly 278 terabytes of data from BSNL. 

The compromised data allegedly included IMSI numbers (International Mobile Subscriber Identity), SIM details, HLR (Home Location Register), a database of all active mobile network users, DP card data, and DP Security Key data, which supports BSNL's security mechanisms. The user planned to sell the data for $5,000.

To safeguard against future cyber attacks, BSNL has updated the access passwords for all similar FTP servers and instructed that endpoints (network-connected devices) maintain air gaps, which is a computer security measure that ensures a secure computer network is physically isolated from open networks for further safety.
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User Safety
Cyber Safety Data Data Breach Data Leak Safety Security User Data User Safety

ERP Firm Data Breach Exposes Over 750 Million Records

 

A leading Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) company based in Mexico inadvertently left an unsecured database online, exposing sensitive information on hundreds of thousands of users. This was discovered by cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler, who reported his findings to Website Planet. According to Fowler, the database contained 769 million records and was accessible to anyone who knew where to look.

The exposed data included highly sensitive and personally identifiable information such as API keys, secret keys, bank account numbers, tax identification numbers, and email addresses. The database, which is 395GB in size, belongs to ClickBalance, a software provider that offers a range of cloud-based business services including administration automation, accounting, inventory, and payroll.

Website Planet describes ClickBalance as one of Mexico’s largest ERP technology providers. Upon discovering the database, Fowler immediately contacted ClickBalance, which secured the database within hours. However, it remains unclear whether any malicious actors accessed the data before it was secured or whether the data has been used in any malicious activities. Fowler emphasizes that only a comprehensive forensic investigation can determine the full extent of the exposure.

The exposure of tax identification numbers and bank account details poses significant risks, enabling cybercriminals to conduct fraudulent activities. The theft of active email addresses is particularly concerning, as it allows criminals to launch phishing attacks that can deliver malware and ransomware.

Despite the severe potential consequences, unsecured databases continue to be a common cause of data breaches. Many large enterprises and government organizations have been found with online databases lacking adequate protection. For instance, a previous incident resulted in the personal information of the entire Brazilian population being leaked.
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User Data
Data Breach Data Leak Ransom Stolen Data User Data

AT&T Paid Attackers $370K to Delete Stolen Customer Data

 

AT&T reportedly paid a hacker more than $370,000 to remove stolen customer data. In an extraordinary turn of events, the ransom may not have gone to those responsible for the breach.

Last Friday, AT&T disclosed that an April data breach had exposed the call and text records of "nearly all" of its customers, including phone numbers and call counts. In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), AT&T claimed it has since tightened its cybersecurity measures and is working together with law authorities to investigate the incident.

It now appears that AT&T has taken additional steps in response to the intrusion. According to Wired, AT&T paid a ransom of 5.7 bitcoin to a member of the hacking group ShinyHunters in mid-May, which was worth little more than $373,000 at the time. In exchange for this money, the hacker allegedly deleted the stolen data from the cloud server where it was stored, as well as providing video footage of the act. 

However, there is no guarantee that the millions of people affected by the latest massive AT&T attack will be entirely safe, as digital data can be easily copied. The security expert who mediated negotiations between AT&T and the hacker told Wired that they believe the only complete copy of the stolen dataset was wiped. However, partial fragments may remain at large. 

Prior to AT&T's announcement of the incident, it was revealed that Santander Bank and Ticketmaster had also been penetrated using login credentials that had been taken by an employee of the independent cloud storage provider Snowflake. According to Wired, following the Ticketmaster breach, hackers may have infiltrated over 160 companies at once using a script.
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User Privacy
Data Breach Data Leak Tech Giant User Data User Privacy

Cyber Criminals Siphoned 'Almost All' of AT&T's Call Logs Over Six Months

 

Hackers accessed AT&T's data storage platform in April, stealing metadata from "nearly all" call records and messages sent by users over a six-month period in 2022. AT&T filed paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Friday, stating that it learned of the incident on April 19.

The company revealed to a local media outlet that the breach took place via the third-party cloud platform Snowflake, a data storage giant plagued by hackers who have attacked some of the company's most notable clients and released stuff affecting hundreds of millions of individuals. An investigation revealed the attacker stole files from AT&T's Snowflake account between April 14 and April 25.

When asked why the attacker was still able to access the Snowflake account nearly a week after AT&T detected the issue, the spokesman stated that it "took time to investigate the claim of a breach, determine its source, isolate the impacted data, and close off the illegal access point." 

The spokesperson stated that the hackers took "aggregated metadata" regarding calls or messages, not the content of the talks. AT&T has the most wireless subscribers in the United States, far more than rivals Verizon and T-Mobile. 

According to an annual report for 2022, the incident affected around 109 million people's accounts. The telecom giant believes the hacker stole "files containing AT&T records of customer call and text interactions" from around the beginning of May 2022 to the end of October, as well as on January 2, 2023.

The hack impacted "records of calls and texts of nearly all of AT&T's wireless customers and customers of mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) using AT&T's wireless network.” 

“These records identify the telephone numbers with which an AT&T or MVNO wireless number interacted during these periods, including telephone numbers of AT&T wireline customers and customers of other carriers, counts of those interactions, and aggregate call duration for a day or month,” the company noted in the SEC filing. 

“For a subset of records, one or more cell site identification number(s) are also included. While the data does not include customer names, there are often ways, using publicly available online tools, to find the name associated with a specific telephone number.” 

AT&T pledged to tell current and former customers, and it stated it had locked down the "point of unlawful access." The company stated in the filing that at least one person was arrested in connection with the theft.
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User Data
Cyber Security data security Hacking WhatsApp iOS security macOS Signal Signal app User Data

Major Security Flaw in WhatsApp and Signal MacOS Apps Puts User Data at Risk

 

A significant security warning has emerged for WhatsApp and Signal users this week, urging them to consider deleting their apps, particularly on MacOS. The issue, primarily affecting Apple users leveraging multi-device functionality, highlights severe vulnerabilities in the MacOS versions of these popular messaging platforms. Security researcher Tommy Mysk, known for uncovering critical vulnerabilities, recently disclosed that both WhatsApp and Signal MacOS apps store local data, including chat histories and media attachments, in locations accessible to any app or process running on the device. 

This is a stark contrast to Apple’s iMessage, which, despite storing similar data, uses sandboxing to prevent unauthorized access by other apps. The primary concern lies in how these apps handle local data storage. While WhatsApp and Signal emphasize end-to-end encryption for secure message transmission, this protection is compromised if local data can be accessed by other apps or malware. Mysk explained that the chat histories, the core of what these apps are designed to protect, are not sufficiently safeguarded on MacOS. The vulnerability means that if a malicious app gains access to the device, it could potentially monitor and exfiltrate the unencrypted local data. 

For WhatsApp, this includes both chat histories and media attachments. Mysk warned, “WhatsApp doesn’t encrypt the local database that stores chat histories. It doesn’t encrypt media attachments sent through the chat either. A simple malware could theoretically monitor this data and send it live to a remote server, rendering end-to-end encryption useless.” Signal, on the other hand, does encrypt local chat histories but fails to encrypt media attachments. More concerning is that the encryption key for the local chat history is stored in plain text within the same folder, making it accessible to other apps. This flaw undermines the app’s security, as an attacker could clone the local data folder to another device and restore the session. 

Mysk highlighted, “Signal’s false sense of security extends to their back-end servers. When copying the entire folder containing the app’s local data and moving the copy to a different Mac, an attacker can restore the session. Signal servers let the ‘cloned’ session co-exist with the other legit sessions.” The discovery underscores the persistent risk of endpoint compromise for fully encrypted platforms. While end-to-end encryption protects data in transit, the local storage vulnerabilities in these MacOS apps open potential pathways for remote or physical attacks. 

As users continue to rely on messaging apps for secure communication, these revelations call for immediate action from both WhatsApp and Signal to address these security gaps and reinforce their data protection measures on MacOS. For now, users should remain vigilant and consider the potential risks when using these platforms on their Mac devices.
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User Data
Automotive Industry CNIL Cyber Attacks Data Compromise data security Email Account Compromise Phishing Attack User Data

FIA Confirms Cyberattack Compromising Email Accounts

 

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body overseeing Formula 1 and other major motorsports worldwide, recently disclosed a significant cyberattack. This breach resulted from phishing attacks that compromised personal data within two FIA email accounts, exposing vulnerabilities in the organization’s cybersecurity measures. 

In a brief statement, the FIA confirmed the incidents, detailing that swift action was taken to cut off unauthorized access and mitigate the issue. The organization promptly reported the breach to the French and Swiss data protection regulators, the Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés (CNIL) and the Préposé Fédéral à la Protection des Données et à la Transparence, respectively. 

However, the FIA did not disclose specific details regarding the nature of the stolen data, the number of affected individuals, or the identity of the attackers. It also remains unclear whether the hackers demanded any ransom for the compromised data. The FIA, when approached for further information, clarified that these incidents were part of a broader phishing campaign targeting the motorsport sector, rather than a direct and targeted attack on the FIA’s systems. Founded in 1904 in Paris, France, the FIA plays a crucial role in governing numerous prestigious auto racing events, including Formula One, the World Rally Championship, the World Endurance Championship, and Formula E. 

In addition to its sports governance role, the FIA is also an advocate for road safety and sustainable mobility through various programs and campaigns. The organization boasts 242 member organizations across 147 countries, emphasizing its global influence and reach. This incident underscores the persistent cybersecurity threats that organizations face globally. Phishing attacks, in particular, remain a significant threat, as they exploit human vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. The FIA’s prompt response to this breach demonstrates its commitment to protecting personal data and maintaining the integrity of its operations. 

However, the incident also highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and robust cybersecurity measures. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the importance of comprehensive security protocols, including regular employee training to recognize and respond to phishing attempts. Organizations must also implement advanced security technologies, such as multi-factor authentication and encryption, to safeguard their digital assets. The evolving nature of cyber threats necessitates a proactive approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that organizations remain resilient against potential attacks. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the FIA and other organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity efforts. 

The lessons learned from this incident will undoubtedly inform future strategies to protect sensitive information and maintain the trust of stakeholders. The FIA’s experience serves as a reminder of the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s interconnected digital landscape.
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User Data
Apple MacOS Apple Security Cyber Security Data Privacy data security Gatekeeper Malware Threat Personal Data Russian User Data

New macOS Malware Threat: What Apple Users Need to Know

 

Recently, the Moonlock Lab cybersecurity team discovered a macOS malware strain that can easily evade detection, posing a significant threat to users' data privacy and security. The infection chain for this malware begins when a Mac user visits a website in search of pirated software. 

On such sites, users might encounter a file titled CleanMyMacCrack.dmg, believing it to be a cracked version of the popular Mac cleaning software, CleanMyMac. When this DMG file is launched on the computer, it executes a Mach-O file, which subsequently downloads an AppleScript designed to steal sensitive information from the infected Mac. Once the malware infects a macOS computer, it can perform a variety of malicious actions. It collects and stores the Mac owner's username and sets up temporary directories to hold stolen data before exfiltration. The malware extracts browsing history, cookies, saved passwords, and other sensitive data from web browsers. It also identifies and accesses directories that commonly contain cryptocurrency wallets. 

Additionally, it copies macOS keychain data, Apple Notes data, and cookies from Safari, gathers general user information, system details, and metadata, and then exfiltrates all this stolen data to threat actors. Moonlock Lab has linked this macOS malware to a well-known Russian-speaking threat actor, Rodrigo4. This hacker has been active on the XSS underground forum, where he has been seen recruiting other hackers to help distribute his malware using SEO manipulation and online ads. This discovery underscores the growing threat of sophisticated malware targeting macOS users, a group often perceived as being less vulnerable to such attacks. 

Despite Apple's strong security measures, this incident highlights that no system is entirely immune to threats, especially when users are lured into downloading malicious software from untrustworthy sources. To protect yourself from such threats, it is essential to take several precautions. First and foremost, avoid downloading pirated software and ensure that you only use trusted and official sources for your applications. Pirated software often hides malware that can compromise your system's security. Installing reputable antivirus software and keeping it updated can help detect and block malware on macOS. Regularly updating your macOS and all installed applications is crucial to patch any security vulnerabilities that may be exploited by attackers. 

Additionally, exercise caution with downloads from unfamiliar websites or sources. Always verify the legitimacy of the website and the software before downloading and installing it. Enabling macOS’s built-in security features, such as Gatekeeper and XProtect, can also provide an additional layer of protection against malicious software. Gatekeeper helps ensure that only trusted software runs on your Mac, while XProtect provides continuous background monitoring for known malware. The Moonlock Lab's findings highlight the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to safeguard personal data and privacy. Users should remain vigilant and informed about the latest security threats and best practices for protecting their devices. 

By staying informed and cautious, Apple users can better protect their devices from malware and other cybersecurity threats. Awareness of the potential risks and implementing the recommended security practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to such malicious activities. As cyber threats continue to evolve, maintaining robust security measures and staying updated on the latest threats will be crucial in ensuring the safety and integrity of personal data on macOS devices.
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User Data
AI Chatbots Google Google Gemini AI Privacy User Data

Google Messages' Gemini Update: What You Need To Know

 



Google's latest update to its Messages app, dubbed Gemini, has ignited discussions surrounding user privacy. Gemini introduces AI chatbots into the messaging ecosystem, but it also brings forth a critical warning regarding data security. Unlike conventional end-to-end encrypted messaging services, conversations within Gemini lack this crucial layer of protection, leaving them potentially vulnerable to access by Google and potential exposure of sensitive information.

This privacy gap has raised eyebrows among users, with some expressing concern over the implications of sharing personal data within Gemini chats. Others argue that this aligns with Google's data-driven business model, which leverages user data to enhance its AI models and services. However, the absence of end-to-end encryption means that users may inadvertently expose confidential information to third parties.

Google has been forthcoming about the security implications of Gemini, explicitly stating that chats within the feature are not end-to-end encrypted. Additionally, Google collects various data points from these conversations, including usage information, location data, and user feedback, to improve its products and services. Despite assurances of privacy protection measures, users are cautioned against sharing sensitive information through Gemini chats.

The crux of the issue lies in the disparity between users' perceptions of AI chatbots as private entities and the reality of these conversations being accessible to Google and potentially reviewed by human moderators for training purposes. Despite Google's reassurances, users are urged to exercise caution and refrain from sharing sensitive information through Gemini chats.

While Gemini's current availability is limited to adult beta testers, Google has hinted at its broader rollout in the near future, extending its reach beyond English-speaking users to include French-speaking individuals in Canada as well. This expansion signifies a pivotal moment in messaging technology, promising enhanced communication experiences for a wider audience. However, as users eagerly anticipate the platform's expansion, it becomes increasingly crucial for them to proactively manage their privacy settings. By taking the time to review and adjust their preferences, users can ensure a more secure messaging environment tailored to their individual needs and concerns. This proactive approach empowers users to navigate digital communication with confidence and peace of mind.

All in all, the introduction of Gemini in Google Messages underscores the importance of user privacy in the digital age. While technological advancements offer convenience, they also necessitate heightened awareness to safeguard personal information from potential breaches.




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Blogger Security Data Privacy Open AI Technology User Data

WordPress and Tumblr Intends to Sell User Content to AI Firms

 

Automattic, the parent company of websites like WordPress and Tumblr, is in negotiations to sell training-related content from its platforms to AI firms like MidJourney and OpenAI. Additionally, Automattic is trying to reassure users that they can opt-out at any time, even if the specifics of the agreement are yet unknown, according to a new report from 404 Media. 

404 reports Automattic is experiencing internal disputes because private content not intended for the firm to save was among the items scrapped for AI companies. Further complicating matters, it was discovered that adverts from an earlier Apple Music campaign, as well as other non-Automatic commercial items, had made their way into the training data set. 

Generative AI has grown in popularity since OpenAI introduced ChatGPT in late 2022, with a number of companies quickly following suit. The system works by being "trained" on massive volumes of data, allowing it to generate videos, images, and text that appear to be original. However, big publishers have protested, and some have even filed lawsuits, claiming that most of the data used to train these systems was either pirated or does not constitute "fair use" under existing copyright regimes. 

Automattic intends to offer a new setting that would allow users to opt out of training AI systems, however it is unclear if the setting will be enabled or disabled by default for the majority of users. Last year, WordPress competitor Squarespace launched a similar choice that allows you to opt out of having your data used to train AI.

In response to emailed questions, Automattic directed local media to a new post that basically confirmed 404 Media's story, while also attempting to pitch the move to users as a chance to "give you more control over the content you've created.”

“AI is rapidly transforming nearly every aspect of our world, including the way we create and consume content. At Automattic, we’ve always believed in a free and open web and individual choice. Like other tech companies, we’re closely following these advancements, including how to work with AI companies in a way that respects our users’ preferences,” the blog post reads.

However, the lengthy statement comes across as incredibly defensive, noting that "no law exists that requires crawlers to follow these preferences," and implying that the company is simply following industry best practices by giving users the option of whether or not they want their content employed for AI training.
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User Security
Australian Firm Cyber Attacks Health Brand User Data User Security

Elite Supplements: The Latest Aussie Business to Fall Victim to a Cyber Attack

 

Consumers of a popular Australian supplement brand are being alerted about the possibility that the company's hack exposed their personal data.

In an email obtained by NCA NewsWire, Elite Supplements notified clients that the business had experienced a cyberattack that "gave one or more unknown parties access" to certain online customer information. 

After learning of the possible breach for the first time on January 30, the firm acted "extremely seriously" and informed its customers on Saturday just after 6 p.m. 

Customers may, however, feel secure knowing that the hack did not access any passwords, credit cards, or other financial information. Instead, the attackers stole names, shipping addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers of online customers.

“Our intent was to verify that a breach occurred and to determine as much as possible what data was used before alerting customers,” Elite Supplements told customers in an email. “We have begun notifying relevant government authorities and the company is fully compliant with our reporting obligations under cybersecurity legislation.

“Elite Supplements deeply regrets this incident, despite the significant investments we have made in cybersecurity. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or distress the breach may have caused our customers,” the company further stated. 

The business stated that since hiring a cybersecurity provider, the data it possesses has been secured. Customers were advised in the email to be cautious of any correspondence from Elite Supplements going forward, as information had been acquired during the breach. 

Rise in cybercrimes 

Cybercrime remains a problem in Australia. One major worry is frauds; as of 2022, Australians had lost more than $48 million to investment scams. Scams have cost victims around $72 million in total in 2022. Furthermore, 1 in 4 Australians have experienced identity theft. 

Generally speaking, Australians are among the wealthiest people on the planet. A study of the median wealth per adult put Australians at the top of the affluent list, with a median worth of $273,900 – ahead of Belgium ($267,890) and New Zealand ($231,260). This may help to understand why Australian people and businesses are the target of cybercriminals.

A significant data breach at Optus, a telecommunications business, took place in September 2022, affecting about 2.1 million users. 9.8 million individual records—including names, dates of birth, residences, and, in certain situations, passport numbers—were pilfered. However, the hack failed to access any financial data.
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User Data
Android Apps Cyber Security Data collection Google Playstore Kaspersky User Data

Unused Apps Could Still be Tracking and Collecting User’s Data


While almost everyone in this era is glued to their smartphones for long hours, there still remain several mysteries about the device that are not actively being deduced by the users. So how does one begin to know their phones?

Most of the users are still unaware that even when the apps are not in use, the phone can still track and collect data without them being aware. Fortunately, there is a solution to prevent this from happening.

One may have ten, twenty or even thirty apps on their phones, and there is a possibility that many of these apps remain unused. 

In regards to this, the cybersecurity giant – Kaspersky – warned that apps on a user’s phone that are not being used could still be collecting data about the device owner even if they are not using it.

A recently published memo from the company urged users to delete their old apps, stating: "You probably have apps on your smartphone that you haven't used in over a year. Or maybe even ones you've never opened at all. Not only do they take up your device's memory, but they can also slowly consume internet traffic and battery power."

The security memo continued: "And, most importantly, they clog up your interface and may continue to collect data about your smartphone - and you."

While spring cleaning the phones might not be on the priority list of people, it does not take away its significance. In case a user is concerned about ‘over-sharing’ their data, Kaspersky has shared a ‘one-day rule’ to ease the task of removing unused apps on phones. 

According to the experts, following the practice of merely uninstalling one useless app each day will greatly increase phone performance and free up storage space. By doing this, users will be able to control how their data is used and prevent data harvesting.

To delete an app on the iPhone, users need to find the app on the home screen, touch and hold down the icon and tap “Remove app.” Android users, they need to go to the Google Play store, tap the profile icon in the top right, followed by Manage Apps and Devices > Manage. Tap the name of the app they want to delete and click to uninstall.

Users can still disable pre-installed apps on their phones to prevent them from operating in the background and taking up unnecessary space on the screen, even if they cannot be fully removed from the device.  

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