Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• How can I protect my self-encrypting drives?

  Dutch researchers discovered flaws in ATA security and TCG Opal affecting self-encrypting drives. What steps can you take to guard data stored on vulnerable solid-state drives?  Continue Reading

• How does a WordPress SEO malware injection work and how can enterprises prevent it?

  Security expert Nick Lewis explains how to prevent WordPress SEO malware injection attacks that rank the attacker's search engine results higher than legitimate webpages.  Continue Reading

• Is a Mirai botnet variant targeting unpatched enterprises?

  New variants of popular botnets were found targeting IoT devices by Palo Alto Networks' Unit 42. Discover how these variants differ from their sources and what new risks they pose.  Continue Reading

• Why is the N-gram content search key for threat detection?

  Detected malware can now efficiently be tracked due to VirusTotal's enterprise version of its software. Discover what N-gram is and how it can be used with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• What new technique does the Osiris banking Trojan use?

  A new Kronos banking Trojan variant was found to use process impersonation to bypass defenses. Learn what this evasion technique is and the threat it poses with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How did Signal Desktop expose plaintext passwords?

  The Signal Desktop application was found to be making decryption keys available in plaintext. Learn how the SQLite database and plaintext passwords were put at risk.  Continue Reading

• How does the iPhone phishing scam work?

  An iPhone phishing scam leads users to believe malicious incoming calls are from Apple Support. How can enterprises protect their employee against this threat?  Continue Reading

• Should I use GitHub's new private repositories?

  Is GitHub's new private repositories service robust enough to serve the needs of enterprises? Nick Lewis examines what works -- and what doesn't.  Continue Reading

• How do I stop the Vidar malvertising attack?

  The Vidar malvertising attack was part of a two-pronged intrusion that included the installation of ransomware in endpoints. How can enterprises protect themselves?  Continue Reading

• How do trusted app stores release and disclose patches?

  A flaw was found in the Android installer for Fortnite and was patched within 24 hours. Learn how such a quick turnaround affects mobile app security with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How can credential stuffing attacks be detected?

  Credential stuffing attacks can put companies that offer online membership programs, as well as their customers, at risk. Find out how to proactively manage the threat.  Continue Reading

• How did the Dirty COW exploit get shipped in software?

  An exploit code for Dirty COW was accidentally shipped by Cisco with product software. Learn how this code ended up in a software release and what this vulnerability can do.  Continue Reading

• Why did a Cisco patch for Webex have to be reissued?

  Cisco's Webex Meetings platform had to be re-patched after researchers found the first one was failing. Discover what went wrong with the first patch with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How did Browser Reaper cause browsers to crash?

  A Mozilla vulnerability duplicated in the Browser Reaper set of DoS proofs of concept caused Chrome, Firefox and Safari to crash. Learn why and how this occurred.  Continue Reading

• Should large enterprises add dark web monitoring to their security policies?

  Security expert Nick Lewis says dark web monitoring can help enterprises gather threat intelligence, but enterprises need to understand how to validate the data they find.  Continue Reading

• How did the Python supply chain attack occur?

  A Python supply chain attack made it possible for an attacker to steal cryptocurrency. What steps should be taken to prevent incidents like this?  Continue Reading

• Is there a viable breach notification tool?

  A breach notification tool from Firefox Monitor and Have I Been Pwned could help consumers understand more quickly if their email or other vital information has been hacked.  Continue Reading

• Will DNS Flag Day affect you? Infoblox's Cricket Liu explains

  What is DNS Flag Day? That's when old and broken DNS servers will stop working, improving DNS performance and safety for all. Infoblox's chief DNS architect Cricket Liu explains.  Continue Reading

• What are the best ways to prevent a SIM swapping attack?

  SIM swapping is on the rise as the use of mobile devices increases. Discover what SIM swaps are, how they work and how they can be mitigated.  Continue Reading

• How can synthetic clicks aid a privilege escalation attack?

  An Apple security expert introduced the concept of synthetic clicks, which can bypass privilege escalation defenses. Find out how this new attack technique works with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does cross-site tracking increase security risks?

  Mozilla's Firefox 63 automatically blocks tracking cookies and other site data from cross-site tracking. Learn what this is and what the benefits of blocking it are with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How can attacks bypass Windows Driver Signature Enforcement?

  Security researchers demonstrated how a new fileless attack technique can bypass a Windows kernel protection feature at Black Hat 2018. Find out how the technique works.  Continue Reading

• Man-in-the-disk attack: How are Android products affected?

  Researchers from Check Point announced a new attack at Black Hat 2018 that targets Android devices. Discover how this attack works and how devices should be protected with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• Java deserialization attacks: What are they and how do they work?

  The TP-Link EAP Controller for Linux was recently found to be vulnerable to attacks. Learn from Judith Myerson what this means for users and how it can be prevented.  Continue Reading

• Ping of death: What is it and how is Apple affected?

  An Apple vulnerability recently resurfaced and is targeting Apple devices that are connected to public hotspots. Discover what this vulnerability is and how to protect your devices.  Continue Reading

• Network shaping: How does it enable BGP attacks to divert data?

  The use of BGPsec protocols was found after looking into threat actors in China that controlled U.S. internet traffic. Discover how this technique works and how it can be mitigated.  Continue Reading

• How was a credit card skimmer used to steal data from Newegg?

  Researchers believe that malicious JavaScript code was used to steal credit card data from online retailer Newegg. Learn more about this attack with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How can an authentication bypass vulnerability be exploited?

  A vulnerability was found in Western Digital's My Cloud NAS device that can be easily exploited by hackers. Discover what this vulnerability is and how users can be protected.  Continue Reading

• How is SamSam ransomware using a manual attack process?

  Sophos researchers believe the SamSam ransomware campaign could be the work of one or a few threat actors using manual techniques. Learn how it works and if recovery is possible.  Continue Reading

• Ticketmaster breach: How did this card skimming attack work?

  The hacking group Magecart was recently found to have run a card skimming campaign that put customer information at risk. Learn how this attack worked from Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• GandCrab ransomware: How does it differ from previous versions?

  A new version of GandCrab was discovered by researchers in July 2018 and involves the use of legacy systems. Learn how this version differs and who is at risk with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How Big Star Labs was able to use data collecting apps

  The ad-blocking vendor AdGuard found browser extensions and apps from Big Star Labs collecting browser history data. Discover how this was accomplished with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• Kronos banking Trojan: How does the new variant compare?

  Proofpoint researchers found a Kronos variant after it targeted victims in Germany, Japan and Poland. Learn how this variant compares to the original banking Trojan with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does the new Dharma Ransomware variant work?

  Brrr ransomware, a Dharma variant, was found adding malicious extensions to encrypted files. Discover how this is possible and how this attack can be mitigated with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• Why is preloading HTTP Strict Transport Security risky?

  Despite being designed to improve security, infosec experts have warned against preloading the HSTS protocol. Learn about the risks of preloaded HSTS with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• Faxploit: How can sending a fax compromise a network?

  Check Point researchers found a fax machine attack allowing attackers to access scanned documents. Discover how this is possible and how users can avoid falling victim.  Continue Reading

• FragmentSmack: How is this denial-of-service exploited?

  FragmentSmack, a DDoS vulnerability first discovered in Linux, affects Windows as well as nearly 90 Cisco products. Discover how it can be exploited with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• L1TF: How do new vulnerabilities affect Intel processors?

  New speculative execution vulnerabilities have been found affecting Intel processors. Learn how these flaws can lead to side-channel attacks with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How did WhatsApp vulnerabilities get around encryption?

  WhatsApp vulnerabilities can enable hackers to bypass end-to-end encryption and spoof messages. Expert Michael Cobb explains how these attacks work and how to prevent them.  Continue Reading

• How can users remove Google location tracking completely?

  Disabling Google location tracking involves more than turning off Location History. Learn how to manage your account settings to stop tracking entirely with expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How does TLS 1.3 differ from TLS 1.2?

  Compared to TLS 1.2, TLS 1.3 saw improvements in security, performance and privacy. Learn how TLS 1.3 eliminated vulnerabilities using cryptographic algorithms.  Continue Reading

• How do L1TF vulnerabilities compare to Spectre?

  Foreshadow, a set of newly discovered L1TF vulnerabilities, exploits Intel processors via side-channel attacks. Learn about L1TF and its variations from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• What are the security risks of third-party app stores?

  Unlike most apps developed in app stores, users can download Fortnite from Epic Games' website. Expert Michael Cobb explains the security risks of third-party app stores.  Continue Reading

• How did the Emotet banking Trojan lead to a rise in attacks?

  A report on cybercrime shows a rise in banking Trojans, such as Emotet, targeting businesses over consumers. Malwarebytes' Adam Kujawa shares his thoughts on what's behind this shift.  Continue Reading

• How was a MikroTik router hack used to hijack traffic?

  Qihoo 360 Netlab researchers found that TZSP traffic was being redirected from vulnerable routers. Learn what this type of traffic is and how this attack is possible.  Continue Reading

• How was a black box attack used to exploit ATM vulnerabilities?

  Researchers from Positive Technologies found flaws affecting NCR ATMs. Discover how these ATM vulnerabilities work and how a patch can mitigate this attack.  Continue Reading

• How were attackers able to bypass 2FA in a Reddit breach?

  Reddit announced a breach after users were socially engineered and attackers bypassed 2FA protocols. Discover how this attack was possible and how sites can avoid falling victim.  Continue Reading

• How container security tools affect overall system security

  Container security continues to be a pressing issue as containers and hosts are being used more frequently. Learn how to keep your enterprise safe with Matt Pascucci.  Continue Reading

• Can a D-Link router vulnerability threaten bank customers?

  A D-Link router vulnerability was used to send banking users to a fake site in order to steal their information. Learn more about this vulnerability with expert Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How does a Bluetooth vulnerability enable validation attacks?

  Bluetooth devices might be at risk after a new Bluetooth vulnerability was found targeting firmware and operating system software drivers. Learn how it works and can be mitigated.  Continue Reading

• How does Thanatos ransomware decryptor tool restore data?

  Cisco Talos' Thanatos ransomware decryptor can recover files affected by new ransomware that won't decrypt ransomed files even when a ransom has been paid.  Continue Reading

• How is the Trezor cryptocurrency online wallet under attack?

  A phishing campaign targeting Trezor wallets may have poisoned DNS or hijacked BGP to gain access. Learn how the attack worked and how to mitigate it with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does signed software help mitigate malware?

  Okta researchers found a bypass that allows macOS malware to pose as signed Apple files. Discover how this is possible and how to mitigate this attack.  Continue Reading

• How does the Mylobot botnet differ from a typical botnet?

  The new Mylobot botnet demonstrated new, complex tools and techniques that are modifying botnet attacks. Learn how this botnet differs from a typical botnet with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does new MacOS malware target users through chat?

  New malware targets cryptocurrency investors through MacOS and chat platforms were recently discovered. Learn how OSX.Dummy malware works and what users can do to spot the attack.  Continue Reading

• How is Plead malware used for cyberespionage attacks?

  Cyberespionage hackers have used stolen digital certificates to steal data. Expert Michael Cobb explains how hackers sign Plead malware to conduct these attacks.  Continue Reading

• What is behind the growing trend of BEC attacks?

  BEC attacks cost over $676 million in 2017, according to the FBI's Internet Crime Report. Learn how to recognize possible BEC attacks from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How does site isolation defend against Spectre vulnerabilities?

  Spectre exploits how processors manage performance-enhancing features. Expert Michael Cobb explains Google Chrome's initiative to use site isolation as a defense mechanism.  Continue Reading

• How does the public Venmo API pose a threat for users?

  The public Venmo API setting puts users at risk by providing detailed insight into their transactions and personal lives. Expert Michael Cobb discusses the risks of public APIs.  Continue Reading

• How can U2F authentication end phishing attacks?

  By requiring employees to use U2F authentication and physical security keys, Google eliminated phishing attacks. Learn how the combination works from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How was Kea DHCP v1.4.0 affected by a security advisory?

  Kea, an open source DHCP server, was issued a medium security advisory for a flaw that causes memory leakage in version 1.4.0. Discover the workarounds with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• Does pcAnywhere put election management systems at risk?

  ES&S admitted it installed the insecure remote access program pcAnywhere on election management systems. Learn what pcAnywhere is and what this risk means for election systems.  Continue Reading

• Siemens Siclock: How do threat actors exploit these devices?

  Siemens disclosed six Siclock flaws that were found within its central plant clocks. Discover why three flaws have been rated critical and how threat actors can exploit devices.  Continue Reading

• How do newly found flaws affect robot controllers?

  Several vulnerabilities were found in controllers made by Universal Robots. Discover what these controllers are used for and how threat actors can exploit these vulnerabilities.  Continue Reading

• What are DMARC records and can they improve email security?

  Last year, the U.S. federal government mandated that by October 2018, all agencies must have DMARC policies in place. Learn how complicated this requirement is with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• Removable storage devices: Why are companies banning them?

  IBM banned removable storage devices to encourage employees to use the company's internal file-sharing system. Learn how a ban like this can improve enterprise security.  Continue Reading

• How does the resurgent VPNFilter botnet target victims?

  After a comeback of the Russian-built VPNFilter botnet, home network devices are at risk. Learn how this malware targets victims with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How did the IcedID and TrickBot banking Trojans join forces?

  The TrickBot banking Trojan joined forces with IcedID to form a dual threat that targets victims for money. Discover how this union occurred and how it has changed their behaviors.  Continue Reading

• How does the APT attack Double Kill work in Office documents?

  The Qihoo 360 Core Security team found a Microsoft vulnerability -- named Double Kill -- that affects applications via Office documents. Learn how this is possible with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does the MnuBot banking Trojan use unusual C&C servers?

  IBM X-Force found MnuBot -- a new banking Trojan -- manipulating C&C servers in an unusual way. Learn how this is possible and how this malware differs from those in the past.  Continue Reading

• How can companies implement ITSM compliance standards?

  In this Ask the Expert, IT governance expert Jeffrey Ritter discusses his formula to successfully align new technology with ITSM compliance standards -- all while minimizing risk.  Continue Reading

• How does Apple's Quick Look endanger user privacy?

  Apple's Quick Look feature previews thumbnails that are not encrypted. Learn how this poses a security threat to enterprises from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How did Netflix phishing attacks use legitimate TLS certificates?

  Hackers can imitate the design and domain name of popular sites like Netflix to steal credentials. Expert Michael Cobb explains how these Netflix phishing attacks work.  Continue Reading

• How do hackers use legitimate admin tools to compromise networks?

  Hackers use legitimate admin tools to exfiltrate data in living off the land attacks that are hard to detect. Learn about this cyberattack tactic from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How was Google Firebase security bypassed?

  Google Firebase's inadequate back-end development led to data leaks and vulnerabilities, including HospitalGown. Learn more about this security flaw from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How does TLBleed abuse the Hyper-Threading feature in Intel chips?

  TLBleed exploits Intel's HTT feature to leak data via side-channel attacks. Learn about how TLBleed obtains sensitive memory information from expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• How does FacexWorm malware use Facebook Messenger to spread?

  Researchers at Trend Micro found a new strain of malware -- dubbed FacexWorm -- that targets users via a malicious Chrome extension. Discover how this attack works with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does stegware malware exploit steganography techniques?

  Researchers at the 2018 RSA Conference discussed the increasing availability of malware that uses steganography, dubbed stegware. Discover how this works with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How does MassMiner malware infect systems across the web?

  Researchers from AlienVault found a new cryptocurrency mining malware -- dubbed MassMiner -- that infects systems across the web. Learn how this malware operates with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How can GravityRAT check for antimalware sandboxes?

  A remote access Trojan -- dubbed GravityRAT -- was discovered checking for antimalware sandboxes by Cisco Talos. Learn how this technique works and how it can be mitigated.  Continue Reading

• SamSam ransomware: How is this version different from others?

  Sophos recently discovered a SamSam extortion code that performs company-wide attacks using a range of vulnerability exploits. Discover how this version differs from past variants.  Continue Reading

• How can live chat widgets leak personal employee data?

  Project Insecurity researchers found live chat software leaking personal employee data. Learn how attackers can use this leaked information and data to hurt organizations.  Continue Reading

• BlackTDS: How can enterprise security teams avoid an attack?

  Proofpoint researchers found a bulletproof hosting evolution, BlackTDS, this is believed to be advertised on the dark web. Learn what security teams should know with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• Android Trojan: How is data being stolen from messaging apps?

  Trustlook Labs discovered an Android Trojan stealing data from messaging apps. Learn what mobile security pros should look for to detect this malware with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• Can monitoring help defend against Sanny malware update?

  Changes to the Sanny malware were recently discovered by FireEye researchers. Learn who is at risk and how elevated privileges can help protect you with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• GoScanSSH: How does this malware work and differ from others?

  A group of malware was discovered targeting public SSH servers. However, it avoided certain IP addresses. Discover how this is possible and how the malware works with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• How can a compliance strategy improve customer trust?

  Privacy compliance strategy can help build consumer trust and improve security if companies stop looking at the regulations as an obstacle and more as a business opportunity.  Continue Reading

• PulseNet: How do improper authentication flaws affect it?

  GE reported an improper authentication flaw in its PulseNet network management software for critical infrastructures. Discover how this flaw works with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• Secure encrypted virtualization: How is this technology exploited?

  Researchers claim to have found a new attack against VMs that affects SEV technology. Expert Judith Myerson explains what this attack is and how it can be exploited.  Continue Reading

• WPA3 protocol: Should enterprises implement the changes?

  The Wi-Fi Alliance released the updated WPA3 protocol, adding security enhancements to the Wi-Fi access process. Learn why enterprises should update with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• What is VPNFilter malware and how can users protect themselves?

  A new threat named VPNFilter was discovered by cybersecurity researchers after home and office routers were compromised. Learn how this malware works with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How can attackers exploit a buffer underflow vulnerability?

  A buffer underflow was found to be caused by a vulnerability in strongSwan's open source VPN. Learn how this is possible and how attackers can exploit it with Judith Myerson.  Continue Reading

• How does the SynAck ransomware use Process Doppelgänging?

  A technique called Process Doppelgänging was used by the SynAck ransomware to bypass security software. Expert Michael Cobb explains how this technique works and why it's unique.  Continue Reading

• How does Telegram malware bypass end-to-end encryption?

  A Telegram malware called Telegrab targets Telegram's desktop instant messaging service to collect and exfiltrate cache data. Expert Michael Cobb explains how Telegrab works.  Continue Reading

• How does Android Protected Confirmation provide security for users?

  Android P integrates Android Protected Confirmation, which provides sufficient trust in the authentication process. Learn more about this new feature with expert Michael Cobb.  Continue Reading

• What issues can arise from hardware debug exception flaws?

  Misinterpretation of Intel's System Programming Guide resulted in a hardware debug exception vulnerability. Expert Michael Cobb explains how attackers can gain unauthorized access.  Continue Reading

• How does the Android Rowhammer exploit affect users?

  Android Rowhammer is a hardware weakness in older devices that puts users at risk of remote exploits. Expert Michael Cobb explains why it's important to upgrade to newer devices.  Continue Reading

• How does a WDC vulnerability put hardcoded passwords at risk?

  Several vulnerabilities were found in Western Digital's My Cloud, including one that affects the default hardcoded password. Learn how to avoid such risks with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• IonCube malware: Who do these malicious files put at risk?

  Malicious files posing as legitimate ionCube files were recently found by WordPress and Joomla admins. Learn how the ionCube malware works with expert Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading

• ATM jackpotting: How does the Ploutus.D malware work?

  Ploutus.D malware recently started popping up in the U.S. after several ATM jackpotting attacks. Discover how this is possible and what banks can do to prevent this with Nick Lewis.  Continue Reading