With companies coming forward every day announcing impacts from their third-party cloud data storage vendor, the Snowflake data breach seems to be snowballing into one of the biggest data breaches of the digital age. Here's everything to know about the Snowflake breach; we'll update this page as new information becomes available.

Why the Snowflake Breach Matters

Snowflake is a prominent U.S.-based cloud data storage and analytics company, with over 9,800 global customers. Its customer base includes major corporations like Adobe, AT&T, Capital One, DoorDash, HP, JetBlue, Mastercard, Micron, NBC Universal, Nielsen, Novartis, Okta, PepsiCo, Siemens, US Foods, Western Union, and Yamaha, among others. Snowflake holds approximately a 20% share of the data warehouse market and was recently ranked #1 on the Fortune Future 50 List, it an attractive target for cybercriminals. However, it is crucial to note that the breaches are not necessarily due to failures by Snowflake. The correlation does not imply causation, as emphasized by Snowflake’s Chief Information Security Officer Brad Jones. The company, along with its forensic partners, found no evidence of vulnerabilities or breaches within Snowflake’s platform.

Ongoing Investigation and Preliminary Results in Snowflake Breach

On May 31, Snowflake revealed that attackers accessed customer accounts using single-factor authentication. According to preliminary results, these attackers leveraged credentials obtained through infostealing malware.

Compromised Employee Account

Snowflake confirmed that a threat actor obtained credentials from a single former employee, accessing demo accounts that were isolated from production and corporate systems. Snowflake’s core systems are protected by Okta and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) but the demo accounts lacked such safeguards.

Test Environments Targeted

Demo accounts are often overlooked as security risks. Despite assurances that these accounts do not contain sensitive data, they remain attractive targets due to their perceived value. Cybercriminals exploit the perception gap, knowing that a claimed breach of a high-profile company like Snowflake can generate significant media attention.

Attack Path

The initial access point for the attackers was almost certainly compromised credentials obtained through infostealing malware. Mandiant, who helped Snowflake in its investigation, confirmed that the compromised credentials were from customer instances and were traced back to infostealer malware logs. Several variants of infostealer malware were used, including VIDAR, RISEPRO, REDLINE, RACOON STEALER, LUMMA, and METASTEALER.

Possible Reasons for the Breach

Mandiant confirmed that there was no breach of Snowflake’s enterprise environment. They identified that most credentials used by the attackers originated from historical infostealer infections. The lack of MFA and failure to rotate credentials for up to four years were significant factors. Network allow lists were also not used to restrict access to trusted locations.

Unconfirmed Threat Actor Claims

The threat actor also claimed to have logged into Snowflake’s ServiceNow using the same credentials. This claim has neither been confirmed nor explicitly refuted by Snowflake. Other unknowns include whether similar methods compromised other Snowflake employees, and the definition of "sensitive" data used for determining the impact on demo accounts. The investigation is ongoing, but Snowflake stands by its initial findings.

Affected Customers from Snowflake Breach

The data breaches began in April 2024, and the company claimed it had impacted a “limited” number of Snowflake customers. Snowflake initially did not disclose the exact number or the names of all affected customers. However, a comprehensive report from Mandiant two weeks after the initial disclosure revealed that 165 customers were impacted in the Snowflake data breach. While some victims have been identified through attackers’ offers to sell stolen data, others were revealed via mandatory public disclosures. Most companies have yet to confirm the impact. Following is a list of all companies know to have been impacted in the Snowflake data breach:

• Santander Group: The company confirmed a compromise without mentioning Snowflake.
• Impact: Santander Bank staff and 30 million customers’ data has allegedly been breached.

• TicketMaster (Live Nation Entertainment subsidiary): Confirmed via an SEC 8-K report, with Snowflake identified as the third party involved.
• Impact: 560 Million TicketMaster user details and card info potentially at risk.

• LendingTree: Notified by Snowflake about a potential data impact involving QuoteWizard.
• Impact: On June 1, a hacker going by the name “Sp1d3r” posted on the cybercriminal platform BreachForums that they had stolen the sensitive information of over 190 million people from QuoteWizard. The alleged database included customer details, partial credit card numbers, insurance quotes and other information.

• Advance Auto Parts: Unconfirmed by the company, but a dark web listing claimed significant data theft.
• Impact: Same actor as LendingTree claimed leak of 380 million customers and 358,000 former and current employees.

• Pure Storage: The Pure Storage data breach involved a third party temporarily gaining access to the workspace, which housed data such as company names, LDAP usernames, email addresses, and the Purity software release version number.
• Impact: The same threat actor known as “Sp1d3r” claimed responsibility, alleging the theft of 3 terabytes of data from the company’s Snowflake cloud storage that was reportedly being sold for $1.5 million.

Tech Crunch discovered over 500 login credentials and web addresses for Snowflake environments on a website used by attackers to search for stolen credentials. These included corporate email addresses found in a recent data dump from various Telegram channels.

Security Measures and Customer Support

Snowflake Chief Information Security Officer Brad Jones reiterated the company's findings, asserting that the breaches were not due to any vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, or breaches of Snowflake’s platform or personnel credentials. Snowflake is collaborating with customers to enhance security measures and plans to mandate advanced security controls such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and network policies, especially for privileged accounts. The company acknowledges the friction in their MFA enrollment process and is working to streamline it. The shared responsibility model places MFA enforcement on customers, but Snowflake aims to make it a standard prerequisite due to the high sensitivity of the data stored in their cloud environments.

Key Recommendations for Snowflake Customers:

1. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication: Make MFA mandatory for all accounts, particularly those with privileged access.
2. Regularly Rotate Credentials: Ensure that all credentials are regularly updated to prevent long-term exposure from previous leaks.
3. Implement Network Allow Lists: Restrict access to trusted IP addresses to minimize unauthorized access.
4. Enhance Logging and Monitoring: Improve logging and monitoring capabilities to detect and respond to suspicious activities promptly.

Snowflake has also published indicators of compromise and steps for detecting and preventing unauthorized user access here. Cloud security firm Permiso has developed an open-source tool dubbed "YetiHunter" to detect and hunt for suspicious activity in Snowflake environments based on the IoCs shared by Snowflake, Mandiant, DataDog, and its own intelligence. Editor's Note: This blog will be updated as additional breach information from Snowflake and its customers becomes available or is claimed by threat actors on underground forums for sale. Links and data to any additional IoCs related to the Snowflake breach will be published here too.

Ubuntu 23.10, codenamed “Mantic Minotaur,” was released on October 12, 2023, nearly nine months ago. Since it is an interim release, its support period is now approaching with the end of life scheduled on July 11, 2024. After this date, Ubuntu 23.10 will no longer receive software and security updates from Canonical. As a result, […]

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In today's cybersecurity world, the call for innovation and resilience has never been more urgent. Yet, amidst the pursuit of cutting-edge technologies and strategies, a critical aspect often overlooked is the power of neurodiversity. As organizations strive to cultivate inclusive environments and provide equal opportunities for neurodivergent individuals, questions abound on how this diverse talent pool can contribute to cybersecurity. This article aims to explore these questions comprehensively, shedding light on why embracing neurodiversity isn't just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage in safeguarding digital assets. By delving into the significance of neurodivergent individuals in the cybersecurity field readers will gain valuable insights into the importance of fostering inclusivity and understanding neurodiversity's role in shaping the future of cybersecurity.

What is Neurodiversity in Cybersecurity?

Neurodiversity in cybersecurity refers to the recognition and inclusion of individuals with diverse cognitive profiles, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, within cybersecurity teams. These individuals bring unique perspectives, skills, and talents to the table, enhancing the overall effectiveness of cybersecurity operations. “Seeking out neurodiverse teammates in hiring and recognizing and building around their strengths can be a vital asset to anticipating an adversary’s moves and uncovering potential solutions to problems before they arise,” said Gunnar Peterson, CISO at Forter. Neurodiverse individuals often exhibit exceptional logical and methodical thinking, attention to detail, and cognitive pattern recognition skills. For example, they can hyperfocus on tasks, giving complete attention to specific issues for prolonged periods, which is invaluable in identifying and mitigating security threats. Their ability to engage deeply in their work ensures that even the smallest anomalies are detected and addressed swiftly. Moreover, many neurodiverse individuals thrive on repetitive tasks and routines, finding comfort and even excitement in long, monotonous processes. This makes them well-suited for roles that involve continuous monitoring and analysis of security data. Their high levels of concentration and persistence allow them to stay on task until solutions are found, ensuring thorough and effective problem-solving. Creativity is another significant benefit that neurodiverse individuals bring to cybersecurity. Their unique, nonlinear thinking enables them to approach problems from different angles and develop innovative solutions. This creativity is crucial for devising new methods to counteract evolving cyber threats. For instance, a neurodivergent team member might come up with an unconventional but highly effective way to secure a network that others might overlook. Furthermore, neurodiverse individuals often possess strong reasoning skills and keen awareness, contributing valuable insights into cybersecurity strategies. Their ability to think outside the box allows them to anticipate potential issues that others might miss, enhancing the overall security posture of an organization. In terms of teamwork, neurodiverse individuals respond well to inclusive environments. A diverse team, comprising various cognitive profiles, tends to react better to challenges and fosters a more innovative and productive atmosphere. When neurodivergent individuals are included and valued, team morale improves, leading to higher overall performance and productivity.

Challenges Faced by Neurodiverse Individuals in Cybersecurity

Neurodiverse individuals face several challenges in the workplace that can impact their ability to thrive, despite their unique strengths. For example, sensory sensitivities common in conditions like autism can make traditional office environments overwhelming due to bright lights, loud noises, or crowded spaces. This can lead to increased stress and decreased productivity. Communication barriers are another significant challenge, as some neurodivergent individuals may struggle with social cues and norms, making it difficult for them to participate effectively in team meetings or collaborative projects. For instance, someone with ADHD might find it challenging to maintain focus during long meetings, potentially missing critical information. Additionally, rigid workplace structures and a lack of flexibility can hinder neurodiverse employees, who may require different accommodations, such as varied working hours or remote work options, to perform optimally. These challenges highlight the need for inclusive workplace practices that recognize and support the diverse needs of neurodiverse individuals, enabling them to contribute their valuable skills more effectively.

How to Create Neurodiverse-Friendly Work Environments

Creating a neurodiverse-friendly work environment involves considering several key factors to support and accommodate the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Here are the steps to create such an environment: Sensory: Addressing the sensory environment is crucial. This means ensuring that the workplace is comfortable regarding lighting, noise, and overall ambiance. For example, providing noise-canceling headphones, adjustable lighting, or quiet workspaces can help neurodivergent employees focus better and reduce sensory overload. Timely: A timely environment means allowing sufficient time for tasks and avoiding unrealistic deadlines. Clearly communicating timeframes and allowing flexibility can reduce stress. For instance, giving employees enough time to complete tasks without last-minute rushes can improve their productivity and job satisfaction. Explicit: Communication should be clear and explicit. This involves providing detailed instructions and avoiding ambiguous language. For example, instead of saying, "Get this done soon," specify, "Please complete this task by 3 PM tomorrow." This clarity helps neurodivergent individuals understand expectations and reduces anxiety. Predictable: Creating a predictable environment can help reduce anxiety and improve focus. This includes having regular schedules and clear procedures. For instance, if meetings are scheduled at consistent times and agendas are shared in advance, neurodivergent employees can prepare better and feel more secure. Social: Fostering a supportive social environment means recognizing that not everyone may be comfortable with the same level of social interaction. Offering structured social activities and respecting individual preferences can create a more inclusive workplace. For example, providing clear invitations to social events with detailed information about what to expect can help neurodivergent employees feel more comfortable. Additionally, implementing a "traffic-light" system with colored cards or post-it notes (green for willing to interact, yellow for maybe, and red for needing to focus) can help manage social interactions effectively and respect individual boundaries. By incorporating these STEPS, organizations can create an inclusive and supportive work environment that leverages the unique strengths of neurodivergent employees, ultimately enhancing overall productivity and innovation. Training Programs: Providing specialized training and development programs can help neurodivergent individuals thrive in cybersecurity roles. This includes offering tailored training sessions that address their unique learning styles and strengths. For example, using visual aids and hands-on activities can enhance understanding and retention. Mentorship programs where experienced employees guide neurodivergent staff can also be beneficial, offering personalized support and career development advice. Moreover, continuous learning opportunities, such as workshops on the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies, can keep neurodivergent employees engaged and up-to-date with industry advancements.

Read Ahead

“Once we start to remove what those barriers are, the way that we do things, our culture of understanding and our bias of conditions, then we can start to be more inclusive and welcome a more diverse workforce,” said Foxcroft. By harnessing the unique strengths of neurodivergent individuals, organizations can unlock a wellspring of creativity, focus, and unconventional problem-solving. It's a future where cybersecurity teams aren't just well-equipped, but exceptionally prepared – a future where "thinking differently" becomes the key to defending against the unthinkable. So, what steps will you take to create a more inclusive cybersecurity workforce? The answers may well determine the future security of our digital world.

Whenever people ask the best way to protect their accounts and devices, the answer is always to use a strong password. But how exactly does one do that? What constitutes a good password? In this article, we explain six ways to create a strong password that makes hackers give up trying to guess your details and steal your information. Keep reading to find out what your password should consist of to stay protected!

Steps to Create a Strong Password

1. Avoid Common Words

Avoid using easily guessable words or phrases. Examples include "123456," "password," or "qwerty." Instead, use phrases that may hold an unobvious personal meaning to you, such as a combination of words from a favorite book or a childhood memory. Hackers often use common password lists to guess and breach accounts, so avoid anything too predictable.

2. Avoid Personal Information

Refrain from including any personal information in your password, such as your name, birthday, or address. Hackers can easily obtain this information through social engineering or data breaches, making it relatively simple for them to guess your password. Keeping your password unrelated to your personal life adds an extra layer of security.

3. The Lengthier, the Better

The longer your password, the harder it is for hackers to crack through brute force attacks. A minimum of 12 characters is recommended, but going longer is better. For example, using a 16-character password significantly increases the number of possible combinations, making it more challenging for hackers to guess and increasing their likelihood of failing.

4. Use Complex Characters and Words

Passwords that use a variety of character types—such as uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters—are better protected. For instance, a password like "P@ssw0rd123!" is much stronger than "password123." The complexity of using different forms of characters makes guessing much harder, especially if hackers use automated tools.

5. Randomize Passwords

Generating random passwords using browser-recommended ones or a password manager can be very effective in protecting your account. Password managers can store the randomized passwords after creating them. If you are worried about forgetting these randomly generated ones, you can create your own passphrase that makes sense only to you, such as "Green!Apple#Mountain*Sky." Ensure it's not easily guessable or uses common phrases.

6. Update and Change Regularly

Changing your passwords regularly is essential, especially if you have been warned of possible attempts at breaches or passwords being compromised. Regularly updating your passwords helps mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts, even if your current password is strong. It is important to create new ones instead of reusing old passwords, as hackers could use previously compromised credentials to gain access to other accounts.

Conclusion

When these six tips are combined, your password will keep your information secure. Repeating passwords or making variations of the same one fails to protect you. But with these tips, your first level of authentication is set to be almost impossible for hackers to penetrate. In a world where hacking and stealing information in cyberspace is becoming more common, it is essential for users to take the necessary steps to keep their passwords strong and their data protected. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks and ensure your personal information remains safe.

Staying safe in the current climate of cyberattacks can be challenging and often frightening. With hacking and data theft becoming increasingly accessible and easier to execute, ensuring the safety of your personal information is essential. In this article, we will list the top ways to protect your identity on your devices and accounts from being stolen.

10 Easy Steps to Secure Your Identity

By following these 10 easy steps, you can secure your credentials, personal information, and more.

By Mohan Subrahmanya, Country Leader, Insight Enterprises In an era consistently besieged by data breaches and increased cyber threats, blockchain technology is emerging as a key tool for the enhancement of cybersecurity and the protection of data. It is a decentralized and secure way of recording critical data that brings forth innumerable benefits to many sectors through a sound framework for secure transactions and integrity of data.

Understanding Blockchain Technology

At its core, blockchain is a decentralized ledger that records transactions across a network of computers, ensuring that data remains transparent, secure, and immutable. Each block in the blockchain contains a timestamp, transaction data, and a cryptographic hash of the previous block, creating a chain of records that is nearly impossible to alter. The exponential growth of blockchain technology is fueled by the need to simplify business processes, increase transparency, improve traceability, and cut costs. According to ReportLinker, the global blockchain market is expected to increase by 80% between 2018 and 2023, from $1.2 billion to $23.3 billion.

Key Components of Blockchain That Ensure Data Security

Blockchain technology enhances data security by ensuring that data recorded once remains unalterable and undeletable without network consensus, thus maintaining integrity. One of the key features of blockchain technology is decentralization. Unlike traditional centralized databases, blockchain operates on a distributed network. This structure reduces the risk of a single point of failure and makes it much more difficult for malicious entities to compromise the entire system. By distributing data across multiple nodes, blockchain eliminates vulnerabilities associated with centralized servers, thereby enhancing overall security. Another feature is the Cryptographic hash function which plays a crucial role in blockchain security. These mathematical algorithms generate a unique identifier for each block, making it virtually impossible to alter any recorded data without detection. All the altered information on the blockchain is visible and immutable, which not only ensures data integrity but also provides a reliable mechanism to detect and prevent fraudulent activities. Blockchain also employs consensus mechanisms such as Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS) to validate transactions and ensure network consistency. By allowing only authentic transactions to be added to the blockchain, these mechanisms prevent double payments and other fraudulent practices. Digital signatures, which use a private key to sign transactions, further enhance this level of security. This ensures that only authorized individuals can initiate or modify data entries, while anyone with the public key can verify the authenticity of the transaction.

Applications Across Sectors

The use of blockchain technology could have a significant impact on cybersecurity across various sectors. Many organizations are recognizing the significant business benefits of blockchain technology and are increasingly adopting it across various sectors. Blockchain has a lot to offer, from manufacturing and healthcare to supply chains and beyond. Financial services, for instance, can benefit from blockchain's ability to secure transactions, reduce fraud, and improve transparency. The healthcare sector can utilize blockchain to secure storage and share patient information between authorized personnel, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy. In the manufacturing industry, blockchain is primarily used for the movement and management of digital assets and physical goods, enhancing transparency and traceability. In order to ensure a transparent and immutable record of the origin of products, supply chain management can use blockchain technology to prevent counterfeiting and ensure authenticity. Government services can also use blockchain to increase the security and efficiency of public records, voting systems as well as identity management.

Key Challenges and Considerations

There are certain challenges to the use of blockchain technology, despite its many benefits. Scalability is an important concern, as the number of transactions increases, the blockchain may become slow and costly to maintain. Furthermore, significant computational power is required for consensus mechanisms such as POW which could result in considerable energy consumption. Regulatory uncertainty is another issue, as the evolving legal landscape can obscure the widespread adoption of blockchain technology. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the continued growth and adoption of blockchain technology. Global efforts are being made to create scalable blockchain systems and more effective consensus methods. Additionally, regulatory frameworks are also evolving to offer more precise guidelines to implement blockchain technology.

Growth of Blockchain Technology in India

India is seeing a strong increase in the adoption of blockchain technology in many sectors. This growth is driven by government-backed projects and initiatives, such as the National Blockchain Framework, to improve transparency, security, and efficiency. The technology's potential to enhance data integrity and operational efficiency aligns well with India's digital transformation goals, making blockchain a key component in the nation's technological advancement. The use of blockchain technology has been much more of a game-changer in terms of data security and is supporting cybersecurity. It provides robust security against all cyber threats since it is decentralized, immutable, and fully transparent. Overcoming the challenges of scaling and regulatory uncertainty would enable blockchain's distributed ledger technology to emerge as the key player in secure digital infrastructures that drive innovation across all sectors. The more organizations study its potential applications, the more blockchain will change the face of data security and cybersecurity. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. 

By Siddharth Deshmukh, Chief Operating Officer, Clover Infotech With the advent of digital, large volumes of data flow into the organizations’ systems daily. However, it’s the value of the data that makes it special. This data is often used to generate insights and predictions which are important to enhance productivity and ROI. But to ensure that the desired results are achieved, the data needs to be stored and organized in databases that enable easy access, modification, and management. In such a scenario, open source database is a wise choice as they offer flexibility, cost savings, and community support. They allow users to access and modify the source code, enabling customization to meet specific needs and fostering innovation. Being free of licensing fees, they reduce financial barriers for organizations of all sizes. While community versions of open-source databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB are popular for their zero-cost entry and extensive community support, enterprise editions often provide a more comprehensive and reliable solution for businesses with critical needs.

Superior Features of Enterprise Editions

Here’s why enterprise editions are generally considered superior to community versions in an enterprise setting:  Enhanced Support and Reliability - One of the most significant advantages of enterprise editions is the professional support provided by the OEM. Unlike community versions, which rely on community forums and public documentation for troubleshooting, enterprise editions offer dedicated, round-the-clock technical support. This support is crucial for enterprises that require immediate resolutions to any issues that may arise, thereby minimizing downtime, ensuring business continuity, and adherence to compliance mandates. Advanced Security Features - Security is paramount for any enterprise, and enterprise editions of open-source databases typically come with enhanced security features not available in community versions. These may include advanced authentication methods, transparent data encryption, auditing capabilities, and more granular access controls. With cyber threats constantly evolving, having these robust security measures in place helps protect sensitive data from breaches and ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations. Performance Optimization and Scalability - Enterprise editions often include performance optimization tools and features designed to handle large-scale operations efficiently. These enhancements can significantly improve database performance, supporting faster query processing and better resource management. For businesses experiencing rapid growth or those with high transaction volumes, the ability to scale seamlessly is critical. Comprehensive Management Tools - Managing a database effectively requires a suite of tools for monitoring, backup, recovery, and automation. Enterprise editions usually provide a range of advanced management tools that simplify these tasks, reducing the administrative burden on IT teams. Features like automated backups, performance monitoring dashboards, and easy-to-use management interfaces help ensure that databases run smoothly, and potential issues are promptly addressed. Long-Term Stability and Support - Community versions often follow rapid release cycles, which can lead to stability issues as new features are continuously added and older versions quickly become outdated. In contrast, enterprise editions typically offer long-term support (LTS) versions, ensuring stability and ongoing updates without the need for frequent major upgrades. This stability is vital for enterprises that require reliable, long-term operation of their database systems. Tailored Solutions and Customization - Vendors offering enterprise editions frequently provide customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of their clients. This level of customization can include optimizing the database for particular workloads, integrating with existing enterprise systems, and even developing new features upon request. Such tailored solutions ensure that the database aligns perfectly with the business’ operational requirements.

To Wrap Up

In conclusion, while community versions of open-source databases are an excellent starting point, especially for small to medium-sized businesses or for non-critical applications, enterprise editions offer a suite of enhanced features and services that address the complex needs of larger organizations. With superior support, advanced security, performance optimizations, comprehensive management tools, and tailored solutions, enterprise editions ensure businesses can rely on their database systems to support their operations effectively and securely. Enterprise editions are a prudent choice for enterprises where data integrity, performance, and security are paramount. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. 

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By Sithembile (Nkosi) Songo, Chief Information Security Officer, ESKOM  According to the Ultimate List of Cybersecurity Statistics, 98% of cyber attacks rely on social engineering. Social engineering and phishing attacks tactics keep on evolving and targeting a diversified audience form executives to normal employees. Advanced phishing attacks that can be launched using GEN AI. There is also a shift in motivation behind these attacks, such as financial gain, curiosity or data theft.   Recent attacks have shown that cyber criminals continue to use various social engineering tricks, exploiting human weaknesses. Attackers are evolving from only exploiting technology vulnerabilities such as using automated exploits to initiate fraudulent transactions, steal data, install malware and engage in other malicious activities.  Furthermore, it is a well-documented fact that people are deemed to be the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain. Traditional security controls put more focus on the technical vulnerabilities as opposed to the human related vulnerabilities. Threat actors are transitioning from traditional system and or technology related cyber-attacks to human based attacks. The cyber criminals have identified and are now taking advantage of uninformed or untrained workforce by exploiting the human related vulnerabilities.  Employees often make it too easy by posting a huge amount of information about themselves, including daily status, activities, hobbies, travel schedule and their network of family and friends.   Even small snippets of information can be aggregated together. Bad guys can build an entire record on their targets.  Employees, especially those that are targeted, should limit what they post.  Bad guys leverage on other weaknesses, such as the improper destruction of information through dumpster diving and unencrypted data. The three most common delivery methods are email attachments, websites and USB removable media.  Properly implemented USB policies and trained users can identify, stop and report phishing attacks.  Well-educated workforces on all the different methods of social engineering attacks are more likely to identify and stop the delivery of these attacks.  While malicious breaches are the most common, inadvertent breaches from human error and system glitches are still the root cause for most of the data breaches studied in the report. Human error as a root cause of a breach includes “inadvertent insiders” who may be compromised by phishing attacks or have their devices infected or lost/stolen  Entrenching a security conscious culture is therefore extremely important in today’s digital age. Cyber awareness is of utmost importance in today’s digital age.  

What is "Security Culture"?  

Security culture is the set of values shared by all the employees in an organization, which determine how people are expected to perceive and approach security. It is the ideas, customs and social behaviours of an organization that influence its security. Security culture is the most crucial element in an organization’s security strategy as it is fundamental to its ability to protect information, data and employee and customer privacy. Perception about cybersecurity has a direct impact to the security culture. It could be either positive or negative. It’s deemed to be positive if information security is seen as a business enabler and viewed as a shared responsibility instead of becoming the CISO’s sole responsibility. On other hand it’s perceived negatively if security viewed a hindrance or a showstopper to business or production. A sustainable security culture requires care and feeding. It is not something that develops naturally, it requires nurturing,  relevant investments. It is bigger than just ad-hoc events. When a security culture is sustainable, it transforms security from ad-hoc events into a lifecycle that generates security returns forever. Security culture determines what happens with security when people are on their own. Do they make the right choices when faced with whether to click on a link? Do they know the steps that must be performed to ensure that a new product or offering is secure throughout the development life cycle.  Security culture should be engaging and delivering value because people are always keen to participate in a security culture that is co-created and enjoyable.  Furthermore, for people to invest their time and effort, they need to understand what they will get in return. In other words, it should provide a return on investment, such as improving a business solution, mitigating risks associated with cyber breaches.   Culture change can either be driven from the top or be a bottom-up approach, depending on the composition and culture of the organization. A bottom-up approach rollout allows engaged parties to feel they are defining the way forward rather than participating in a large prescriptive corporate program, while support from the top helps to validate the change, regardless of how it is delivered.   In particular, a top-down mandate helps to break down barriers between various business functions, information security, information technology, development team, operations, as well as being one of the few ways to reach beyond the technical teams and extend throughout the business. Organizations that have a Strong Cybersecurity culture have the following:  

• Senior leadership support from Board and Exco that echo the importance of cybersecurity within the organization. 
• Defined a security awareness strategy and programme, including the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). 
• Targeted awareness campaigns which segment staff based on risk. Grouping users by risk allows for messages and the frequency of messages to be tailored to the user group.  
• A cybersecurity champion programme which allows for a group of users embedded in the organization to drive the security message. 
• Usage of various of mediums to accommodate different types of people who learn differently. 
• Employees are always encouraged to report cybersecurity incidents and they know where and how and to report incidents. 
• Creating an organizational culture where people are encouraged to report mistakes could be the difference between containing a cyber incident or not. 
• Measurements to test effectiveness: This is often done with phishing simulations.  
• Employees have a clear understanding of what acceptable vs what is not acceptable.  
• Information security becomes a shared responsibility instead of  CISO’s sole responsibility. 

The below image depicts percentage of adopted awareness capabilities 

Security architecture principles such as Defence in Depth, the failure of a single component of the security architecture should not compromise the security of the entire system. A defense-in-depth mechanism should be applied to mitigate phishing related risks. This approach applies security in different layers of protection, which implies that if one control fails the next layers of controls will be able to block or stop the phishing attack. The controls involve a combination of people, processes and technologies.  User behavior analytics (UBA) should be used to augment the awareness programme by detecting insider threats, targeted attacks, and financial fraud and track users’ activities. Advanced our phishing attack simulations by using GEN AI based simulations should also be conducted to combat advanced phishing attacks. 

Possible Measurements 

There are several measures that can be applied to measure the level of a  security conscious culture: 

• Employees attitudes towards security protocols and issues. 
• Behaviour and actions of employees that have direct and indirect  security implications. 
• Employees understanding, knowledge and awareness of security issues and activities. 
• How communication channels promote a sense of belonging and offer support related to security issues and incident reporting. 
• Employee knowledge, support and compliance to security policies, standards and procedures. 
• Knowledge and adherence to unwritten rules of conduct related to security. 
• How employees perceive their responsibilities as a critical success factor in mitigating cyber risks. 

Conclusion 

According to Gartner, by 2025, 40% of cybersecurity programs will deploy socio-behavioural principles (such as nudge techniques ) to influence security culture across the organization.   Recent human based cyber-attacks, together AI enabled phishing attacks, make it imperative to tighten human based controls. Promoting a security conscious culture will play a fundamental role in transforming people from being the weakest into the strongest link in the cybersecurity chain.  Building a cybersecurity culture is crucial because it ensures that everyone understands the importance of cybersecurity, adherence to the relevant information security policies and procedures, increase the level of vigilance and mitigate risks associated with data breaches. Furthermore a strong cybersecurity culture fosters better collaboration, accountability and improved security maturity. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

By Dina Alsalamen, VP, Head of Cyber and Information Security Department at Bank ABC  In today's interconnected digital landscape, cyber threats pose significant risks to organizations of all sizes and industries. From data breaches to ransomware attacks, the consequences of cyber incidents can be severe, including financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties. To effectively mitigate these risks and safeguard their operations, organizations must prioritize building cyber resilience. In this article, we'll explore strategies and best practices for building a cyber-resilient organization. 

Understand Your Risks 

The first step in building cyber resilience is understanding the unique risks facing your organization. Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and their potential impact on your business operations. This assessment should encompass all aspects of your organization's IT infrastructure, including networks, systems, applications, and data assets. 

Develop a Cybersecurity Strategy 

Based on your risk assessment, develop a robust cybersecurity strategy that aligns with your organization's goals and priorities. This strategy should outline clear objectives, policies, and procedures for protecting against cyber threats. Key components of your cybersecurity strategy may include: 

• Risk Management Framework: Establish a risk management framework to systematically identify, assess, and mitigate cyber risks across your organization. 
• Security Controls: Implement a layered approach to cybersecurity by deploying a combination of preventive, detective, and responsive security controls. 
• Incident Response Plan: Develop a detailed incident response plan outlining procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents. 
• Employee Training and Awareness: Educate employees about cybersecurity best practices and raise awareness about the importance of security hygiene in everyday operations. 

Implement Security Controls 

Deploy a range of security controls to protect your organization's digital assets from cyber threats. These controls may include: 

• Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems: Implement firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor and control network traffic, identifying and blocking malicious activities. 
• Endpoint Protection: Install endpoint protection solutions, such as antivirus software and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, to defend against malware and other malicious threats targeting end-user devices. 
• Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorized access and protect confidentiality. 

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA for accessing critical systems and applications, adding an extra layer of security beyond passwords. 

Continuously Monitor and Assess 

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so it's essential to continuously monitor your organization's security posture and assess for vulnerabilities. Implement threat detection tools and security monitoring systems to detect and respond to suspicious activities in real-time.  Conduct regular security assessments, including penetration testing and vulnerability scanning, to identify weaknesses and address them proactively. 

Foster a Culture of Cyber Resilience 

Building a cyber-resilient organization requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, from top management to frontline employees. Foster a culture of cyber resilience by promoting collaboration, accountability, and a shared responsibility for cybersecurity across the organization. Encourage open communication channels for reporting security incidents and provide support and resources for ongoing training and skill development. 

Conclusion 

Building a cyber-resilient organization is an ongoing process that requires proactive planning, investment, and commitment from leadership and employees alike. By understanding your risks, developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, implementing robust security controls, continuously monitoring and assessing your security posture, and fostering a culture of cyber resilience, you can strengthen your organization's ability to withstand and recover from cyber threats, ensuring the continuity of your business operations in an increasingly digital world. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

By Abdulla Bader Al Seiari, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Cyber 50 Defense – L.L.C. – O.P.C.  In an era marked by rapid technological advancement and escalating cyber threats, the strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity operations emerges as a pivotal industry trend. This evolution promises not only to transform traditional defense paradigms but also to redefine the roles and responsibilities of Level 1 (L1) cybersecurity analysts. 

Strategic Imperatives for AI Adoption in Cybersecurity 

The digital threat landscape is characterized by its complexity and dynamism, challenging the traditional cybersecurity frameworks and necessitating a more agile and intelligent response mechanism. AI’s role in this context is twofold: augmenting human capabilities and enabling more sophisticated, real-time threat detection and mitigation strategies. 

The Transformative Impact of AI on L1 Analysts 

• Operational Efficiency: Leveraging AI for routine and volumetric threat detection tasks enhances operational efficiency, allowing analysts to concentrate on higher-order problem-solving and strategic decision-making. 

• Continuous Monitoring: AI’s capability for 24/7 surveillance addresses the limitations of human-centric monitoring, ensuring a proactive stance against potential security breaches. 

• Accuracy and Reliability: By minimizing human error, AI contributes to a more reliable threat detection process, underpinning a robust cybersecurity defense mechanism. 

A Collaborative Future

The narrative surrounding AI in cybersecurity transcends the simplistic notion of technology replacing human roles. Instead, it emphasizes a symbiotic relationship where AI enhances the analytical and operational capacities of L1 analysts. This collaborative approach envisions: 

• Elevated Analytical Roles: Analysts are liberated from the constraints of monitoring and preliminary analysis, enabling a focus on complex, strategic issues that demand expert judgment and creative problem-solving. 

• Continued Professional Development: The shift in responsibilities encourages L1 analysts to pursue advanced training and skill acquisition in areas such as threat intelligence, incident response, and cybersecurity policy, ensuring career growth and adaptation in a changing technological landscape. 

• Strengthened Cyber Defenses: The integration of AI into cybersecurity operations fosters a more agile and resilient defense ecosystem, capable of responding to sophisticated threats with unprecedented speed and accuracy. 

Conclusion 

The strategic integration of AI into cybersecurity heralds a new era for L1 analysts and the broader industry. This evolution is not a displacement but an enhancement of human capabilities, ensuring that cybersecurity professionals remain at the forefront of technological innovation and defense strategies. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

By Anoop Kumar, Head of Information Security Governance Risk & Compliance at Gulf News We are becoming ever more dependent on technology and digitization. As data increases in importance and volume, data protection and privacy are essential to safeguard the integrity of the systems we all use and depend on. Hence, our Resilience in terms of People, Process, and Technology is very vital. Actors with ill intent never rest and are constantly evolving, so consumers, firms, and governments will need to keep investing time, energy, and money to stay ahead of the game. Cybersecurity goals represent a powerful megatrend over the coming decades in both relevance and growth.

The Problem

Most of the organizations are firefighting with:

• Too many incidents and faults
• Uncontrolled budget
• Uncontrolled projects
• Operational surprises and unexpected downtime
• Lack of compliance
• Uncontrolled removable media use
• Abused identity privileges
• Too long, too expensive Audits and unacceptable audit results
• Lot of rework
• Lack of ownership and accountabilities
• Poor customer service, both internal and external
• Expensive incident response activities
• Firefighting IT
• No transparency and visibility

 We must consider a program to reduce operational complexities and surprises to concrete business sustainability and cyber resilience.

The Program

Cybersecurity GRC by design: Educate boardroom, a top-down approach and enable from the bottom up. The frequency and negative impact of cybersecurity incidents on organizations continue to rise, undermining the confidence of the board and executives in their cybersecurity strategies. Security GRC by design is increasingly being adopted to enable stakeholders to draw a straight line between cybersecurity investment and the delivered Protection and improved Compliance levels it generates. We must consider Cybersecurity GRC by design to create a defensible cybersecurity investment strategy, reflecting agreed protection levels with powerful properties, and in simple language that is explainable to non-IT executives. This provides a credible and defensible expression of risk appetite that supports direct investment to change protection levels. Also results in Reduced operation Costs, Risk, and improved Performance. Here the relationship among CXOs is key to converting the challenges to opportunities. Example: CIO-CFO always has communication gaps and disagreements in terms of ROI.

The Process to be Agreed Up On

A well-defined process with adequate guidelines can create wonders in operations. Hence, draft a step-by-step process of activities with defined roles and responsibilities. Slowly define and agree on KPIs, but let all stakeholders embrace the process first. A collectively agreed process execution results in improved confidence among all signing authorities. How can we define this from the concept stage to the delivery stage with successful operational handover with desired compliance to both internal and external standards expectations? Let us define them: Define and Agree a Pipeline With Required Controls

People's Area of Concern

In order to define and agree a collective Cybersecurity GRC by design model, we must identify stakeholders from different organizational units to work together for a common goal (a cross-functional team of HR, Finance, Legal, IT, GRC, etc…). Educate them with a collectively agreed process with defined KPIs. This is achieved through a business process walkthrough to identify which people are involved and what data is being operated (input and output).

Technology

Consider a social-technical environment: Where everyone’s culture and practices are embraced and aligned for better outcomes. Agree on a paced layered technical architecture for agility.

Key Considerations While Selecting Technology Solutions

Generative AI: a double-sided sword we need to operate by adequate Governance Cybersecurity leaders need to prepare for the swift evolution of GenAI, as large language model (LLM) applications like ChatGPT and Gemini are only the start of its disruption. Simultaneously, those are overwhelming with promises of productivity increases, skills gap reductions, and other new benefits for cybersecurity. Is that wise to use GenAI through proactive collaboration with business stakeholders to support the foundations for the ethical, safe, and secure use of this disruptive technology? There’s solid long-term hope for the technology, but right now we’re more likely to experience prompt fatigue than two-digit productivity growth. Things will improve, so encourage experiments and manage expectations, especially outside of the security team by providing a non-production environment like technical labs. Embrace innovations. Manage Third-Party Cybersecurity Risk: The inevitability of third parties experiencing cybersecurity incidents is pressuring security leaders to focus more on resilience-oriented investments and move away from front loaded due diligence activities. We must consider enhancing the risk management (continuous) of third-party services and establish mutually beneficial relationships with important external partners, to ensure their most valuable assets are continuously safeguarded and start by strengthening contingency plans for third-party engagements that pose the highest cybersecurity risk by creating third- party-specific incident playbooks, conduct tabletop exercises and define a clear off-boarding strategy involving timely revocation of access and destruction of data. Continuously assess both internal and external attack surfaces: Continuous threat exposure management (CTEM) is a pragmatic and systemic approach we must practice to continually evaluate the accessibility, exposure and exploitability of digital and physical assets. Aligning assessment and remediation scopes with threat vectors or business projects rather than an infrastructure component, highlights vulnerabilities and unpatchable threats to reduce breaches. Security leaders must continuously monitor hybrid digital environments to enable early identification and optimal prioritization of vulnerabilities to help maintain a hardened organizational attack surface. Manage and Govern Identities: We are forced to move to an identity-first approach to security, the focus shifts from network security and other traditional controls to IAM, making it critical to cybersecurity and business outcomes. Hence, the increased role of IAM in security programs, and practices must evolve to focus more on fundamental hygiene and hardening of systems to improve resilience. We must focus on strengthening and leveraging our identity fabric and leverage identity threat detection and response to ensure IAM capabilities are best positioned to support the breadth of the overall security program

Conclusion

This program intends to create a social-technical collectively accepted approach to reduce operational cost, complexities, and risk and improve operational performance and compliance. Here every stakeholder has a role to play with adequate responsibility. A well-understood process with a cross-functional team equipped with the right technology can make wonders. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. 

In the field of business operations in the META region, operational technology (OT) acts as a backbone, facilitating system maintenance, control, and optimization. From factories to energy projects, OT systems play an important role in increasing efficiency, ensuring safety, and maintaining reliability. However, with the increasing interconnectivity between OT and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as the growing threat landscape, securing operational technology environments has never been more crucial.

Understanding Operational Technology

OT encompasses the hardware and software utilized to monitor and control physical devices and processes within industrial operations, including sectors such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and utilities. It comprises of two main categories: Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which introduce networking capabilities to traditional OT systems, and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) - specialized systems dedicated to monitoring and controlling industrial processes.

Key functions of OT include:

• Driving innovation, improving productivity, ensuring safety, reliability, and maintaining critical infrastructure.
• Enhancing efficiency by automating and optimizing processes, minimizing downtime, reducing waste, and maximizing output.
• Ensuring safety by monitoring environmental conditions, detecting abnormalities, and triggering automated responses to prevent accidents.
• Providing reliable performance in harsh environments to prevent financial losses and risks to public safety.
• Maintaining product quality and consistency by monitoring and adjusting production processes.
• Enabling data-driven decision-making by generating insights into operations.
• Managing critical infrastructure such as energy grids, water treatment plants, and transportation networks.

Differentiating OT from IT

While Operational Technology shares similarities with Information Technology (IT), it differs in several key aspects. IT focuses on managing digital information within organizations and OT controls highly technical specialist systems crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of critical processes. These systems include Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators, among others. OT is not just limited to manufacturing but can also be found in warehouses and in daily outdoor areas such as parking lots and highways. Some examples of OT include ATMs and other kiosks, connected buses, trains, and service fleets, weather stations, and even electric vehicles charging systems. The key difference between IT and OT is that IT is centered on an organization's front-end informational activities, while OT is focused on their back-end production. The merging of OT with IT, known as IT/OT convergence, aims at enhancing efficiency, safety, and security in industrial operations, yet also introduces challenges regarding cybersecurity as OT systems become more interconnected with IT networks.

IoT and OT Cybersecurity Forecast for META in 2024

Cybersecurity stands as a paramount concern for executives across various OT sectors in the META region. As the region witnesses a surge in cyber threats, organizations are increasingly investing in cybersecurity services and solutions to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data. Modernization and optimization top the cyber-investment priorities for 2024, according to Pwc Digital Trust Insights 2024-Middle East Findings Report. More than half (53%) of chose optimization of existing technologies and investments in order to identify those with the highest potential to create value, while 43% selected technology modernization, including cyber infrastructure. The year 2024 is poised to bring new challenges and advancements in IoT and OT security, which could possibly shape the cybersecurity landscape in the META region.

Geopolitical Threats and APT Activity

With geopolitical tensions shaping the cybersecurity landscape, the META region is anticipated to witness heightened levels of Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) activity. Critical infrastructure, including shipping, power, and communications, will remain prime targets for cyber adversaries seeking to disrupt operations and undermine stability.

Escalating Costs of Cyber Attacks

The cost of cyberattacks is expected to escalate further in 2024, driven by an increase in ransom demands. Recent years have seen a significant rise in ransomware attacks globally, with cybercriminals targeting sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing. As ransom demands soar, organizations in the META region must bolster their cybersecurity defenses to mitigate financial and operational risks.

Heightened Threats to IoT and OT Deployments

Cyber threats targeting IoT and OT deployments are poised to intensify, posing significant risks to critical infrastructure and industrial systems. Health and safety departments, Industrial Control Systems (ICS), and IoT networks will remain prime targets for cyber adversaries, necessitating proactive cybersecurity measures to mitigate potential threats.

Focus on Network and Device Vulnerabilities

Cybercriminals will continue to exploit network and device vulnerabilities, highlighting the importance of robust patching and vulnerability scanning practices. Government infrastructures, finance, and retail sectors are particularly vulnerable to phishing attacks, underscoring the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and employee awareness training.

Lookout for AI

With AI coming to the fore and large language models helping cybercriminals from drafting phishing mails to making AI-based robo-calling the surge of AI needs to be kept an eye on and better regulations will be the need of the hour. On the defense front, many vendors are also pushing the limits of GenAI, testing what’s possible. It could be some time before we see broad-scale use of defenceGPTs.  In the meantime, here are the three most promising areas for using GenAI in cyber defence: Threat detection and analysis; cyber risk and incident reporting; and adaptive controls that are tailored for organizations threat profile, technologies and business objectives.

Emphasis on Supply Chain Security

In 2024, supply chain vetting and internal security methods will become mainstream, as organizations strive to fortify their defenses against supply chain attacks. With compliance orders shifting from voluntary to mandatory, enterprises will be required to align with cybersecurity standards such as IEC 62443 to mitigate supply chain risks effectively.

Rise of Cyber Threat Intelligence

The year 2024 is poised to witness a surge in cyber threat intelligence investments, as organizations seek to enhance their threat detection and response capabilities. With C-level management increasingly involved in cybersecurity decision-making, enterprises will prioritize cyber threat intelligence feeds to bolster their security posture and safeguard critical infrastructure.

Expansion of Attack Surfaces

As digital transformation accelerates across sectors, the OT attack surface is expected to expand, providing cyber adversaries with new opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities. Industries such as manufacturing and healthcare must exercise caution and diligence in navigating the complexities of digital transformation to mitigate emerging cyber threats effectively.

Structuring a Secure OT Network

Despite its critical importance, OT faces significant vulnerabilities, particularly concerning cybersecurity. As OT systems become increasingly interconnected with IT networks and the IoT, they become more exposed to cyber threats. Moreover, the inability to shut down OT systems for maintenance or upgrades poses challenges in implementing security measures effectively. With the steady adoption of IoT and personal connected devices, an increase of over 4-fold in IoT malware attacks year-over-year has been reported in the Middle East region alone. This highlights persistence and ability of the cybercriminals to adapt to evolving conditions in launching IoT malware attacks. They are targeting legacy vulnerabilities, with 34 of the 39 most popular IoT exploits specifically directed at vulnerabilities that have existed for over three years. The biggest receiver of these attacks has been manufacturing, followed by oil & gas, power grids and maritime.

Securing Operational Technology with a 4-Phase Approach

To address these challenges, organizations must adopt a proactive approach to building secure OT environments. This involves implementing comprehensive security measures and adhering to industry best practices. A four-phase approach can guide organizations in building a secure OT network:

1. Assess: Conduct an assessment to evaluate the current OT environment against industry standards and identify risks and vulnerabilities.
2. Design: Develop a comprehensive design considering elements such as network segmentation, vendor security, and defense-in-depth strategies.
3. Implement: Implement changes into the OT network while ensuring interoperability and compatibility with existing systems.
4. Monitor and Respond: Establish mechanisms for detection and response to security incidents, enabling a dedicated security team to contain and eradicate threats effectively.

In addition to the four-phase approach, organizations can implement other security best practices, including access control, patch management, incident response planning, physical security measures, employee training, and vendor security assessments. By adopting a holistic approach to OT security and implementing robust security measures, organizations can mitigate cyber threats, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain the integrity and reliability of their operational systems. In an era of evolving cyber threats, securing Operational Technology is paramount to safeguarding industrial operations and ensuring the resilience of modern societies.

By Srinivas Shekar, CEO and Co-Founder, Pantherun Technologies In the first quarter of 2024, the global threat landscape continued to present significant challenges across various sectors. According to an insight report by Accenture & World Economic Forum, professional services remained the primary target for cyberattacks, accounting for 24% of cases; the manufacturing sector followed, with 13% of incidents, while financial services and healthcare sectors also faced substantial threats, with 9% and 8% of cases respectively. These statistics underscore the escalating complexity and frequency of cyberattacks, highlighting the urgent need for advanced cybersecurity measures. Traditional threat detection methods are increasingly inadequate, prompting a shift towards innovative solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance threat detection, response, and data protection in real time.

Understanding AI and Cybersecurity Anomalies

Artificial intelligence has emerged as a powerful tool in cybersecurity, primarily due to its ability to identify and respond to anomalies. Research by Capgemini reveals that 69% of organizations believe AI is essential for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats. AI-driven systems analyze data in real time, flagging unusual activities that might go unnoticed by conventional methods. This capability is vital as the volume of cyber threats continues to grow, with an estimated 15.4 million data records being compromised worldwide in the third quarter of 2022 alone. At its core, AI involves the use of algorithms and machine learning to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns. In the context of cybersecurity, AI can distinguish between normal and abnormal behavior within a network. These abnormalities, often referred to as anomalies, are critical in identifying potential security risks. For instance, AI can detect unusual login attempts, unexpected data transfers, or irregular user behaviors that might indicate a breach. The ability to spot these anomalies is crucial because many cyberattacks involve subtle and sophisticated methods that traditional security systems might miss. By continuously monitoring network activity and learning from each interaction, AI can provide a dynamic and proactive defense against threats, safeguarding both encrypted and unencrypted data.

Using AI to Enhance Threat Detection

Traditional threat detection methods rely heavily on predefined rules and signatures of known threats. While effective to some extent, these methods are often reactive, meaning they can only identify threats that have been previously encountered and documented. AI, on the other hand, enhances threat detection by leveraging its pattern recognition capabilities to identify anomalies more quickly and accurately. For example, AI can analyze network traffic in real time, learning what constitutes normal behavior and flagging anything that deviates from this baseline. This allows for the detection of zero-day attacks much faster than conventional methods. By doing so, AI reduces the time it takes to identify and respond to potential threats, significantly enhancing the overall security posture of an organization.

AI-Powered Response Mechanisms

 Once a threat is detected, the speed and efficiency of the response are critical in minimizing damage. AI plays a pivotal role in automating response mechanisms, ensuring quicker and more effective actions are taken when a threat is recognized. Automated responses can include isolating affected systems, alerting security teams, and initiating countermeasures to neutralize the threat. Moreover, AI can assist in managing encryption keys and applying real-time data protection strategies. By incorporating AI and machine learning, encryption techniques become more adaptive and resilient, making it harder for attackers to decrypt sensitive information. These automated, AI-driven responses help contain threats swiftly, reducing the impact of security breaches.

AI in Encryption and Data Protection

The role of AI in encryption and data protection is particularly significant. AI can enhance encryption techniques by optimizing key generation and management processes. Traditional encryption methods often rely on static keys, which can be vulnerable to attacks if not managed properly. AI introduces dynamic key generation, creating unique and complex keys for each session, making it exponentially harder for attackers to crack. Additionally, AI can continuously monitor encrypted data for signs of tampering or unauthorized access. This proactive approach ensures data integrity and confidentiality, providing an extra layer of security that evolves alongside emerging threats. By leveraging AI in encryption, organizations can better protect their sensitive information and maintain trust with their customers and stakeholders.

Understanding Challenges and Opportunities for the Future

Despite its potential, integrating AI with cybersecurity is not without challenges. Privacy concerns, false positives, and ethical dilemmas are significant hurdles that need to be addressed. For instance, the vast amount of data required for AI to function effectively raises questions about user privacy and data protection. Additionally, AI systems can sometimes generate false positives, leading to unnecessary alerts and potentially desensitizing security teams to real threats. However, the opportunities for AI in cybersecurity are vast. As AI technology continues to evolve and the ability to reduce Its need to have large volumes of data for decision-making Improves, it will become even more adept at identifying and mitigating threats. Future advancements may include more sophisticated AI models capable of predicting attacks before they occur, and enhanced collaboration between AI systems and human security experts, while also accelerating it in silicon for faster response. The integration of AI into cybersecurity represents a monumental shift in how we approach threat detection and response. By leveraging AI's capabilities, organizations can enhance their defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, ensuring the safety and integrity of their data in the digital age. As we continue to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity, the role of AI will undoubtedly become even more crucial, paving the way for a more secure and resilient digital future. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.

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By Neelesh Kripalani, Chief Technology Officer, Clover Infotech Generative AI, which includes technologies such as deep learning, natural language processing, and speech recognition for generating text, images, and audio, is transforming various sectors from entertainment to healthcare. However, its rapid advancement has raised significant concerns about data privacy. To navigate this intricate landscape, it is crucial to understand the intersection of AI capabilities, ethical considerations, legal frameworks, and technological safeguards.

Data Privacy Challenges Raised by Generative AI

Not securing data while collection or processing- Generative AI raises significant data privacy concerns due to its need for vast amounts of diverse data, often including sensitive personal information, collected without explicit consent and difficult to anonymize effectively. Model inversion attacks and data leakage risks can expose private information, while biases in training data can lead to unfair or discriminatory outputs. The risk of generated content - The ability of generative AI to produce highly realistic fake content raises serious concerns about its potential for misuse. Whether creating convincing deepfake videos or generating fabricated text and images, there is a significant risk of this content being used for impersonation, spreading disinformation, or damaging individuals' reputations. Lack of Accountability and transparency - Since GenAI models operate through complex layers of computation, it is difficult to get visibility and clarity into how these systems arrive at their outputs. This complexity makes it difficult to track the specific steps and factors that lead to a particular decision or output. This not only hinders trust and accountability but also complicates the tracing of data usage and makes it tedious to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations. Additionally, unidentified biases in the training data can lead to unfair outputs, and the creation of highly realistic but fake content, like deepfakes, poses risks to content authenticity and verification. Addressing these issues requires improved explainability, traceability, and adherence to regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines. Lack of fairness and ethical considerations - Generative AI models can perpetuate or even exacerbate existing biases present in their training data. This can lead to unfair treatment or misrepresentation of certain groups, raising ethical issues.

Here’s How Enterprises Can Navigate These Challenges

Understand and map the data flow - Enterprises must maintain a comprehensive inventory of the data that their GenAI systems process, including data sources, types, and destinations. Also, they should create a detailed data flow map to understand how data moves through their systems. Implement strong data governance - As per the data minimization regulation, enterprises must collect, process, and retain only the minimum amount of personal data necessary to fulfill a specific purpose. In addition to this, they should develop and enforce robust data privacy policies and procedures that comply with relevant regulations. Ensure data anonymization and pseudonymization – Techniques such as anonymization and pseudonymization can be implemented to reduce the chances of data reidentification. Strengthen security measures – Implement other security measures such as encryption for data at rest and in transit, access controls for protecting against unauthorized access, and regular monitoring and auditing to detect and respond to potential privacy breaches. To summarize, organizations must begin by complying with the latest data protection laws and practices, and strive to use data responsibly and ethically. Further, they should regularly train employees on data privacy best practices to effectively manage the challenges posed by Generative AI while leveraging its benefits responsibly and ethically. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. 

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By Jeremy Fuchs, Cybersecurity Researcher/Analyst Check Point Software LTD Shein is one of the most popular shopping apps in the world. In fact, it’s the second most downloaded shopping app globally, with over 251 million downloads. The e-commerce platform is Googled more frequently than major brands like Nike and Adidas. Shein gained popularity for its inexpensive clothing and low prices. However, the company has faced significant criticism for its poor human rights record. Additionally, according to a TIME report, Shein has been exploited by scammers in various ways, including the use of fake gift cards on Instagram and counterfeit websites. That brings us to the focus of today’s report. Researchers from Harmony Email will discuss how hackers are impersonating Shein in an effort to steal user credentials. Over the last month, they have identified more than 1,000 of these fraudulent emails.

Email Example of Shein

The email arrives with a tempting subject line: "Order Verification SHEIN" – claiming to be from Shein customer service. But a closer look reveals a red flag – the sender's email address doesn't match Shein's official one. The email excitedly announces you've received a mystery box from Shein. However, the included link won't bring you a surprise gift; it leads to a fake website designed to steal your personal information (a credential harvesting site). This phishing attempt is quite transparent. It preys on your excitement by claiming you've won a prize and uses the trusted brand name "Shein" to gain your trust. However, a vigilant user can easily spot the scam: check the sender's email address (it shouldn't be random letters) and verify that any links lead to legitimate Shein web pages.

Techniques

Just like other phishing attempts, scammers are trying to capitalize on popular brands and current trends to trick you. This time, they're using Shein. There are several red flags that this email isn't legitimate. First, there's a strong sense of urgency surrounding the "mystery box" offer, which is designed to create excitement and pressure you into clicking. Another clue? The email address itself is a jumble of random letters, not a recognizable Shein address. You won't find any Shein branding or logos in the email either. Finally, the link in the email won't take you to an official Shein webpage, but to a fraudulent website designed to steal your information. Over the last month, we’ve seen over 1,000 of these attacks.

• Make sure you don't click on links from websites whose address isn't the official one and check the email's source.
• Check the address of the website and the sender's name for spelling and punctuation errors on websites that look real.
• Ensure the email is free of spelling errors. Pay attention to the language in the email: are you expecting to be addressed in this language by your shipping company?

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this guest post are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Cyber Express. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. 

The 2024 cybersecurity landscape is witnessing one of the most phenomenal transformations in the META regions as several nations are fortifying their cyber defenses to counteract the explosive rise in cybercrime activities. Recent initiatives and insights from global government initiatives, cybersecurity summits, and collaborative efforts are being implemented to safeguard critical infrastructure and digital assets.  These national-level efforts are visible as they highlight the importance of enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META), as governments within these regions rally to bolster defenses against hackers, ransomware groups, cybercriminals, and other cybercrime actors.   As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, so do the threats posed by cybercriminals. Governments across META are stepping up their game to protect their nations from digital attacks. Join us as we explore 7 innovative ways these governments are enhancing cybersecurity measures to protect their citizens and critical infrastructure.  

The Cybersecurity Landscape of the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) 

The cybersecurity industry in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) is constantly evolving as digital transformation sweeps across the region. With increased connectivity comes a heightened risk of cyber threats targeting governments, businesses, and individuals alike.  During the Kaspersky Lab Security Analyst Summit for cybersecurity in the META region, which took place in Budapest, Hungary from April 20th to 24th, 2024, specialists from Kaspersky Lab's Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT), alongside invited IT-security experts, engaged with leading media representatives from the region.  Maxim Frolov, Head of Business Operations, Emerging Markets at Kaspersky Lab, emphasized the global nature of cybercrime, stating, “Today cybercrime is reaching across geographical boundaries and has become a major global problem affecting almost every country in the world.”  Sergey Novikov, Deputy Director of GReAT, discussed the issues and protection measures in the META region. In the past year alone, Kaspersky Lab's products thwarted over 132 million cyberattacks in the Middle East, 41.5 million in Turkey, and 214 million in Africa, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. The statistics further revealed that a substantial proportion of users encountered web-related threats and security incidents stemming from local networks and removable media.  In response to escalating cybersecurity concerns, governments in the META region are also enacting better data protection laws to fortify cybersecurity measures. These laws aim to safeguard sensitive information and personal data from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure, compelling organizations to prioritize cybersecurity and invest in robust security measures. Additionally, data protection laws promote transparency and accountability, mandating organizations to disclose data breaches promptly, minimizing their impact, and facilitating timely mitigation efforts. 

Seven Strategies META Governments Employ to Enhance Cybersecurity 

Countries in META are recognizing the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity measures to protect against malicious attacks. From ransomware incidents to data breaches, the stakes are higher than ever before. As a result, governments are ramping up efforts to bolster their cyber defenses through strategic initiatives and partnerships with industry experts. Cybersecurity is no longer just a tech issue – it's a national security priority that requires coordinated action on multiple fronts, including better cybersecurity policies, global collaborations, and training.

Enhancing Legal Frameworks

Governments across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) are recognizing the critical need to bolster their legal frameworks to effectively combat emerging cyber threats. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the enactment of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 marks a significant milestone in addressing cybercrime and safeguarding sensitive information. This comprehensive law aims to combat rumors and cybercrimes by establishing a robust framework to tackle online misuse, protect government websites and databases, combat the dissemination of false information, and prevent electronic fraud and privacy breaches.  Similarly, Turkey is closely monitoring European Union (EU) legal developments and plans to integrate provisions of the NIS2 Directive into its legislation to enhance network and information security. Furthermore, amendments to data protection laws align with the standards set by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), expanding legal bases for processing personal data and introducing new rules for cross-border data transfers.  In Africa, the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 represents a significant step towards aligning cybersecurity legislation with global standards. This legislation mandates the reporting of cybersecurity breaches to law enforcement and criminalizes harmful data messages, cyber fraud, extortion, forgery, and unlawful access to computer systems. By enacting and enforcing such laws, governments in META are striving to create a legal framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and compliance with international cybersecurity standards. 

Adoption of Modern Security Measures

The adoption of modern security measures is no longer an option but an immediate necessity. These measures will help in strengthening cybersecurity resilience across the META region. In the UAE, the Dubai Electronic Security Centre, established in 2014, has been instrumental in leading the country's cybersecurity efforts. Through initiatives like the First Phase Cybersecurity Strategy launched in 2017, the UAE has made significant contributions in adopting advanced security measures to mitigate cyber risks effectively.  Turkey's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by government policies and the pivotal role of the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK). Recent legal changes in Turkey impact digital privacy, free expression, and data localization, necessitating the enactment of specialized cybercrime legislation to address evolving threats effectively.  Africa's technological advancements have brought about cybersecurity challenges, but protective measures against modern-day threats like AI-driven attacks and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) have significantly improved. This has led to the emergence of cybersecurity startups in Africa, reflecting the region's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance cybersecurity resilience. 

Comprehensive Testing and Policy Implementation

Comprehensive testing and policy implementation are essential components of effective cybersecurity strategies in the META region. In the UAE, initiatives like the UAE Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT) and the multiple cybersecurity start-ups aim to promote cyber awareness and create a safe cyberculture. The establishment of the UAE Cybersecurity Council in 2020 highlights the government's commitment to developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.  In Turkey, cybersecurity startups and global collaboration with the Turkish government have played a crucial role in shaping cybersecurity strategies by identifying key technologies and addressing emerging threats. However, challenges such as rapid economic growth and digital transformation highlight the need for efficient policy implementation based on industry standards to strengthen cyber resilience effectively.  Africa faces similar challenges in implementing cybersecurity policies, with limited legislation and awareness posing significant hurdles. Initiatives aimed at raising public awareness, establishing threat intelligence-sharing platforms, and fostering international cooperation are essential for addressing these challenges and strengthening cybersecurity capabilities in the region. 

Collaborative International Efforts

Recognizing the borderless nature of cyber threats, META countries are increasingly engaging in collaborative efforts to combat cybercrime. By partnering with other nations and sharing best practices, threat intelligence, and resources, governments in the region can bolster their cybersecurity posture and foster collective security against cyberattacks.  In the UAE, government-led proactive measures like collaboration with international partners aim to fortify the country's digital realm against cyber threats. Similarly, Turkey's initiatives to establish public-private partnerships and engage in joint exercises with international partners demonstrate a commitment to strengthening cybersecurity capabilities through collaboration.  In Africa, collaborative initiatives focused on capacity building, innovation, and government commitment are essential for addressing cybersecurity challenges effectively. By fostering cooperation among governments, private sector entities, civil society, and academia, META countries are enhancing their cybersecurity resilience and walking together with other leading nations in the IT and security domain.  

Regulatory and Infrastructure Investments

Governments across META are intensifying their focus on cybersecurity regulation and infrastructure investment to promote cybersecurity in the region. In the UAE, stringent regulations like the Cybercrime Law mandate businesses to safeguard sensitive data and fortify defenses against cyber threats. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for ensuring a resilient cybersecurity posture in the face of evolving cyber threats.  Similarly, Africa's digital revolution has brought about immense opportunities, but it also poses cybersecurity challenges. Investments in infrastructure, regulatory development, and cross-sector collaboration have proven essential in strengthening Africa's cybersecurity resilience and adoption of new technologies.   Turkey's proactive cybersecurity measures, exemplified by its National Cybersecurity Strategy and Action Plan, aim to elevate national cyber resilience. By fostering collaboration among different sections of societies and businesses, Turkey strives to lead the way in global cybersecurity and position itself as a cybersecurity leader on the global stage with other META nations.  

Cybersecurity Task Forces and Training

META governments are ramping up their cybersecurity efforts by establishing dedicated task forces, analyzing emerging threats, and coordinating cybersecurity strategies across various sectors. These collaborative approaches strengthen the region's overall cybersecurity posture and enable effective responses to evolving cyber threats.  In the UAE, initiatives like the 'Cyber Pulse' campaign aim to engage the community in cybersecurity efforts by raising awareness and providing training on cyber threats and preventive measures. Similarly, Turkey's focus on investing in human capital and fostering collaboration among stakeholders highlights its commitment to cybersecurity awareness.   In Africa, inclusive cybersecurity strategies are gaining traction, recognizing the importance of broad-based trust, transparency, and information sharing among governments, private sector entities, civil society, and academia. By investing in cyber capacity-building programs and training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, META countries can address cybersecurity challenges effectively and bridge the skills gap. 

Expanding Cybersecurity Capabilities Through Strategic Investments

Strategic investments in cybersecurity capabilities are crucial for organizations in META to combat cybercrime effectively. By allocating resources toward infrastructure enhancement, talent development, and cutting-edge technologies, organizations can strengthen their defenses against malicious actors and safeguard their digital assets.  The UAE's IT services market is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by government-led digital initiatives and investments in smart city projects. Startups are thriving, and the government's emphasis on cybersecurity is accelerating market growth and fostering innovation in cybersecurity solutions.  In Africa, efforts to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap and invest in cyber capacity-building programs reflect a collective approach to fortifying cyber defenses and helping African citizens enjoy data privacy. By fostering collaboration, investing in human capital, and developing homegrown cybersecurity solutions, META countries can increase their cyber presence and ensure a safer digital future for their citizens.  

Summing Up! 

In conclusion, governments, organizations, and individuals across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa are collaborating and investing in sturdy cybersecurity measures to safeguard their digital assets and mitigate cyber risks effectively. Through proactive initiatives, collaborative efforts, and strategic investments, the META region is poised to lead global cybersecurity efforts.   By prioritizing cybersecurity resilience and adopting a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, META countries can create a safe and secure digital environment for their citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure. With continued investment in cybersecurity capabilities, regulatory frameworks, and international collaboration, the META region can effectively combat cyber threats and ensure the integrity of its digital ecosystem for years to come. 

The banking industry is one of the main pillars of any nation and they have been an integral part of the critical infrastructure. The government and private banks in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) region have also gone through several transformations, and with the advancement of AI, these financial institutions have adopted artificial intelligence to streamline the banking experience for the common citizens while also ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.    These banks offer a wide range of services beyond traditional banking, including investment banking, insurance, and asset management. As the financial landscape becomes increasingly complex, meta-banks are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and mitigate risks.   The Cyber Express explores the AI revolution taking place in META  banks across the region and its benefits, challenges, and prospects of this transformative technology. 

The AI Revolution in META Banks 

The advent of AI has pushed conventional banking into a new era of endless possibilities. With its ability to process vast amounts of data and perform complex tasks with speed and accuracy, AI has become a game-changer in the financial industry.   META banks are leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning techniques to automate routine processes, analyze customer behavior, and make data-driven decisions. By harnessing the power of AI, these banks can gain a competitive edge by offering personalized products and services, reducing operational costs, and improving overall efficiency.  AI is revolutionizing various aspects of metabanking, from customer service to risk management. Chatbots, powered by AI, have become the face of customer interactions, providing round-the-clock assistance and resolving queries in real time.   These virtual assistants not only enhance customer satisfaction but also free up human resources to focus on more complex tasks. Additionally, AI-powered predictive analytics enable banks in the META region to identify patterns and trends in customer behavior, helping them tailor their offerings to meet individual needs. Moreover, AI algorithms are proving invaluable in detecting fraudulent activities, enhancing compliance, and minimizing financial risks.

Benefits of Artificial Intelligence-led Banking in the META Region

The benefits of AI in banking are manifold. Firstly, AI enables these banks to improve operational efficiency by automating repetitive tasks and reducing human error. This not only saves time but also lowers costs, allowing banks to allocate resources more effectively. By leveraging AI-powered analytics, META banks can gain valuable insights into customer preferences, enabling them to offer personalized products and services. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and drives revenue growth. Furthermore, AI enhances risk management capabilities in META banks. With AI algorithms constantly monitoring transactions and analyzing patterns, potential fraudulent activities can be detected and flagged in real time.   This not only protects the interests of customers but also safeguards the reputation of META banks. AI-powered cybersecurity is a key component of this risk management strategy. By utilizing AI to identify and counter cyber threats, banks in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa can ensure the security of their systems and protect sensitive customer data from unauthorized access. 

Implementing Artificial Intelligence in META Banks 

Implementing AI in the banking sector requires careful planning and strategic execution. The first step is to identify the areas where AI can bring the most value. This could include customer service, risk management, compliance, or data analytics. Once the areas are identified, META banks need to invest in the right AI technologies and infrastructure. This includes acquiring AI software, hardware, and the necessary IT resources to support AI implementation.  Data plays a crucial role in the success of AI implementation. Banks in the META region need to ensure that they have access to high-quality, structured data that can be used to train AI algorithms. This may require data integration and consolidation efforts across different systems and departments within the bank. Additionally, both private and government banks need to establish governance frameworks and protocols to ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI. This includes addressing issues such as bias, transparency, and accountability.  Cybersecurity is a top concern for financial institutions, given the sensitive nature of the data they handle. AI is proving to be a powerful tool in combating cyber threats and protecting customer information. AI-powered cybersecurity systems can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, detecting anomalies and identifying potential threats. These systems can learn from past attacks and adapt their defenses accordingly, making them more effective against cybercrime actors.   AI algorithms can detect patterns and behaviors that may indicate a cyber attack, such as unusual login attempts or unauthorized access to customer accounts. By continuously monitoring network traffic and user behavior, AI-powered cybersecurity systems can swiftly respond to potential threats, mitigating the risk of data breaches. Furthermore, AI can assist in fraud detection by identifying suspicious transactions or activities that deviate from normal customer behavior. 

Challenges and Risks of AI in META Banks 

While the benefits of AI in META banks are undeniable, some challenges and risks need to be addressed. One of the major challenges is the availability of quality data. AI algorithms rely on large volumes of accurate and relevant data to make accurate predictions and decisions. META banks need to ensure that their data is clean, well-structured, and easily accessible to maximize the effectiveness of AI. This may require investments in data management and data governance processes.  Another challenge is the ethical use of AI. As AI becomes more integrated into banking operations, concerns arise regarding bias, transparency, and privacy. AI algorithms can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to unfair or discriminatory outcomes. META banks must establish ethical frameworks and guidelines to ensure that AI is used responsibly and in a manner that respects individual privacy and rights.  The future of AI in META banks is promising. As AI technologies continue to advance, banks in the META region will be able to further enhance their operations and customer experiences. One area with immense potential is predictive analytics. By leveraging AI algorithms, META banks can predict customer behavior, market trends, and economic indicators, enabling them to make informed business decisions and stay ahead of the competition.  Additionally, the rise of big data and the Internet of Things (IoT) will create new opportunities for AI in the META region. The ability to collect and analyze vast amounts of data from diverse sources will enable banks in the META region to gain deeper insights into customer preferences, market dynamics, and risk factors. AI-powered chatbots will become even more sophisticated, providing personalized recommendations and engaging in natural language conversations with customers. 

Conclusion

The AI revolution is reshaping the banking sector in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. By embracing AI technologies, banks in the META region can unlock a multitude of benefits, including improved operational efficiency, enhanced risk management, and personalized customer experiences.   However, the successful implementation of AI requires careful planning, investment in infrastructure, and the ethical use of data. Despite the challenges and risks, the future of AI in META banks is bright, with the potential to revolutionize the way financial services are delivered and experienced. 

By Siddharth Deshmukh, Chief Operating Officer, Clover Infotech In today’s competitive business landscape, making informed decisions and managing resources efficiently is more critical than ever. However, many businesses face challenges with data silos and the complex integration of diverse technologies for data management and analytics. This is where next-gen data intelligence platforms come into play. They enable businesses to transcend traditional data and analytics applications, providing insights tailored to users' roles and workflows.

Why Next-Gen Data Intelligence Platforms Are Game Changers

They enhance data integration and management Next-gen data intelligence platforms integrate data from a variety of sources, both structured and unstructured, including IoT devices, social media, and external databases, offering a comprehensive view of business operations. By helping businesses understand how their data relates to different processes and goals, these platforms provide a holistic perspective on various aspects such as customers, products, accounts, suppliers, and employees. This enables businesses to make quick, informed decisions. They leverage predictive and prescriptive AI/ML models Through predictive and prescriptive AI models, these platforms can predict trends, customer behavior, and potential disruptions, allowing businesses to proactively address issues. Further to prediction, these platforms can suggest actions to optimize performance, enabling enterprises to improve efficiency and reduce costs. They facilitate improved decision-making With advanced analytics and real-time data, decision-makers have access to accurate and up-to-date information. Further, virtualization tools help in interpreting complex data sets, making it easier for stakeholders to understand insights and take suitable actions. They automate processes and boost efficiency These platforms can automate routine tasks and processes, reducing manual effort and minimizing human errors. By streamlining processes and providing actionable insights, these platforms help optimize resources and improve operational efficiency. They offer scalability and flexibility Next-gen data intelligence platforms are built to scale with the business, accommodating growth and changing business needs. They also offer flexibility in deployment options (cloud, on-premise, hybrid), and can adapt to various business models and processes They augment user experience Since such platforms offer customized experiences to users based on their roles and preferences, they improve usability and satisfaction. With cloud-based solutions, users can access data and receive actionable insights from anywhere. This facilitates seamless cohesion and collaboration. Many technology leaders such as Microsoft, Oracle, and Google have their data intelligence platforms combining data integration, analytics, AI models, and intelligent applications to enable customers to achieve better outcomes. Oracle’s Fusion Data Intelligence Platform delivers businesses data-as-a-service with automated data pipelines, 360-degree data models, rich interactive analytics, AI/ML models, and intelligent applications. In conclusion, next-gen data intelligence platforms empower existing systems and processes with advanced capabilities that drive smarter, faster, and more strategic business operations. By leveraging real-time data, advanced analytics, and automation, businesses can enhance their decision-making processes, optimize operations, and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly data-driven world. Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.

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In today's digital age, where data breaches and cyber threats are a constant concern, staying informed and educated about cybersecurity is more crucial than ever. Whether you're an IT professional, a business owner, or simply someone interested in safeguarding personal information, understanding the complexities of cybersecurity is essential. But with the vast amount of information available, where should you start? That's where this list comes in! The Cyber Express has compiled a selection of 15 cybersecurity books that are not only informative but also insightful and engaging. This curated list of the best cybersecurity books equips you with the insights you need to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, you'll find titles that unveil the hacker's mindset, delve into the latest threats, and provide practical tools to fortify your defenses. So, get ready to expand your knowledge and sharpen your cybersecurity skills as we turn the pages of these 15 best cybersecurity books.

Best Cybersecurity Books for Beginners

Cybersecurity for Dummies by Joseph Steinberg

[caption id="attachment_69206" align="aligncenter" width="816"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Cybersecurity for Dummies, authored by Joseph Steinberg, is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to safeguard themselves or their organizations against cyber threats. Steinberg, a prominent figure in the cybersecurity industry for nearly 25 years, brings his wealth of experience and expertise to this book. Cybersecurity for Dummies covers a wide range of topics, starting with the basics of cybersecurity and the various threats that exist in the digital realm. Readers will learn about the who and why behind cybersecurity threats, gaining valuable insights into the minds of cybercriminals. From there, the book dives into fundamental cybersecurity concepts, providing readers with the knowledge they need to identify, protect against, detect, and respond to cyber threats effectively. Whether you're a business owner, an IT professional, or a concerned individual, Cybersecurity for Dummies offers practical advice on how to fortify your defenses and mitigate risks. It also explores cybersecurity careers, making it a valuable resource for those considering a career in this field.

Hacking For Dummies by Kevin Beaver

[caption id="attachment_69207" align="aligncenter" width="816"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Hacking For Dummies by Kevin Beaver provides a straightforward journey into cybersecurity essentials. This book equips readers with the skills to identify and fix network vulnerabilities, ensuring their data remains secure. Covering topics such as Wi-Fi network security and the risks of remote work, Beaver's guide is invaluable for small business owners, IT professionals, and remote workers alike. With practical tips and accessible language, this cybersecurity book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge and protect their data.

Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition by Jon Erickson

[caption id="attachment_69208" align="aligncenter" width="788"] Source: Amazon[/caption] In Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition, author Jon Erickson goes beyond basic hacking techniques. He explains the fundamentals of C programming from a hacker's perspective and provides a complete Linux programming and debugging environment. Readers learn to program in C, corrupt system memory, inspect processor registers, and outsmart security measures. The book covers remote server access, network traffic redirection, and encryption cracking. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding hacking from the ground up, regardless of their programming background.

Big Breaches: Cybersecurity Lessons for Everyone by Neil Daswani, Moudy Elbayadi

[caption id="attachment_69216" align="aligncenter" width="675"] Source: Amazon[/caption] This book is an engaging exploration of major security breaches and their technical aspects, covering topics like phishing, malware, and software vulnerabilities. The book offers industry insider knowledge, providing insights into real-world cases such as breaches at Target, JPMorgan Chase, and Equifax. It's a must-read for anyone interested in cybersecurity, offering valuable lessons and practical advice. Whether you're an existing professional or someone seeking to understand cybersecurity basics, this book equips you with the essential knowledge to move forward successfully. It's ideal for existing leadership, professionals, and those considering entering the field, providing insights into creating a culture of security and implementing effective cybersecurity measures.

Confident Cyber Security: The Essential Insights and How to Protect from Threats by Dr Jessica Barker

[caption id="attachment_69210" align="aligncenter" width="654"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Confident Cyber Security: The Essential Insights and How to Protect from Threats by Dr. Jessica Barker equips readers with the skills needed to understand cybersecurity and start a successful career. From keeping secrets safe to protecting against manipulation, this book covers fundamentals with real-world case studies. Updated topics like deepfakes and AI ensure relevance for all levels. Whether you're new to cybersecurity or a seasoned pro, this book is essential reading for safeguarding digital assets.

Gray Hat Hacking: The Ethical Hacker's Handbook, Sixth Edition 6th Edition

[caption id="attachment_69214" align="aligncenter" width="827"] Source: Amazon[/caption] This book is a fully updated, industry-standard security resource authored by Allen Harper, Ryan Linn, Stephen Sims, Michael Baucom, Huascar Tejeda, Daniel Fernandez, and Moses Frost. This book offers practical, step-by-step guidance on fortifying computer networks using effective ethical hacking techniques. It covers Internet of Things (IoT), mobile, and Cloud security, as well as penetration testing, malware analysis, and reverse engineering. With actionable methods, case studies, and testing labs, it's an essential read for cybersecurity professionals, IT specialists, and anyone interested in combating cyber threats.

Cybersecurity Career Master Plan by Dr Gerald Auger, Jaclyn Jax Scott, Jonathan Helmus

[caption id="attachment_69212" align="aligncenter" width="830"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Cybersecurity Career Master Plan by Dr. Gerald Auger, Jaclyn Jax Scott, and Jonathan Helmus is a guide designed to help individuals enter and advance in cybersecurity. It covers essentials like cyber law, policy, and career paths. Readers learn about certifications, personal branding, and setting goals for career progression. This book is suitable for college graduates, military veterans, mid-career switchers, and aspiring IT professionals. It's a practical resource for anyone looking to start or excel in cybersecurity.

Best Cybersecurity Books for Experienced/Professionals

The Hacker Playbook 3: Practical Guide to Penetration Testing by Peter Kim

[caption id="attachment_69229" align="aligncenter" width="717"] Source: Amazon[/caption] This book is a must-read for cybersecurity professionals looking to advance their offensive skills. Kim explores real-world scenarios to address why security measures fail and introduces the concept of red-teaming to assess an organization's defenses. The book covers advanced hacking techniques including exploitation, custom malware, and lateral movement, providing practical tools and insights.

Hackers & Painters: Big Ideas From The Computer Age by Paul Graham

[caption id="attachment_69230" align="aligncenter" width="663"] Source: Amazon[/caption] This book offers a fascinating insight into the world of computer programming and innovation. Graham, a prominent figure in the field of cybersecurity, explores the motivations and mindset of hackers—visionary thinkers unafraid to challenge convention. With clear prose and historical examples, Graham navigates topics such as software design, wealth creation, and the open-source movement. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the driving forces behind technology and its impact on society.

Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, and Source Code in C by Bruce Schneier

[caption id="attachment_69232" align="aligncenter" width="834"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Authored by the world-renowned security technologist, it's hailed as the most definitive reference on cryptography ever published. The book covers cryptographic techniques, from basics to advanced, including real-world algorithms such as the Data Encryption Standard and RSA public-key cryptosystems. It provides source-code listings and practical implementation advice, making it invaluable for programmers and electronic communications professionals. Applied Cryptography is essential for anyone needing to understand and implement cryptographic protocols, from digital signatures to secure keys. With its new Introduction by the author, this premium edition remains a must-have for all committed to computer and cyber security.

Advanced Penetration Testing: Hacking the World’s Most Secure Networks by Wil Allsopp

[caption id="attachment_69233" align="aligncenter" width="816"] Source: Amazon[/caption] In this book, readers are guided through advanced techniques beyond conventional cybersecurity methods. This book covers complex attack simulations using social engineering, programming, and vulnerability exploits, providing insights not found in standard certification courses or defensive scanners. Allsopp's multidisciplinary approach teaches readers how to discover and create attack vectors, establish command and control structures, and exfiltrate data even from organizations without direct internet connections. With custom coding examples and coverage of various programming languages and scanning tools, this book is essential for cybersecurity professionals looking to defend high-security networks against sophisticated threats. It's particularly relevant for professionals in financial institutions, healthcare, law enforcement, government, and other high-value sectors. "Advanced Penetration Testing" offers practical insights and techniques to stay ahead in today's complex threat landscape.

Mastering Hacking (The Art of Information Gathering & Scanning) by Harsh Bothra

[caption id="attachment_69234" align="aligncenter" width="651"] Source: Amazon[/caption] This book provides both technical and non-technical readers with simplified yet effective practices in cybersecurity. Intended solely for defensive purposes, it covers modern Penetration Testing Frameworks, the latest tools, vulnerability discovery, patching, responsible disclosure, and network asset protection. This book serves as a practical handbook for anyone interested in information security, offering real-life applications and essential techniques. Whether you're a cybersecurity enthusiast or a business owner, this book is a valuable resource for mastering the art of cybersecurity.

Practical Malware Analysis: The Hands-On Guide to Dissecting Malicious Software

[caption id="attachment_69236" align="aligncenter" width="775"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Practical Malware Analysis: The Hands-On Guide to Dissecting Malicious Software, by Michael Sikorski and Andrew Honig, is an essential resource for understanding and combating malware. It provides practical tools and techniques used by professional analysts to analyze, debug, and dissect malicious software. Readers learn to set up a safe virtual environment, extract network signatures, and use key analysis tools like IDA Pro and OllyDbg. Through hands-on labs and detailed dissections of real malware samples, readers gain invaluable skills to assess and clean their networks thoroughly. Whether you're securing one network or multiple, this book equips you with the fundamentals needed to succeed in malware analysis.

Metasploit: The Penetration Tester’s Guide

[caption id="attachment_69237" align="aligncenter" width="775"] Source: Amazon[/caption] Metasploit: The Penetration Tester’s Guide is authored by David Kennedy, Jim O'Gorman, Devon Kearns, and Mati Aharoni. This book is a must-read for security professionals and enthusiasts looking to master the Metasploit Framework. It covers everything from the basics to advanced penetration testing techniques, including network reconnaissance, client-side attacks, and social-engineering attacks. Readers will learn to exploit vulnerabilities, bypass security controls, and integrate other tools like Nmap, NeXpose, and Nessus with Metasploit. The book also delves into using the Meterpreter shell and writing custom post-exploitation modules and scripts whether securing networks or testing others', this guide provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity Blue Team Toolkit 1st Edition by Nadean H. Tanne

[caption id="attachment_69253" align="aligncenter" width="817"] Source: Amazon[/caption] In an era of frequent data breaches, this book provides a balanced and accessible approach to cybersecurity. Drawing on her extensive experience, Tanner covers key topics such as security assessment, defense strategies, offensive measures, and remediation. The book aligns with CIS Controls version 7 and explains the use of essential tools like NMAP, Wireshark, Metasploit, and many more. This toolkit is ideal for newcomers seeking a solid foundation and seasoned professionals looking to expand their expertise. Whether you're in IT or management, Tanner's guide offers the knowledge and tools needed to effectively protect against cyber threats. From fundamental concepts to advanced ethical hacking techniques, these 15 cybersecurity books provide the knowledge and practical tools you need to stay ahead of the curve. So, dive into any of these must read cybersecurity books, sharpen your skills, and become an active participant in protecting yourself and the digital world around you. Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.

Online shopping has become a go-to method of purchasing for many people now, especially after lockdowns and easy accessibility to global stores. However, all the fun benefits of deals, discount codes, and door-step deliveries, mean a plethora of cybersecurity issues for safe online shopping.  Here is a list of ways that you can ensure you stay protected and secure when participating in safe online shopping. Some may be obvious, but are incredibly effective, nonetheless. Keep reading to find out how you can keep having fun shopping online while also reducing your vulnerability to attacks and hacks.  

10 Tips for Safe Online Shopping

1. Safe passwords 

Ensuring that your password is unique and strong is essential. Refraining from using obvious words in relation to you like your name or personal information isn’t the way to go! Ensuring the use of multiple different types of characters such as (@#_$%!&), along with not using the same passwords regularly on different sites is recommended. Changing passwords on individual sites also helps as it allows for less easily guessed instances.  

2. Debit cards over credit cards 

It’s recommended that when it comes to safe online shopping, using payment gateways like PayPal, Venmo, or Stripe is better. Other than those, credit cards should be preferred over debit as debit cards are linked to your bank account whilst credit cards can be protected better. Debit cards create higher risk events of personal and sensitive data being obtained.  

3. Enable multi-factor authentication 

Multi-factor authentication is an added utility which means that there is another safety layer added before anyone can access your account after knowing your username or password.  Multi-factor authentication protects in 3 layers: first your passwords, or then something personal to only you like your fingerprint, or facial recognition. The 3rd way is through MFA apps, or getting a code sent through your messages or your email, to make sure you can do safe online shopping and the purchase you’re making is actually coming from you.

4. Check bank statements 

  This one is much simpler. Turning on automatic payment notifications to track every payment made will help you track when your money was spent and if it has gone somewhere genuine. If the charge seems fraudulent, you can then take the necessary steps to contact your bank and have them pause or shut your card so that further fraudulent purchases can be stopped.  

5. Wi-Fi: Make sure it’s at home or secure instead of publicly available 

When not using your own Wi-Fi, ensure you’re using secure, private networks for safe online shopping. Public Wi-Fi networks are much easier to access for scammers as poorly protected connections allow any information you find, very easily retrievable for them. This is especially dangerous if the public Wi-Fi network you’re using is at a mall while you try to access banking or payment sites for any purchases you will be making. 

6. Use secure websites 

The key to safe online shopping is to use a secure website.  The padlock icon near the URL and the URL itself starting with HTTPS means you’re on the right track- The S in the end stands for secure. If that final S isn’t visible, it means that you’re dealing with a site that isn’t encrypted. Search engines like Google tend to flag sites that don’t have a valid Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate as unsecure. It’s better to not input your payment details into sites like these. 

7. Be wary of emails 

Email scams known as phishing have become the most common forms of scamming nowadays. Your inbox may contain an email that may present you with deals, discounts, and sales through names and links which are close misspellings of popular websites. They are easy to fall for and may be hard to detect if the email somehow automatically fails to end up in your spam folder.  

8. Don’t buy from links that seem malicious/ don’t come from a trusted source 

Other than e-mails, social media is also a place where links that can’t be trusted would be presented to you. Be wary of TikTok advertisements or ads shown between your Instagram stories which present you with deals and offers that seem too good to be true. Now, it becomes harder to tell with the use of deepfakes and AI to show the promotion of these scam products by influential people.  

9. Data backup 

Ensuring that personal information and data are regularly backed up on your device or saved on the external hard disk is essential now due to ransomware attackers that can access your device and close off your access to important files or delete them entirely. Ensuring you have completed software updates is essential too as they help in ensuring fewer ransomware attacks and vulnerabilities on your devices to invasions.  

10. Protect your device/connect securely 

Some other ways to protect your device through your connection is: One, with a VPN, or two, by ensuring no details are saved on your browsers. VPN or Virtual Private Network encrypts your data and masks your IP addresses. This makes your identity, location, and browser activity hidden from potential attackers. Secondly, make sure that your device forgets your credit card details or password details. If these are remembered by your browsers, it makes these pieces of information immensely easy for attackers to obtain as they are all stored in one place when accessed by them.  While some of these may seem more easily achievable and accessible than others, they’re all a step in making sure your information is protected. We recommend regularly practicing all the above tips. These steps work even better together. So make sure to update your passwords and data backups, apply VPNs, stay wary of phishing emails, and practice safe online shopping. 

FAQs on Safe Online Shopping 

What is the most trusted safe online shopping site? 

Determining the most trusted online shopping site involves considering several key factors. Reputation is crucial, with established brands like Amazon and Flipkart often ranking high due to their track record of customer satisfaction.  Security is paramount, with HTTPS encryption and clear data privacy policies being essential indicators. Customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot offer valuable insights into user experiences. Additionally, convenient payment options and positive personal experiences play a significant role in establishing trust.

Which online shopping practice is safest? 

For a safe online shopping experience, it's crucial to implement multiple security measures and exercise caution throughout the process. Begin by verifying the authenticity of the website and remain wary of deals that appear too good to be true. Stay vigilant against phishing scams and opt for credit cards over debit cards, as they typically offer better fraud protection. Ensure your passwords are strong and unique, and consider enabling multi-factor authentication for added security. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for shopping, and for an extra layer of protection, consider using a VPN. By following these steps, you can enhance your online safety and protect yourself against potential threats while shopping online.

What is a safe online shopping site?  

A safe online site uses HTTPS encryption, signified by a padlock symbol and "HTTPS" in the URL bar. It should also have a clear and concise privacy policy. 

What are fake shopping websites?  

Fake shopping websites are designed to look legitimate but steal your personal information or payment details. They often offer deals that seem too good to be true. 

Which websites can I trust?  

Amazon offers an extensive range of products with fast shipping. eBay, the largest online auction site, offers both new and used items, but it's essential to check seller reviews. AliExpress provides diverse products at budget-friendly prices, backed by seller ratings. Dealextreme offers competitive pricing, urging buyers to check reviews for confidence. In Fashion, Asos offers a wide range of clothing, footwear, and accessories for diverse preferences. Farfetch specializes in luxury fashion, featuring exclusive brands for discerning shoppers. Notino, a European-based online store, offers fragrances and cosmetics from popular brands at attractive prices. For Discounts, Cashback World provides benefits and discounts on purchases from partnered companies, online and offline, enabling savings across various products and services.

How to check a fake website?  

To discern the authenticity of a website, several key indicators can be examined. Firstly, verify the presence of HTTPS encryption and a valid SSL certificate. Next, scrutinize the website's content for any typos or grammatical errors, which can often signal a lack of professionalism.  Conduct thorough research into the company behind the website, looking for a physical address and phone number to ensure legitimacy. Additionally, reading online reviews caliasdasdn provide valuable insights into the experiences of previous customers. Finally, consider utilizing website safety checkers like F-Secure Online Shopping Checker for an extra layer of security and assurance. Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.

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