A newly discovered information-stealing malware called Arkanix is rapidly evolving to target sensitive user data, including VPN credentials, system information, and wireless network passwords. Security researchers have identified this emerging threat as a short-lived, profit-driven malware designed for quick financial exploitation through the sale of stolen data and direct credential compromise. The threat actors behind […]

The post Arkanix Stealer Emerges as New Threat: Steals VPN Logins, Wi-Fi Credentials, and Screenshots appeared first on GBHackers Security | #1 Globally Trusted Cyber Security News Platform.

Michael Clapsis has been sentenced to 7 years and 4 months in prison for stealing sensitive information.

The post Australian Man Sentenced to Prison for Wi-Fi Attacks at Airports and on Flights appeared first on SecurityWeek.

It used to be the case that only businesses used virtual private networks (VPNs) to connect securely to the internet and keep their private data safe. But these days, with the rapid growth of online threats and privacy concerns, even casual internet users should seriously consider using a VPN. Nearly 30% of people now use VPNs for personal reasons, and that number is only growing as more people learn about how VPNs offer an effective way to safeguard online privacy, enhance security, and protect against various cyber threats.

If you are not familiar with this technology, a VPN essentially allows you to send and receive data across a public network as if it were a private network that encrypts, or scrambles, your information so others cannot read it. Let’s take a look at the top 3 reasons why a VPN could come in handy for you.

1. You work remotely—If you like to take your laptop or mobile device to the library or cafe, you probably connect through public Wi-Fi. The problem is that many free, public Wi-Fi networks are not secured. This means that a hacker could easily intercept the information you send over the public network, including your passwords and banking information. A personal VPN means you can connect securely any time you are away from home.
2. You want full access to the internet when traveling— When traveling, cybersecurity risks abound, from unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to potential data breaches. Using a VPN while traveling can mitigate these risks by encrypting your internet connection and protecting your sensitive information from hackers and other malicious actors.
3. You take your privacy seriously— Internet service providers (ISPs) often track and store information about what we do online, as do the websites we visit. This is how they serve up targeted ads and make money when we click on them. (They track us by identifying the unique number assigned to your device, called an Internet Protocol address.) However, when you use a VPN, your traffic is routed through different Internet Protocol addresses, making you anonymous.

What to look for in a VPN:

Now that you know why having a personal VPN is so useful, here are a few tips to help you choose the right product for you:

• Ease of use—You want secure technology, without having to be a tech whiz to use it. That’s why you should look for a product that is easy to implement, like the McAfee Safe Connect VPN app, which allows you to easily and securely connect, ensuring that your passwords and data stay private when using public networks.
• Robust security—Look for a VPN with bank-grade encryption. This way no one can read or access the private information you send over the network.
• Access to virtual locations—With this feature, you can gain full access to the Internet and browse anonymously.

The post Why You Need a Personal VPN appeared first on McAfee Blog.

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Better personal security in everyday life isn’t something everyone considers — at least, not until something goes wrong. Securing home devices and personal accounts can be daunting for those who just aren’t that interested in the devices or cybersecurity. Learning the basics of personal cybersecurity is not the most appealing activity to everyone, and getting lectured by tech-savvy family members isn’t either.

Fortunately, there is a better way to teach cybersecurity. Giving the gift of better security can grant you an opportunity to discuss broader security topics in terms that specifically relate to your loved ones’ daily lives.

Here are six security awareness gifts for the person in your life who just isn’t that into security.

1. A New, More Secure Router

Home Wi-Fi security is an important part of overall personal cybersecurity that’s commonly overlooked. Default device passwords are often left unchanged after purchases, and owners aren’t always on the lookout for firmware updates. Older router models may also use outdated security protocols, so a new router can be a security awareness gift that secures the home network.

Gifting a new router may also mean spending part of your visit as a family tech support representative who reconnects devices and updates software. As painful as change might seem to your family members, a more secure home network will be worth the effort.

2. A Password Manager Subscription

Password reuse remains a gateway to multiple types of account information, especially as more personal record caches are being exposed online or sold on the dark web. Building better password habits and eliminating reuse can go a long way toward better personal security, and a password manager subscription can be a step in this direction.

As we all know, more secure passwords are but one of the many habits required to secure your digital world. Learning a new login workflow may not be for everyone, and new users may not like the change initially, but they may feel compelled to keep going if they understand how it can help them protect their accounts.

While risk and security vulnerabilities still exist, password managers are still a better tool than weak or reused passwords.

3. Encrypted File Storage/Backups

Ransomware gets a lot of press for good reason. A ransomware attack can result in total data loss when no backup exists, but secure file storage held locally or in the cloud can help eliminate much of the dread associated with data loss after a ransomware attack.

Giving the gift of an external encrypted storage device or a cloud-based encrypted backup service can grant your family members peace of mind. Knowing that important data will be secured even if your machine is overtaken by ransomware can ease worries over potential data loss.

4. Computer Monitor Privacy Filters

Privacy filters for monitors and laptop screens help protect your on-screen activity from prying eyes. They make it nearly impossible for someone to make out what’s on your screen unless they’re sitting right in front of it. Commuters and other travelers can benefit from this kind of physical barrier to their private information being displayed in public. Filters can also serve as a physical reminder to employ better personal security practices.

Privacy filters can be removed and may not protect against unauthorized access in cases where devices are stolen. If they’re used as part of an overall better approach to physical security and cybersecurity, however, they can decrease the likelihood of data loss during travel.

5. Anti-Malware and Ransomware Protection

Protecting against known malware threats and ransomware attacks is a must for personal devices. Not all family members are aware there are solutions to help prevent ransomware attacks. Coupled with an external or cloud-based encrypted backup, an anti-malware and ransomware service subscription can help protect your loved ones’ devices from attacks. Gifting several small security awareness gifts in this way can effectively build up defenses across a variety of otherwise vulnerable channels.

Bear in mind that false positive scan results and software bugs are possible when new definitions are installed, and this could be alarming to a user unfamiliar with anti-malware software. Teaching new users what to expect from their software (including potential bugs) may help to ease their minds.

6. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) Subscription

Virtual private networks (VPNs) can be a good way to separate and encrypt your own traffic away from everything else traveling with your data. They offer significantly more privacy and security compared to a standard internet connection.

As I’m sure you know, some security awareness gifts may require a little extra work. Finding an appropriate VPN service that is maintained by a reputable company might be a challenge. Also, VPNs can be very helpful but no device can be secured from every possible attack. Understanding a VPN’s role in overall security habits could help new users as they learn a new network connection workflow.

Teaching Better Security Through Useful Tech Gifts

Each of these gifts could include discussion around their purpose, which may provide a better way to teach cybersecurity. They all reinforce better security through physical means or by encouraging new habits, and they offer the new user an opportunity to learn more about cybersecurity, a topic they might otherwise neglect.

The post 6 Security Awareness Gifts for the Cybersecurity Unaware appeared first on Security Intelligence.