This week on TCE Cyberwatch we are seeing a rise of caution around cybersecurity, and rightfully so as vulnerabilities become more and more common. There have been recalls to previous data breaches, with the true impacts being brought to light. But also, we are seeing the consequences faced by many organisations who show more ...
do not have strong security. A devastating example of this is the 911 outage in Massachusetts for a whole two hours because of their weak Firewall. Keep reading to find out more news from this week. UnitedHealth discloses the data stolen in Change Healthcare. UnitedHealth has disclosed the types of medical and patient data stolen in a cyberattack on Change Healthcare (CHC). CHC plans to notify affected individuals by mail starting in late July, though not all may receive notifications due to insufficient addresses. The ransomware attack exposed a significant amount of data, potentially affecting a third of Americans. The stolen data includes contact information, health insurance details, medical records, billing information, and personal identifiers. The breach occurred between February 17 and February 20, 2024, and was confirmed on April 22, 2024. CHC has since taken steps to mitigate the impact, including shutting down systems, investigating with cybersecurity experts, and enhancing security measures. Notifications to customers began on June 20, 2024. Read More UK’s nuclear waste site admits to cybersecurity failings from the last 4 years. The UK’s Sellafield nuclear waste site has admitted to cybersecurity failings from 2019-2023, acknowledging inadequate protection of sensitive nuclear information. Home to the world’s largest plutonium store, Sellafield's cybersecurity issues have been a concern for over a decade. A 2012 report highlighted critical vulnerabilities, and recent revelations showed breaches dating back to 2015, with sleeper malware discovered. Despite claims of no successful cyberattacks, Russian and Chinese actors had compromised systems. The UK’s Office for Nuclear Regulation had placed Sellafield under special measures for recurring failings. While current protections are said to be robust, the GMB trade union has raised concerns over inadequate training, safety procedures, and a culture of fear among staff. Sellafield has pleaded guilty to all charges and is working to enhance cyber resilience. Read More Kaspersky Lab banned from providing products or services in the U.S. The Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has banned Kaspersky Lab Inc., a Russian cybersecurity firm, from providing products or services in the U.S., effective September 29, 2024. This historic ban is the first Final Determination by the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services (OICTS). Concerns over national security risks linked to foreign technology firms, especially from adversarial states, prompted this decision. Kaspersky's software has been linked to Russian military and intelligence activities. The ban reflects escalating U.S. efforts to protect its cyber infrastructure. Kaspersky must cease operations in the U.S., and users are advised to switch to alternative cybersecurity solutions. This move continues the scrutiny of Kaspersky that began during the Trump administration and has intensified under Biden. Read More Ticketmaster data breach hackers release records of a million customers for free. The Ticketmaster data breach has worsened, with hackers releasing records of 1 million customers for free. Live Nation, Ticketmaster’s parent company, confirmed the breach involved unauthorized access to sensitive customer information. The hackers, initially demanding $100,000, escalated by publicly releasing data on a dark web forum, pressuring Ticketmaster to meet their demands. The breach affects 680 million customers and includes personal details such as names, addresses, IP addresses, emails, birthdates, and partial credit card information. The breach occurred on May 20, involving a database on Snowflake, a third-party cloud storage provider. Live Nation acknowledged the incident and is working with cybersecurity experts and authorities to investigate and enhance security measures. Despite the breach, Live Nation does not expect a significant impact on its operations. Read More Firewall issues causes two-hour state-wide 911 outage in Massachusetts. A firewall issue caused a two-hour state-wide 911 outage in Massachusetts, preventing emergency calls from reaching dispatch centres on Tuesday. The Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security reported that the firewall, intended to protect against cyberattacks, blocked calls due to a technical issue with its vendor, Comtech. An initial review confirmed that the outage was not caused by a cyberattack, but the exact cause remains under investigation. Although some calls failed, dispatch centres could identify and return missed calls. No emergencies were reported as impacted during the interruption. The outage began around 1:15 pm and was resolved by 3:15 pm. Comtech has since applied a technical solution to prevent future incidents. Read More Netflix has paid over $1 million since launching its bug bounty program. Since launching its bug bounty program in 2016, Netflix has paid over $1 million for vulnerabilities found in its systems and products. More than 5,600 researchers have submitted nearly 8,000 unique vulnerability reports, with rewards given for 845 vulnerabilities, including many rated as critical or high severity. Initially hosted by Bugcrowd, Netflix's program moved to the HackerOne platform, offering enhanced triage, increased bounties, expanded scope, and researcher feedback. Rewards range from $300 to $5,000 for content authorization issues and up to $20,000 for critical vulnerabilities on Netflix.com. A recent vulnerability in Microsoft’s PlayReady technology was exploited to download movies illegally from Netflix, though it's unclear if this qualifies for Netflix’s bug bounty program. Read More Car dealers face cyberattacks which disrupt operations. Thousands of auto dealers in the U.S. and Canada face operational disruptions due to cyberattacks on CDK Global, a key software and data services provider. CDK Global, which serves over 15,000 retail locations, experienced two attacks on June 19, leading the company to shut down systems to protect customer data and restore services. The outage has slowed sales, forcing dealers to use alternative methods for essential paperwork such as titles, contracts, and registrations. Despite the challenges, dealers like Brian Benstock of Paragon Honda in New York remain open and continue selling cars. CDK Global is actively working to reinstate services and regularly updating its customers on progress. Read More Bug found which means attackers can impersonate Microsoft corporate email accounts. A researcher, Vsevolod Kokorin, discovered a flaw that allows attackers to impersonate Microsoft corporate email accounts, enabling phishing attacks. Despite demonstrating the bug to TechCrunch and reporting it to Microsoft, the company stated it couldn't reproduce the issue. Kokorin disclosed the flaw on X. The vulnerability is triggered when an attacker sends an email to Outlook accounts. Microsoft did not respond to TechCrunch's request for comment. The technical details of the bug are withheld to prevent exploitation by malicious hackers. The issue remains unaddressed, and it is unclear if it has been used in attacks. Kokorin expressed surprise at Microsoft's reaction, noting his intention was to assist the company. The situation is ongoing, and updates will follow. Read More China-linked state-sponsored group to have conducted a cyber espionage campaign targeting various organizations in Taiwan. A likely China-linked state-sponsored group, RedJuliett, has been conducting a cyber espionage campaign targeting various organizations in Taiwan from November 2023 to April 2024. Recorded Future's Insikt Group reports that the group operates from Fuzhou, China, to support Beijing's intelligence collection. RedJuliett has also targeted organizations in Djibouti, Hong Kong, Kenya, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Rwanda, South Korea, and the U.S. The group has exploited internet-facing devices and used techniques such as SQL injection for initial access. RedJuliett employs tools like SoftEther to exfiltrate data and maintain persistence using web shells like China Chopper. The group focuses on Taiwan's economic policies and international relations. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed the allegations as disinformation. Read More Organisations in different sectors are adopting military-grade cyber defences. As cyber threats grow, organizations in highly regulated sectors like finance, healthcare, and government are increasingly adopting military-grade cyber defences to protect sensitive information and comply with strict regulations. These defences, which leverage advanced technologies such as real-time data analytics, machine learning, and predictive modelling, help identify and neutralize threats before breaches occur. Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) is one such technology that ensures only safe data is transmitted, enhancing protection against advanced attacks. Additionally, insider risk programs are crucial for addressing internal threats. Collaboration with military and private-sector experts provides access to cutting-edge technologies and threat intelligence. Adopting military-inspired strategies, such as proactive threat prevention and layered security, is essential for safeguarding critical assets and maintaining regulatory compliance. This approach enhances resilience and mitigates risks in an era of escalating cyber threats. Read More Apple releases firmware update for AirPods which allows unauthorized access. Apple has released a firmware update for AirPods to fix a vulnerability (CVE-2024-27867) that allows unauthorized access to the headphones. This issue affects various models, including AirPods (2nd generation and later), AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, Powerbeats Pro, and Beats Fit Pro. An attacker within Bluetooth range could exploit this flaw to eavesdrop on conversations by spoofing a previously paired device. Apple addressed the issue with improved state management in Firmware Updates 6A326 and 6F8. The flaw was discovered by Jonas Dreßler. Additionally, Apple patched 21 issues in visionOS, including a logic flaw (CVE-2024-27812) reported by Ryan Pickren. This flaw allowed a denial-of-service (DoS) attack and enabled the injection of arbitrary 3D objects into a user's environment without interaction, due to a permissions oversight in the ARKit Quick Look feature. Read More A Microsoft software engineer accidentally exposes 4GB of crucial data. A Microsoft software engineer inadvertently posted internal PlayReady DRM source code on a public developer forum, exposing 4GB of data crucial for compiling the DLL and potentially compromising the DRM technology. PlayReady, a widely-used DRM system, protects media files via encryption and other features. The leak, occurring in early June, included configurations and obfuscation libraries essential to PlayReady. Cybersecurity firm AG Security Research Lab built the PlayReady DLL from the leaked code, revealing vulnerabilities in the Protected Media Path (PMP) that could decrypt high-definition content on Windows 10 and 11 systems. Despite the post's removal within 12 hours, the download link remained active. Microsoft downplayed the issue, but the incident underscores the need for stringent data handling protocols. The breach could impact major streaming services reliant on PlayReady DRM, posing a significant security risk given the $544 billion valuation of the video streaming industry. Read More Wrap Up This week we have seen many reasons to be afraid about the impacts of cyberattacks. However, it’s important to know the mitigations and security measures that can be taken to prevent you from falling victim to it. Kaspersky Lab Inc. is just one of many to be banned but it is nothing to worry about as cybersecurity companies are on the rise as attacks on huge corporations like Netflix, Microsoft, and even the 911 emergency call lines, are constantly vulnerable to falling under attack. Remember to stay vigilant and updated on cybersecurity measures.
By Emily Newton Data center liquid cooling systems are increasingly common due to their superior efficiency in managing heat compared to traditional air cooling methods. However, this technological advancement brings new security threats, including cybersecurity and physical risks. These concerns are critical for show more ...
industry experts as they can lead to data breaches, system disruptions and significant operational downtime. Understanding and mitigating these risks ensures a data center’s reliability and security. This approach highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to digital and physical security in the evolving landscape of data center cooling technologies. Cybersecurity Risks of Data Center Liquid Cooling Systems Liquid cooling systems — while enhancing efficiency in data centers — introduce cybersecurity challenges demanding attention from industry experts. These systems present new vulnerabilities malicious actors can exploit. Data Breaches Attackers can intercept and manipulate sensor data in liquid cooling systems by exploiting vulnerabilities in the interconnected IoT devices that monitor and control these systems. By gaining unauthorized access, they can alter critical sensor readings, cause disruptions in temperature regulation and lead to hardware damage or system shutdowns. According to a recent survey, 36% of respondents reported that their worst breach in the past three years cost $1 million or more. This number underscores the severe financial implications of such attacks. These systems’ interconnectedness amplifies the risks because compromised sensors can provide a gateway to broader network infiltration. This can lead to widespread operational and security consequences for data centers. Network Vulnerabilities IoT devices in data center liquid cooling systems can be entry points for cyberattacks due to their connectivity and often insufficient security measures. Attackers can exploit these devices — integral to monitoring and managing cooling processes — to access the broader network. Alarmingly, 93% of external cyberattacks successfully breach organizational networks and access information within IoT systems, illustrating the prevalent risks. These cooling systems' remote access and control features also present significant vulnerabilities. Unauthorized individuals can manipulate system settings, disrupt operations and cause physical damage. These factors compromise the data center's overall security and functionality. Malware and Ransomware Malware can significantly disrupt cooling operations in data centers by targeting the control systems that regulate temperature and manage liquid flow. By infecting these systems, malware can alter operational parameters and cause overheating or shutdowns, leading to critical system failures. In 2023, organizations worldwide detected over 317 million ransomware attempts, highlighting the persistent threat landscape. Ransomware attacks on data center liquid cooling systems are particularly concerning because attackers can turn off these systems and demand ransom payments to restore functionality. Such disruptions threaten the data center's physical integrity and pose severe financial and operational risks. That makes it imperative for organizations to enhance their cybersecurity defenses against these sophisticated threats. Physical Risks of Data Center Liquid Cooling Systems While cybersecurity threats are a significant concern, the physical risks associated with liquid cooling systems are equally critical. Here are examples that can severely impact data center operations. Environmental Threats Cooling system failures in data centers can lead to rapid temperature increases, jeopardizing the integrity of sensitive hardware components. Excessive heat can also cause servers and other critical equipment to malfunction or fail, which can result in data loss and significant operational downtime. Additionally, contaminants entering the liquid cooling system — such as particulate matter or chemical impurities — can clog or corrode essential parts, further exacerbating the risk of hardware damage. These issues threaten the data center infrastructure’s physical health and necessitate costly repairs and replacements. They underscore the importance of maintaining robust and clean cooling systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Hardware Failures Liquid leaks in data centers pose significant risks of hardware damage and data loss. For instance, an incident at Global Switch’s data center in Paris — where a leak in the battery room sparked a fire — caused Google services throughout Europe to go down. Such leaks can result in short circuits, corrosion and other physical damage to critical components, leading to substantial downtime and financial losses. Maintaining data center liquid cooling systems involves complex procedures, including regular inspections, leak detection and fluid replacement, each of which presents a set of risks. Improper maintenance or undetected leaks can escalate into severe problems. This highlights the need for rigorous protocols and advanced monitoring solutions to safeguard against these threats and ensure data center reliability. Physical Security Physical tampering with data center liquid cooling systems presents significant security risks, as unauthorized alterations can disrupt operations and compromise system integrity. Malicious insiders — such as disgruntled employees or contractors with access to these systems — can exploit their physical access to manipulate settings, introduce contaminants or turn off cooling mechanisms. Such actions can lead to overheating, hardware failures and extended downtime, severely impacting data center performance and security. The potential for insider threats underscores the necessity for strict access controls, thorough background checks and continuous monitoring of personnel activities. These factors prevent and quickly respond to attempts at physical sabotage. Mitigation Strategies Addressing the security threats of data center liquid cooling systems requires a multifaceted approach. Here’s how organizations can significantly reduce the risks and ensure system integrity. Physical Security Measures Design improvements are crucial to minimize leakage and damage risks in liquid cooling systems. For example, investing in linear movement solutions can precisely position components within the system. It enhances efficiency and productivity while reducing the likelihood of leaks. Additionally, robust sealing technologies and materials can further mitigate the risk of fluid escape. Advanced environmental monitoring systems are also advisable because they provide real time temperature, humidity and potential contaminants data. This information allows prompt detection and response to anomalies. These proactive measures ensure cooling operations' reliability and safety, safeguarding critical data center infrastructure. Cybersecurity Measures Securing IoT devices and network endpoints in liquid cooling systems involves implementing best practices such as robust encryption, regular firmware updates and strong authentication mechanisms. Network segmentation can also help isolate critical systems from potential threats. Likewise, continuous monitoring and auditing of cooling systems are essential to promptly detect and respond to security incidents. Organizations can maintain vigilance over their network by employing real time analytics and intrusion detection systems to identify and address anomalies. Regular audits further reinforce security by identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with security protocols. Prioritizing the Security of Data Center Liquid Cooling Systems Industry experts must prioritize robust security measures and remain vigilant about evolving threats to ensure the resilience of liquid cooling systems. Future advancements in AI-driven monitoring and smart materials promise to enhance these systems’ safety and efficiency, further mitigating security risks
By Lakshmi Mitra As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to transform industries worldwide, tech enthusiasts must equip themselves with the right skillsets to stay relevant and competitive. The swift evolution of AI technologies is altering job roles, opening up new career opportunities, and establishing benchmarks show more ...
for the future of employment. Whether you're a budding developer or an experienced IT professional, mastering these key skills will enable you to excel in an AI-dominated environment. Skills to Master in the Era of Artificial Intelligence Understanding the fundamentals of AI/ML - AI and ML are at the core of today’s technological innovations. From automating routine tasks to enabling sophisticated data analysis, these technologies are driving the next wave of digital transformation. A deep understanding of AI principles and machine learning techniques is crucial for anyone looking to future-proof their career. Aspirants must learn the basics of AI and its implementation in real-world scenarios. Building proficiency in Data Analysis - In the AI era, data is often referred to as the new black gold. The ability to analyse and interpret data is invaluable, as it forms the foundation for AI and machine learning models. Data science skills enable tech enthusiasts to derive actionable insights from vast datasets, driving informed decision-making. Hence, aspirants must focus on understanding key statistical methods for analysing data, including regression, hypothesis testing, and probability, and build proficiency in data visualization tools such as Tableau, Matplotlib, and Seaborn. Learn advanced programming skills - Programming remains a fundamental skill in the tech world. As AI continues to evolve, the demand for advanced programming skillsets is rising exponentially. Tech enthusiasts need to be proficient in writing efficient, scalable code to develop complex AI systems and applications. Aspirants should try to gain expertise in languages like Python, which is widely used in AI and ML. They must also gain a good understanding of languages such as Java, C++, and JavaScript. They should also try to become proficient in algorithms, data structures, and their applications in problem-solving. Cloud Computing and AI Integration - Cloud computing has revolutionized the way we build and deploy AI solutions. Understanding how to leverage cloud platforms is crucial for developing scalable AI applications and managing big data. Cybersecurity Awareness and Skills - As AI systems become more integrated into our daily lives, the need for robust cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly important. Cybersecurity skills are essential for protecting data, ensuring the integrity of AI systems, and mitigating risks associated with cyber threats. Aspirants keen on building skillsets in these, must begin by understanding the basics of cybersecurity in terms of threat modelling, encryption, and network security. They should also learn about the unique security challenges posed by AI systems, such as adversarial attacks and data poisoning. Conclusion The AI era presents both challenges and opportunities for tech enthusiasts. By developing these essential skills, you can future-proof your career. Embrace the continuous learning journey, stay curious, and keep adapting to the advancements in AI and related technologies.
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