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Every business wants their IT infrastructure to be secure, so it’s crucial that you understand all your options. And two of the best are an SOC and an NOC.

A Security Operations Center (SOC) and a Network Operations Center (NOC) are exciting options for your defenses, but not everyone knows what they are. The good news is that both of these options, which can be based in-house or outsourced to external contractors, are here to protect your IT operations. And they both do this with a high level of sophistication, which ensures that cybersecurity threats are quickly identified and nullified.

How Does an SOC Protect Your IT Infrastructure?

Integrating an SOC into your cybersecurity strategies is one of the quickest ways to enhance your defenses. In short, an SOC is a dedicated team of professionals who can provide 24/7 monitoring of your IT systems. Their main duties include:

Maintenance: one of the surest ways to keep any system operating effectively is through routine and preventative maintenance. And this is a duty which an SOC will take in its stride. From initiating and installing updates through to updating firewalls and managing backup protocols, a dedicated SOC will ensure that none of these vital tasks are missed.
Creating response plans: in the case of a security incident, your organization needs to have a solid response plan ready to go. This could involve restoring data from backups, partitioning your networks, or even shutting your entire IT infrastructure down. Regardless of the strategy, you need to make sure that the perfect response plan has been formulated. And, thanks to the experience of those employed in an SOC, you can rest assured that your response minimizes disruption.
Monitoring: security incidents can strike your organization at any time of day, so it’s important that you have round-the-clock monitoring to flag up any attacks. An SOC can take care of this by not only monitoring network activity, but also analyzing it to provide a strong determination as to the threat level posed. This allows the SOC team to quickly identify potential threats and react accordingly.

Why Does Your Organization Need an NOC?

IT networks are complex, highly complex. This means that monitoring them effectively is difficult, but crucial when it comes to securing them. It’s difficult for your standard IT team to dedicate themselves to this task, so this is why the emergence of NOCs is so exciting for organizations. With an NOC supporting your IT infrastructure, you can expect 24/7 coverage in the following areas:

Network monitoring: an NOC can provide your organization with constant network monitoring and surveillance. This monitoring will cover all of the most common elements found in a network such as servers, routers, and switches. It’s an approach which is not only comprehensive, but also allows the NOC team to minimize any disruptions to your network.
Enhanced security: the main aim of a threat actor is to bypass the security of your network, and it’s very easy for them to sneak in when a vulnerability is in place. However, the presence of an NOC team means that not only will updates and patches be installed quickly, but their constant monitoring of your network will allow them to identify any unauthorized access.
Performance monitoring: given the level of competition within business in the 21^st century, your organization’s network needs to perform at a high level. Monitoring the complexities of an IT network, though, is a tough ask. But the experience of an NOC team means they can easily analyze your network performance, and then suggest plans for improving and maximizing its output.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

Wiper Malware is Quickly Becoming a Major Threat

Backup, Cyber Security, email security, Ophtek, segmenting network, Wiper Malwarebackup, Cyber Security, email security, Ophtek, segmenting network, wiper malwareOphtek, LLC

Apr 2023

The world of malware evolves rapidly, sometimes from one day to another, but one of the most recent surges in popularity has been found in wiper malware.

You may not be familiar with wiper malware, but it’s a form of attack which has been steadily generating headlines over the last year. And the most recent data from FortiGuard Labs shows there was a 53% in wiper malware activity between Q3 to Q4 in 2022. Any increase in malware activity should be a concern, but anything which is over 50% represents a significant threat. This threat becomes magnified further when you consider the impact of wiper malware. Accordingly, there’s never been a more pressing time to learn about wiper malware.

What is Wiper Malware?

Wiper malware gets its name from its purpose of completely erasing all data from hard drives. Although it may seem similar to ransomware, wiper malware typically demands a fee in exchange for data recovery, but in reality, there is no chance of retrieving the data from the attackers. This type of cyber-attack is highly destructive and can cause harm not only to security but also to IT infrastructures.

Why is Wiper Malware Surging?

The initial surge in wiper malware, first observed in the first half of 2022, was attributed to the war in Ukraine. Most of this activity was the result of advanced persistent threat (APT) hacking groups from Russia supporting their governments campaign in Ukraine. And, as this conflict is still ongoing, the wiper malware threat has remained.

However, Fortinet has observed that the range of threat actors implementing wiper malware has now widened. So, as well as APT groups, wiper malware is also being unleashed by threat actors seeking financial gain and hacktivists looking to push political agendas. The research conducted by Fortinet also indicates that this surge currently shows no signs of slowing down, so it’s a threat which appears here to stay.

How Do You Combat Wiper Malware?

You may not feel as though your organization is a typical target for wiper malware, but this could quickly change due to the increased adoption of wiper malware. Therefore, you need to make sure you’re prepared for this type of attack:

Act promptly: In the event of a wiper malware attack, it’s crucial to begin segmenting your network to minimize the malware’s spread. This approach may not protect all your data, but it can help salvage significant portions. Additionally, keep a constant eye on your network for any unusual activities to prompt you into launching contingency efforts in such situations.

Ensure Careful Backups: one of the best ways to reduce the impact of a wiper malware attack is by taking proper backup measures. As malware can easily spread through networks, it’s essential to keep backups on isolated networks. Furthermore, it’s important to have multiple backups stored on different mediums to safeguard your data.

Beware of Email Threats: Malware distribution through email is a common method, and it’s easy to become a victim of such attacks. Even a momentary lapse in attention, such as not verifying a link correctly, can lead to an infection. Therefore, always hover over links to confirm their destination and, if in doubt, seek assistance from an IT professional.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

Cuba Ransomware Collects Over $40 Million in Ransom Fees

Backup, Cuba ransomware, Ophtek, Phishing, Ransomware, Updatesbackup, cuba ransomware, Ophtek, phishing, ransomware, updatesOphtek, LLC

Aug 2022

Using a new remote access trojan, threat actors behind the Cuba ransomware have amassed ransom payments estimated to be close to $44 million.

Over the past five years, countless headlines have been generated by the damage caused by ransomware attacks. Not only do they compromise access to your organization’s data, but they also have the potential to inflict painful financial damage. To make matters worse, these attacks are evolving to become more powerful and harder to prevent. In fact, on many occasions (and as we’ll see with the Cuba ransomware) these evolutions will take place over a matter of months.

Ransomware, therefore, is a very real threat to your organization’s IT network, so it’s important that you understand exactly how the Cuba ransomware operates.

What is the Cuba Ransomware?

Cuba was first detected in late 2019 before disappearing from the frontline and returning two years later in November 2021. Evidence of the Cuba ransomware has been detected in around 60 ransomware attacks, with 40 of these victims revealed to be US-based. Cuba is delivered to PCs through the Hancitor loader, a type of malware which is used to download and execute additional malware e.g. remote access trojans. Hancitor makes its way onto PCs through a variety of means such as phishing emails, stolen login credentials and software vulnerabilities.

Since Cuba first emerged onto the digital landscape, it has undergone a series of significant changes. The most notable changes have seen it terminating more processes before it locks files, widening the range of file types it encrypts and, believe it or not, enhancing its support options for victims wanting to pay. Cuba has also been observed operating a backdoor trojan called ROMCOM RAT, a piece of malware which deletes files and logs data to a remote server.

Protecting Yourself Against the Cuba Ransomware

With Cuba collecting ransom payments of over $40 million, it’s clear to see Cuba is a dangerously effective threat. It’s also important to point out there is currently no known decryption tool available to combat Cuba’s encryption methods. Accordingly, you need to be on your guard against this threat and any similar attacks. Therefore, make sure you practice the following:

Beware of phishing emails: one of the most common attack methods employed by hackers, phishing emails use social engineering techniques to pressure you into clicking links and downloading files. However, following the instructions within a phishing email are a guaranteed one-way ticket to having your PC compromised. Always check, double check, and then ask an IT professional to evaluate any suspicious links or documents you receive.

Have a strong backup game: if your files become encrypted by Cuba then the only option you have for unlocking your files is to pay a ransom fee or restore the files from a secure backup. When it comes to backups, there are a variety of options available and it pays to implement multiple backup strategies to preserve your data.

Install updates: Cuba has the power to exploit software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to computer networks, so it’s crucial that you always install updates as soon as possible. The install process for updates can feel time consuming, but when you have the option to automate these installations, there’s no reason this shouldn’t take place.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

The 5 Biggest IT Security Mistakes

attachments, Backup, Data Security, Hackers, Ophtek, Password Securityattachements, backup, Data Security, hackers, Ophtek, password securityOphtek, LLC

Aug 2022

Almost all cyber-attacks are due a common denominator: a mistake. We aren’t perfect, of course, but we can limit number of IT security mistakes we make.

Working on a PC is far from straightforward and, as a result, the sheer number of complex routines you must work through leaves plenty of room for mistakes. At the same time, all a hacker needs to take control of your system is a few milliseconds. Accordingly, even the smallest security mistake can leave your PC at the mercy of a hacker. However, by understanding what the most common, and usually simplest, IT security mistakes are, you can strengthen your IT defenses almost immediately.

Start Eliminating These Mistakes Today

If you want to make sure your IT infrastructure is safe from hackers, then you need to avoid these five IT security mistakes:

Not locking your screen: you may trust your work colleagues, but the fact remains that numerous people will enter your organization’s premises throughout the day. Some may be familiar, some may not. And that’s why it’s crucial you lock your screen. All you have to do is hit the Windows button and the L key; your screen will be locked with a password and the contents of your PC immediately protected.

Underestimating your value as a target: threat actors are malicious and, although they are certainly interested in big targets, they’re equally likely to target smaller organizations too. Additionally, many cyber-attacks are automated and don’t discriminate against who they attack. Therefore, never assume that your small business is of no concern to hackers. Remain vigilant and practice good IT security.

Passwords on Post-it notes: we all know that remembering passwords is difficult, but the biggest mistake you can make is by writing your password on a Post-it note. And then sticking it to your monitor. Sure, it’s convenient for you, but it’s also highly convenient for anyone looking to compromise your PC. Instead, create passwords you can easily remember, but are difficult for anyone else to crack.

Not backing up effectively: when it comes to IT, the range of backup options available in 2022 is plentiful. From on-site storage, to external cloud storage and even onto good old fashioned optical drives, there are numerous options. And it’s important that you use more than one backup option to protect your data, this will ensure it’s available when you need it. Remember: failing to maintain an effective backup process will seriously hurt your recovery time in the event of a cyber-attack.

Assuming email attachments are safe: ever since email became a mainstay of modern communications, it has carried a huge risk of delivering malware through email attachments. Most concerning of all, these infected attachments may be sent by email contacts you consider safe, it could even be your colleague sitting next to you. Threat actors can easily take control of a victim’s email address book and email malware under the guise of the victim’s email address. And that’s why you should evaluate every email you receive.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

Ukraine Hit by Wiper Malware

Backup, email links, Ophtek, Segment Network, Ukraine, Wiper Malwarebackup, email links, Ophtek, segment network, Ukraine, wiper malwareOphtek, LLC

Mar 2022

As with all aspects of modern life, everything is a target for cybercriminals, even war. And this has been demonstrated with wiper malware attacking Ukraine.

Amidst its conflict with Russian, Ukraine has also had to contend with hundreds of its computers falling victim to a strain of data wiper malware. As the name suggests, wiper malware is used to wipe hard drives clean of any data. While this sounds like ransomware, and indeed wiper malware often promises the return of data for a fee, the chances of retrieving this data from the hackers is zero. It’s a powerful and destructive cyber-attack, one which has the potential to cause significant damage not just to security, but also IT infrastructures.

It’s an attack method which could strike anywhere at any time, you don’t have to be in Ukraine. Therefore, it’s crucial that we understand how wiper malware works. And, more importantly, how to protect your data.

The Cyber-Attack on Ukraine

The wiper malware in this opportunistic attack, which comes at a time of intense internal chaos, has been identified as HermeticWiper. It followed on from an earlier attack which had targeted Ukraine’s banks through a number of co-ordinated DDoS attacks. It came several hours before Russia launched its invasion campaign but, as yet, nobody has been identified as being behind the attack. What is known is that it’s a new strain of malware which, according to its date stamp, was created towards the end of 2021. Clearly, this attack had been in the works for some time.

Once downloaded onto a PC, HermeticWiper sets about wiping all the data from its hard drive. It achieves this objective by taking advantage of existing disc and storage management software. With this software compromised, HermeticWiper turns it against the PC to corrupt any data within its grasp and then reboots the PC. But it doesn’t stop there. HermeticWiper is also keen to attack any data recover software on the machine and also interferes with the hard drive’s rebooting system.

How Do You Stop Wiper Malware?

The government of Ukraine has a significant reach and has appealed to its native hackers to assist in protecting the country’s IT infrastructures. Unfortunately, almost all organizations will struggle to raise this level of support. But there’s still plenty you can do:

Backup Carefully: it’s unlikely that you will be able to retrieve the original copies of your data, but if you backup correctly you shouldn’t have any problems. Malware, of course, can spread through networks like wildfire, so it’s important that you keep copies of your backups on isolated networks. And, don’t forget, multiple backups on different storage mediums is key to retaining your data.

Be Email Aware: email is one of the most common methods for distributing malware and it’s surprisingly easy to fall victim to these attacks. All it takes is a momentary lapse in concentration, such as not checking a link correctly, for malware to take hold of your PC. Therefore, always hover your mouse cursor over links to identify their true destination and, to be completely sure, ask an IT professional to verify the link before doing anything.

Act Quickly If Infected: as soon as a wiper-malware is attacked, it’s critical that you begin segmenting your networking to minimize the malware’s spread. While this will not protect all your data, it will allow you to save large chunks of your data. Accordingly, it’s important you ensure your networks are constantly monitored for unusual activity to help you launch a contingency effort such as this.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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