Dr. Chase Cunningham - Weekly cybersecurity news August 30, 2023

News By Daniel Michan Published on August 30, 2023

The Top 10 Things You Need to Know in Cybersecurity This Week

Hey there! I'm Chase Cunningham, also known as Dr. Zero Trust. Today, I'm going to give you a rundown of the top ten things you need to know in cybersecurity this week. So let's dive right in!

1. The Lessons from the MoveIt Hack

Let's start with the MoveIt hack and what it has taught us about cybersecurity and Zero Trust. In June 2023, a Russian affiliate group called Clop claimed responsibility for an attack that targeted progress software's MoveIt transfer tool. The tool, which is used for file transfer, was exploited by the hackers to gain access to organizations' IT environments and steal sensitive data. This incident highlights the importance of patching vulnerabilities and implementing strong security measures, such as the Zero Trust framework, to prevent similar attacks in the future.

2. Cybersecurity and Governance from a Legal Perspective

An interesting article explores the intersection of cybersecurity and governance from a legal standpoint. Understanding how legal professionals discuss cybersecurity and the implications it has on organizations can provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity.

3. The Critical Role of Cybersecurity in Hospitals

When it comes to patient care in hospitals, cybersecurity is essential. The increasing reliance on connected systems and medical devices poses significant risks if not properly secured. Hospitals must prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive patient data and ensure the safety and integrity of medical equipment. This article dives into the unique challenges faced by healthcare organizations and provides insights on steps they can take to enhance their cybersecurity posture.

4. Lobbyists Struggle to Thwart SEC Cybersecurity Disclosure Rules

In an effort to enhance transparency and accountability, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced new rules requiring publicly traded companies to disclose cybersecurity breaches promptly. However, business lobbyists are attempting to soften these rules, aiming to avoid the requirement for mandatory breach reporting. This highlights the importance of understanding the motivations of different stakeholders in the cybersecurity landscape.

5. Crypto Breaches and the Inherent Vulnerabilities

The recent breach of a crypto group serves as a reminder that no technology is immune to hacking. Crypto, like any other technology, can be compromised if not properly secured. This underlines the need for robust cybersecurity measures and constant vigilance in protecting valuable digital assets.

6. The Federal Vulnerability Reduction Act

Legislation has been reintroduced that pushes federal contractors to adopt vulnerability disclosure policy requirements. While this effort aims to standardize cybersecurity practices, it should also consider the specific challenges faced by small and mid-sized businesses. An inclusive approach is necessary to ensure that all organizations can effectively implement vulnerability disclosure programs.

7. The Role of Generative AI in Cybercrime

A study has highlighted the growing use of generative AI by cybercriminals. The ease of using AI language models enables non-technical individuals to engage in hacking activities. This serves as a stark reminder of the need for advanced security measures to mitigate the risks posed by malicious AI-driven activities.

8. The Discrepancy Between Breach Numbers and Affected People

While breach numbers may be decreasing, the number of people affected by these breaches continues to rise. This discrepancy can be attributed to the increased remote work environment and the rise in personal targeting by cybercriminals. Organizations and individuals must remain vigilant and prioritize cybersecurity to protect themselves from cyber threats.

9. Cybersecurity Challenges in US Schools

As students return to school, the reliance on technology in the education sector exposes vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. This article highlights a concerning fact: one in three U.S. schools has experienced a cyber attack. It is crucial for educational institutions to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect student data and ensure a safe learning environment.

10. Government Passwords and the Need for Passwordless Solutions

Even government employees struggle with maintaining strong passwords. This article explores the need for passwordless solutions as an alternative to traditional passwords, which are prone to human error and vulnerabilities. By adopting passwordless authentication methods, both individuals and organizations can significantly enhance their security posture.

In conclusion, this week's cybersecurity highlights cover a range of important topics, from the lessons learned from recent hacks to the challenges faced by different sectors in implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Understanding these issues can help organizations and individuals stay informed and proactive in defending against cyber threats. Stay tuned for more updates on the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape!