Intrusion Insights: Stay Ahead of the Hackers

Skunkworks Insights: Your Monthly Dose of Tech Education & Training

By Skunkworks (Pty) Ltd

Published Monthly | 372 Followers | 73 Subscribers

Check Point Chronicles: A Week in the Life of Cybersecurity Heroes

Checking in with Check Point Research: Week of September 4 – 10

Catch up on the latest research publications from their Threat Intelligence Team, and with the week’s Global Cyberattacks.

Elections Spotlight: Generative AI and Deep Fakes.

Overview

Generative AI is revolutionizing the way we think about technology and its applications. One of the most concerning uses of this technology is its potential impact on democratic elections. Check Point Research has recently published a comprehensive analysis on how generative AI can be used to create individually tailored audio-visual propaganda, targeting voters on a massive scale.

Key Findings

• Generative AI can create realistic deep fakes that are almost indistinguishable from real videos.
• The technology can be used to manipulate public opinion and influence election outcomes.

Risks to Democracy

• Misinformation: Generative AI can spread false information rapidly.
• Manipulation: Voters can be manipulated through personalized propaganda.

Further Reading

• Check Point Research on Generative AI and Elections
• Deep Fakes and Democracy: What You Need to Know

Phishing vie Google Looker Studio

Overview

Check Point has issued a warning about a new phishing campaign that exploits Google Looker Studio, a data visualization tool. Attackers are using this tool to send slideshow emails from official Google accounts, directing victims to third-party websites where they are prompted to input their credentials to collect cryptocurrency.

How it Works?

1. Victim receives an email from an official Google account.
2. The email contains a slideshow created using Google Looker Studio.
3. The victim is directed to a third-party website to collect cryptocurrency.
4. The website prompts the victim to input their credentials, which are then stolen.

Further Reading

• Check Point's Warning on Google Looker Studio Phishing
• Phishing emails and texts
• ISC2 Blog Post by John E. Dunn: Analysis: lookalike confusable domains fuel phishing attacks

Ransomware Attack on Seville

Overview

The city of Seville in Spain has suspended all digital activities following a ransomware attack. The ransomware group LockBit has taken responsibility for the attack and has demanded a ransom of $1.5 million, which the city has refused to pay.

Key Points

• All digital activities in Seville have been suspended.
• The ransomware group LockBit is responsible for the attack.
• The city has refused to negotiate and pay the $1.5 million ransom.

Further Reading

• Seville's Official Statement on the Ransomware Attack
• The City Council of Seville, affected by a cyberattack on its computer system.
• Understanding Ransomware: A Case Study

28th August – threat intelligence report

For the latest discoveries in cyber research for the week of 28th August, please download their Threat Intelligence Bulletin

Introduction

This week, our Threat Intelligence team at Check Point Research has been hard at work analysing the latest cyber threats and vulnerabilities. From advanced phishing campaigns to ransomware attacks, we've got you covered with the most up-to-date research.

Key Highlights

• Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): Our team has identified new tactics employed by APT groups targeting critical infrastructure.
• Phishing Campaigns: We've discovered a surge in phishing campaigns utilizing social engineering techniques to deceive users.
• Ransomware Attacks: Our latest report highlights the increasing sophistication of ransomware attacks and their impact on businesses.

In-Depth Analysis

1. APTs Targeting Critical Infrastructure: Our research indicates that APT groups are increasingly focusing on critical infrastructure, posing a significant risk to national security. Read the full report.
2. Social Engineering in Phishing: The use of social engineering in phishing campaigns has seen a significant rise. Our team provides insights into how these attacks are orchestrated and how to defend against them. Read the full report.
3. Ransomware Evolution: Ransomware attacks are becoming more complex, with attackers employing new techniques to encrypt data and demand ransoms. Read the full report.

Weekly Global Cyberattacks

• Attack on Financial Sector: A coordinated attack on multiple financial institutions was thwarted thanks to real-time threat intelligence.
• Data Breach in Healthcare: A major healthcare provider suffered a data breach, exposing sensitive patient information.

Conclusion

Stay vigilant and keep your cybersecurity measures up to date. Our Threat Intelligence team is continuously monitoring the cyber landscape to provide you with the latest research and insights.

For the most accurate and current information, you may want to visit Check Point Research's Latest Publications directly.

For more insights and updates, subscribe to Skunkworks Insights. Your monthly dose of tech education and training is just a click away.

Subscribe Now

Disclaimer: The insights and information shared in this newsletter are intended for educational and awareness-raising purposes. While we at Skunkworks pride ourselves on being experts in cybersecurity and technology solutions, it's crucial to consult with qualified professionals for advice tailored to your specific needs. Our content aims to equip you with the knowledge to better understand the cybersecurity landscape, but it should not replace specialized guidance for complex challenges.