OnlyFake: The $15 Threat Lurking in the Shadows of AI

By -- 2024-02-15 in Blog

A new AI-powered platform named OnlyFake is generating fake IDs for as low as $15, sparking concerns about potential misuse for criminal activities. OnlyFake’s owner claims these realistic IDs can be created in mere minutes and successfully pass KYC checks at major crypto exchanges. If placed in the wrong hands, this technology could be used to fake credentials and steal protected information from financial institutions.

Potential Implications of OnlyFake

Despite OnlyFake’s owner asserting an anti-forgery policy, the marketing of IDs as KYC-compatible signals a concerning vulnerability in the system. The ease of obtaining untraceable fake credentials via AI poses a serious threat to KYC and compliance procedures. Credentials can be forged from 26 different countries via neural networks, raising concerns about identity fraud and cross-border payment services.

What are the next security checks for AI?

As AI advances, crypto exchanges must prioritize security measures such as multi-factor authentication, liveness checks, and enhanced due diligence.

The financial and crypto sectors must adapt swiftly to emerging technologies and implement robust countermeasures to protect users and uphold the integrity of digital transactions in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. AI is posing risks to every industry, meaning new security measures need to be consistently reviewed and updated to stay ahead of new challenges.

Don’t leave your cybersecurity to chance: visit www.optfinITy.com or contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

OptfinITy Recognized on CRN’s 2024 MSP 500 List

By -- 2024-02-14 in OptfinITy News

Springfield, VA, February 12th, 2024 — It was announced today that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named OptfinITy to its Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer category for 2024.

The MSP 500 list compiled by CRN serves as a comprehensive guide to identifying and recognizing the top Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America. MSPs play a crucial role in supporting businesses by offering managed services that enhance efficiency, simplify IT solutions, and optimize return on investment.

The annual MSP 500 list is divided into three sections: the MSP Pioneer 250, recognizing companies with business models weighted toward managed services and largely focused on the SMB market; the MSP Elite 150, recognizing large, data center-focused MSPs with a strong mix of on- and off-premises services; and the Managed Security 100, recognizing MSPs focused primarily on off-premises and cloud-based security services.

The MSP 500 list aims to showcase and celebrate MSPs that are driving growth and innovation in the industry. These service providers not only enable businesses to harness complex technologies but also contribute to maintaining a strong focus on core business goals without stretching financial resources. By categorizing MSPs based on their business models and areas of expertise, the list helps end-users find the right partners to meet their specific needs and challenges in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

OptfinITy is being honored in the Pioneer category for providing exceptional managed services tailored to the unique needs of small and medium-sized organizations.

Jennifer Follett, VP of US Content and executive Editor CRN, The Channel Company, emphasized the significance of managed services for businesses at various scales, stating, “Managed services provide a route for businesses of all sizes to maintain efficiency and adaptability throughout their growth journey. The solution providers featured in our 2024 MSP 500 list are introducing cutting-edge managed services portfolios to the market, enabling their clients to achieve success by optimizing their IT budgets. This allows businesses to allocate resources strategically, concentrating on mission-critical tasks that drive future success.”

“We are deeply honored and grateful to be recognized by CRN on the prestigious 2024 MSP 500 list in the Pioneer category. This acknowledgment reaffirms OptfinITy’s commitment to delivering exceptional managed services specifically tailored to the unique needs of small and medium-sized organizations,” Michael Drobnis, CEO of OptfinITy states. He further emphasizes, “This recognition motivates us to continue delivering cutting-edge solutions that contribute to the success and growth of the organizations we serve.”

The MSP 500 list will be featured in the February 2024 issue of CRN and online at www.crn.com/msp500

Lurie Hospital Cybersecurity Issue Sparks Network Outage

By -- 2024-02-6 in Blog

Cybersecurity Issue Sparks Network Outage

In an unexpected turn of events, Lurie Children’s Hospital is currently facing a major setback due to a network outage, disrupting crucial services such as phones, email, and internet connectivity. The hospital has revealed that this outage results from an ongoing cybersecurity issue, leaving its main facility, outpatient centers, and primary care offices grappling with the consequences for the past two days.

The cybersecurity crisis showcases how breaches can devastate any organization’s day-to-day operations. Due to security concerns, the hospital has been forced to take its network systems offline to mitigate any potential risks.

Disruption in Medical Services

Unfortunately, a network outage in the medical sector entails more serious repercussions than simply losing files or experiencing a temporary shutdown. The cybersecurity incident has not only impacted communication channels but has also led to the cancellation of some elective surgeries and procedures.

Cybersecurity Implications

This incident emphasizes how calamitous network outages can be for any organization. While preventative measures must be implemented to prevent such emergencies, organizations need to be prepared for cases like these where the worst-case scenario does occur.

Establishing a disaster recovery plan can ensure that your organization will not be destroyed by a cybersecurity incident. Once you have created a disaster recovery plan, it is important to consistently review and update it. As AI evolves and new technologies emerge, new and more complex cyber threats are imminent.

Don’t wait until it’s too late: contact us for a free network consultation TODAY at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

Are Longer Passwords Safer Against Cyber Attacks?

By -- 2024-02-5 in Blog

A 16-character password may be just as susceptible to a hacking attempt as a short password, according to a recent Specops Software report.

Using easily guessable, duplicate, and simple passwords may make it easier for you to remember, but it also makes it easier for hackers to hijack your accounts. With a booming market for individuals selling data and credentials, it is now more important than ever that organizations are implementing safer and more intentional cyber practices.

How do these attacks happen?

Hackers bypass predictable passwords through a variety of methods.

1) Dictionary Attack:

  – Hackers use predefined lists for likely passwords.

  – Includes common phrases, frequently used passwords, and industry-specific terms.

2) Brute Force Attack:

  – Uses software to try all character combinations.

  – Shorter/less complex passwords are more at risk for this form of attack

3) Mask Attack:

  – A form of brute forcing with known password elements.

  – Reduces guesses by targeting specific password constructions.

  – Knowledge of patterns speeds up brute force attempts.

4) Threat of Keyboard Walks:

– Involves using adjacent keyboard characters for passwords.

 – Despite not forming real words, common patterns are targeted in attacks.

Use Safer Password-Keeping Methods

Using unique and complex passwords for each account may seem overwhelming or impossible to remember. Fortunately, there are solutions to keep you secure and organized when creating your passwords.

Password keepers do the heavy lifting by creating unique passwords for you and storing them in one safe and secure platform. That way, you can keep all of your passwords in one place without sacrificing security for convenience.  Additionally, enable 2FA as an added layer of defense for your accounts. It only takes 30 seconds to do and can save you a major cyber headache in the long run.

For more cyber safety tips visit www.optfinITy.com or contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

Microsoft’s Response to Midnight Blizzard Data Breach

By -- 2024-02-2 in Blog

Immediate Response and Detection

On Friday Microsoft released an official statement on its actions following a cyber breach by Nation State Actor Midnight Blizzard against its corporate systems. This breach raises concerns about the ongoing threat from nation-state actors and highlights potential shortcomings in Microsoft’s cyber practices. Common issues such as poor password management and disabled 2FA contribute to cybersecurity risks, and Microsoft is not exempt from these challenges.

Cybersecurity Practices and 2FA Implementation

Through targeting a legacy test tenant account, the bad actors were able to bypass more vigorous security measures to alter account permissions. Hackers were then able to access a small percentage of corporate email accounts, including members of the senior leadership team and employees in the cybersecurity and legal divisions.

The success of a spray attack signifies that Microsoft was not fully enforcing 2FA/MFA on its own systems, despite recommending it to its users. The attack highlights the importance of enabling 2FA across all platforms as an added layer of defense, despite having other cybersecurity measures in place.

In response to the breach, Microsoft is redefining the balance between security and business risk. Immediate measures include applying current security standards to legacy systems, even if disruptions occur.

This incident serves as a reminder of the constant need for vigilance in cybersecurity practices to mitigate risks from sophisticated adversaries. Cyber disaster response plans need to be frequently reviewed and updated as new vulnerabilities and risks appear.

Contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400 to review vulnerabilities in your network and create a plan of action today.

The QR Code Quishing Threat: Unraveling the Risks

By -- 2024-01-19 in Blog

Despite having 2FA enabled, Mandiant, a Google-owned company, was recently the victim of a cyber-attack against their Twitter account with over 100,000 followers.

To appear more legitimate, the hackers renamed the account “Phantom” and updated the bio to pose as the Phantom Cryptocurrency wallet. The hackers then used the account to promote links to a phony website claiming to offer free $PHNTM cryptocurrency tokens.

Aside from attempting to gain access to financial information, the hackers also mocked Mandiant in a series of tweets suggesting that the company change the password and check the account bookmarks once they got control of the account again. Upon regaining control of the account, Mandiant confirmed that they had 2FA enabled and were looking into the issue.

2FA, also known as multifactor authentication, requires an extra layer of security where you need to insert a code from an app, fingerprint, facial scan, or an additional method to authenticate your identity. You can check out our previous blog post on how 2FA can help you make your passcodes more secure to learn more about it.

The Mandiant breach serves as an important reminder that 2FA does not completely defend against cyberattacks. You should still enable 2FA to protect yourself, but it should be used in addition to safe cyber habits and frequent monitoring.

Don’t leave your cybersecurity to chance: visit www.optfinITy.com or contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

5 Essential Cybersecurity Measures for Healthcare Providers: A Guide to Protecting Patient Data

By -- 2024-01-16 in Blog

Healthcare organizations possess vast amounts of sensitive data that cybercriminals may find valuable, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. With the increasing volume of electronic patient data, it’s crucial to ensure the protection and confidentiality of this information. This post explores five essential cybersecurity measures that every healthcare provider should adopt to protect patient data.

Implement Strong Passwords and Multifactor Authentication on ALL accounts

Cyberattacks can be deterred by the first line of defense—strong passwords. Employees should be encouraged to use complex passwords that are difficult to guess, incorporating a variety of characters and avoiding password reuse across multiple accounts. Once strong passwords are in place, it is essential and required to use 2FA to ensure that only authorized individuals gain access, even if a password is compromised. We highlight the importance of 2FA and how you can enable it in more detail here.

Avoid Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals commonly employ phishing scams to steal sensitive information. Employees may unwittingly grant access to cybercriminals by clicking on seemingly legitimate links or downloading attachments. Healthcare providers should educate their employees about the dangers of phishing scams and provide training on identifying and avoiding them.

Use Encryption Technology

Encryption technology transforms data into an unreadable format that requires a decryption key for access. It can protect confidential patient information, including medical history, social security numbers, and payment details.

Conduct Regular Security Audits

Identifying vulnerabilities and promptly addressing them is crucial for the healthcare provider’s system. Regular security audits should be conducted to identify potential weaknesses and take appropriate measures to fix them. Employees should be made aware of the importance of security audits and their role in maintaining cybersecurity.

Provide Cybersecurity Training for Employees

Employees often constitute the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain, emphasizing the need for training to identify and prevent cyberattacks. Regular cybersecurity training should be provided to educate employees on cybersecurity’s importance, how to identify potential threats, and implementing best practices for protecting sensitive patient data. Refer to our previous blog on cybersecurity testing for more information.

Cybersecurity is critical for healthcare providers in protecting patient data from cyberattacks. Implementing the five essential cybersecurity measures mentioned above enables healthcare providers to safeguard sensitive patient information and build trust with their patients.

Learn more about how our team can protect you and your business today at 703-790-0400 or sales@optfinITy.com.

Google Settles Lawsuit for Tracking Users in Incognito Mode

By -- 2024-01-12 in Blog

Is your search activity truly private in private mode?

Google has finally settled a lawsuit from June 2020 alleging that users were misled by having their activity tracked while browsing in incognito mode. According to The Hacker News, the plaintiffs filed a claim that Google violated federal wiretap laws by using Google Analytics to collect information when in private mode.

The case is a vital reminder of the importance of reading the fine print when it comes to your privacy. Google’s displayed message informs users that their search activity is potentially still visible to websites they visit, employers or schools, or to their internet service provider.

A common misconception is that enabling private mode ensures searches will not be traced or tracked whatsoever. In reality, incognito mode simply means that user activity will not be saved locally to the browser. This means that websites utilizing advertisement technologies and analytics APIs can continue to track and monitor all activity.

Ultimately, the court could not find evidence that Google explicitly consented to the alleged data collection. The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed.

Users must inform themselves of best cyber practices to browse securely. Clearing cache and cookies regularly can help protect your information from websites tracking your data for advertising purposes. To truly be safe, avoid searching or browsing on any websites that you wouldn’t want your employer or anyone else to see.

Update: April 3rd, 2024

In response to the 2020 lawsuit Google has agreed to destroy billions of data records. The step holds significant implications for the conversation surrounding online security and privacy.

For more cyber safety tips visit www.optfinITy.com or contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

Can Hackers Still Bypass 2FA?

By -- 2024-01-10 in Blog

Despite having 2FA enabled, Mandiant, a Google-owned company, was recently the victim of a cyber-attack against their Twitter account with over 100,000 followers.

To appear more legitimate, the hackers renamed the account “Phantom” and updated the bio to pose as the Phantom Cryptocurrency wallet. The hackers then used the account to promote links to a phony website claiming to offer free $PHNTM cryptocurrency tokens.

Aside from attempting to gain access to financial information, the hackers also mocked Mandiant in a series of tweets suggesting that the company change the password and check the account bookmarks once they got control of the account again. Upon regaining control of the account, Mandiant confirmed that they had 2FA enabled and were looking into the issue.

2FA, also known as multifactor authentication, requires an extra layer of security where you need to insert a code from an app, fingerprint, facial scan, or an additional method to authenticate your identity. You can check out our previous blog post on how 2FA can help you make your passcodes more secure to learn more about it.

The Mandiant breach serves as an important reminder that 2FA does not completely defend against cyberattacks. You should still enable 2FA to protect yourself, but it should be used in addition to safe cyber habits and frequent monitoring.

Don’t leave your cybersecurity to chance: visit www.optfinITy.com or contact us for a free consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.

An Advanced iPhone Hack is Putting Apple Users at Risk

By -- 2024-01-9 in Blog

If you’re an Apple user, your data may be vulnerable to one of the most sophisticated attacks  of 2023. A recent discovery by Russian cybersecurity company, Kaspersky, has brought to light an advanced spyware attack that was able to target Apple iOS devices. According to Hacker News, the attack, which was dubbed Operation Triangulation, used four never-before-seen zero-day vulnerabilities to bypass hardware-based security protections and gather sensitive information from devices running iOS versions up to iOS 16.2.

The attack begins with an iMessage carrying a malicious attachment that automatically processes and deploys a spyware module without user interaction. This means that the user wouldn’t even need to open the attachment for the attack to be successful. The severity of the attack is evident in the fact that it was able to bypass Apple’s strong security protocols, which is a major cause for concern.

Apple did release patches for some of the vulnerabilities in January 2023, but others were addressed in iOS 15.7.7, iOS 15.8, iOS 16.3, iOS 16.5.1, and iOS 16.6.1. One of the vulnerabilities, CVE-2023-38606, was used to bypass hardware-based security protections. The exploit allows the threat actor to gain complete control of the compromised system.

The discovery of Operation Triangulation is a wake-up call for Apple and its users. It shows that even the strongest security measures can be breached, and users need to stay vigilant and keep their devices updated with the latest security patches. With the increasing number of cyber threats, it’s imperative to take security seriously and take all necessary steps to protect ourselves and our devices.

For more cyber safety tips visit www.optfinITy.com. Book a free network consultation at sales@optfinITy.com or 703-790-0400.