malware – Page 9 – Scriptingthewhy.com

Bank Draining Done with Love

Consider following on social media!

Quick note: if you’re viewing this via email, come to the site for better viewing. Enjoy!

Sneaking into your computer to see what’s up.
Photo by Moiske2l Officiel, please support by following @pexel.com

Advanced Persistent Threat

You were to print “Hello World”

You know, there’s no better feeling in the world than having someone take money from your bank account. This was said by no one ever. As the world turns, we face more and more threats online. At this point, we just have to admit that hackers, scammers, threat actors, or whatever your company wants to call them, they’re getting better at their job.

To add insult to injury, when they improve, it leads to them getting better pay. When you improve at your job, you may get a new title and make about the same pay with more responsibilities. Are we saying for you to be rich? Maybe. Are we saying for you to get paid what you’re worth? Definitely. Pushing making light of corporate logic aside, an issue has surfaced online that has a few people concerned about the safety of their computers and finances.

What is this issue? Glad you asked, look no further than “GooseEgg”. You don’t know what that is? Don’t worry, we have you covered on that. We’re going to look at what GooseEgg is, a few things you may need to know, and if this is something that you should power off your computer for. Spoiler, for the most part, you should be safe.

Enjoy the read so far? Why don’t you consider subscribing so you can keep up to date?

Sitting on a park bench or laying down for a picnic, we know you have food. We’re coming.
Photo by Pixabay, please support by following @pexel.com

GooseEgg, is kind of a weird name for something on the internet but hey, the internet is a weird place and it’s only getting weirder. GooseEgg, also known as PrintNightmare, is a tool that can prompt other programs with elevated privileges.

Once a threat actor has this at their disposal, they’re in. How is this a problem? Simple, if someone has the same level of privilege as you, that means they can do anything you do and maybe… better. How does this appeal to you? You have money, we’re telling you how to keep your money safe or at least try to.

Banks will still let someone take money from your account. Think it’s covered in the insurance so, they’ll let the person take your money and refund you somewhere 90+ days later. That’s all right, it’s not like you needed the money right away for anything.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN IT’S GOING TO TAKE ABOUT 90 DAYS!?
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio, please support by following @pexel.com

So, you may be wondering the same way as Al Pacino did in Scarface. “WHO PUT THIS THING TOGETHER!?” Researchers have pointed in the direction of a Russia-linked cyberespionage group APT28. Whether they have been using it or not isn’t the point. We’re sure this can be found on the dark web, that’s where all the “fun items” are sold.

You won’t have to do anything outside of your normal for protection. Having an update-to-system, anti-virus software, and applications will keep you safeguarded. Security may not be 100%, but following best practices can see you being able to pay your rent on time.

Made it this far and found this to be entertaining? Then a big thanks to you and please show your support by cracking a like, sharing this with whomever, scripting a comment, or plug-in to follow.

Would like to give sincere thanks to current followers and subscribers, your support and actions mean a lot and has a play in the creation of each script.

Do you feel like there is something I may have missed on GooseEgge/PrintNightmare? Script a comment below.

Security, Tech

Don’t Get Hacked: Finding the Security Sweet Spot (It’s Not Under Your Desk!)

Key Takeaways

Cybersecurity is important: Data breaches can be expensive and damaging.
Balance cost and risk: Understand your risk tolerance and prioritize security measures accordingly.
Use strong passwords and MFA: This makes it harder for hackers to steal your information.
Keep software updated: Updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities.
Be cautious of phishing emails: Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments.
Do a cost-benefit analysis: Weigh the cost of security solutions against the potential benefits.
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices.

This can happen sometimes when you put money over security.
Photo by Mike Bird, please support by following @pexel.com

Let’s be real, “cybersecurity” can sound about as thrilling as watching dial-up load a webpage. But hold on! Skimping on security is like playing dodgeball with a digital wrecking ball – and trust us, you don’t want to be the one getting flattened.

Here’s the thing: protecting your data is a balancing act. You want ironclad defenses, but who wants to break the bank for them? This is where understanding your risk tolerance comes in. Imagine you run a small business. A data breach could mean lost customer records and credit card info, a huge blow. But for a personal computer, maybe it’s just some embarrassing childhood photos.

Security? More Like Sanity!

Think of strong cybersecurity as an insurance policy for your digital life. A single breach can unleash a financial nightmare worse than accidentally buying that “guaranteed muscle growth” protein powder (we’ve all been there). Data loss, hefty fines, and a damaged reputation are all on the menu.

We can’t get hacked. We have MONEY!!!
Photo by Gustavo Fring, please support by following @pexel.com

Counting the Cost of Catastrophe

Investing in security isn’t about throwing money at a problem. It’s about being proactive. Imagine your data as a family heirloom. Sure, you could leave it on the coffee table, hoping nobody swipes it, but wouldn’t you feel better with a locked cabinet (read: strong passwords) and maybe a security camera (read: antivirus software)?

The cost of a data breach can dwarf the cost of decent security. Studies show that the average breach can cost companies millions – enough to make even the most frugal accountant sweat.

But Wait, There’s More!

Balancing security with affordability is a personal journey. Every organization (or individual) has a unique risk tolerance. Think of it like your spice preference. Some folks can handle the heat of a habanero, while others stick to bell peppers. A risk assessment framework, like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, can help you identify your critical data and prioritize your defenses accordingly.

Remember, security isn’t about buying the fanciest antivirus (though a good one is essential). It’s about layering your defenses like a well-dressed onion (because seriously, who wants a naked onion?). Here are some specific things you can do:

Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use a unique, complex password for every account and enable MFA wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for hackers to break in.
Software Updates: Always keep your operating system, web browser, and other software updated. These updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities hackers can exploit.
Beware of Phishing Emails: Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments in emails, even if they seem to come from a legitimate source. Phishing emails are a common way for hackers to steal your personal information.

This…is just impressive.
Photo by cottonbro studio, please support by following @pexel.com

Let’s Talk Turkey (or Should We Say, Talk Security?)

So, how do you find the security sweet spot? Here are a few tips:

Think Cost-Benefit Analysis: Not all security solutions are created equal. Weigh the cost of implementing a solution against the potential financial benefits of mitigating risks.
Measure Your Wins: Security isn’t just about avoiding disaster. Look for ways to quantify the value of your security investments using metrics like Return on Security Investment (ROSI).
Stay Informed: There’s no shame in admitting you’re not a cybersecurity guru. Check out industry reports on best practices and keep yourself updated on the latest threats.
Join the Conversation! We all have a role to play in keeping our digital world safe. Share your security strategies and experiences in the comments below. Remember, together, we can build a fortress so strong, that even the most determined cyber-crook will be left hacking away at their keyboards in frustration. Because let’s be honest, wouldn’t that be a sight to see?

Love learning tech? Join our community of passionate minds! Share your knowledge, ask questions, and grow together. Like, comment, and subscribe to fuel the movement!

Don’t forget to share.

Every Second Counts. Help our website grow and reach more people in need. Donate today to make a difference!

Make a one-time donation

Make a monthly donation

Make a yearly donation

Choose an amount

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

$5.00

$15.00

$100.00

Or enter a custom amount

Your contribution is appreciated.

Donate Donate monthly Donate yearly

AI, Programming, Security, Tech

Dwelling without Sunshine

Consider following on social media!

Quick note: if you’re viewing this via email, come to the site for better viewing. Enjoy!

I’m going to read one more script before this court case. I mean the guys going to jail anyway so reading more it’s going to hurt.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto, please support by following @pexel.com

So many times, in life when you think you have dealt with one problem, shortly after there comes another one creeping its way around the corner hopping in your pants to make its way up the place where the sun doesn’t shine.

For many of us, this comes in the form of bills, but for most of us, this comes in the form of finding out how easily someone can obtain our sensitive information, which in most cases they don’t have to be involved at all, they can just have collection be automated while sat on the porcelain stool passing the morning coffee and last night’s meal.

Android products and Google Play Store have been a playground for threat actors to release malware in an effort to collect from their victims. As usual, we’re going over what the attack is, who is using it, the functionality and effects upon release, and what are some ways to protect yourself from having a rat run rampant on your personal device.

Dear god, it’s making its way up!
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio, please support by following @pexel.com

The Attack

Speaking of having a rat in your personal device. Here’s a name you’re not ready for, IRATA. Yes, that’s an actual name of malware. IRATA stands for Iranian Remote Access Trojan.

Are you trying to figure out what the last “A” stands for? Simple, since it is Android specific, it stands for “Android”. Android users, feel proud, there’s another malware targeting you…yet again.

This is a program that has spyware and information-stealing capabilities. This was discovered via a smishing attack in Iran. Smishing for those who do not know, is the dark art of contacting a person through text or another SMS (Short Message Service) to lure them into a false sense of security to give information. In this case, IRATA brings users to a fake webpage urging them to download an app and pay a fee for the service.

Unlike how companies operate by offering a service and charging you for the service and then some, you can actually choose not to pay this one, so don’t pay it.

I’ve read Scriptingthewhy, I don’t think Z-daddy was talking about this kind of rat.
Photo by MART PRODUCTION, please support by following @pexel.com

Who Can It Be Now

So who are the culprits employing the use of IRATA? Well, and this seems to become the norm if you’re a subscribed reader, no one has been named for using this malware.

However, its origin stems from Iran since that’s where its activity is taking place. Just be aware, that if you have a trip coming up to Iran, pray for your Android device. Regardless, still safeguard your device, traveling or not.

Enjoy the read so far? Why don’t you consider subscribing so you can keep up to date?

Tim: You’re not going to believe this, a rat made off with my information.
Sarah: Are you sure it’s a RAT and not a rat?
Tim: What’s the diff?
Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom, please support by following @pexel.com

That Sinking Feeling

Why would this be something you need to worry about? Well, since you asked, you would have to worry about IRATA scurrying away with all the information about your personal device.

This would include information like the serial number, the device ID, battery status, network type, and many other things. This is like your blind date showing up and telling you everything they know about you without you uttering a word. It’s not creepy at all.

To make IRATA even more terrifying, IRATA can hide itself by disguising its icon and tampering with the phone’s sound settings, like putting the phone on vibrate or lowering the volume. Once IRATA is in, it can collect information and replicate software to further malicious attacks like phishing.

I did my research on you, I hope that’s not like creepy to you or anything.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio, please support by following @pexel.com

The Prevention

Okay, so it’s clear that you don’t want to go on a creepy blind date where they know everything about you before you say anything, and neither do we want you to. So how would you protect yourself from something like this?

To keep this malware from two-stepping on your personal device, check the reviews of others who may have downloaded the software. Always read the permissions the application is requesting to have access to as some may request access to questionable things.

Like a camera app requesting access to cookies in the browser. It’s plausible that the camera application may have a valid reason for requesting access, however, if it raises a red flag to you then you should go with your “gut feeling”.

Do not download software from third parties as they may contain malware on par or worse than IRATA. Keep your system and anti-virus up to date and exercise caution when opening emails with attachments.

You might not be able to keep out every rat but you can at least lower your chances of falling for their traps.

Kim: You have protection, right?
Dave: You bet I do. I have anti-virus software and Scriptingthewhy.com and… that’s not what you meant by protection.
Photo by Josh Willink, please support by following @pexel.com

Made it this far and found this to be entertaining? Then a big thanks to you and please show your support by cracking a like, sharing this with whomever, scripting a comment, or plug-in to follow.

Would like to give sincere thanks to current followers and subscribers, your support and actions mean a lot and has a play in the creation of each script.

Do you feel like there is something I may have missed on IRATA? Script a comment below.