Understanding Shimming in Cyber Security Shimming in cyber security is a technique where attackers insert a ‘shim’—a layer of malicious code—between an application and its operating system. Originally a tool for software compatibility, shimming has become a stealthy cyber threat, enabling attackers to intercept data, bypass security, and execute malicious code undetected. How Shimming Works Shims intercept system calls, manipulating how applications interact with the operating system. For example: Stuxnet Worm: Leveraged shims to compromise industrial control systems. Carbanak Group: Used shimming to steal millions from financial institutions. Common Types of Shim-Based Attacks: DLL Injection: Injects malicious code into processes.…
Author: Munim
Introduction Cyber Security Nordic 2024 is set to be a cornerstone event for cybersecurity experts, IT leaders, and public sector executives. With a focus on emerging threats, innovations, and regional collaboration, this year’s events promise actionable insights and valuable networking opportunities. 1. Cyber Security Nordic 2024 – Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre (Nov 4–5, 2024) Overview: Cyber Security Nordic 2024 in Helsinki will gather over 2,000 industry leaders for discussions on politics, economy, and the future of cybersecurity. Audience: IT and ICT executives, cybersecurity experts, and government officials. Highlights: Top-notch presentations, strategic partnerships, and networking lounges. Previous Attendance: Over 2,060…
Introduction Cyber security zones and conduits are fundamental concepts in securing Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS). Defined by the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards, these concepts help organizations reduce cyber risk through proper network segmentation and secure communication pathways. In this article, we explore the key concepts, practical implementations, and best practices for applying cyber security zones and conduits effectively. Understanding Cyber Security Zones and Conduits What are Zones? Zones are groupings of cyber assets that share the same cybersecurity requirements. They are defined based on functional, logical, and physical relationships. Sub-zones: Zones can have sub-zones for more granular…
Introduction Master Service Agreements (MSAs) are vital in cyber security, ensuring that security standards, responsibilities, and compliance measures are clearly defined between businesses and service providers. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, MSAs provide a structured framework for securing digital operations and mitigating risks. What is an MSA in Cyber Security? A Master Service Agreement (MSA) is a legal contract outlining the terms and conditions of an ongoing business relationship. In cyber security, an MSA defines security obligations, risk management strategies, and compliance standards between service providers and clients. Key Components of MSAs for Cyber Security: Security Requirements: Standards for…
Introduction The cybersecurity industry plays a crucial role in protecting digital assets across the public and private sectors. To effectively engage in government contracts, businesses must understand the appropriate cyber security NAICS codes. These codes classify business activities and help federal agencies and companies align services with relevant projects. What is a NAICS Code? The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is a standardized system for classifying business establishments based on economic activity. NAICS codes are widely used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico to facilitate statistical analysis and streamline government contracting processes. NAICS Code Structure: First Two Digits:…
The healthcare industry has become an increasingly attractive target for cybercriminals, as seen through recent actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (HHS OCR). The agency has intensified its cybersecurity enforcement, particularly concerning HIPAA compliance, to protect sensitive patient information from malicious actors. Recent settlements underscore the OCR’s proactive stance in suing and penalizing entities that neglect to implement robust security measures. In this article, we delve into notable cases involving ransomware and phishing attacks, analyze OCR’s enforcement strategies, and provide actionable insights for healthcare organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. Understanding OCR’s…
The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks have made cybersecurity professionals indispensable. Two of the most sought-after roles in the industry are Penetration Tester and Cyber Security Analyst. While both positions contribute to an organisation’s security posture, their responsibilities, skills, and career trajectories differ significantly. In this guide, we delve into the core distinctions between these roles to help aspiring professionals choose the right career path. What is a Penetration Tester? A Penetration Tester, also known as an Ethical Hacker, is responsible for simulating cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities in an organisation’s systems, applications, and networks. These professionals play an…
In today’s interconnected world, aviation cybersecurity is more critical than ever. As the aviation sector increasingly relies on digital technologies for aircraft operations, communication systems, and passenger services, cyber threats have surged. A robust case aviation cyber security checklist becomes essential for protecting critical infrastructure, ensuring passenger safety, and maintaining operational continuity. This article provides a detailed checklist to fortify aviation cybersecurity, leveraging insights from industry practices, ISO 9001:2015 standards, EASA regulations, and lessons from real-world case studies. ✈️ Why Aviation Cybersecurity Matters The aviation industry is a prime target for cyberattacks due to its critical infrastructure and global connectivity.…
The Tor network, renowned for its privacy-preserving architecture, provides anonymity through onion routing. However, its exit nodes—the final relay points that connect Tor traffic to the public internet—are vulnerable to exploitation. Exit node poisoning is one such technique that adversaries use to manipulate or intercept traffic, posing significant risks to individuals and organizations alike. In this article, we’ll explore the techniques involved in Tor network exit node poisoning, their implications, and the defensive measures that can mitigate these threats. Understanding Tor Network Exit Nodes The Tor network routes traffic through at least three nodes: the entry node, middle node, and…
The accelerating advancements in quantum computing have brought the need for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) into sharp focus. As enterprises prepare for the quantum era, significant gaps in PQC adoption persist, leaving sensitive data vulnerable to potential quantum decryption. This article explores these adoption gaps, their implications, and the strategies organizations can employ to build a quantum-resilient infrastructure. The Urgency of Post-Quantum Cryptography Adoption Quantum computers, once fully realized, will break widely used encryption algorithms like RSA-2048 and ECC. Adversaries are already collecting encrypted data today through “harvest now, decrypt later (HNDL)” tactics, with plans to decrypt it once quantum capabilities…