Cryptocurrency 101
Cryptocurrency is a term that we hear all of the time, but many of us don’t seem to fully grasp what it is, and how it works. We’ll take a look at it from a high level to provide some understanding. Why? Well, it isn’t going away, and it only seems to be gaining popularity. And also, because if you are a target of a ransomware attack, it could very likely be how the hacker demands payment. Now, we are not suggesting you pay that ransom demand, but getting familiar with cryptocurrency will help you in understanding how these cybercriminals are able to fly under the radar.
Mobile Threat
Verizon recently released their 2021 Mobile Security Index report, and in it they summarize their research findings by looking at 856 IT professionals. These are the people that buy, secure, and manage the mobile and internet of things (IOT) devices for their companies.
Human Aspect of Security
It can be so frustrating to try to convince people that we “know better” than they do. Especially when it comes to health or safety right? You want them to know so that you can protect them! It’s like parenting, they need to make mistakes to learn, but nothing too catastrophic.
The Hacker Got Hacked
WeLeakInfo was a data breach site that offered paid subscriptions to users who could then access their searchable database which contained stolen records. This now defunct site contained 12.5 BILLION records of data that was illegally obtained through various means. This included names, phone numbers, addresses, passwords, and email addresses.
A Sigh of Cyber Relief
The passing of the recent COVID-19 relief Bill last week includes funding that will be set aside to address cybersecurity concerns and a rise in the issues that have increased as a result of the pandemic. As we often say when the topic can become divisive or political, regardless of which side you stand on, this is a good thing for everyone. A focus on cybersecurity and guarding individual privacy and rights is necessary, but when it comes to doing the same for government data, it is imperative to the collective good of our country.
Unemployment Scams
We tend to not ask too many questions and let things slide when we aren’t certain about the situation.
Is that normal?
Should that happen like that?
I guess so. I don’t really know. I mean, it seems ok??
And as with all things related to COVID-19, there’s an air of uncertainty that hasn’t left the planet in nearly a year. So, we’re all a little uncertain. We’re all a little confused about what is actually ok or normal. It’s all new.
Heartbreak of a Different Kind
Dating or cultivating relationships is hard enough, let alone trying to do it successfully during a pandemic. You’re putting your heart in the hands of the internet gods and trusting that they will guide you safely along the corridors of the unknown and unseen.
Degree of Awareness
This week a friend shared a story about her college-aged daughter Jane and her recent experience in finding a job. She is in graphic design and has a portfolio, so when she came across a well-known company that creates sports-branded gear that was hiring, it was something she wanted to pursue.
Home Security
When establishing a safe environment at home, we put locks on the doors, latches on the gate, and home security systems that keep uninvited visitors out, and alert us to any intruders otherwise. What we see is what we address – as is the case with most things and situations.
But hidden somewhere in your house is an unlocked door – or doors – that may be giving access to information that can be accessed and stolen much more easily than the family heirlooms and jewels. Your home network is an entry point that is far too often overlooked.
Smart Appliances & Cybersecurity
And so, the season starts. Which one is it that we’re referring to? Cyber Monday, Black Friday, Prime Day…all of these sales tend to lean towards exceptional deals on electronics, and today that means the “smartest” of appliances are being purchased and set up in our homes.
By getting the latest and greatest, are we inadvertently putting a spy in our home? Do smart appliances have the ability to hear and see what we are doing?