Cyber attacks become more targeted with data theft as the goal

Mass cyber attacks are now being outnumbered by targeted attacks, with 65 percent of the total in the third quarter of 2019 being targeted, compared to 59 percent in the previous quarter. The latest threatscape report from Positive Technologies also shows data theft grew to 61 percent of all attacks on organizations and 64 percent of all attacks on individuals (compared to 58 and 55 percent respectively in the second quarter). The share of attacks with direct financial motivation was 31 percent. Businesses continue to be the main focus too, with just one out of five attacks directed against individuals.… [Continue Reading]

Why digital transformation and security should go hand-in-hand [Q&A]

Digital transformation is becoming an essential part of many business initiatives and of course security is a high priority too. You would think that two such essential areas would exist in close harmony, but it isn't always the case. In the age of digital transformation security can get left behind. So, what can businesses do to ensure that new digital initiatives are secured from the start? We spoke to John Worrall, CEO at application and infrastructure security specialist ZeroNorth to find out more. BN: Why is it so important to design security into transformation initiatives from the start? JW: Forward-thinking… [Continue Reading]

Facebook launches data portability tool to allow users to transfer photos and videos to Google Photos

Embracing the notion of data portability, Facebook has launched a new tool that lets users transfer their photos and videos from Facebook to other online services. The social network is kicking things off by making it possible to transfer data from Facebook to Google Photos. It comes as part of Facebook's participation in the open-source Data Transfer Project and the ability to transfer to other services will be added soon. See also: The Facebook app could be secretly using your iPhone camera behind your back Facebook may know when you're having sex Facebook Pay launches in the US, with payment… [Continue Reading]

Unencrypted SMS database found online, exposing millions of US text messages

A huge database of text messages and user data has been discovered online, completely unprotected and free for anyone to browse. Found by researchers from vpnMentor, the database belongs to US communications company, TrueDialog. Among the exposed data are not only tens of millions of SMS messages, but also private information including usernames and passwords. See also: OnePlus suffers data breach, exposing personal details of online store customers Google is under investigation over its data collection practices Database containing details of nearly half a million gamers exposed in security lapse The Texas-based company provides SMS services to educational establishments and… [Continue Reading]

Linux Mint 19.3 'Tricia' BETA is mere days away!

Back in October, we told you the Linux Mint developers were hoping to have version 19.3 released by Christmas 2019. Well, I have some good news regarding that -- Linux Mint 19.3 "Tricia" it is still on schedule for a release by December 25! Yes, Linux Mint fans, you will likely be treated to something much better than any gift wrapped under your tree-- a new version of the OS you love. With all of that said, I have some more great news about Linux Mint 19.3 "Tricia" -- the BETA will be released this upcoming Tuesday, December 3! This… [Continue Reading]

TRENDnet TUC-ET2G USB-C to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter for Windows, Mac, and Linux [Review]

I wish all new laptops came with Ethernet ports, but sadly, it just isn't meant to be. You see, as computer makers try to make notebooks thinner, they omit important ports such as Ethernet. For many folks, this isn't a big deal, as they only use Wi-Fi anyway. Other consumers, such as yours truly, like having the ability to connect to a network using a cable. Thankfully, an Ethernet port is just a dongle away! Thanks to USB, you have long been able to add hardwired networking to a computer without it. With new computers having USB-C ports running at… [Continue Reading]

Google is under investigation over its data collection practices

The European Commission has started an investigation into "practices relating to Google's collection and use of data". EU antirust regulators have already hit Google with record-breaking fines, but concern remains about how the company collects data about its users as well as how this data is then used. The regulator has contacted several companies to ask about agreements they have with Google to hand over user data and what -- if any -- money was involved. See also: Google teams with Citigroup bank to offer checking accounts from 2020 RCS is being implemented dangerously, leaving users vulnerable to attack Google… [Continue Reading]