Recent Cyber Security Breaches: Microsoft, Shopify and More

Monica Morris • Oct 02, 2020

cyber security
As a managed IT service provider it is important to us to make sure to stay in know about the latest cyber security breaches. Every few weeks we like to share our findings with you here on our blog. Please take a peek below to learn more about some of the most recent cyber attacks here and around the world.

Microsoft (United States)

Technology Conglomerate

The Hack: Unsecured Database

Quick Summary: “In a rare security blunder, Microsoft failed to secure a backend server for Bing. The server is estimated to have leaked more than 6.5TB of log files containing 13 billion records originating from the Bing search engine. The leak included the server exposed technical details, such as search queries, details about the user’s system (device, OS, browser, etc.), geo-location details (where available), and various tokens, hashes, and coupon codes.” -Kevin Lancaster

Shopify (Canada)

e -Commerce Platform

The Hack: Malicious Insider

Quick Summary: “The data of customers for an estimated 200 merchants on Shopify was exposed in an insider incident at the e-commerce giant. Two employees who were working a scheme to steal transaction data are to blame. The data exposed includes client details like email, name, and street address, as well as order details, but does not involve complete payment card numbers or financial information. The company hosts over one million businesses across more than 175 countries on its platform.” -Kevin Lancaster

University Hospital New Jersey (United States)

Healthcare Provider

The Hack: Unauthorized Systems Access

Quick Summary: “The SunCrypt ransomware operation has leaked data allegedly stolen from University Hospital New Jersey (UHNJ) in a ransomware attack. The attackers have leaked 1.6 GB ff the 240 GB of data containing over 48,000 documents. The documents contain patient information release authorization forms, copies of driving licenses, Social Security Numbers (SSNs), date of birth (DOB), and records about the Board of Directors.” -Kevin Lancaster

Public Health Wales (Wales)

Government Agency

The Hack: Accidental Data Exposure

Quick Summary: “Personal data concerning 18,105 residents of Wales who tested positive for COVID-19 was uploaded by mistake to a public server and spent 20 hours online in August, Public Health Wales said on Monday. The agency says that for the majority of cases, 16,179 people, the information consisted of initials, dates of birth, geographical area, and sex. For 1,926 people living in nursing homes and supported housing, the information also included the names of the homes.” -Kevin Lancaster

Staples (United States)

Office Supply Retailer

The Hack: Ransomware

Quick Summary: “Staples has notified some customers of a cybersecurity incident that occurred earlier this month around 9/02 and consisted of unauthorized access to a system. Little information is available, but the event. The letter notes that “a limited amount” of order data for customers of Staples.com was obtained, and may contain names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, last four credit card digits, details about the order (delivery, cost, product), and other non-sensitive information.” -Kevin Lancaster

University of Tasmania (Australia)

Institution of Higher Learning

The Hack: Accidental Data Exposure

Quick Summary: “That classic human error is to blame for the accidental exposure of students’ personal data to faculty members at the University of Tasmania. In a security bungle, the personal information of 19,900 students was made public through a misconfigured Microsoft Office365 SharePoint site that was accessible to anyone with a utas.edu.au email address.”
-Kevin Lancaster

To learn more about how to keep your company safe and secure, click  here  to explore our San Diego IT Services & IT Security plans that are offered by SDTEK.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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