Top Cyber Security Disasters and Breaches

Monica Morris • Jan 09, 2019

Several disastrous cyber-attacks have taken place over the years and they are not letting up either.  Whether small or big business, hackers probe any system with useful data that can be compromised. Since the success of many businesses depend on how well they can secure customer’s data, cyber attacks often erode customer’s confidence and trust in companies and may even result in permanent business closure in severe cases.

In this article, we go through a list of major hack attacks and leaks that happened in recent time.

BevMo

BevMo website was hacked and the credit card data of about 15,000 customers were compromised.

While BevMo’s website was managed by a third party, the malicious code which harvests customers’ data was injected into the website and it took 7 weeks before the malware was detected. By the time the malicious code was detected and removed, thousands of sensitive data have already been stolen.

BevMo was forced to work with a third-party forensic firm and notify law enforcement about the breach.

Wannacry

In May 2017, Wannacry ransomware spread widely around the world infecting both public and private organizations. The most impactful effect of the malware is the crippling of the UK’s National Health Service hospitals, causing distress to both patients and management.

It was eventually restrained using some of its flaws. Although Wannacry didn’t generate much revenue during the attack, it rattled the infected health institutions.

MyfitnessPal App

One way to do stay fit is by tracking fitness activities with app and MyfitnessPal is a popular choice.

In March 2018, it was discovered that hackers had infiltrated MyfitnessPal owned by Under Armour and stole the personal data of over 150 million users of the app.

Even though data was stolen in the cyber security breach, little damage was done as most of the data was useless to the attackers because the login credentials were hashed using a strong encryption algorithm, bcrypt.

In addition, security configurations prevented the intruders from accessing other valuable data such as location, credit card numbers, and birth dates.

While the strong security system prevented major loss, the passwords that were encrypted with weak SHA1 scheme were likely accessed by the hackers.

Marriott International

This is arguably one of the biggest cybersecurity breaches since it affected 500 million customers. The breach originated from the Starwood hotel, a recently acquired branch of Marriott.

The breach has been in place since the acquisition in 2016 but was discovered two years later. Information such as contact details, passport numbers, and travel details was accessed. In addition, credit card numbers and the expiry dates of over 100 million users were stolen.

According to the New York Times , the attack on Marriott was attributed to Chinese hackers on intelligence gathering operations.

Wikileaks

Wikileaks announced that they obtained some files from the CIA in March 2018. The files were alleged to contain information pertaining to CIA operations involving hacking and spying.

It is also alleged that the CIA was exploiting weaknesses in iOS, android, windows and Mac operating systems.

Wikileaks continued to release the file’s dubbed “vault 7″ in small amounts maintaining that the files expose the secret tools such as viruses, malware, Trojans, and zero-day exploits that are used in target surveillance. The leak

 

Whether it is protecting your system from active attackers with robust security software or configuring your system to prevent unintentional data leakage, a managed service provider such as SDTEK can improve your business security. Contact us today if you feel the safety of your company data could be at risk.

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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