Did you know that you can get free cyber security tips and alerts from US-CERT (United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team)?
These pop into my inbox regularly, and many are very informative. Here are a few, copied and pasted from the emails I’ve received.
North Korean Malicious Cyber Activity
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have identified a Trojan malware variant—referred to as KEYMARBLE—used by the North Korean government. The U.S. Government refers to malicious cyber activity by the North Korean government as HIDDEN COBRA.
US-CERT encourages users and administrators to review Malware Analysis Report (MAR) MAR-10135536-17 and the US-CERT page on HIDDEN COBRA – North Korean Malicious Cyber Activity for more information.
Cyber Security Tips on Facebook Messenger
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released an article on building a digital defense against a fraud that uses Facebook’s texting app—Facebook Messenger. Scammers send messages that appear to be from trusted sources or trick users into clicking on malicious links or sharing personal information. Before clicking on links, users should verify the validity of the message with the sender outside of the app.
NCCIC encourages users to review the FBI Article and NCCIC Tip on Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks for more information. If you believe you have been a victim of these scams, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
Cyber Security Tips on the Internet of Things
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released an article on the risks associated with internet-connected devices, commonly referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT). FBI warns that cyber threat actors can use unsecured IoT devices as proxies to anonymously pursue malicious cyber activities.
As our reliance on IoT becomes an important part of everyday life, being aware of the associated risks is a key part of keeping your information and devices secure. NCCIC encourages users and administrators to review the FBI article for more information and refer to the NCCIC Tip Securing the Internet of Things.
Cyber Security Tips on Travel Scams
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released an article on building a digital defense against travel scams. The FBI explains how scammers trick consumers with “free” vacation ploys. These offers may be fake or involve hidden fees. Legitimate companies will not ask prize winners to pay to claim their reward.
NCCIC encourages consumers to review the FBI Article, the Federal Trade Commission’s Travel Tips, and NCCIC’s Tip on Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks for more information.
Cyber Security Tips on Back-to-School
As summer break ends, many students will return to school with mobile devices, such as smart phones, tablets, and laptops. Although these devices can help students with their schoolwork and stay in touch with family and friends, there are risks associated with using them. However, there are simple steps that can help keep students stay safe while using their mobile devices and getting online.
NCCIC suggests reviewing the following tips and resources for information to keep students cyber safe:
- Keeping Children Safe Online
- Rethink Cyber Safety Rules and the “Tech Talk” with Your Teens
- Building a Digital Defense for School Kids and Cell Phone Safety
- Stop.Think.Connect. Toolkit
- Stay Safe Online
- Concerned Parent’s Internet Safety Toolbox
Get Cyber Security Tips to Your Inbox
You can sign up for free cyber security tips, by subscribing to them here. The site includes the following mailing lists and you can sign up for one or all of them.
- Alerts — timely information about current security issues, vulnerabilities, and exploits
- Analysis Reports — in-depth analysis on new or evolving cyber threats
- Bulletins — weekly summaries of new vulnerabilities. Patch information is provided when available
- Tips — advice about common security issues for the general public
- Current Activity — up-to-date information about high-impact types of security activity affecting the community at large