Pest Control – Stat! Bad Systems Gone Good, Admin Focus, Botnet Takedown, Rogue Threads, and Self-Inflicted Wounds. It's CISO Intelligence for Wednesday 14th May 2025.
Multitalented bugs in the system, a redemption tale, keeping admin on their toes, new bots and old tech: a win for the good guys, weaving tangled webs, and bad pennies leaving big issues.
💡
"Gives me everything I need to be informed about a topic" - __UK.Gov__
Table of Contents
1. Termite Ransomware: A Pest Above the Rest
2. Mythical Tactics: When Pentesting Gets Heroic
3. SEO’s New Game: Entrapping the IT Admin
4. Classic Rock: Hunting a Botnet That Preys on the Old
5. NICKEL TAPESTRY: An Inside Job from the Outside
6. The Persistence Problem: When Lost Passwords Refuse to Disappear
Sign up for CISO Intelligence.
21st century industry insights for the modern CISO
It won't hurt, I promise.
Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Termite Ransomware: A Pest Above the Rest
_Just when you thought it was safe, the Termite bit a huge chunk out of your security._
What You Need to Know
Termite ransomware is rapidly growing as a formidable cyber threat, pinpointing organizations through targeted phishing, leveraging vulnerabilities in compromised websites, and exploiting outdated software. With origins traced to the Babuk Ransomware, Termite has evolved its tactics to aggressively capitalize on double extortion – encrypting files and threatening data leaks, thus maximizing damage and ransom potential. Your executive action plan includes tightening your organization's cybersecurity protocols by bolstering phishing defenses, system vulnerability assessments, and updating antivirus solutions to counteract this immediate threat.
CISO focus: Ransomware Defense and Response
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
*
It's time we stop lazing around like a termite infestation getting comfy in the walls of your finely built cyber defense. The Termite ransomware is here, and it's not here for tea. Emerging in November 2024, Termite swiftly stepped onto the scene carrying a big torch originally held by Babuk ransomware. Its shade? Slightly nefarious – more structured, more persistent, and a touch more personal in its destructive trajectory.
Blocking the Infestation
Termite ransomware acts like its namesake, gnawing at your systems, exploiting voids, and spreading havoc. The attacks are not broad strokes across the industry landscape, but finely drawn masterpieces of chaos. Those behind Termite employ spear-phishing preciseness to breach environments through vulnerable endpoints, much like Babuk played its game.
Infection Pathways:
Phishing Attacks: Often the initial chisel into an organization’s defense.
Compromised Websites: Hidden malicious codes spring to life when accessed.
Exploited Software Vulnerabilities: Outdated programs serve as open invitations to attackers.
Double the Trouble
Once inside, the stakes morph. Like a master extortionist, Termite is not a one-trick pest. With double extortion tactics, the ransomware doesn’t just tack encryption on for drama; it also goes for exfiltration before your network’s oxygen gets thin.
Data Encryption and Exfiltration: Data is not just locked; it’s copied and potentially for sale on dark alleys of the internet.
Operational Downtime Threats: Added pressure to pay before operations grind to a halt.
Exposure Threat: Using hoarded data as leverage—pay or have your secrets laid bare.
Evolutionary Roots
The connection to Babuk ransomware is the plot twist we all saw coming, given the 2021 disclosure of Babuk's source code. Termite shares encryption routines that whisper Babuk influence, yet differentiates by homing in on victim-specific vulnerabilities with fervor.
A CISO’s Nightmare
Not all’s doom and gloom—we have the CISO community! Strategy and cunning are paramount in dismantling this pest:
1. Phishing Defense: Email systems need bolstered protection like multi-layered verification processes.
2. Patch Management: Religious attention to software updating protocols.
3. Say No to HTTP: Encrypt traffic with HTTPS to dodge compromised website payloads.
From Babuk to Termite, The Pestilence Parade Marches on
Despite sharing family ties with its predecessors, Termite augments its approach, forcing us all to up our game in cyber defense. We must remain vigilant, proactive, and prepared to evolve our tactics right alongside these dastardly digital invaders.
*
Vendor Diligence
Does the vendor continuously update their threat intelligence tools to incorporate new ransomware strains?
Can the vendor's security solutions detect and counter advanced double extortion techniques?
What controls are in place to patch potential vulnerabilities immediately?**
Action Plan
1. Security Awareness Training for Employees: Tailor these to identify and handle phishing emails.
2. Regular Security Audits: Focus on penetration testing to uncover vulnerabilities before Termite does.
3. Incident Response Plan Review: Reinforce response strategies specifically to target the nature of ransomware breaches.
*
Source: AttackIQ’s Blog on Termite Ransomware - May 8, 2025
*
Mythical Tactics: When Pentesting Gets Heroic
_Harness the power of Mythic and become the hero of your own cybersecurity saga._
What You Need to Know
The Mythic agent has emerged as a powerful tool in the arsenal of ethical hackers, transforming penetration testing into a cutting-edge discipline. Developed to mimic threat actor methodologies, the Mythic agent equips security professionals with advanced techniques that are crucial for protecting enterprise defenses. This is a clarion call to the board: prioritize setting aside resources to integrate state-of-the-art pentesting frameworks and maintain a vigilant security posture. You are expected to provide strategic approval and funding to facilitate proactive cybersecurity measures.
CISO focus: Advanced Threat Protection and Ethical Hacking
Sentiment: Positive
Time to Impact: Short (3-18 months)
*
The latest advancements in penetration testing have been significantly influenced by tools originally designed for malicious intent. In a surprising twist of cybersecurity fate, frameworks like Mythic, which were once the domain of threat actors, are now being repurposed as sophisticated instruments for ethical hacking and defense fortification.
Mythic: Born from the Shadows
In the world of cybersecurity, turning a vulnerability into a strength is a constant pursuit. The Mythic framework, originally a post-exploitation tool used by cybercriminals, has become a beacon (pun not intended) for security professionals. Rather than abhor its malevolent origins, savvy pentesters employ its robust features to simulate attacks, enhance preparedness, and unearth vulnerabilities before they can be externally exploited.
From Expert Analysts to 'Mythical' Heroes
Renowned cybersecurity entities such as Kaspersky are spearheading the use of Mythic for legitimate purposes. These experts are not just analyzing threats; they are dissecting them and reusing the intelligence gained to bolster organizational defenses. According to SecureList, the Mythic agent is now a pivotal component for advanced penetration testing practices—turning threat intelligence into preventive measures.
Proactive Security: A Mythic Paradigm
The age of reactive cybersecurity is outdated. Organizations that rely solely on responding to threats are fighting a losing battle. Modern cybersecurity demands a shift to proactive strategies, which include adopting tools like the Mythic agent. This approach means learning from attackers' methods, anticipating their moves, and building defenses capable of withstanding sophisticated digital assaults.
Best Practices in Mythic Pentesting
Comprehensive Simulations: Use the Mythic agent to simulate a full spectrum of attack vectors, covering both common and novel threats.
Enhanced Detection Capabilities: Develop detection protocols based on the behaviors and patterns observed through Mythic simulations.
Regular Updates and Training: Keep the Mythic framework updated and provide continuous training to the security team to ensure familiarity with the tool’s capabilities.
Educational Utility
This framework is also a treasure trove for education. Security teams are encouraged to use Mythic not just for defense, but also as a training module. Conduct workshops that recreate real-world scenarios, allowing teams to practice in a controlled environment. By mastering these simulations, they enhance their response efficacy in real crisis situations.
Call to Action for Security Teams
Deploy Mythic as part of your next penetration test. Get familiar with its capabilities and push the boundaries of your cybersecurity protocols. Remember, the right use of such powerful tools can transform your defense strategies, preempt attacks, and fundamentally alter your security landscape.
All's Well That Ends in Security Lore
In conclusion, adopting the Mythic framework isn’t just a technical decision; it's a strategic approach towards a future where threats are anticipated and neutralized before they manifest into real-world impacts. By turning a malicious tool into a mythic ally, cybersecurity teams not only reinforce their defenses but also become proactive warriors in the digital realm.
*
Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How does the Mythic agent integrate with existing security solutions in our tech stack?
2. What resources or training are provided to ensure our security team can effectively operate the Mythic framework?
3. Can the vendor give case studies or examples of successful deployments of the Mythic agent in penetration testing?
Action Plan
1. Conduct Assessment: Evaluate current pentesting procedures to identify gaps that Mythic can fill.
2. Pilot Program: Initiate a Mythic pilot program to test its efficacy and versatility in simulations.
3. Team Training: Schedule comprehensive training sessions tailored to Mythic’s features, emphasizing hands-on exercises.
4. Review and Iterate: After the pilot, perform a detailed review. Gather insights and refine the approach for maximum impact.
*
Sources:
SecureList: Mythic Agent for Advanced Penetration Testing
Kaspersky Expertise
Industry Case Studies
*
SEO’s New Game: Entrapping the IT Admin
_Why bother searching for trouble when it can find you thanks to SEO?_
What You Need to Know
There's a recent threat activity gaining momentum and it specifically targets IT administrators through an SEO poisoning campaign. Cybercriminals are manipulating search engines to rank malicious sites highly for keywords related to popular IT administration tools. Your task is to alert your teams urgently, implement immediate defensive measures, and liaise with trusted vendors to patch vulnerabilities linked to preinstalled Azure utilities, thereby safeguarding critical work processes.
CISO Focus: Cyber Threats and Defense
Sentiment: Strong Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
*
A new breed of cyber-attack is causing a stir in IT circles worldwide, leveraging the power of search engine optimization (SEO) to ensnare unsuspecting IT administrators. According to a report from cybersecurity firm Varonis, attackers are tweaking search engine results so that websites loaded with malware appear at the top of searches for essential IT tools. Once downloaded, these can install persistent backdoors, like the newly named "SMOKEDHAM," granting malicious actors access to networks.
Public Enemy Number: SEO Poisoning
SEO poisoning isn't new, but this meticulously targeted execution suggests a shift in tactics, combining the lure of high-ranking search results with the allure of trusted IT tool names. Victims unwittingly compromise their systems, granting attackers prolonged access. Varonis has been vocal about this surge, characterizing it as a substantial risk for businesses relying on popular IT administration utilities.
The Silver Lining is a Bit Rusty
Moreover, Varonis also spotlighted a critical vulnerability in Azure utilities that could escalate these threats. This pre-installed vulnerability grants potentially extensive access to underprivileged users—posing a significant risk if left unpatched.
The dual-threat of manipulation with SEO and unpatched software reveals an uncomfortable truth about cybersecurity—while signature-based threats are waning, new, more insidious threats are shadowing the digital world.
Charting the Digital Defense
Organizations serious about securing their digital perimeter should now initiate an audit of their existing SEO-related security protocols and Azure installations. It's not just about firewalls anymore; it's about looking at the first interaction point: the search engine.
Re-evaluate User Training: Employees, especially those in IT, must be trained to discern unreliable sources, even when appearing at the top of search results.
Upgrade Security Measures: Strengthen defenses by employing advanced threat detection systems capable of identifying suspicious activity post-download.
Patch Management: Work with vendors to accelerate patching cycles, particularly for known vulnerabilities such as the one identified in Azure.
Navigating the Blame Game
The reaction from industry leaders has been an uproar, questioning both the foresight of search engine platforms and the software developers at Azure. The question remains—how was such a gaping hole allowed to persist, and how can similar issues be prevented in the future?
It's All About Connection
This entire incident underscores the interconnectedness of cyber infrastructure—search engines, software giants like Microsoft, and the IT teams in businesses across the globe. Suppose one link falters, whether it's sloppy SEO protocols or an overlooked update from a reputable software provider. In that case, every reliant institution could suffer.
The Final Spin—Stay Ahead
It’s never just a solitary attack vector to worry over; it’s a multifaceted defense-systems war unfolding right under our keyboards. With these developments, it’s imperative for IT administrators and cybersecurity teams to collaborate with international cybersecurity task forces and peer groups to ensure they not only patch and defend against current threats but adapt their strategies to emerging ones.
*
Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How does your solution score and rank incoming web search referrals before allowing download execution?
2. What measures are in place to identify and mitigate unpatched vulnerabilities in pre-installed applications?
3. Can your product track and log backdoor access attempts post-installation, emphasizing the need for thorough audits?
Action Plan
Conduct immediate briefings with IT personnel on SEO poisoning and the risk associated with current download practices.
Initiate patch rollouts for identified vulnerabilities in Azure utilities.
Engage cybersecurity vendors to assess and enhance current threat detection capabilities.
*
Source: <https://hackread.com/seo-poisoning-campaign-hit-it-admins-with-malware/>
*
Source: Varonis Blog
Source: HackRead
Source: Team Cymru
\--
Classic Rock: Hunting a Botnet That Preys on the Old
_Breaking old things can make waves in the new cyber sea._
What You Need to Know
A major cyber threat operation targeting IoT and end-of-life (EoL) devices has been disrupted by the efforts of Lumen's Black Lotus Labs, the Department of Justice, and Dutch National Police. Your immediate action should be to review current network protection measures, particularly for EoL and IoT devices, to ensure there are no vulnerabilities that could be exploited in a similar attack. Resources should be allocated to strengthen cryptocurrency transaction monitoring and detection systems as this botnet facilitated illicit activities via anonymous transactions.
CISO Focus: Botnets, IoT Security
Sentiment: Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
*
In a landscape where cyber threats are as constantly evolving as technology itself, the latest collaboration between Lumen's Black Lotus Labs, the Department of Justice, and the Dutch National Police has taken down a persistent botnet network wreaking havoc on older technology. Known for using Internet of Things (IoT) and end-of-life (EoL) devices, this botnet epitomizes a growing threat hidden in the technological shadows.
The Threat at Hand
Lumen's Black Lotus Labs made a breakthrough in identifying this criminal proxy network which had been infecting thousands of unsecured devices. These were then leveraged to power a botnet providing anonymity for malicious actors. Essentially, the botnet cloaked a broad range of cyber crimes—from ad fraud to brute force attacks—behind unsuspecting IoT devices and EoL equipment, complicating detection and mitigation efforts.
_IoT & EoL Devices Hit Hard:_ Particularly vulnerable were devices with lax security protocols, often ignored or neglected as focus shifted to cutting-edge cybersecurity defenses.
_Operational Since 2004:_ Astonishingly, the botnet claims to have been operational since 2004, demonstrating its resilience and risk to underestimated targets.
_Global Scope:_ More than half the devices were based in the U.S., with significant numbers in Canada and Ecuador, demonstrating a comprehensive global footprint.
Identifying the Enemy
The crux of the botnet's survival lay within its deceptive practices. Despite being recognized as malicious, only about 10% of these compromisable sources were flagged by networks such as VirusTotal. By using residential IP spaces, the perpetrators managed to maintain a facade of legitimacy, thus evading numerous intrusion detection systems.
_Payment Through Cryptocurrency:_ With payments required via cryptocurrency, the cybercriminals effectively obscured transaction trails. This not only increased the longevity but also promoted a thriving illegal digital market under the radar.
_Access Made Easy:_ Alarmingly, users could connect with the proxies without any authentication—effectively allowing any interested malignant party seamless entry to exploit the network.
The International Takedown
The take down involved null routing all traffic to and from the botnet's known control points, essentially starving the parasitic network. This partnership exemplified successful local and international governmental collaboration against cyber threats.
* _Cross-country Coordination:_ The U.S and Netherlands came together in a rare showcase of synchronization to effectively dismantle portions of the network, setting a precedent for future battles in cyber warfare.
What's Next on the Cyber Frontier?
While this marked a victory for cybersecurity teams worldwide, it is a reminder that vigilance regarding outdated technology and seemingly innocuous home devices must improve.
_Permanent Vigilance:_ The frequent introduction of new cybersecurity threats necessitates constant vigilance and updating of detection technologies, particularly in overlooked areas such as IoT security.
_Emphasizing Upgrades and Patches:_ Ensuring up-to-date firmware in EoL and IoT technologies could effectively mitigate such vulnerabilities.
By keeping an ear to the ground and eyes on outdated devices, the battle against botnets and malware can continually advance, ensuring malicious actors remain in the shadows rather than cluttering the cyber landscape.
*
Vendor Diligence Questions
1. How does your company ensure the security of IoT and EoL devices against similar botnet threats?
2. Can you provide detailed documentation on your network intrusion detection methodologies regarding residential IP proxy detections?
3. What steps do you take to ensure cryptocurrency transactions on your platforms are not facilitating illicit activities?
Action Plan
Inventory Check: Conduct a thorough review of all network-connected devices for potential vulnerabilities in IoT and EoL devices.
Strengthening Protocols: Reinforce authentication mechanisms for proxy access and collaborate on heightened scrutiny for decentralized currency transactions.
Continuous Education: Host regular training sessions on identifying and responding to network anomalies indicative of underlying botnet threats.
*
Source: Lumen Blog
*
NICKEL TAPESTRY: An Inside Job from the Outside
_Who knew the hottest new imports from North Korea were... job applications?_
What You Need to Know
The NICKEL TAPESTRY threat group, operating fraudulent worker schemes on behalf of North Korea, has expanded its operations. Their wily impersonations of professionals from countries like Vietnam, Japan, and Singapore pose a multi-sectoral threat. Executives should enhance their hiring process and identity verification protocols, specifically for roles requiring software development skills. An immediate audit and revision of background checks are recommended.
CISO Focus: Insider Threats and Employment Fraud
Sentiment: Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
*
The North Korean Employment Impersonation Intrigue
When NICKEL TAPESTRY spins its web, the unsuspecting corporation finds itself ensnared in a trap that is both ingenious and potentially devastating. As detailed by Sophos researchers, this threat group employs Fake Identification as a Service (FIaaS), masquerading North Korean operatives as legitimate IT professionals from Vietnam, Japan, and Singapore to infiltrate various sectors.
A Smokescreen of Skills
Since at least 2016, NICKEL TAPESTRY has reinforced its operations, weaving an elaborate façade that leverages fake personas with expertise in web and blockchain software development. Their latest gambit now sees them delving into cybersecurity roles, ratcheting up potential risks.
Yet, it’s their adaptive personas that stand the test of time. These operatives meticulously curate their identities, sidestepping organizational detect-and-mitigate protocols with dexterity deserving of a standing ovation. Their repertoire includes not just tech giants but stretches into tangents of industries less suspecting of high-stakes cyber espionage.
Exploiting Global Workplaces
Primarily targeting European and Japanese businesses, due to collective U.S. vigilance and countermeasures, these operatives impersonate professionals across latitude and longitude. This worldwide vantage point broadens their scope for mischief, making it imperative to evaluate the authenticity of applicants—not just their resumes.
Inside the Web
The true intrigue here lies in the subtlety of their operations—a testament to their acumen. Leveraging gender dynamics, these impostors now utilize female personas, perhaps underlining less existent biases which might result in softer screening processes. In essence, this is social engineering dressed in business suits.
What Companies Must Do
A rapid succession of interventions could dismantle the threat before it lodges too firmly into corporate heartwood. Adaptation and preemption are key.
1. Enhancing Verification Protocols:
Implement robust identity verification software and processes, such as biometric checks and advanced IP tracking.
Introduce interval-based review of employment records for any red flags that might reveal inconsistencies over time.
2. Staff Training and Awareness:
Conduct regular training sessions on recognizing phishing attempts and social engineering frauds.
Share intelligence on the tactics used by NICKEL TAPESTRY to familiarize staff with potential threat indicators.
3. Strengthening Collaboration:
Collaborate with cybersecurity agencies and peer companies for timely sharing of threat intelligence.
Attend industry-specific seminars such as the Underground Economy Conference to reinforce awareness and defenses.
4. Audit and Monitoring:
Perform regular audits on recruitment and HR documentation to ensure compliance and identify anomalies.
Maintain a continuous monitoring system that flags any deviations from standard employee behavior patterns.
This entire theater of espionage uncovers yet another performance by NICKEL TAPESTRY—a concerted effort not only to pilfer sensitive data but to turbulently shake the very foundations of organizational trust.
*
Vendor Diligence Questions
1. What mechanisms are in place to verify the authenticity of identities during recruitment?
2. Can you demonstrate a record of how identity data is protected during the vetting processes for new hires?
3. How are you adapting your identity verification technology to counter increasingly sophisticated impersonation tactics?**
Action Plan
* Immediate Tasking:
Strengthen employee verification processes using two-factor authentication.
Conduct a threat assessment incorporating findings about impersonation frauds in IT and cybersecurity roles.
Operational Adjustments:
Update protocols for recruitment verification to include multi-layer checks.
Review and fortify internal communication regarding threat awareness and vulnerability patching.
Strategic Deployment:
* Establish a task force focused on the detection and neutralization of insider threats, tailoring its mission to address the specific methodologies deployed by threat actors like NICKEL TAPESTRY.
*
Source: Sophos News - NICKEL TAPESTRY Expands Fraudulent Worker Operations
*
The Persistence Problem: When Lost Passwords Refuse to Disappear
_It's not just your Amazon cart that's full of ghosts, it's those exposed credentials haunting us all._
What You Need to Know
Organizations are facing an ongoing battle with exposed credentials that remain unaddressed even after discovery. It is imperative for board members and executive management to prioritize the assessment and rectification of such vulnerabilities to mitigate risk. Immediate actions are necessary to harness advanced tools and implement strategic policies to preempt potential breaches. The board should ensure resources are allocated for regular audits and employee cybersecurity training to address this pressing issue.
CISO Focus: Incident Response and Identity Management
Sentiment: Negative
Time to Impact: Immediate
*
In an age where digital assets determine the wealth of a company, the security of those assets strongly correlates to the resilience of the credentials that protect them. Alarmingly, exposed credentials often remain unfixed, presenting a persistent problem for businesses. Cyber attackers find the tiniest chink in the armor irresistible, exploiting the inertia within organizations that fail to address their vulnerabilities thoroughly.
Exposed Credentials: An Unchanging Threat
Despite industry advancements in cybersecurity, the issue of exposed credentials—where users' login information is leaked online—remains a formidable challenge. The persistence of unfixed credentials can often be attributed to gaps in corporate awareness, failure to implement continuous monitoring, and the rapid pace at which cyber threats evolve.
Credential leaks are not just theoretical. They lead to real damage as attackers gain unauthorized access to critical systems. A breach in credential security could potentially paralyze business operations, causing financial and reputational harm that can take years to recover from.
Transforming Awareness into Action
Companies must adopt a more proactive stance on cybersecurity. Responding effectively to a credentials exposure incident starts with awareness but must culminate in tangible actions.
Routine Audits: Implementing regular security audits focused on credentials and authentication processes to ensure swift identification and rectification of vulnerabilities.
Comprehensive Training Regimens: Employees are the first line of defense in cybersecurity. Regular training sessions should raise awareness about the dangers of credential exposure and phishing, reinforcing secure practices.
Use of Advanced Tools: Leverage AI and machine learning technologies for continuous monitoring of exposed credentials and any unusual access patterns that may indicate a breach.
The Role of Automation in Prevention
Automation stands as a critical solution in managing credential-related vulnerabilities. Tools that automate the identification and notification of credential exposures significantly enhance the capability to respond swiftly to threats.
With automation, firms don't have to rely solely on human vigilance, which is fallible and inconsistent. Automated systems can provide real-time alerts, allowing security teams to act promptly when credentials are compromised.
Policies for Prevention
Establishing robust policies to handle credential security is essential. These include:
Mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Ensuring multiple layers of security complicates unauthorized access.
Regular Forced Password Resets: Prompt users to change passwords periodically to prevent misuse of stolen credentials.
Real-time Threat Intelligence Sharing: Collaborate with industry peers to update threat databases frequently, ensuring timely information flow regarding new attack vectors.
The Invisible Enemy: Credential Stuffing
One of the most concerning tactics used by cyber attackers is credential stuffing—where threat actors use lost credentials to access multiple accounts across various services. A single mistake can snowball into multiple breaches if the same credentials are reused across platforms.
Understanding this tactic is crucial in designing resilient systems. Organizations must enforce policies that prevent the reuse of passwords and encourage users to opt for passphrases or password managers to maintain distinct credentials across platforms.
The Finale You Didn’t Know You Needed
Ironically, the digital world we labor to safeguard could be its own undoing if practices around credential management don't evolve. The solution lies not in dramatic overhauls, but in consistent, precise actions driven by policy and technology that unceasingly adapt to the shifting landscape of cyber threats.
If credentials fall into the wrong hands and are left unchecked, the cost of inaction drastically outweighs the investment in preventive measures.
*
Vendor Diligence Questions
1. Does the vendor offer automated tools for monitoring exposed credentials and what is their efficacy rate?
2. Can the vendor provide a track record of successfully handling credential exposure incidents?
3. How does the vendor's system integrate with existing MFA solutions to fortify credential security?
Action Plan
1. Conduct an immediate security audit focused on credential exposure identification.
2. Implement mandatory cybersecurity training for all employees within the next quarter.
3. Deploy a real-time credential monitoring and notification tool by end of the fiscal year.
4. Institute a company-wide policy enforcing MFA and regular password changes starting the next business cycle.
*
Source: The Persistence Problem: Why Exposed Credentials Remain Unfixed—and How to Change That
*
_CISO Intelligence is lovingly curated from open source intelligence newsfeeds and is aimed at helping cybersecurity professionals be better, no matter what their stage in their career._
_We’re a small startup, and your subscription and recommendation to others is really important to us._
*Thank you so much for your support!(


Brillaint breakdown of the threat landscape using pest control as a narrative frame. The Termite-Babuk evolution story particularly highlights how ransomware groups iterate on leaked source code rather than reinventing from scratch. I've worked with organizations hit by similartactics and the double extortion pressure creates decision paralysis way worse than just encryption. The NICKEL TAPESTRY section feels urgent given how remote work expanded the attack surface for employment fraud.