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What is Zero Trust Network Access? A Complete Guide

In today’s remote work and learning era, an increasing number of devices are connecting to private networks, both within and beyond their perimeters. This has made networks more vulnerable to cyberattacks than ever before. The Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) model has emerged to address this issue, and many companies in the UAE are now transitioning towards it.

ZTNA is a solution that establishes a logical access boundary around an application or a group of applications based on identity and context. These applications are kept hidden from discovery, and access is granted only through a trusted broker to a specific group of authorised entities. The broker verifies the identity, context, and adherence to policies of the participants before allowing access and restricts any lateral movement within the network. Doing so reduces the surface area for potential attacks, thus improving overall network security.

How does Zero Trust Network Access work?

Users cannot trust internal network connections if there is the absence of a Zero Trust Network security perimeter. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solutions grant identity- and context-based access. These solutions obscure resources from being detected and enable access through authentication to a trusted broker. The broker serves as an intermediary between specific applications and authorised users.

The ZTNA approach separates access to resources from access to the network, given that the internet is an untrusted entry point. The trust broker provides centralised control and management to IT teams, and they can deploy it in data centres as software or an appliance or as a managed service in a cloud environment. By decoupling access to resources from the network, ZTNA solutions offer a robust security posture to organisations.

How to implement Zero Trust Network Access?

Following the selection of a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) product or service, most companies opt for a phased implementation approach.

The first phase involves running the product or service in discovery mode to locate all flows and formulate access policies that align with current usage. Additionally, this phase entails identifying any anomalies.

A pilot use case is implemented in the subsequent phase with a well-defined and limited subset of users and services. This phase aims to refine the onboarding processes for both users and services. Successful completion of the pilot gradually extends the security provided by Zero Trust.

Types of Zero Trust Network Solutions

Endpoint-Initiated Zero Trust Network Access

The proposed solution involves installing agent software on end-user devices to gather security-related data and transmit it to a central controller. The controller then prompts the device for authentication and provides a list of authorised applications. Following successful authentication, the controller grants access to the requested application through a gateway. This process ensures a secure and controlled connection between the end-user device and the authorised application.

Service-Initiated Zero Trust Network Access

This solution differs from Endpoint-initiated Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) as this does not necessitate the installation of an agent on the device. Instead, applications utilise a connector to establish outbound connections. Access to the application requires authentication with the ZTNA provider, which authenticates users using the Identity Access Management mechanism. If the authentication process is successful, traffic is allowed to pass through the provider. This approach is particularly advantageous for devices where agent installation may be challenging.

Benefits of Zero Trust Network Security

  • Continually monitors the identity of users and endpoints to determine the level of risk and restrict access if necessary.
  • Context-aware access policies at both the user as well as the device level.
  • Protect legacy applications with cloud-based solutions.
  • The risk of lateral movement and attacks within an infrastructure, whether by malicious insiders or bad external actors, is reduced.
  • A single product or service that simplifies application and network access.

Use cases of Zero Trust Network Access

With the increasing risks of breaches and compromise, especially due to ransomware, enterprise security is rapidly shifting to zero-trust approaches.

Network access control replacement: ZTNA clients perform Health checks to confirm a node’s trustworthiness. Also, they help enforce network policy regarding what a node can do.

Private WAN replacement: ZTNA over bare internet can replace private connections when a private network primarily serves to secure user access to internal resources.

Terminal services: VDI and terminal services can be replaced by ZTNA when providing identity-based access control to resources instead of delivering LAN-equivalent access.

The Bottom Line

Zero trust security mandates verification for anyone attempting to access network resources, even for those inside the network perimeter, based on the principle of default distrust towards all. Green Method provides numerous high-quality cyber security solutions. Whether in data centres, public clouds, or hybrid environments, our ZTNA solution ensures a secure and seamless connection to your applications while mitigating the risk of data exposure. Our solution continuously monitors user and endpoint identities and dynamically controls access based on assessed risk levels. Get in touch with Green Method to know more about the ZTNA.

6 Reasons Why Your Organisation Needs SOC 2 Compliance

Many companies in the UAE require their vendors to attain SOC 2 compliance to indicate their adherence to IT security standards. This is particularly important because many UAE companies delegate business operations and services to third-party vendors, which may disclose customer data to potential risks. If you are a business service provider, it is crucial to consider the technical audit necessary for obtaining a SOC 2 report. The possession of a SOC 2 report shows a commitment to cybersecurity, which can be highly appealing to potential clients.

What is SOC 2?

The SOC 2 audits, developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), secure a service provider’s cybersecurity controls. They are similar to SOC 1 audits, also developed by AICPA, intended to give assurance concerning a service provider’s cybersecurity controls. There are two types of SOC reports:

  • Type I audit assesses whether the vendor’s security controls comply with relevant trust principles.
  • Type II audits evaluate whether those controls are adequate over time.

There are five “Trust Service Principles” in SOC 2 audits: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

Security: The security principle emphasises preventing the unauthorised use of vendor assets and implementing data compliance.

Availability: It involves maintaining and monitoring your infrastructure, software, and information so that you have the operating capability and system components necessary to accomplish your business goals.

Processing Integrity: When it comes to processing integrity, it’s all about providing the correct data at the right time. It is necessary for data processing to be accurate, valid, and fast.

Confidentiality: According to the confidentiality principle, only specific individuals or organisations can access private information.

Privacy: A privacy principle focuses on the system’s compliance with the client’s privacy policy and the AICPA’s Generally Accepted Privacy Principles (GAPP).

Is SOC 2 a legal requirement?

Although SOC 2 certification is not legally mandatory, most business-to-business (B2B) and Software-as-a-system (SaaS) vendors should strongly contemplate obtaining certification (if they haven’t already), as SOC 2 reports are frequently a contractual obligation in vendor agreements.

The six reasons why businesses need a SOC 2 compliance report are as follows:

Cost-effectiveness

The cost of a data breach can be high, not only in terms of financial loss but also in terms of damage to reputation and customer trust. By undergoing a SOC 2 audit, companies can demonstrate to their customers and stakeholders that they take their security responsibilities seriously and have implemented the necessary controls to protect sensitive data. While the cost of a SOC 2 compliance report can be high, it is a fraction of the cost of a single data breach, which can run into a vast amount.

Competitive position

In today’s highly competitive business environment, companies in the UAE are always looking for ways to gain a competitive edge. By obtaining a SOC 2 report, a company can show its customers and partners that it has implemented best practices for information security and data privacy. This helps build trust and confidence in the company and sets it apart from competitors without a SOC 2 audit. Therefore, a SOC 2 report is a mark of compliance and a powerful tool for gaining a competitive advantage in the UAE market.

Value

A SOC 2 report offers valuable insights into an organisation’s risk and security posture, as well as its vendor management, internal controls governance, regulatory oversight, and more. By undergoing a SOC 2 audit, an organisation gets a clear and detailed understanding of its information security and data privacy practices and any areas where improvement is needed. This can help the organisation make more informed decisions about risk management, vendor selection, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a more efficient and effective operation.

Improved security

By implementing the controls and processes necessary to meet SOC 2 standards, organisations can significantly improve their security posture and reduce the risk of security incidents and data breaches. SOC 2 focuses on several critical areas of information security, including access controls, data privacy, system availability, network security, and risk management. By addressing these areas and ensuring effective controls, organisations can better protect their systems and networks from cyber threats and other security risks.

Regulatory compliance

SOC 2 compliance checklist assesses an organisation’s controls over data privacy, system availability, network security, and risk management. As SOC 2’s requirements dovetail with other frameworks, obtaining certification can speed up the company’s overall compliance efforts. By implementing the controls required for SOC 2, an organisation can often achieve compliance with other regulatory requirements, which saves time and resources.

Customer demand

In today’s highly interconnected and data-driven business environment, protecting customer data from unauthorised access and theft is a top priority for most UAE companies. Customers look for companies that can demonstrate a solid commitment to security and compliance, and one way to do this is by obtaining a SOC 2 report. By acquiring a SOC 2 report, companies in the UAE can demonstrate to their customers that they have taken the necessary steps to protect their data and mitigate security risks.

Want to improve your company’s security posture?

At Green Method, we understand that in today’s ever-evolving business landscape, cybersecurity threats are increasing day by day. Green Method offers cybersecurity solutions and cybersecurity services to help you improve your organisation’s overall security posture and risk management capabilities. Get in touch with us to know more to find out how we can help you keep your organisation secure.

Cybersecurity Risk Management for Startups: An Entrepreneur’s Guide in 2023

Cyber-attacks occur nearly daily, impacting all types of companies. Startups, however, are particularly vulnerable to such threats due to the nature of their business. The success of any startup relies on its capacity to stay in tune with rapid changes in the tech world and pivot to new opportunities as they arise. Such necessitated agility of a startup increases the risks they face.

It is common for startups to believe they are too insignificant to require an effective cybersecurity risk management plan, making them more susceptible to threats. Data breaches can have dire financial consequences, especially for startups. However, by following a cybersecurity risk management plan, it is possible to identify, quantify, and deal with cybersecurity issues.

Common Cyber Threats Faced by Startups

Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks on startups can be particularly devastating due to their limited resources, often leaving them unable to recover their data. These malicious attacks involve hackers penetrating a business’s computer systems and encrypting data, demanding a ransom before decrypting and releasing the data. Furthermore, the attack may also lead to a loss of reputation, as customers may not trust the company and its data security measures.

Phishing Attacks

Phishing scams attempt to trick unaware individuals into visiting malicious websites, clicking on malicious links, or downloading files that can compromise their networks. If a user falls for it, the hacker can access the targeted data and create backdoors to steal data or carry out other illegitimate activities without being detected.

Social Engineering

Social engineering attacks pose a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. Social engineering involves manipulating people into performing actions or divulging confidential information. This attack is dangerous because it relies on exploiting human weaknesses rather than software vulnerabilities.

API Threats

Nowadays, the use of single-page, Jamstack apps and modular application design have grown significantly. This has made APIs an essential component of application connectivity and performance. Unfortunately, these APIs are also a popular target for malicious actors who exploit any security vulnerabilities they may have. These security gaps can be due to coding mistakes, lack of protection, and other issues. It is essential to ensure that these APIs are appropriately designed and secured to prevent data theft.

Computer Virus

A computer virus is a malicious program designed to replicate itself by inserting its code into other computer programs and modifying them. Malware can be acquired in multiple ways, including corrupted files in email links and website downloads. This can lead to the infection of a computer, acting as a Trojan horse and spreading across devices while stealing confidential information.

How Does Cyber Risk Management Improve Your Cybersecurity Strategy?

Mitigating cyber threats

Cyber risk management can help improve your overall cybersecurity strategy by providing a more holistic, proactive approach to mitigating cyber threats. Startups should deploy cybersecurity risk management to guarantee that the most dangerous risks are managed expeditiously.

Identifying business threats

Cybersecurity risk management helps recognise, examine, appraise, and address threats based on the possible effect threat has. Additionally, a risk management plan can help provide a framework for ongoing monitoring of emerging threats and ensure the organisation’s security posture stays up to date. This allows the organisation to be better prepared to respond to new threats efficiently.

Employee training

Cybersecurity risk assessment training is essential for the safety and security of your business. Startups often don’t take any seriousness in employee training. But training ensures employees have the necessary knowledge to identify and address potential threats. By providing training, you can ensure that all personnel know their role in keeping your data safe. This will help employees acquire additional instructions, such as password management, detecting phishing attempts, and reporting a hack immediately.

Implementing Cybersecurity Strategies for Startups

Stay up-to-date on hacking trends

Hackers are constantly finding new vulnerabilities and ways to exploit them, so staying on top of the latest trends is vital to detect and defend against any potential attacks. Additionally, staying up-to-date on hacking trends allows startups to identify and address any weaknesses in their systems that hackers could exploit. Cyber risk management is critical for startups as it can help protect their data, resources, and reputation. By staying up-to-date on the latest hacking trends, startups can ensure that their systems are secure and their data is protected.

Invest in the latest cybersecurity software

Hackers are now utilising new methods to hack computers, install malicious software or steal data. Startups should use the most advanced and up-to-date cybersecurity solutions to protect themselves. To save money, some startups may opt for free versions of the software. A free anti-virus, anti-spam and firewall solutions may be sufficient as a first layer of defence. If you are serious about your business, upgrading to the latest cybersecurity software is advisable before collecting customer data. However, more than merely installing the software will not solve the security issues. Keeping your applications updated and patched with the latest versions of the software should be of focus.

Data encryption and backup

Data encryption and backup make it harder for malicious actors to access and misuse the data. Additionally, having an up-to-date backup of data can ensure recovery of any lost or corrupted data quickly and easily. Having backups also allows organisations to limit the impact of a data breach or other malicious activity.

Need help? 

Are you looking for ways to secure your data and protect your startup from cyber threats? As a startup, it is even more critical to understand and manage risks to ensure continued success. One of the leading cybersecurity companies, Green Method, offers comprehensive risk management solutions for startups. From vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and security consulting to different cybersecurity solutions, we help you stay secure.

What is XDR Security? Features, Concepts, and Use Cases

The increasing prevalence of cyber threats necessitates the need for XDR security to strengthen cyberspace and protect against malicious actors. XDR (Extended Detection and Response) security is a comprehensive security solution that combines a range of technologies to detect and respond to any threat. It uses different techniques, including threat intelligence, analytics, and automation to detect, investigate, and respond to threats before they can cause damage. XDR security provides visibility and control over endpoints, networks, and cloud-based applications, allowing organisations to identify and respond to threats quickly and effectively. In this blog, we will discuss the features, concepts, and use cases of XDR security and how it can improve an organisation’s security posture.

XDR: Making Security Simpler and Smarter

XDR is developed to help security teams identify highly sophisticated or hidden threats. By tracking threats across multiple components, XDR improves detection and response speed and investigates threats more effectively and efficiently. XDR, being an evolution of solutions like endpoint detection and response EDR and network traffic analysis NTA, consolidates tooling and helps security teams perform more efficiently.

Features of XDR Security

Analytics and Detection

XDR solutions typically make use of a variety of analytics for identifying potential threats. Here are some of the analytical capabilities that are commonly included:

  • Integrated threat intelligence: It incorporates data on known attack methods, sources, tools, and strategies across numerous attack vectors. By learning from attacks on other systems, XDR can detect similar events in your environment.
  • Machine learning-based detection: It uses data from multiple sources, such as network traffic, application logs, host system logs, and user activity, to detect potential threats. By using machine learning algorithms, XDR solutions can learn from past data and detect potential threats more accurately and quickly.
  • Analysis of internal and external traffic:  Through XDR solutions, organisations can gain comprehensive visibility into network traffic, including the source and destination of each packet, the applications used, and the potential threats posed by external traffic.

Investigation and Response

When suspicious activities are identified, XDR can provide tools that assist security teams in evaluating the seriousness of a threat and taking appropriate action. Here are a few features of the XDR solution that can help with investigation and response:

  • Centralised user interface (UI): XDR security solutions provide a unified view of data collected from different data sources. This allows security teams to quickly look through the different data and identify any suspicious activities or events that may need further investigation.
  • Response capabilities: It allows organisations to collect and analyse data from various sources quickly and accurately, enabling them to identify potential threats, determine the scope and impact of the incident, and take appropriate action.

Dynamic and Flexible Deployments

XDR solutions are crafted to offer further advantages in the long run. The following are a few of the characteristics that aid in achieving this aim:

  • Scalable storage and computing: It uses cloud resources that can adapt to the data and analytics requirements you have. This guarantees that the historical data, essential for detecting and investigating sophisticated persistent attacks or other prolonged assaults, is still accessible.
  • Security orchestration: It can combine with and leverage existing controls for unified and standardised responses. XDR solutions can also have automation features ensuring policies and tooling are deployed consistently.

XDR Security Benefits

Automated response: XDR automates response to detected threats and suspicious activity, allowing for a faster and more efficient response. Adaptive machine learning and threat intelligence can help ensure that solutions protect against different attacks.

Greater control: XDR provides strong authentication to eliminate unauthorised access and protect against cyber threats. XDR can blacklist and whitelist traffic and procedures, ensuring only approved acts and users can enter your system.

Reduced false positives: XDR can help reduce the false positives generated by traditional security solutions, saving time and resources. As a unified platform, XDR is more manageable and reduces the number of interfaces that security must access during a response.

Granular visibility: XDR security integrates network and application communications with complete user data, including information on access permissions, applications in use, and files accessed. Having full visibility across the system, including on-premises and in the cloud help to detect and block attacks quickly.

Use Cases for XDR

Tier 1: Network Access Control and Authentication: XDR security solutions can help organisations manage network access control and authentication. It can ensure that only authenticated and authorised users to have access to the network and can monitor user activities to ensure they are only using resources they are allowed to access.

Tier 2: Threat Detection and Response: XDR security solutions can help organisations detect and respond to threats in real time. It can provide visibility into network activity to detect malicious activity, alert the security team of any suspicious activity, and provide them with the tools and resources to respond quickly.

Tier 3: Incident Response and Forensics: XDR security solutions can help organisations respond quickly to security incidents and perform forensics to identify the root cause. It can also provide the necessary tools and resources to investigate the incident and take corrective action to prevent future incidents from occurring.

Is your cyberspace secure?

If you want to secure cyberspace, look no further than Green Method. Being one of the top cybersecurity companies, Green Method provides comprehensive Cyber Security Solutions in Dubai to protect your organisation from malicious actors. Contact us for more information about our cybersecurity solutions.

Best Cybersecurity Trends to Watch Out for in 2023

It’s no secret that the cybersecurity space is constantly evolving and ever-changing. With new cybersecurity threats emerging every day, staying ahead of the curve can be a daunting task. In this blog, we will take a look at the top cybersecurity trends in 2023. With proper understanding, you can ensure your business is organised for whatever the future holds. So let’s get started!

Risk to smartphones

As smartphone technology evolves and flexible working strategies become more prevalent, we spend more time sharing data on mobile devices. As a result, there has been a substantial increase in mobile banking malware and attacks, creating a potential target for hackers. We must be aware of the risks associated with our photos, financial transactions, emails, and messages. Cybersecurity trends in 2023 may focus on smartphone viruses or malware.

Potential of AI-based Security Solutions

AI-based security solutions are becoming increasingly popular as they can detect sophisticated cyber threats and protect against them. Combined with machine learning, AI has revolutionised cybersecurity by being adopted across all market segments. AI-based security solutions are a significant part of the security landscape due to their ability to detect and respond to threats much faster than traditional security measures. In 2023, AI-powered solutions will become ubiquitous in the cybersecurity space and will be used to detect and respond to cyber threats before they have a chance to cause any damage. As more organisations adopt AI and machine learning technologies, expect to see more AI-based security solutions in 2023.

Data breaches

Data breaches refer to the unauthorised access, use, or disclosure of sensitive information. It can occur due to malicious attacks, human error, or system failures. It often results in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities. As organisations become increasingly reliant on technology, the need to protect data is becoming more critical. Organisations must take preventive measures to protect their data, such as implementing robust security systems, regular employee training, and conducting risk assessments.

Increased Cloud Vulnerability

Cloud computing has become an integral part of modern life. It is used in different industries, from banking and finance to healthcare and retail. As cloud computing becomes increasingly popular, the potential for increased cloud vulnerability also increases. In 2023, there will be an even more pressing need to take measures to protect cloud-based systems and data from malicious actors. In order to keep cloud-based systems and data secure, businesses must take steps to ensure their cloud security is up-to-date.

IoT and 5G network

The convergence of 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) will be one of the significant changes in 2023. The 5G network’s greater bandwidth, lower latency, and increased reliability enable a bigger number of IoT devices to connect at once. It will also let new, innovative applications and services be developed and deployed. The 5G network will enable new speed levels, reliability, and security for IoT devices. It will facilitate faster, more reliable communication and data transfer between IoT devices, which can increase the accuracy and efficiency of existing IoT applications and services. Additionally, the improved security offered by 5G will help protect against unauthorised access to IoT devices and data.

Geo-Targeted Phishing

In 2023, geo-targeted phishing attacks may become even more sophisticated, with attackers leveraging geolocation data to target victims more accurately and efficiently. Attackers may use geolocation data to deploy malicious software, such as malware and ransomware, effectively. Additionally, attackers may employ geo-targeting as part of multi-factor attacks, combining social engineering with malicious code in order to gain access to sensitive information or networks. As geo-location data becomes more accessible and attackers become more aware of its potential, geo-targeted phishing may be a formidable threat for many organisations in 2023.

Conclusion

In the near future, cybersecurity threats will only increase in complexity and intensity. Organisations need to stay ahead of the curve and get prepared for it. Cybersecurity testing and consulting services can help organisations identify and mitigate risks. Organisations should take proactive steps to protect themselves from cyber-attacks and ensure that their data and systems remain safe. Cybersecurity solutions help provide the necessary guidance to ensure organisations are staying safe and secure.

Being one of the leading cybersecurity companies, Green Method provides comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to safeguard your organisation from malicious actors. Our services include vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and security consulting. Don’t let cybersecurity threats scare you anymore! Contact us for more information about our cybersecurity solutions.

Mobile App Security Checklist for Developers in 2023

There has been a significant increase in cyberattacks  on mobile applications and data breaches affecting them. This blog article addresses the mobile App security advisory for developers. Developers should consider the security practices listed here to effectively enhance the security of mobile applications they develop.

Avoid exposing APIs

Today, the majority of Apps rely on APIs to enable third-party services, improving app functionality. It is still possible for hackers to gain access to your API permission keys and exploit them to access your security systems. The App should not contain any hardcoded, sensitive API keys. App developers should avoid exposing APIs because they can leave their applications vulnerable to security breaches, malicious attacks, and data theft. APIs allow third-party applications to access and use the data within an application. Any security breach or vicious attack can lead to unauthorised access and misuse of private data. Additionally, exposing APIs can make an application more susceptible to DDoS attacks if attackers discover the API and use it to overload the application with requests.

Source code security

It is a must for your mobile application’s source code to be encrypted. Unauthorised access to source code can lead to several issues, including copyright infringement, patent infringement, and other legal issues. Additionally, stealing source code can lead to the duplication of an App, which can negatively impact the developer’s ability to monetise their App. Finally, malicious use of the source code can result in the mobile App being used for malicious purposes, including malware attacks and other forms of cybercrime. Protecting source code is essential for mobile App developers to ensure their application is secure and their intellectual property is protected.

Ensuring database security

Mobile App developers should ensure database security to protect the data and information stored in the database from unauthorised access, modification, deletion, and other malicious activities. Database security is essential to protect the users’ privacy on the App and any other related data, as well as the integrity of the database and the system itself. Additionally, database security measures help to prevent potential data breaches and other security incidents, which can have severe implications for the App, its users, and the organisation.

Keeping the App updated

Mobile App developers should update their apps to protect users from the latest security threats. By staying up-to-date, developers can maintain the integrity of their Apps and ensure that the data their user’s store within them is safe and secure. Additionally, updating their Apps allows developers to take advantage of the latest security features and technologies, such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and other measures that help protect user data.

Implementing high-level authentication

Strong authentication lowers the possibility of unauthorised access and password hacks. Implementing multi-factor authentication without drastically interfering with the user experience can ensure more security. If necessary, consider using a combination of codes via SMS, pins, biometric verification, and security questions. Finally, high-level authentication can provide an additional layer of security for mobile applications, which helps protect users and their data from potential threats.

App security testing & training

The increase in mobile App usage has benefited both developers and hackers. Hackers keep looking for vulnerabilities and ways to penetrate others’ data and privacy. Hence, mobile app security testing is essential for developers to carry out. Mobile app penetration testing not only helps ensure the safety and security of their Apps but will also help prevent data breaches, malware attacks, and other malicious activities. It can also help ensure user privacy and identify any vulnerabilities in the App that hackers could exploit.

At the same time, mobile App security training is also crucial for developers. It helps them understand and implement the security protocols and procedures to protect their Apps from malicious attacks. It also helps them understand the different types of attacks, how to protect against them, and the importance of following security best practices. In addition, training ensures that the App is secure and compliant with industry regulations and standards.

Being one of the best cyber security companies in the UAE, Green Method offers services including, but not limited to, application security testing and secure mobile application development training. From analysing security gaps to offering comprehensive and real-time checks, Green Method provides top-notch application security testing services. When it comes to training for developers, Green Method offers C-MASP, a two-day workshop for mobile application developers (Android and iOs). Our training programme helps developers set up concepts and practises for secure App development.

Important Security Concerns for Online Banking

Each one of us has heard about hackers looting money from the bank accounts of users, yet we turn a blind eye towards this and proceed to use online platforms for financial transactions.

Digital Banking is in the fast lane, with evolving tech, consumers are finding it easier to carry out transactions online. Almost all banking-related tasks, big or small are a few clicks away for customers, and responding to this change banks are trying to make their platforms more and more user-friendly for their customers.

With lockdown restrictions halting normal banking activity, digital banking has enabled the functioning of financial operations, even in the face of a Pandemic.

While online banking unlocks several frontiers for the users, it also invites unwanted attention from cybercriminals. There isn’t a lot of difference between a burglar and a hacker, the latter is just more target-oriented. Digital banking is a double-edged sword but predominantly exposed on the customer’s side. While this may be unsettling to hear, it’s best to be mindful that all that glitters is not gold, similarly, there are drawbacks to online banking which make the customer and the monetary institutions vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Some of the common attacks are

Phishing

Phishing is a type of fraud that is carried out through social networking like email. These emails are rigged with malicious content or attachment when opened can endanger the sensitive data on your devices. Deceptive phishing is another popular method of cyber invasion, in which links are placed by criminals, usually in emails. When triggered can bypass your gadgets’ security firewalls.

Identity theft

In identity theft, a person’s personal information is used to commit financial fraud. While identity theft isn’t limited to being an online attack, as there are several ways your personal data can be obtained by criminals, it is still a very common form of cyber attack.

Keylogging

Poorly safeguarded networks are sitting ducks for hackers. Public networks, weak hotspots, or WiFi in cafes can be some of them. Keylogging involves software that mimics your keystrokes to obtain your safety credentials.

Pharming

Pharming is the process of redirecting users to bogus websites that look exactly like real banking websites. Pharming is carried out by damaging the DNS services on a computer by a malicious code called DNS cache poisoning. Several websites require your credentials, this is mirrored by pharming websites as well, to capture customer’s sensitive information.

Banking websites and platforms are a daily target for hackers, while this news could be discouraging, banks are equally good at stepping up to these problems. The industry is becoming more aware of the risks and is in a relentless pursuit of improving its security systems. This starts with the people, the bank employees, and its customers forming the first line of defense. Employees need to be trained to address in case of an emergency, with a contingency plan of action. As far as customers are concerned, they can adopt certain measures themselves such as multi-factor authentication, Time based OTP, etc. Banks should take it upon themselves to educate the customers regarding the persisting threats. Knowledge and awareness can protect bank and customer interests.

CISOs Preparing for DNS Attacks Over Christmas

Just over three-quarters of cybersecurity professionals have said they expect to see an increase in DNS-related security threats over the next few weeks.

In preparation, three in five (59%) have altered their DNS security methods in the run up to the holiday season, according to a new report from the Neustar International Security Council (NISC).

However, 29% have reservations around their ability to respond to DNS attacks, likely attributed to the shifting and complex DNS threat landscape, as some users admitted to having been hit by at least one DNS attack in the past year, including DNS spoofing/cache poisoning (28%), DNS tunneling (16%) and zombie domain attacks (15%).

“Acting as the internet’s address book and backbone of today’s digital services, it’s unsurprising that DNS is an increasingly appealing vector for malicious actors, particularly as more consumers turn to websites during peak online shopping periods,” said Rodney Joffe, chairman of NISC, SVP and fellow, Neustar.

“When successful, DNS attacks can have damaging repercussions to an organization’s online presence, brand and reputation. A domain hijacking attack, for example, can result in hackers taking control of a company’s domain and using it to host malware or launch phishing campaigns that evade spam filters and other reputational protections. In a worst-case scenario, this type of attack can even lead to an organization losing its domain altogether.”

In an email to Infosecurity, Jack Mannino, CEO at nVisium, flagged the threat of DNS tunneling as being a popular exfiltration technique “because DNS is frequently allowed for egress traffic.”

Mannino said: “Understanding your DNS traffic and having visibility into attacks is important because many command and control systems use DNS for this purpose, and attackers can exfiltrate data over the protocol through attacks like SQL injection as well, evading firewalls and filtering appliances.”

During September and October 2020, DDoS (22%) was ranked as the greatest concern for security professionals, followed by system compromise (19%) and ransomware (17%). During this period, organizations have focused most on increasing their ability to respond to vendor or customer impersonation (58%), targeted hacking (54%) and IP address hacking (52%).

Joffe said it was positive that organizations are aware of the severity of DNS attacks, but it is also important that they continue to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their customers against the different threats.

“This should involve regular DNS audits and constant monitoring to ensure a thorough understanding of all DNS traffic and activity,” he said.

“Crucially, DNS data can also provide organizations with timely, actionable and important threat insights, allowing them to not only protect against DNS-related threats, but also mitigate the vast majority of malware, viruses and suspicious content before critical systems are infiltrated.”

Article by:

Dan Raywood, Deputy Editor, Infosecurity Magazine

What Is Cloud Penetration Testing? A Complete Guide

The prominence of cloud computing in IT has been an undeniable trend over the past decade, and all indications point to its continued growth in the foreseeable future. Most online services today operate on a cloud-native model driven by operational convenience and efficiency. In addition, cloud infrastructure comes with cost advantages compared to traditional on-premises solutions.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that safeguarding cloud assets against internal and external threats is paramount. Cloud systems and their data represent immense value, making robust security measures necessary. While cloud providers offer convenient security features such as easily deployable backups, scalable compute power and comprehensive technical support documentation, it is imperative to recognize that there are distinct security risks inherent to cloud infrastructure that must be diligently addressed.

What Is Cloud Penetration Testing?

Cloud Penetration Testing is a proactive approach that emulates real-world cyber-attacks on an organization’s cloud infrastructure, cloud-native services and applications, APIs, and crucial enterprise components like Infrastructure as Code (IaC), serverless computing platforms, and federated login systems. It is a specialized methodology designed to effectively address cloud infrastructure’s unique threats, vulnerabilities, and risks.

By conducting a Cloud Penetration Test, organizations receive a comprehensive assessment that includes a detailed report, an attack narrative, and an evaluation of vulnerability severity. This valuable information helps organizations understand the potential impact of each identified vulnerability. Importantly, Cloud Penetration Tests exclusively identify valid positive vulnerabilities within the cloud infrastructure, distinguishing them from false positives commonly encountered in traditional vulnerability scanning methods. This aspect alone offers a significant advantage in ensuring accurate and actionable findings.

Significance of Cloud Penetration Testing

The significance of Cloud Penetration Testing cannot be overstated, as cloud infrastructure and services have emerged as a pivotal asset for enterprises of all sizes. With the increasing value and associated risks tied to an organization’s cloud resources, it is imperative to address potential vulnerabilities. Nowadays, companies store a wide range of applications, services, and sensitive data in the cloud, including file-sharing and business productivity applications, public web applications, mobile app data, network monitoring data and log files, system backups, security services, and employee and customer data. Consequently, the cloud becomes a prime target for attackers.

Cloud Penetration Testing is a vital tool in providing tangible evidence that an organization possesses robust operational resilience and is fortified against many cyber threats. Subjecting the cloud infrastructure to simulated attacks validates the organization’s ability to withstand cyber-attacks, mitigate forced disruptions, prevent unauthorized access, and safeguard against data theft, malware infections, and ransomware incidents. Through rigorous testing and analysis, Cloud Penetration Testing ensures that an organization is well-equipped to defend its cloud assets and maintain the highest level of security.

Cloud Penetration Testing offers several advantages, including:

Enhanced risk assurances 

Unlike traditional vulnerability assessments that generally perform limited exploitation to find vulnerabilities, cloud penetration testing provides higher risk assurance. Given the complexity of cloud systems and the ever-evolving tactics employed by threat actors, it is crucial to assess security configurations and identify exploitable vulnerabilities accurately. Cloud penetration testing offers a proactive approach to validate the robustness of defences and ensure effective risk management.

Assurance

Organizations can confidently assert that they have attained the utmost level of assurance regarding the resilience of their assets against cyber-attacks. This assurance extends to their critical business operations’ safety and uninterrupted continuity. By conducting thorough and targeted penetration testing, organizations can rest assured that their cloud infrastructure is fortified and their valuable data and operations are secure from potential cyber threats.

Increased compliance 

Increasingly, partners and customers seek to collaborate with companies that exhibit a strong security posture and adhere to IT security compliance standards. In some instances, compliance becomes a mandatory requirement for partnerships and can also result in reduced cyber insurance premiums. By conducting cloud penetration testing, organizations demonstrate their commitment to maintaining compliance and bolster their reputation as trustworthy and secure business partners.

Improved cost savings 

The benefits of penetration testing extend to enhanced cost savings as it significantly diminishes the likelihood of a cyber breach, thereby maximizing the return on security investment (ROSI). Organizations of any scale can achieve significant cost reductions by mitigating the need to incur substantial financial penalties linked to ransom payments, systems, data recovery, reputational harm, potential fines, lawsuits, and increased cyber insurance premiums. Penetration testing is a proactive measure that helps organizations avoid the severe financial repercussions of cyber incidents, ensuring their resources are effectively protected, and valuable funds are preserved.

Cloud Vulnerabilities

To effectively address security risks, it is essential for cloud penetration testing to prioritize simulated attacks aimed at the prevailing vulnerabilities commonly found in cloud environments. By thoroughly evaluating an organization’s cloud infrastructure for its ability to withstand such common attack vectors, it guarantees that malicious actors relying on easily accessible automated attack tools will encounter significant obstacles. As a result, the likelihood of experiencing a breach is significantly reduced. This proactive approach empowers organizations with a robust defence, ensuring their cloud systems are secured against potential security breaches. The most common cloud vulnerabilities are as follows:

Containers and Pods 

Security contexts play a crucial role by governing the privilege and access control settings for Kubernetes Pods, Infrastructure as Code (IaC) platforms, and containers. It is imperative to meticulously configure these contexts to prevent potential misconfigurations that could result in unauthorized access to critical applications and services or even compromise the underlying virtual environment. This security lapse is commonly referred to as a “virtual machine (VM) escape” attack.

Cloud Server and Service Internal Testing

Internal testing of cloud servers and services is essential to ensure the highest security assurance. Organizations can effectively evaluate their defence mechanisms by simulating potential attacker scenarios following a successful system or account breach. Implementing a robust “defence in depth” strategy and other security measures are crucial to mitigate open vulnerabilities after testing.

Cloud Misconfigurations

Inadequate experience, failure to adhere to IT security best practices, and a lack of static code reviews often lead to misconfigurations in operational cloud services. Recognized as a prominent IT security threat by authoritative bodies like the NSA, cloud misconfigurations are enticing targets for novice attackers who exploit them using automated tools. Addressing and rectifying these misconfigurations through robust testing and adherence to security protocols is imperative for maintaining a resilient cloud infrastructure.

Identity and Access Management (IAM) 

Identity and access management (IAM) is paramount in ensuring robust security. Employing common or weak passwords poses a significant risk as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to an account swiftly. Additionally, default accounts with publicly known credentials, active but unused accounts, and the public leakage of API keys or PKI certificates can compromise authentication systems.

Cloud Function vulnerabilities

These platforms autonomously execute code and oversee the underlying cloud infrastructure in response to event triggers. Given their direct access to cloud computing resources, subjecting them to continuous monitoring and thorough vulnerability assessments is crucial. This proactive approach ensures robust protection against potential exploitations, fortifying the security of serverless computing platforms and safeguarding the integrity of cloud resources.

Exposure of Sensitive Information, Data, and Documents

The rapid development and deployment of digital services can inadvertently lead to security oversights, leaving sensitive data, such as passwords, encryption keys, private key certificates, financial information, or trade secrets, exposed and accessible to anyone. Cloud Penetration Testing plays a vital role in identifying any inadvertently exposed data, enabling prompt remediation, and ensuring the proper implementation of robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information effectively.

External Services and Applications, including APIs

Cloud-hosted services present a vulnerable attack surface that necessitates comprehensive scanning for known vulnerabilities and protection against automated attack tools and emerging exploits. Thorough testing of these exposed attack surfaces and continuous monitoring to identify potential changes are critical in preventing attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities and gaining unauthorized access.

Limitations On Pen testing Cloud Infrastructure

It is essential to recognize and comply with the strict policies set forth by service providers regarding cloud pen testing on their infrastructure. These policies outline the permissible and prohibited activities during a testing engagement, and utmost attention must be given to adhering to them diligently. Non-compliance with these policies can result in severe penalties, including potential termination of services. It is imperative to thoroughly review and understand the cloud provider’s policies before conducting penetration testing activities.

Particular cloud pen testing activities are commonly restricted and not allowed, including:

–        Virtual machine escape attempts

–        Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks

–        Engaging in any form of illegal activities

–        Phishing or social engineering targeting the cloud provider’s employees

–        Introducing trojans, ransomware, or other known malware strains

–        Violations of the cloud provider’s acceptable use policy

Conducting a comprehensive cloud security assessment is crucial to evaluate and enhance the robustness of an organization’s cloud infrastructure and ensure the protection of valuable data and resources. Being one of the top cybersecurity companies in Dubai, UAE, Green Method offers a wide range of quality cybersecurity solutions, including threat detection, automated vulnerability checkspenetration testing, and cyber-risk management solutions.