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Hidden Cobra Malware Infects Android Phones

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 12:00:43 +0000

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are warning Android phone owners of two new Hidden Cobra malware that’s believed to be engineered by the North Korean government. Avoid being infected with these malicious files by using DFNDR Security’s Full Virus Scan protection.

This feature monitors any threats on your device, including scanning your memory and SD card for malware or viruses. Try it out and read further to learn more about the Hidden Cobra group — also known as Lazarus Group — and this strain of malware.

What This Malware Does to Androids
The two pieces of malware are known as HARDRAIN and BADCALL and they are capable of installing a remote access tool (RAT) payload on Android devices. The technology can make the affected Windows systems work as a proxy server that can gather information from your device.

The Hidden Cobra viruses can record your phone calls, take over your camera and take screenshots of your device, read data from the contact manager, download and upload data from your device, plus it can execute commands and check for open Wi-Fi channels. Hackers can later use this information to blackmail you as it gives them the capabilities to make your personal information public.

HARDRAIN: Part One
The two federal departments wrote that HARDRAIN is comprised of three executable files that install malware on your Android device. Two of these are dynamic link library (DLL) executables that alter your Windows Firewall in order to allow incoming malicious connections from cybercriminals to breach your device.

In essence, these files open up the door for malicious files masked as secure HTTPS sessions that appear to be legitimate to enter your device. The third file on HARDRAIN is an Executable Linkable Format (ELF) file that links up to hard-coded IP addresses and serves as a RAT program, paving the way for a further invasion of your privacy and exposing your personal data.

BADCALL: Part Two
The other piece of malware is BADCALL, which also uses three files to tap into your phone. Two of these are also Windows executables that disarm your firewall by altering a registry key. After doing so, BADCALL also turns the infected systems into proxy servers. These files allow illicit communication channels to reach your device in the form of encrypted HTTPS traffic.

Rounding up the three files that make up BADCALL, there is an Android Package Kit (APK) that also acts as a RAT program that can access your personal information, record sensitive conversations, capture text messages and screenshots through your device’s camera.

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How Do Ransomware Criminals Make Their Money

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 22:00:50 +0000

Chances are, you’ve seen a news report or have possibly been exposed to a virus or ransomware attack at some point while online. If your phone is suddenly behaving oddly, it’s a good idea to use dfndr security’s full virus scan feature to check your phone for hidden malware. This can help you to quickly remove any dormant or silent viruses that may put your information at risk to hackers:

But have you ever wondered how the perpetrators behind those hacks and programs make their money? By understanding what they do to extort information and earn their money, you can better prepare yourself against future attacks, and know the warning signs to watch out for.

Step 1: Hacking Into the Device
The first step for any hacker is to get access to your device or your information. This can be done through software or through a tracker that has been installed on a sketchy website. It can come from a variety of programs or apps that may be vulnerable — which is one reason to make sure that you constantly update your devices. Once that area has been exposed, it can be identified and targeted for installing the ransomware onto your computer or phone.

Step 2: Extort the Device Back to the Owner
Once installed or hacked, hackers and ransomware criminals will try to extort your information for money, likely by emailing you or demanding a form of payment from you, if you want your data kept safe and restored. An example is a famous case involving the HBO hackers, who demanded money from HBO to prevent them from releasing new Game of Thrones episodes.

Oftentimes, criminals will demand payment in the form of Bitcoin, a digital currency that can’t be tracked, so their information won’t be revealed. This form or ransom payment allows cybercriminals to continue doing this to other unsuspecting victims. If you refuse to pay, oftentimes it isn’t worth it for the criminals to continue extorting.

With the knowledge of how ransomware hackers make their money, you can take better steps to prepare yourself against attacks and prevent your information and devices from being compromised. Make sure to be aware of how ransomware attacks work and to report to the authorities when you’re being extorted. More importantly, make sure that you browse safely to ensure that you won’t get a virus or malware to begin with by downloading a reliably performing antivirus app. You can have peace of mind knowing that the security of your device has safeguards in place.

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Dropbox Phishing Attacks Are on the Rise

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 13:00:32 +0000

Dropbox is a popular program that allows users to quickly store, organize, and share information. It’s used all over the world, and it has what every user wants: the element of convenience. Being able to store and share documents with the click of a few simple buttons is a great thing, but unfortunately — like most tech innovations — it comes with some risks, too. To protect yourself against Dropbox phishing attacks on your Android, use dfndr security’s anti-hacking feature to monitor any navigation whether attached to emails or chat services. Try it immediately:

Once the anti-hacking feature is activated on your device, it will block phishing attempts even before you click on a link, thereby preventing theft of your login credentials.

Learn more below about the rise of Dropbox phishing scams so you can stay aware of how to protect yourself as you use this popular program.

How Do These Scams Work?
These scams are particularly scary because they so closely mimic the way that the program actually works. Once you become familiar with a program, its layout, and the way that it works, it can become tough to question things as you see them in relation to that program. That is how this attack gets people unexpectedly, though.

Users are frequently being sent emails that look identical to something that may come from Dropbox. These messages will come from a spoofed email address that mimics the normal Dropbox address. They will also showcase the exact Dropbox logo, font, and layout that users are so familiar with and accustomed to. These messages may look like they are coming from a contact that you are familiar with, making them even more believable.

Then, when users are lured into clicking on the link, they may be asked to enter a username and password. This gives away your credentials, causing more of an issue. After that, the user will be asked to choose an email provider to “drop” the downloaded documents into after they are downloaded. As you can tell, this issue could allow hackers to receive your Dropbox and email information, which has the potential to expose all of your personal information that they may be able to use for malicious intentions.

How to Combat This Issue
To work against this issue, users should be wary of the link that pops up if they click on the original phishing email. If the URL does not appear as it typically does, or if it has any foreign words it it, discontinue the process of logging in to view the “shared” information. Always follow up with contacts before accessing the data to ensure that they actually sent you something.

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Online Scams to Look Out for During the Holidays

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 01:00:08 +0000

More than ever holiday shoppers are now choosing to purchase their gifts online rather than at a physical store location. While online shopping is often preferred for its convenience and incredible discounts, it can also be a great hassle if you fall victim to a virus or scam. Phishing attacks, hacks, and malware are all more common during the holidays — since more people are shopping online — and these scams are getting savvier every year. Luckily, there are several ways that you can protect yourself from scams and viruses while shopping online this season. Be on the lookout for these:

Sketchy Emails That Mimic Well-Known Businesses

Scammers love to send out fake emails that mimic the language and images used by well-known companies. These emails often attempt to trick consumers by offering them a free, in-demand item if they enter a contest, or informing them that their account has been breached, which is a false warning meant to take over a person’s account. You should also be cautious of any email attachments, even if they come from seemingly trustworthy sources, such as a coworker or a friend. If an email or an attachment doesn’t make sense, don’t click on it — the person’s account could have been hacked, and the attachment could contain malware. Reach out to the person directly and ask them if the email is legitimate.

Unbelievable Deals? Pause Before You Buy

Fake and malicious ads and websites are especially common during the holiday season. You may see them at the top of Google search results, or on Facebook, Instagram, or another website. They typically advertise absurdly discounted items, such as expensive sunglasses or handbags, laptops, or other in-demand goods for 80% to 90% off. To avoid these types of scams, avoid clicking on any ads or links that seem too good to be true, and consider using an ad-blocker. You should also verify that you are on a legitimate, secure website before entering any information or making a purchase. Lastly, make sure to take advantage of dfndr security’s various protection features like anti-hacking to prevent you from falling victim to any online scams or fraudulent websites.The anti-hacking feature alerts you that a link is malicious and then blocks it before you even click on it.

Shopping Apps With No Holiday Spirit

During the holidays, many more malicious shopping apps crop up. They typically mimic well-known shopping apps or else lure consumers in by promising unbelievable deals. To avoid becoming a victim of malware or scams, avoid downloading apps from third-party websites. Further, exercise caution when downloading apps from the Google Play store, and pay attention to the language used — is it free of typos or other glaring errors? — and pay attention to the number of reviews and downloads. Lastly, when it comes to shopping on your phone, stick with a store’s official mobile website.

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5 Unknown Phishing Scams to Watch for During the Holidays

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 00:00:40 +0000

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for spending time with family and friends — and finding great holiday gifts at incredible prices. As you spend more money online and hunt for the best deals, hackers introduce more clever phishing scams to lure you in. These phishing scams go far beyond the more obvious ones, such as a fake email about winning a contest or a Google ad for a discounted luxury item. Here are 5 lesser-known phishing scams to watch out for this holiday season:

An Email That Your Transaction Was Declined
While shopping this season, the last thing you want is for your card to be declined. If you receive an email that says your credit card or PayPal transaction was declined for a recent order, this is a phishing scam. Don’t click on any links or hand over your personal information. If you must check your account or the status of your order, manually type in the correct URL and log in to your account to verify that everything is in okay. You could also download an antivirus app like dfndr security to regularly scan your phone for any malware. The best feature you might want to activate in our app is anti-hacking because during the flurry of a shopping session this feature can identify and block malicious links before you click on them. Turn it on to try it:

Read More: Can’t Stop Clickbaiting? anti-hacking Will Protect You

Spoofed Two-Factor Authentication
In this phishing scam, a hacker uses a victim’s phone number and email address to assume her identity and ask Google (or another service) to reset the password for her email account. Whenever Google texts the victim with the reset code, the hacker will then pose as Google to text the victim about unusual account activity, and request that the victim send the hacker the reset code to confirm her identity. If the victim sends the reset code to the fake Google text, then she has just given the hacker the ability to access her account.

Instagram Shopping Scams
Boutique accounts have become incredibly popular on Instagram, with items often selling out within minutes. While there are many legitimate Instagram boutiques out there, you should be wary of shady accounts that try to lure you in by purchasing an item or clicking on a link. Before you shop on Instagram, make sure that the boutique you’re interested in is legitimate by paying attention to the number of followers, the seller’s language, and any reviews or websites that discuss the boutique.

Fake Promotional Emails With Coupons
Maybe you ignore promotional emails altogether, or maybe you check them for the latest sales and deals at your favorite stores. If you receive an email this season that promises an incredible deal, don’t click on any links or images in the email — it could be an email spoofing your favorite retailer. To ensure that the deal is legitimate, check the email’s language, compare the email to past emails, and go to the store’s website to find the deal or contact customer service to verify the email.

Shipping Scams
With this scam, you’ll receive a fake email from UPS or FedEx informing you that your package was unable to be delivered. To remedy this issue, the email will ask you to click an infected link or open a malicious attachment. If you receive an email like this, ignore it — these services will never email you about undeliverable packages. Further, be wary of any odd-looking emails that contain a tracking number — the link could be fake.

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Protect Your SD Card From Being Compromised

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 13:00:53 +0000

Are you worried that your SD card is at risk of having its files compromised by hackers? It’s a legitimate fear. When dealing with something as personal as your photos or other sensitive files, it makes sense as to why individuals would want to take extra caution. But you shouldn’t stop there. Be sure to implement the full virus scan feature to scan all your Android files and SD card for any malicious activity:

To make sure that all of the data on your phone is protected, the following are some of the best ways to protect your SD card against getting compromised.

Password Protection
One of the best, and oldest, methods for keeping your SD card protected is to enable the password protection feature. This allows you to create a lock that only you will be able to know and use when accessing the storage on the SD card. While this can be a good method, experts have noted that even the best passwords can be hacked, and it can be a tremendous burden to remember or keep your password on you. While it is certainly a good first step towards protecting your SD card, it certainly shouldn’t be the only one that you take.

Locked or Protected Cases
Another popular way to keep your files safe and keep hackers at bay is to keep your files in a locked or protected phone case, which helps to protect your device from weather and other extreme conditions that may leave your files exposed to risk. While this can be helpful for travel or for other traditional senses of security, these methods can leave you vulnerable when transferring or sending your files when you’re online or plugged into the computer.

Encryption Services
Perhaps the most popular — and the safest — way to protect your SD card and the files on it is to employ an encryption service that anonymizes their data, which allows for easy browsing and behavior online. While it was mentioned that there is no foolproof system for protecting your information, this is about as close as it comes to a secure SD card. Your files will be kept anonymized, and hackers — should they be targeting you — will be left unable to do much without a solid anti-encryption software. For most Internet users, employing an encryption service can be like achieving a new state of security and peace of mind for those worried about their SD card being at risk.

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What is the “Industroyer” Virus and Should You Worry?

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 23:00:24 +0000

The Industroyer virus first came to light in 2016 when the power grid for Ukraine’s capital, Kiev, was hacked. This virus can disrupt critical infrastructure systems that control power, causing a community to lose power. The hack can happen on any scale; it can affect large cities and even small towns. But why is this important and why should you care?

It Takes Advantage of Old Systems
Because these systems are so dated, and because their communication protocols are not designed with security in mind, the hackers do not need to look for protocol vulnerabilities to hack into them. Essentially, these are outdated systems that make it extremely easy for hackers to spread the virus. The only thing hackers need to do is to teach the Industroyer virus to speak those protocols so it can get into their system.

The worst part of this virus is that it makes it nearly impossible to reboot the computer that it has infected, which only prolongs the amount of time a city’s power is hijacked. These hackers could ask for anything in return and can essentially hold the city — and it’s people — hostage.

This Virus is Hard to Detect
Another issue that makes this virus extremely dangerous is that it’s difficult to detect. It’s very crucial that city officials can detect the Industroyer virus because it has the capability to control the power grid. This means that hackers may potentially have the power to cut power for the hospital when patients are mid-surgery or even cut the traffic lights, which would cause traffic accidents.

It Could Be Even More Damaging
One concerning aspect of this virus is that experts believe that it could be reformatted to affect other types of infrastructure such as water and gas. This would be very damaging, and it could lead to a mass drought or a loss of gas. Another type of critical infrastructure it may be reformatted to control is transportation control systems, which could lead to mass chaos for transportation.

Can the Industroyer Virus Affect You?
Luckily, for those living in the U.S., the Department of Homeland Security says that it is investigating the virus and that it has checked and found no evidence of it in any U.S. critical infrastructure. Because the United States government is aware of the issue and is looking into the hackers involved, there is a low chance that the Industroyer virus will personally affect you or your town. But this is still a lesson for all global governments to be aware that infrastructures are vulnerable to attacks.

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The Most Common Viruses of 2017 and How to Stop Them

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 23:00:14 +0000

With such a vast number of different viruses floating about, it can sometimes be tough to know if your laptop or smartphone already has a virus. Viruses can be dormant on a device for years, or else they can be hidden deep inside a device, avoiding detection in order to collect information. The only way to know for sure if your phone is safe is to regularly scan your device for viruses. Use the full virus scan feature in our dfndr security app to check your Android and SD card for hidden viruses:

The full virus scan uses machine learning to update its virus database continuously and help fight new, emerging viruses, which means that your phone will always be protected against the latest threats, in real-time. Learn more about some of the most common viruses from this year.

The Hummingbad Virus

This awful virus has infected over 10 million Android phones worldwide (so far) in 2017. This virus roots itself into your phone’s operating system, collects all of your personal information, and then commits click fraud on your behalf. Click fraud is when a virus makes your phone click on an advertisement repeatedly to generate revenue for the host site. This app is difficult to notice because it doesn’t slow down your phone or give you any reason to think that you may be infected with malware. The virus may be attached to an app on your phone, so be cautious of which apps you download from the Play store.

The Trojan Virus

This virus is tricky because it attaches itself to a harmless looking app or program. However, once the app is installed on your phone, the Trojan virus is activated and begins to spread. This virus scans for sensitive information like account information, bank information, or credit card accounts. The Trojan virus can also hijack the browser, causing your smartphone to send expensive premium rate texts without your authority. This virus is also dangerous because it can deactivate some of the applications you have downloaded or even freeze your phone altogether. A good way to get rid of this virus is by running a Full Virus Scan on your device to remove the virus. In the future, be cautious of which apps you download.

The FalseGuide Virus

This may be the worst virus of them all because once it’s on your phone it cannot be removed. As of now, the FalseGuide virus has infected over 2 million phones. The virus spreads through sketchy Android games in the Google Play store. These “gaming apps” have many different names and are listed under different fake developer names.

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This Mobile App Allows Cybercriminals to Create Ransomware

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 00:00:55 +0000

With hacks and malware becoming more and more common, it’s difficult to know how to truly prevent cybercriminals from stealing your private information. The best ways to keep your phone and private data protected include: being cautious of which apps you download, avoiding suspicious-looking links or ads, and regularly running virus scans on your device. Use the full virus scan feature to scan your phone and SD card for hidden malware, and ensure that your phone is secure:

The best part of this feature is that the database is continuously updated, so your phone will always be protected against the latest threats, in real-time.

An App to Create Ransomware
This malware app is essentially a smartphone application that can be used to make custom ransomware attacks that target Android devices. The app was originally meant to be run from a computer or laptop, but now the app has been reformatted to function on a phone. Many developers call apps like this a “Trojan” or “TDK.”

It’s interesting to note that these apps only can run on Android and can only target other Android phones. The app isn’t on the Google Play store though; the only way you can access this app is by going to China’s Great Firewall hacking forums.

How Do You Use the App?
This app is a subscription-based service, so at least hackers are paying to steal data from you. When you download the app, new users can make a one-time payment for the app. New users also get the experience of communicating with the criminal service provider. This can be a big deal for newer hackers who may want advice on how to use the app. According to malware experts, there isn’t a limit on how many different virus strains a new subscriber can make once they’ve paid the subscription fee.

How to Keep Your Private Data Safe
If you have an Android, it’s really crucial that you keep your information safe from these virus strains. One way to keep safe is to avoid using public Wi-Fi networks. These public networks are extremely easy for hackers to use. They can view your private data because they get between you and the network and watch everything you do.

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How Can dfndr Help You When Traveling Abroad?

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 00:00:13 +0000

During the summer months, more than nine million Americans will travel outside of the country. With these increased traveling numbers come a heightened number of phone thefts. Even popular vacation destinations such as Spain have reported theft incidents at rates as high as 1,074.9 per 100,000 individuals. Travelers also face dangers when relying on public Wi-Fi networks, which are common in airports, hotels, and other transportation hubs. Click here to quickly check your Wi-Fi’s security:

The danger of simply misplacing a phone or plugging a charger into an unsafe outlet is magnified in an unfamiliar city. Luckily for dfndr users, the service’s built-in anti-theft and advanced protection features can help prevent and remedy these worst-case scenarios. Find out how to take advantage of both features to protect your phone on your next trip abroad.

anti-theft
Thefts in popular tourist locations, such as (but not limited to) Mexico and Costa Rica, specifically target vulnerable foreigners. Some robberies will occur while a thief poses as a plainclothes cop and asks for credentials, which are then stolen along with valuables. Other times, nice cars harboring visible electronics will be targeted and the windows will be smashed.

However, if you activate anti-theft on your phone in advance, then you will be fully protected in the event of loss or theft. This feature allows you to remotely control your Android device and block thieves from accessing apps and media files or delete these files entirely.

anti-theft also allows users to remotely erase all data on the device, track the device’s location, and sound an alarm (to find the phone nearby). Thanks to these protective functions, thieves will not be able to locate sensitive data or access accounts within the phone. Click here to activate anti-theft now:

advanced protection
Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously unsafe options for mobile users. Unfortunately, the cost of international data plans forces travelers to become almost entirely dependent on such networks for Internet access. In particular, both Russia and China pose significant risks to mobile security thanks to the number of cybersecurity threats. Further, while travel ports and charging stations within airports are tempting for travelers running low on juice, these outlets are often targeted by hackers, as well.

That’s why it’s important to add additional protection on your phone, especially when traveling abroad. The advanced protection feature will prevent thieves and viruses from disabling dfndr’s security, and ensure that your phone stays protected no matter what. Click here to enable advanced protection on your phone:

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Chrysaor: The Dark Horse of Android Malware

Sun, 22 Oct 2017 13:00:18 +0000

A malware system discovered earlier this year, called Chrysaor, was found to have been infecting several devices using Android operating systems for quite some time. Though steps have been taken to protect from further breaches by the program, the advanced nature of Chrysaor provides discomfiting implications about the possible severity of spyware in the future. If you think you may have malware on your device, click here to run a full virus scan:

Chrysaor is believed to be related to the Pegasus malware tool that was found infecting Apple’s iOS. Like its cousin targeting Android systems, Pegasus is incredibly sophisticated, dangerous, and hard to detect. Like other spyware, Pegasus works by infiltrating a device through innocuous means, such as fake links sent through SMS or piggybacking off of apps, which then allow it to infect the device.

Unlike other similar malware programs, however, this one was extremely easy to overlook and had systems in place to remove all traces of its existence. This is believed to be an intentional design function that allows a Pegasus-infected device to essentially become a mobile surveillance tool. Evidence suggests that these spyware programs have spread around the world.

Both Chrysaor and Pegasus are thought to have been developed by the Israeli cyber arms firm, NSO Group Technologies. The founders of the company are believed to be veterans of one of Israel’s most highly esteemed intelligence units, and potentially have considerable experience in cyber warfare.

The good news is that Google only found a few dozen instances of devices infected with the Chrysaor malware. The very bad news is that, by its very nature, this type of program tries its best to remain hidden and untraceable, and that past infection may be hard to find on an initial sweep. The even worse news is that the implications from the evolution of Chrysaor from Pegasus and its theorized source may mean that even greater threats to cybersecurity for mobile devices may show up in the future.

With all the threats that exist and may appear down the road, it is important that you secure your devices against the event of a breach. Become familiar with the warning signs of a spyware infection and be prepared to take the appropriate steps to remove any malware.

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How Hackers Are Capitalizing on Direct Deposit Accounts

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 22:01:44 +0000

Direct deposit is a common practice in today’s world, and it’s how the majority of Americans prefer to be paid for their work. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) estimates that nearly 60% of all employees use direct deposit to receive their pay check. On top of that, more than 90 percent of social security checks are paid via direct deposit. Unfortunately, hackers have begun figuring out how to use direct deposit to their advantage, by breaking into people’s accounts and steal money. To help ensure that this doesn’t happen to you, download dfndr security and take advantage of the anti-theft feature:

Anti-theft will lock down your phone in the event that it is stolen or lost. These attacks are certainly not something that anyone wants to deal with, especially given the fact that it has to do with one’s personal finances and hard earned money!

How Are They Doing It?
Hackers are pretty savvy, and that’s the scary thing! They are now seeking those who have direct deposit set up for their paychecks, and they’re creative about how they gain access. To start, they search social media sites and accounts to find out where random individuals work. Once they locate a corporate logo or some kind of inkling indicating where that person works, they use that information to hack their work email address. From there, they figure out who the given payroll provider is.

Once hackers have this information, they slyly redirect any payroll or direct deposit emails to a junk folder so that the employee won’t be tipped off about anything being amiss. Then, they request an account change with the payroll provider, swapping the information on the direct deposit set up to route the funds to an alternate account. From there on out, the hacker has easy access to the funds every time that a payment comes through.

Alternatively, hackers are targeting institutions such as the Social Security Administration (SSA), which makes it quite easy for hackers to redirect funds. Users have recently reported that their funds have been sent to hackers after they’ve attained their social security numbers and then used that information to change the direct deposit account via phone or even online. Then, individuals are learning of the account information change after it’s too late, once payday has already hit and they have to follow up with the SSA to get their money back and to attempt to secure their account. This is risky business, and the average loss per case of this occurring is $90,000. That means it’s a lucrative venture for hackers, which motivates them to perform these malicious acts.

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Why Investing in Cybersecurity Is a Great Idea

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 13:00:26 +0000

Many companies think that they won’t be a target of cybercrime, either because they’re too small or they just don’t think it could happen to them. In reality, however, cybercrime is a growing business, and every day hackers are targeting hundreds of thousands of businesses. They can take all of your customers’ private credit card information or even leak your internal emails, besides other devastating information. No matter what the hack consists of, it’s almost always incredibly damaging for a business, the customers, and the employees.

Why Is Cybersecurity Important?
Attacks on a company’s private data are very frequent, and it can be incredibly damaging to a business. These hacks can cost a company not only damage public relations, but it also can be costly because of possible legal fees. In fact, it’s estimated that dealing with these cybersecurity breaches can cost a company anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 for each hour of remediation costs.

The cybercriminals will often go after and target the lowest level members of your organization. Instead of trying to hack your current software, the hackers will just hack your employee’s account to find the login and password so that they can access your software, which is why it’s important to make sure that employees understand best practices for cybersecurity.

Invest in Cybersecurity
It’s also important because it can keep your computers running quickly. Many viruses that may attack your company’s computers can slow them down and make working much less efficient for your employees. Therefore, spending money on cybersecurity will actually make your computers run better and make your employees more efficient with their time. Another benefit is that having cybersecurity can prevent adware, which is a virus that can spam your computer with advertisements and will also slow it down.

How Much Does Cybersecurity Cost?
Most cyber security companies are relatively affordable. The real cost benefit of having one is that it can save you from having to pay out remediation costs or even from paying a new PR firm after the hack has occurred. If you want to keep your company safe and save money in the long run, then cybersecurity education costs are well worth it. In the long run, you will save your company a lot of money and hassle by hiring a cybersecurity expert or even by hiring a team to help keep your company’s computer virus and hack-free.

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Should You Cover the Camera on Your Smartphone?

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 13:00:07 +0000

Ever since laptops with built-in webcams became popular, it’s become a common practice for individuals to cover those cameras out of fear that they’d be watched, even when they didn’t turn them on. This isn’t a paranoid fear now, either — laptop and smartphone cameras can be easily hacked. That’s why it’s important to download dfndr security and activate the security scan feature on your device so that you can ensure your SD card and all files are safe:

Although technology has done a lot for all of us — it has connected us to people around the world, made our jobs and personal lives more convenient and easy, and so on — there is still the issue of privacy that comes about time and time again with these new innovations. If you find yourself covering your laptop webcam camera, you’re probably now wondering: Should you also cover the camera on your phone?

Should You Cover Your Phone’s Camera?
Like a laptop camera, it appears that a phone camera could be used by wandering eyes, hackers, and crooks to watch our actions. The problem with this is that our phones go virtually everywhere with us, giving malicious individuals the ability to see almost every aspect of our day-to-day lives and every move that we make — whether that be inside or outside of our homes. It gives people the advantage of knowing when we’re traveling, when our home may be vacant, and what our daily routines are — which could be dangerous.

Because our smartphones are more versatile and travel everywhere with us, they are also more of a target for hackers and crooks to break into. After all, once they hack a phone camera, they can easily see much more than what a laptop would be able to show since those are nowhere near as portable. This means that it would, in fact, be beneficial to cover our phone cameras when they’re not in use.

What You Can Do About It
There are simple ways to cover your phone camera without it looking sloppy or strange. There are now phone cases that are specifically designed to easily cover and uncover your camera lenses whenever needed. This is a simple solution to take advantage of — tape will only get you so far! Take the right precautions to have the peace of mind that no one is creeping on your day-to-day activities.

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Is It Safe to Store Your Credit Card Information Online?

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 01:00:09 +0000

There are some pros and cons to saving your credit card information to various websites or to your web browser’s AutoFill. When shopping online, you should always be wary of malicious websites that are mimicking the appearance of your favorite sites. If you use AutoFill, you may quickly give your credit card info to an unsafe site without realizing. Click here to use anti-hacking to ensure that your information is never entered on a fake or dangerous website:

Pros to Storing Your Credit Card Info Online
One pro is that many online businesses, such as Amazon Prime, will give discounts and even free shipping to their customers that save their credit card online with them. Another benefit of saving your credit card information when online shopping is that it’s simply much more convenient. If you wanted to keep your information completely off of the Internet, though, that would require you to call a store and pay by phone every time you wanted to purchase something online.

Cons to Storing Your Credit Card Info Online
However, there are many drawbacks to keeping your private credit card information online. During the spring of 2017, as many as 56 million credit card numbers were stolen from Home Depot’s online data storage. Many major companies have had data breaches where hackers have stolen millions of credit card numbers. You may believe that there is not much you can do to stop the data breaches, which is often true — you just have to trust that the company you entrusted your credit card information with will keep it safe from hackers. Still, there are many steps you can take to be proactive in protecting your data and personal information.

Keep Your Credit Card Info Safe Online
Be sure to avoid buying anything from a non-credible website. Many scammers out there will set up realistic looking sites that will promise to keep your credit card info safe, which is why it’s important to use Anti-Hacking. Also, make sure that when you buy something online you’re not using public Wi-Fi. Whenever you’re on public Wi-Fi, your device is more vulnerable to hacking or attacks.

Finally, don’t store your credit card information on a website if you can avoid it. Many websites want you to save your credit card so that it’s easier for you to make a purchase again. But if your laptop gets stolen or hacked into, suddenly a hacker will have access to your saved credit card number, which can quickly turn into a case of identity fraud. Overall, if you want to keep your credit card information safe while you shop online, just be wary of any website that doesn’t look legitimate.

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Vicious Mobile Banking Trojan Steals All Your Information

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 01:00:00 +0000

As hackers develop new methods for creating malware, it can become harder to detect these virtually invisible threats in the Google Play Store. A new banking trojan, nicknamed “BankBot,” appears harmless initially, but it can intercept and steal an Android user’s sensitive bank information. That’s why it’s important to run a full virus scan on your device after downloading any new apps from the Play Store. Click here to scan your phone for malware:

Regularly running a Full Virus Scan on your phone is critical in detecting malware that one would normally not discover until it’s too late. Experts are warning that, as more apps saturate the Play store, it is becoming more difficult to detect harmless programs from malicious ones. To find out more about what type of threat this malware may pose to your security, read on below.

What is BankBot Malware?
The BankBot malware is hidden inside of an app called “Funny Videos,” which has between 1,000 and 5,000 installations from the Google Play store. The app appears to be a normal video application, and it advertises that it features “only hand selected and most popular video clips from YouTube.” Once installed, the malware can access sensitive information from over 400 banks nationwide.

Malware like “BankBot” is often disguised in pop-ups, such as a window asking the user to agree to the app’s terms and conditions. Once the user clicks this, however, the malware creates an overlay that enables it to begin stealing information from the user. Google has since removed the malicious app from the Play store, but some users still question Google’s security precautions in detecting these harmful viruses.

Lately, Google Play has had a lot of trouble with malicious ads and pop-ups hidden in its apps. They recently removed more than 40 infected apps, which had been downloaded more than 36 million times.

How to Protect Your Device
In order to protect yourself against these nearly invisible threats, you’ll also want to enable the Anti-Hacking feature. Once activated, Anti-Hacking will protect you against malicious websites and phishing attacks that are designed to steal your personal information, such as passwords or financial information. Click here now to stay safe online:

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Scary Spyware Apps Found on Google Play

Sun, 03 Sep 2017 01:00:51 +0000

Android users are facing yet another threat from infected Google Play apps, this time in the form of a type of malware named SonicSpy. Capable of accessing, recording, and collecting sensitive information, the frightening malware spawned itself in countless iterations across third-party application platforms. While Google Play removed the infection, Android users shouldn’t feel safe just yet, as similar attacks in the future are possible. To fully protect your device always have the full virus scan feature activated. Click now to turn it on:

The full virus scan feature thoroughly searches your phone and SD card for malware and scans all apps for adware. The cutting-edge dfndr technology is updated in real-time, giving it the capability to protect your smartphone from the SonicSpy malware, or other malicious viruses lurking on your Android phone.

What is SonicSpy?
Masquerading as messaging apps, over 1,000 malicious applications flooded third-party Android app platforms in recent days. Three of these apps were available through the Google Play store: Soniac, Troy Chat, and Hulk Messenger. While the apps have since been removed from Google Play, the spyware apps had been downloaded by thousands of users in the meantime. This strain of spyware has tremendous capabilities, able to execute 73 remote instructions such as recording phone calls and audio, making calls and sending messages without user authorization, controlling the phone’s camera, and stealing information like logs, contacts, and Wi-Fi access details.

How SonicSpy Works
Marketed as customized versions of familiar apps, SonicSpy was able to make its way onto Google Play and other app platforms under this guise. Once downloaded, the malware hides its launcher icon in order to avoid detection from smartphone users and to establish a connection to C2 infrastructure. SonicSpy also utilizes Bind Accessibility Services within the Android operating system in order to capture and record text descriptions of the Android user’s phone activity.

Future Threats
The SonicSpy malware shares a strikingly similar approach to SpyNote, a malware strain that appeared in 2016. According to Michael Flossman, the security researcher who initially identified the threat, the two strains rely on dynamic DNS services and the non-standard 2222 port on top of sharing many code similarities. Both SpyNote and SonicSpy have been linked to an Iraqi developer, whose repeated attempts to infiltrate Android app stores suggests that Android users should continue to be wary of unfamiliar apps, even those hosted by Google Play. Before downloading new applications, smartphone readers should read reviews of the app and make sure their anti-malware software is always running.

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How Safe is it to Use Finger Recognition with Your Bank App?

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 13:00:25 +0000

Apps have made online banking easier, especially when a fingerprint can be used as a password. But how much safer is it to use finger recognition than a typical passcode or passphrase? The answer: it’s a lot safer than regular passwords. Passwords can be easily guessed, which could lead to identity theft and stolen money — but you can’t easily hack a fingerprint. If you want to further protect your phone from hacking, use the anti-hacking feature in dfndr security to ensure that your personal information will not be compromised by dangerous online attacks:

Everyone has their own unique fingerprints, so unless the thief were to cut off your hand (horror story style) or complete some other wacky maneuver that would require them to come into close contact with you without you noticing (unlikely), nobody’s getting into your account that way.

The nice thing about fingerprint recognition is that it saves you the trouble of having to remember multiple passwords for different accounts. It’s still better to avoid making any transactions on your phone in a crowded area, but even sneakily looking over one’s shoulder would be ineffective if you’re signing in with a tap of a button. There are more ways to further protect yourself, but security has come a long way with the addition of finger recognition.

Whichever type of phone you’re using, you can further secure yourself by setting up multiple fingerprints in the password section of your phone’s settings. Not only does it buff the security a bit, but it makes signing in much faster, which is good for those who often switch hands while using their phone. (Bonus points if you can learn to type and tap on your phone while it’s still in your pocket!) Just be sure not to accidentally cancel the fingerprint login by tapping too fast, but if you do, you can always reset it the next time you open the app.

This system isn’t entirely foolproof, as people can still steal your information online through shopping sites or email scams, but it provides safer and more convenient means for banking on the go. You should continue to practice safe habits with your phone in general and while you bank online, but if people aren’t able to unlock your phone with their fingerprint, they won’t be able to log into your bank account either. Fingerprint recognition was tested for quite a while and is now being included as a feature in almost every smartphone. The technology will only improve from here.

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How Risky is it to Check Your Bank Account on Public Wi-Fi?

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 00:00:27 +0000

You’re at a coffeeshop doing some work on the cafe’s Wi-Fi, and you decide to check your bank account to see if you have enough funds to cover your weekend plans. But is this a safe idea? The answer: not really. If you’re going to check your bank account, you should always do so on a secure, private Wi-Fi network, or else on your phone’s cellular connection. Otherwise, a hacker may be able to see your every move. When accessing your bank information online, you should activate anti-hacking so that you remain protected against online scams:

The anti-hacking feature eliminates worry, letting you browse online and stay protected against phishing attempts, hackers, malicious websites, and online scams. That way, even if a malicious website is mimicking your bank’s website, you won’t be able to enter your account information on the site because anti-hacking will warn you of the site’s intentions and block your access. That’s it; think of anti-hacking as your personal browsing bodyguard. That way, you can get back to browsing the websites you love without worrying about a scam.

The Difference Between Public and Private Wi-Fi
Before exploring this issue further, however, it’s important to first establish what it really means to have a secure Wi-Fi connection. If you want to check the security of your network — no matter if the network is private or public, use the wi-fi check feature. This feature will also check your connection, download speed, and DNS security. Click here to use wi-fi check:

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This Guy Saved the World from a Cyber Attack

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 01:00:33 +0000

Recently, the WannaCry virus managed to spread across 150 countries and attack a plethora of businesses, organizations, and other international targets.Do you know the story behind the WannaCry virus’ notorious end? It turns out that a young, self-trained IT expert found a “kill switch” while working from his bedroom.

Marcus Hutchins, the man behind this victory, doesn’t consider himself a hero — but the world certainly does. This young man spent three days fighting off the WannaCry virus, as it wormed its way into the UK’s hospital networks. Luckily for Marcus, the virus itself wasn’t well-constructed and, once he located its weak spot, the entire bot effectively collapsed.

The Damage Caused By the WannaCry Virus

First emerging on May 12, 2017, the WannaCry virus infected a reported 230,000 computers. WannaCry is a strand of ransomware, which means it locks a user’s access to his or her device and demands payment to unlock them. In this case, WannaCry asks for $300 to $600 in Bitcoins. By May 15, the hackers had allegedly received around $50,000 from their malware’s antics.

Despite its global reach, WannaCry’s main targets appear to have been FedEx, Deutsche Bahn, the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), and Spain’s Telefónica. WannaCry seized control of these company computers by taking advantage of a loophole in an older Windows operating system. Microsoft has since developed a patch to fix this issue.

How to Keep Your Devices Safe

Update your version of Windows on your PC. If you haven’t updated your computer to the latest operating system, or if your computer no longer receives updates, then your computer is still vulnerable to attacks like WannaCry and other malware.
Use a firewall and run regular virus scans. Prevention is always the best strategy. Once your computer is infected with malware, it can be expensive, frustrating, and time-consuming to remove the infection.
Be prepared for the worst. Back up any important data on your computer by using a dropbox or cloud system. That way, if WannaCry or another virus strikes your operating system, you won’t lose any important data.

Most of all, remember that computers aren’t the only thing at risk these days. Increasingly, attacks on smartphones are increasing year by year and becoming more sophisticated. That’s when DFNDR can come in handy.

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CopyCat Malware Affects 14 Million Devices

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 01:00:43 +0000

We’re all aware that our mobile devices are at risk of being hacked at any given moment, but when that fear becomes a reality, it can be hard to face. These malicious attacks are serious, and allowing them to take a hold of your device is an unwanted headache that you don’t want to deal with. To negate the possibility of an attack, it’s important to take advantage of DFNDR’s various anti-virus features to protect your device. Click here to use the Full Virus Scan to check your device for hidden malware:

When you take advantage of the Full Virus Scan feature, you can use your smartphone confidently, knowing that you’re well-protected from malware and hackers. You’ll have more privacy and control, as well as a better-performing device — and what could be better than that?

The CopyCat Malware
A newly uncovered malware strain, dubbed “CopyCat,” has infected more than 14 million Android users around the world, drawing in approximately $1.5 million in fake advertisements in only two month’s time. This malware has the ability to root infected devices, to establish persistency, and to inject malicious code into Zygote. This is a daemon that is capable of launching apps on Android and allowing hackers full access to the infected devices.

Most of the victims of this malicious attack reside in South and Southeast Asia. However, more than 280,000 Android devices in the U.S. have been affected by this malware. Experts believe that millions were infected with this malware through third-party app downloads as well as phishing attacks. To protect your device from this type of malware, make sure to only download apps from Google Play, and to use our Anti-Hacking feature to protect your device from phishing attempts and malicious websites:

This malware works by disguising itself as a popular and trusted Android app that users choose to download from third-party stores. Once it is added onto a device, the malware begins to collect data from the phone; it then downloads rootkits to root itself within the smartphone, which proves to be the window to more information and power.

After that, the malware removes the device’s security defenses, injects a code into the Zygote app, and launches a process to fraudulently install apps and display fake ads. When these ads are clicked on, they generate revenue. The tricky thing about these ads is that CopyCat abuses the Zygote process and works to display these fake ads while hiding their origins. That means that Android users cannot understand what causes these pop-up ads, meaning that they also don’t know how to stop them.

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Things You Need to Do If You Suspect a Credit Card Hack

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 01:00:17 +0000

There is perhaps nothing more alarming than the possibility that your credit card information has been compromised. Credit card hacking is a serious problem that can cause you an unnecessary headache. To help mitigate the risk of your information being compromised, take advantage of the Anti-Hacking feature. This feature will detect when a website or program has malicious intent, and it will automatically warn you of the risk, ensuring your information is always kept safe. Click here to stay protected against phishing attempts and malicious sites:

Studies show that 47 percent of the world’s credit card fraud occurs in the U.S. Although lengthy measures are being taken to protect customer information, hacks are still a prevalent part of the credit card world. In this article, you’ll learn about all of the things you should do the moment that you figure out someone has gotten your credit card information, so you can mitigate the risk of your money being spent by someone other than you.

First: Call the credit card company and your bank.
As soon as you realize that there has been a breach, you should call your credit card company and your bank (as needed). Let the company know about the activity you suspect, and have them verify with you the most recent charges, their location, and the amounts. That way, they can claim any unauthorized charges as fraudulent and put a hold on your account, which will halt the ability for anyone to use your card credentials.

Second: Send written notification to your creditors.
After notifying your credit card company by phone, you should follow up with a letter. This will come in handy in the event that you are being held accountable for the fraudulent charges, and having a paper trail makes it easier to prove that you reported the incident. You should do this as quickly as possible. If you send a letter within two business days of the fraudulent charges, the maximum liability to you would be $50. If you report it after two business days, but less than 60 days after your statement is sent to you, your liability would be up to $500. Be sure to send your letter via certified mail (or an alternate, trackable method) and to make copies of it for your records.

Third: Monitor your statements closely.
After a fraudulent attack, it’s important to keep a close eye on your statements, even after you believe the issue has been resolved. Be on the lookout for strange or unauthorized charges and be sure to closely record when you have conversations or contact with your credit card company.

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You May Have the DNSChanger Virus and Not Even Know It

Sun, 30 Jul 2017 22:17:04 +0000

The DNSChanger Virus is one of the most widespread computer viruses in the history of the Internet. You may have read about it five or ten years ago when it was at its peak. But just what was the DNSChanger Virus, and what is the status of it now? How do you know if you have it? Malware doesn’t always make its presence on your phone obvious. The best way to protect your phone from viruses — and remove any hidden viruses — is to run a Full Virus Scan on your phone. Click here to scan your phone and SD card for malicious threats:

The DNSChanger Virus is considered a Trojan virus (named after the Trojan horse). It works in a similar way: it appears to be something friendly and normal, but once it breaches your Internet, it mutates into a malware that hijacks your computer. The toughest part about the DNSChanger Virus is that you cannot detect it until you get it, and once you get it, it is difficult to find.

The DNSChanger Virus is the product of Rove Digital, an Estonian web company, that used their malware to invade a person’s computer server and redirect all Internet traffic to their own servers, where they inject the victim’s computer with their own advertising. At its peak, the DNSChanger Virus became so widespread that it affected tens of millions of Americans. Even though the FBI quarantined the DNSChanger virus six years ago, cutting its victims in half, it is still on the Internet in alarmingly high numbers.

The DNSChanger Virus has since spawned mutations that go by different names, but they all have the same origin. If the DNSChanger Virus hijacks your phone, your Internet browsing is at the mercy of hackers and malware, slowing down your Android with ads and potentially more viruses.

The best way to avoid getting the DNSChanger Virus is to avoid sketchy unsafe websites that are heavy with ads and malware. And while it is difficult to identify the DNSChanger Virus once it invades your computer, the best way to kill it and prevent malware from infecting your phone is to perform a Full Virus Scan regularly on your device. The DNSChanger virus may seem like ancient history, but it is still active and can affect your Internet browsing. It is better to be safe than sorry, and always lean on the side of caution.

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SMS Phishing: The New Threat Targeting Smartphones

Sat, 29 Jul 2017 23:52:48 +0000

To most “connected” individuals, phishing scams are not new. Traditionally sent via email, phishing scams attempt to extract personal or financial information from the target. From a suspicious request by a distant relative, to a threat about loss of property, phishing scams generally use fear tactics or emotional manipulation to get information from the intended recipient. If you think you may have a virus on your device from a phishing scam, click here to run a Full Virus Scan and remove any threats:

SMS phishing scams are no different in intent, but are sent directly to the recipient’s SMS inbox. Like email phishing scams, SMS phishing scams are a serious threat for both consumers and businesses. Because they can often mimic reputable senders (i.e. your bank), many people fall victim to them, which can lead to a loss of information and even identity theft. When protecting yourself from such scams, keep the following in mind.

Utilize Anti-Hacking and Remain Diligent

DFNDR’s Anti-Hacking tool protects your device against phishing attacks, if you click on a bad link from an SMS. This tool will automatically block any dangerous sites that you may attempt to visit, and warn you of deceptive websites designed to steal your personal information. Click here to protect your device from phishing attacks:

Be On the Lookout For Suspicious SMS Messages

If the message is from an unknown sender or a blocked number, it is best not to engage with the content, especially if the SMS message links out to a website. Typically, SMS phishing scammers use third party tools to mass deliver their messages and block their numbers from phones, so be aware if you see such a message come through.

Only Engage With Companies That You’ve “Opted-In” to Receive SMS Messaging

If you’ve never received SMS messages from your bank before and have not opted-in to do so, it is very likely that it could be a scam intended to collect your banking information. Be aware of which companies you’re expecting marketing messages or alerts from, and be wary of imposters.

Be Cautious of the Content, Even if the Sender May Seem Familiar

Even if the company or person the message is coming from may seem familiar, be aware of the information they are asking you to provide and how they are asking for it. Phishing scams usually over-exaggerate a sense of urgency in order to create fear in the mind of the recipient. Know that most companies will not ask for sensitive information over SMS. If in doubt, contact the company that’s trying to contact you by using a number from their website or a document — not the SMS!

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The Rise of Increasingly Sophisticated Ransomware

Sat, 29 Jul 2017 20:01:20 +0000

Ransomware, a malicious software that blocks access to users’ data until a ransom is paid, is targeting more people than ever, despite growing awareness of this hacking technique. If you believe that a ransomware virus may be lurking in your phone, or if you’re looking to take a preventative measure, run a Full Virus Scan on your device. This feature will search both your phone and SD card for malware. Click here to scan your phone for hidden threats:

Reports of ransomware have jumped in recent years. The number of ransomware reports has grown from 2.3 million to 2.6 million just within the last year — an 11.4% jump. Within the first quarter of 2017, mobile ransomware incidents spiked dramatically, up 253% from the previous quarter. During the past three years, the various strains of ransomware have tripled as hackers have realized their lucrative benefits.

Ransomware Attacks

Recently, the WannaCry strain of ransomware attacked a total of 150 countries. Victims of this sophisticated attack included Russia’s interior ministry and Britain’s National Health Service; they were all ordered to pay a ransom amount in Bitcoin. Later studies uncovered that all victims were Windows users who had failed to update their software.

For mobile users, the most common form of ransomware is the “Trojan-Ransom.AndroidOS.Fusob.h” which requests administrator privileges and collects information from the device to upload to a malicious server. This server then determines the device’s worth and blocks device use in order to extort a profit.

New Techniques
As hackers recognize ransomware as a significant source of revenue, their methods and targets are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Oftentimes, scammers will target high-value individuals or systems in an effort to generate the highest returns per victim. Ransomware vendors are also starting to provide ransomware customer support lines to facilitate the exchange of data for payments. As these levels of sophistication increase, future ransomware attacks may develop the ability to evade detection through limited CPU usage, and use self-replication within organizations in order to carry out coordinated ransom attacks.

How to Protect Your Devices
To avoid the danger of losing your private data to a ransomware attack, make sure to backup your phone data regularly, and keep your Android and network software updated. Oftentimes, ransomware is spread through infected emails, so be sure to approach email attachments or messages from strangers with caution, and ensure your antivirus software comes with anti-phishing to block links if you click on a malicious link by accident.

If you are a victim of a ransomware attack, make sure to report the incident to law enforcement, as these attacks are often criminal offenses.

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