Author: pro

We have been looking at cyberattacks in our previous articles and today bring us to another form of cyberattack known as the ‘supply chain attack.’ We will be going in-depth as usual to show you more about this kind of of of cyberattack.

What Is A ‘Supply Chain Attack? 

This is a type of cyberattack that aims to cause damage to its target by exploiting the vulnerabilities in its supply chain network.

The attacker continuously hacks and infiltrates the network to access its target’s network to damages and outages that harm the company. Over 40% of cyber-attacks recorded in 2020 came from extended supply chains.

The main idea behind this kind of attack is that the attacker suspects the company’s key suppliers are likely more vulnerable to attacks on the target itself. This makes the suppliers a weak link to the company’s overall network.

Supply chain attacks are more commonplace than attacks targeted at companies and originate through hacking attempts or the use of malware.

What They Do

In recent times, the supply chain network of companies has become a prime target for cybercriminals.

This vulnerability arises from the fact that a weak link within a company’s supply chain can serve as an entry point for cybercriminals to infiltrate larger organizations, leveraging the data supplied through these chains.

Such attacks highlight vulnerabilities within the target’s supply network, indicating that the security measures are as weak as the least secure link in its chain.

The adoption of various technological means has led to a substantial increase in the volume of data, exchanged electronically through platforms such as the Internet, smartphones, and cloud computing.

While this electronic exchange of data enhances efficiency, it also introduces a certain level of risk, making companies susceptible to cyber theft.

Cybercriminals, recognizing the value of this data, employ various means to acquire it. Once successful, supply chain attacks empower cybercriminals to infiltrate affiliated companies.

An illustrative case is the 2013 Target breach, where attackers exploited third-party security credentials, compromising Target’s security measures.

Gaining access to login credentials and network entry points, the attackers infiltrated Target’s computer system, compromising the personally identifiable information of over 70 million customers.

This breach inflicted significant damage, totaling $200 million, leading to the resignation of the CEO.

This incident underscores the critical importance of fortifying security measures throughout the entire supply chain to mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats.

Prevention

One can take several ways to make sure their systems are well protected from supply chain attacks. Here are some of them that you can use to protect yourself.

• Understand and Assess Your Supply Network: It is imperative to establish a level of trust with your supply chain vendors concerning information access on your systems. This collaborative relationship enables the tracking of risk factors, including ownership, supplier relations, and potential attack surfaces. Utilizing open-source tools, continuous monitoring throughout the supply cycle, and employing multidimensional analytics can enhance the assessment process.
• Identify Risks of Third-Party Suppliers: To preemptively address potential supply chain attacks, it is crucial to identify valuable assets that could serve as motivators for hackers. This proactive approach aids in understanding which components of your supply chain systems require protection. This knowledge is essential for effective prioritization of your cybersecurity budget.
• Response and Remediation Planning: Integrating your supply chain into your response and remediation plan is paramount. Despite thorough pre-monitoring efforts, overconfidence can be detrimental, as unforeseen risks may persist. It is unwise to assume that suppliers will autonomously handle security. A comprehensive response and remediation plan should account for potential vulnerabilities and include collaborative measures with suppliers to fortify security measures.

Conclusion

Safeguarding against supply chain attacks is crucial, as they have become increasingly prevalent due to their effectiveness as a gateway for unauthorized access.

It is imperative to implement comprehensive safety measures to mitigate these risks and protect valuable intellectual assets.

Leaving nothing to chance in securing your supply chain is paramount to maintaining the integrity and security of your company’s sensitive information.

Individuals who entrust their finances to banking institutions are likely familiar with the concept of ‘mobile banking.’

For those seeking a deeper understanding of this financial service, this article aims to provide valuable insights into its intricacies.

What Is Mobile Banking? 

In straightforward terms, mobile banking refers to the practice of conducting financial transactions using a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet.

The process involves actions like receiving transactions from a bank on your phone, settling various bills, or sending money internationally.

One of the notable advantages of mobile banking is its flexibility, allowing financial transactions to take place virtually anywhere. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the security concerns associated with this method.

In our modern age, the widespread embrace of mobile banking across various banks and financial institutions underscores its growing convenience.

Many individuals prefer mobile banking due to its elimination of the need to physically deposit a check or visit an ATM.

Nevertheless, users must exercise caution while accessing mobile banking apps to prevent the compromise of personal information.

Security remains a paramount consideration in maximizing the benefits of this modern financial convenience.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity has become very important in the use of mobile banking operations in recent times. Cybersecurity consists of a wide range of measures used to keep all electronic information safe and private to avoid cases of theft and damage.

It also makes sure that data does not end up being misused. This extends from personal information to complex government systems as well.

Cyberattacks

In the realm of cybersecurity, three primary types of cyberattacks exist:

1. Backdoor Attacks: Backdoor attacks occur when cybercriminals employ alternative methods to access a system, bypassing the usual authentication processes. While some systems may have intentionally designed backdoors, others unwittingly acquire them through errors or vulnerabilities.
2. Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attack: Denial-of-service attacks are orchestrated to prevent the legitimate owner of a system from accessing it. In this type of attack, cybercriminals intentionally input incorrect passwords multiple times, leading to the system becoming locked or overwhelmed, thereby denying authorized users access.
3. Direct-Access Attack: Direct-access attacks involve the use of bugs and viruses to infiltrate a system. The objective can vary, ranging from extracting sensitive information to modifying the system’s functionality. This type of attack leverages vulnerabilities in the system’s defenses to compromise its integrity.

Understanding these three categories of cyber threats is essential for individuals and organizations alike, as it facilitates the development of effective cybersecurity measures to safeguard against potential risks.

How To Secure Clients Against Cyber Attacks

Some of the steps that financial institutions can take to protect their clients against cyberattacks on mobile banking include;

1. Educating their clients about cyber attacks and the use of strong and unique passwords
2. Make sure not to access client data from a public location

Advantages Of Mobile Banking

Certainly, let’s refine and elaborate on the advantages of mobile banking in a professional yet accessible manner:

1. Convenience: The advent of high-speed internet has significantly enhanced the convenience of financial transactions, allowing individuals to conduct their banking affairs from the comfort of their homes. Mobile banking leverages this connectivity, providing users with a streamlined and accessible platform for various transactions.
2. Ease of Access: One of the prominent benefits of mobile banking is the elimination of the need to endure long queues at traditional bank branches. Users can effortlessly access their bank accounts at any time, even outside regular banking hours. The flexibility to manage accounts and perform transactions, including quick fund transfers, contributes to a more user-friendly and efficient banking experience.
3. Reduced Errors: Mobile banking applications play a role in minimizing errors that users might encounter in manual transactions. The user-friendly interfaces and built-in safeguards help customers navigate financial processes more accurately, reducing the likelihood of mistakes compared to traditional methods.

Embracing mobile banking not only enhances the efficiency of financial transactions but also promotes a more seamless and error-resistant banking experience for users.

Disadvantages Of Mobile Banking

Mobile banking also has some disadvantages, although they are few. The errors are;

1. Restricted Offerings: The current landscape of mobile banking exhibits limitations in its range of services. While there are numerous plans aimed at expanding functionality, the majority of offerings remain informative, focusing on features like checking bank balances and submitting credit card applications. Efforts are ongoing to diversify and enrich the array of services available.
2. High Charges: A notable challenge in mobile banking lies in the disparity between the costs incurred by users and the perceived benefits. The charges associated with mobile banking transactions are currently deemed excessive, outweighing the advantages users gain from the convenience. Striking a balance between affordability and the value proposition of mobile banking remains an area requiring attention.
3. Technical Issues: Mobile banking applications commonly grapple with technical problems, particularly in the realms of security and associated costs. Security concerns, such as the potential compromise of personal information, pose significant hurdles. Resolving these technical challenges is imperative to ensure the seamless and secure functioning of mobile banking applications.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for the continued evolution and widespread acceptance of mobile banking, ultimately enhancing its effectiveness and ensuring a more favorable cost-benefit ratio for users.

Conclusion

Mobile banking offers individuals the convenience of accessing their bank accounts from virtually anywhere, provided they have a technological device and an internet connection.

When opting for mobile banking, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with all relevant information, particularly insights shared by qualified professionals in the field. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Technology has been responsible for the change and advancement in the world in the last century such as gene editing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. However, its advancements have been without any repercussions.

Cybercrime has been more than enough proof that the negative side of technology very much exists as it keeps progressing.

Technological advancement has been tuned to cover the safety and efficiency of the highly interconnected world that is a result of the same technology.

Many measures have been put in place to curb the malpractices on the internet such as the ability to monitor human trafficking.

Technologies have also been built to help people monitor the progress of their health without having to see the doctor for everything.

Technology has now unveiled new ways through which we can monitor and communicate dangerous situations.

Below are some ways through which technology is keeping people safe.

Public Emergency Response

For emergency responders to be effective, they have to be provided with the right information.

Without good information like the venue of the emergency or how severe the situation is, the safety of people could be in jeopardy.

One of the new ways through which effective information is shared is Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC).

It helps to shift the use of cloud functions closer to people. together with the use of 5G, they are very important in dealing with public safety.

With their speeds that are 10 times faster than 4G, video surveillance, real-time analytics, and video, and voice recognition, these technological tools help to provide accurate information and seamless communications in times of emergencies.

It also allows for real-time response to emergency issues through edge computing and artificial intelligence.

This also allows for setting off safety systems, making visual assessments, and sounding off alarms before the emergency team arrives at the scene to take care of the problem.

Security Apps

Technological innovations have now addressed the distance between an emergency police call and potentially dangerous situations.

There are a handful of crimes such as stalking, domestic abuse, and break-ins which do not seem like a serious situation until it becomes too late to deal with it or call the relevant entities for help.

During situations like this, potential victims are not able to make phone calls since that will provoke the attacker to carry out his or her act right away due to the fear of being reported and arrested.

With the emergence of mobile phone apps that can help the relevant entities pinpoint their exact location come to the scene and keep users protected.

Mobile apps such as Noonlight can help its users to connect with relevant entities whenever they feel that they are in danger through its several connected safety platforms.

Users can call help or cancel it by just pressing a button. The app recently added an automatic crash detection and response’ feature to it. This new feature can detect when a user’s location, motion, and force change.

It can also detect when there is a crash by the user and automatically call the relevant emergency entities. In this way, people who are not able to make phone calls physically will still be able to receive the help that they need.     

Wearable Gadgets

Wearable gadgets are also a new way through which one can spot a potentially harmful situation.

Not all dangerous situations are physical as some dangerous situations can be in the form of health issues that cannot be detected until it becomes too late.

With the introduction of wearable gadgets, the safety of the wearer is ensured as the gadget monitors the health indicators of the wearer through its provision of accurate patient data of the wearer to healthcare providers such as personal doctors.

The KardiaBand can monitor the heart rhythm of the wearer and can even perform an electrocardiogram test while on the go.

The band alerts the wearer when it discerns an irregular heartbeat of atrial fibrillation.

This wearable gadget is ideal for patients who can suffer a sudden cardiac arrest instead of the much bigger defibrillator vest. It is also able to provide the wearer with monthly reports which help to limit the number of times that the wearer may be in danger.

Security Cameras

Security cameras have become commonplace now. A lot of state-building and wealthy private owners have security cameras and gadgets installed on their properties.

These cameras can detect when an intruder tries to break into the premises and alert the owners without the intruder finding out.

Some can also set off a loud alarm that could scare the intruder to abandon their mission. Some of the security cameras send their data to computers which are monitored by security guards while others have built-in technologies that can alert law enforcement agencies straightaway.      

From the above article, we can see that technology has improved the safety of people through the various gadgets that have been produced.

As time goes on, we will be witnessing much sharper and more effective gadgets and tech that will be performing much better than the ones we have today. The positive effects of technology may far outweigh its negative side.  

I am sure that we all know what antivirus is, or we have heard the name before. And we all know an antivirus is a security software used to protect our companies against computer threats like malware.

I have already gone in-depth on firewalls, and I think that begs for an in-depth on antivirus since they both do a similar job on a computer system.

So before we can go in-depth on the antivirus, we first need to know precisely what it is.

What Is Antivirus?

Application software indeed serves as a crucial defense mechanism for computer systems against potential threats and malicious programs originating from the internet or connected peripherals. Nevertheless, the fortification against the perils of the internet is incomplete without the presence of a firewall.

The primary function of antivirus software lies in its ability to systematically scan the computer, identifying any malicious programs present.

Subsequently, it takes appropriate action, either by eliminating the detected threats or isolating them in quarantine, contingent upon the severity of the malicious software.

This multi-step process forms the pathway through which antivirus software safeguards a computer system from potential threats.

Mode Of Operation

Scanning

Upon initiating the antivirus program, the preliminary step is to conduct a scan to ascertain the presence of any malicious programs that may have infiltrated the system.

Notably, various types of scans are available, each delving to a specific depth within the computer’s architecture in its quest to uncover potential threats.

A light scan, characterized by its efficiency, targets specific sections of the computer and typically concludes within a few minutes.

Conversely, a deep scan adopts a more exhaustive approach, scrutinizing nearly every facet of the computer system.

While this thorough examination enhances the likelihood of detecting deeply embedded malicious programs, it comes at the cost of a lengthier scanning duration, often extending up to an hour to complete.

Detection

Following the completion of the antivirus scan, the software becomes cognizant of the presence of any malicious software within the computer.

At this point, the antivirus system proceeds to pinpoint the specific file or location where the identified malicious software has taken residence within the computer’s system.

This meticulous process is instrumental in preparing the antivirus for the subsequent actions it will undertake to neutralize or quarantine the detected threats, thus fortifying the overall security of the computer.

Identification

Once the antivirus successfully identifies the presence of malicious software during the scan, it goes a step further by recognizing the specific type of malicious program that constitutes the detected threat.

This discernment is crucial as it enables the antivirus to tailor its response and implement appropriate measures to neutralize or contain the identified malicious program effectively.

By categorizing the nature of the threat, the antivirus enhances its ability to counteract a diverse range of potential risks, contributing to a more robust defense against cyber threats.

Removal

Following the identification of malicious software, the antivirus initiates decisive action against the malware.

This involves the removal of the infected file, subsequently replacing it with an original, uninfected backup version of the program.

This restorative approach aims to eliminate the threat posed by the detected malware and restore the integrity of the affected program to its pristine state.

In instances where the antivirus encounters challenges in identifying and removing the virus, it adopts a proactive measure.

In such cases, the antivirus discards the infected file and seamlessly substitutes it with a virus-free backup version, ensuring the continued functionality of the program while mitigating the potential harm posed by the malicious software.

Antivirus Generations

Indeed, the progression of antivirus technologies has been prompted by the continual advancement of malware programs. Let’s delve into each generation:

1. First Generation:
   • Characteristics: Utilized simple scanners relying on virus signatures for identification.
   • Limitations: Restricted to specific virus signatures, unable to effectively combat ‘wildcard’ viruses.
2. Second Generation:
   • Approach: Moved away from reliance on virus signatures, adopting a heuristic approach.
   • Method: Searched for code blocks associated with viruses, allowing for a more dynamic identification process.
3. Third Generation:
   • Key Feature: Introduced memory-resident antivirus programs.
   • Recognition Method: Identified viruses based on their activities within the computer system, rather than relying solely on structural attributes.
4. Fourth Generation:
   • Integrated Approaches: Combined multiple antivirus methods, including scanning and monitoring.
   • Behavior-Blocking: Acted as behavior-blocking software, embedded within the computer’s operating system.
   • Real-time Observation: Monitored real-time actions for virus-like behavior, enabling immediate blocking of uncertain actions.
   • Preventive Measures: Proactively prevented potential damage to the computer system by swiftly blocking suspicious activities.

This progression highlights the adaptive nature of antivirus technology, continuously refining its capabilities to effectively counter the evolving landscape of malicious programs and protect computer systems more comprehensively.

Antivirus Limitations

1. They only support ‘common interface file system’ and not NIFS file protocol
2. It cannot check on read-only files

Conclusion

The continuous evolution of antivirus software is a direct response to the ever-increasing sophistication and malicious intent embedded in the daily release of new virus programs.

Antivirus developers have adeptly incorporated the latest technologies to enhance their software’s capability to identify and eliminate these highly sophisticated threats.

The current landscape of malicious programs often presents challenges even for advanced antivirus solutions, as some viruses are engineered to evade detection by conventional means.

This level of sophistication necessitates ongoing innovation in antivirus technologies to stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.

Contemporary antivirus software is equipped with cutting-edge features and advanced heuristics to not only identify known viruses but also to detect and neutralize previously unseen threats.

This proactive approach is crucial in ensuring the resilience of computer systems against the relentless and increasingly sophisticated nature of modern malware.

Technological advancements have ushered in a completely new era of entertainment experiences.

The evolution of technology has not only transformed how we consume entertainment but has also opened up exciting possibilities and innovations that redefine our interaction with various forms of media.

This continuous progress ensures that the world of entertainment remains dynamic, offering fresh and immersive experiences to audiences.

Video games can now be found in almost every house you enter.

Video games are a great way to release stress and relax.

They are also one of the ways through which people entertain themselves or pass the time.

There are hundreds of video games out there that several electronic companies have developed.

A little survey will probably find that most people enjoy esports and adventure games a lot.

This would be great made up of young people as well.

People in Ghana are no exception when it comes to playing video games.

In Ghana, the video games that most people seem to play a lot are the sports and combat genres.

However, we would like to introduce another genre of video games to you, the historical genre.

Most people in Ghana are already familiar with the Assassin’s Creed video game series, and it is relatively common among avid video game players.

However, for those of you who do not know anything about it and the avid history fans here, kindly allow us to take you on a bit of a journey. 

The Assassin’s Creed video games were launched in 2007, with the first game bearing the same title.

Ubisoft develops the video games in this series, and they are set around actual historical events that happened in the years in which the games are set.

This makes the games a great and fun way to learn some history as you play.

The main mechanic of the game is to use stealth in most cases to dispatch your enemy as you uncover secrets and foil plots in an age-long battle between the Assassins and the Templars.

The Templars are a group of people mostly made up of people with power and wealth who want to control the violent nature of humankind by ruling them with order and taking away their free will.

On the other hand, the assassins are a secret sect of highly skilled killers who believe that humankind must be allowed their free will to make their own decisions regarding their nature.

This caused a fight between the Templars and the Assassins for ages into the present day.

Apart from the main characters of the game and their immediate family members being fictional, most of the people you will encounter in the video game are actual individuals who existed in the time frame in which the particular game is set.

The protagonist of the game revisits the memories of his ancestors, who were skilled assassins, using a device called the Animus.

This innovative technology serves as a conduit, allowing the main character to delve into the historical experiences and skills of their forebears, creating a unique and captivating gameplay dynamic.

In essence, the player takes on the role of a modern-era character who navigates the memories of their ancestors from thousands of years ago.

Through the Animus device, players get to control and experience the actions and adventures of their historical predecessors, creating a fascinating blend of contemporary and ancient storytelling within the game.

There has been a total release of 11 console games aside from those released for mobile devices.

Let us a brief look at some of the games, the most popular ones.

All The Popular Assasin’s Creed Video Games

Assassin’s Creed

In the inaugural game of the series, players are introduced to the primary modern-day character, Desmond Miles.

Desmond engages with the Animus to experience the memories of his assassin ancestor, Altair Ibn La’Ahad, who lived during the 1100s.

This narrative setup adds layers to the gameplay, intertwining the present and the past, providing players with a rich and immersive gaming experience.

Altair, faced with the consequences of a failed mission that led to a fellow assassin losing an arm, is entrusted with a series of missions to redeem himself.

Through these tasks, he seeks to restore honor to the Brotherhood. Over time, Altair’s journey takes a transformative turn, and he emerges as the mentor of the assassin Brotherhood.

This character evolution adds depth to the storyline, showcasing Altair’s growth from a perceived failure to a respected leader within the Brotherhood.

Assassin’s Creed 2

The second game in the series introduces a new ancestor character known as Ezio Auditore.

This game is set in Italy in the 1400s and follows Ezio’s induction into the brotherhood as he avenges his father and elder brothers’ deaths.

Ezio is one of the best-known characters of the series and is regarded as a fan favorite among avid players of the game series alongside Altair.

You will see historical people like Rodrigo Bolgia, the real-life pope during that time, and his evil son Cesare Bolgia and his daughter Lucrezia Borgia.

You will also meet a young Leonardo Da Vinci, yes the world-famous Leonardo who painted the Mona Lisa, and Italian politician and writer Niccolo Machiavelli.

Assassin’s Creed 3

Set in America in the 1700s during the time that America was a colony of England.

This game brings a new character known as Conor as he fights to destroy Templar’s influences. This game also introduces historical figures to the player.

Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood

The third game picks off exactly where the second game left off and is set in the early 1500s.

The player now controls a middle-aged Ezio, and the game is set in Italy once more as he fights to rid Rome of the Templar’s influence.

You will meet an older version of the real-life characters you met in the second game, such as Leonardo and Machiavelli.

Assassin’s Creed Revelations

The fourth game is the final time in which you will be using Ezio.

This time he is an older man in his 50’s and sets out on a journey to find a library that Altair constructed.

The player controls both Ezio and Altair in this game. However, Altair’s scenes are not that many.

That game also shows the final years of Altair in his 90’s.

The game is set in the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey).

It introduces real-life characters such as Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, a prince at that time, his father Sultan Selim the Grim, and his uncle Prince Ahmet.

It also gives the player a view of Ottoman culture after years of killing bad guys in Italy.

Assassin’s Creed Rogue

This game follows the story of an assassin who betrays the brotherhood and joins the Templars after witnessing events that make him think that the killers were causing more harm than good. 

Assassin’s Creed Origins

Origins is the game that shows the beginnings of the assassin brotherhood in ancient Egypt.

The player controls an Egyptian medjay known as Bayek, who takes it upon himself as the protector of Egypt to bring down the beginnings of the Templar organization, which is known as the ‘Order of Ancients.’

Players will meet the famed Cleopatra, who was one of the last Pharaohs to rule Egypt. 

Wondering which one to choose between Fifa 21 and PES 21? This article takes you through everything you need to know about Fifa 21 vs PES 21, also check out how to get free Robux if you are addicted to that gaming platform like me.