Windows Kernel Vulnerability Exploited in Attacks

Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday updates for December 2018 address nearly 40 vulnerabilities, including a zero-day flaw affecting the Windows kernel. The actively exploited vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2018-8611, has been described by Microsoft as a privilege escalation issue related to the failure of the Windows kernel to properly handle objects in memory. “An attacker who successfully exploited this vulnerability could run arbitrary code in kernel mode. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights,” Microsoft said in its advisory. Exploitation of the vulnerability requires access to the targeted system. The security hole impacts all supported versions of Windows. Microsoft has credited Kaspersky Lab researchers for reporting the vulnerability. The cybersecurity firm is expected to publish a report detailing the flaw and the attacks exploiting it.

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End Point Protection

Malwarebytes Unveils New K-12 ThreatDown Bundle to Defend Schools and Districts from Cyberattacks

Malwarebytes | January 24, 2024

Malwarebytes, a global leader in real-time cyber protection, today announced the availability of ThreatDown K-12 Bundle, combining the cybersecurity technologies and services that K-12 education institutions need into a streamlined, cost-effective bundle. Purpose-built to reduce risk, complexity and costs for districts and schools, the ThreatDown K-12 Bundle delivers unified protection with an intuitive, easy-to-manage design. The ThreatDown K-12 Bundle allows schools to optimize device uptime and improve productivity, while protecting students and staff, devices and data from the latest cyber threats. "Schools are increasingly facing cyber threats with limited IT resources, leading to a rise in ransomware attacks that affect staff, teaching, and student well-being," said Marcin Kleczynski, Founder and CEO of Malwarebytes. "Historically, cost barriers prevented schools from adopting cybersecurity managed services. Our K-12 Bundle packages together everything districts need to reduce risk and comply with regulations within a manageable budget. We're committed to making powerful protection and managed services accessible to vulnerable schools and students." Bridging the Cybersecurity Gap for Resource-constrained K-12 IT Teams Modern K-12 educational institutions have a wide range of school-, staff- and student-owned devices – from traditional laptops, desktops and servers to Chromebooks, iPadOS, iOS, and Android devices. While these devices greatly enrich the student learning experience and streamline operations for staff, they also introduce new risks. Key features of the ThreatDown K-12 Bundle include: Award-winning endpoint security: K-12 Bundle is built on ThreatDown's strongest AI/ML-driven prevention, detection and response technologies fortified by built-in innovations to reduce the attack surface. These technologies simplify the process of finding and patching software vulnerabilities and prevent unauthorized programs from executing. 24x7x365 managed services: The K-12 Bundle combines ThreatDown advanced technologies with Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service of ThreatDown cybersecurity experts to manage security and resolve alerts around the clock, delivered as an affordable, hassle-free bundle. Unified endpoint management: ThreatDown extends powerful endpoint protection across workstations, servers and mobile device to substantially strengthen schools' cybersecurity postures in compliance with new and pending regulations. Quick and easy to deploy, the K-12 Bundle saves time and resources with unified endpoint management for both traditional and mobile devices – all from a single, cloud-native console. Centralized, real-time visibility: K-12 IT teams can easily view activity across all devices in real time. With a unified platform and visibility for traditional and mobile endpoints, teams can monitor and protect devices from a single pane of glass. Teams can understand the threats to devices in their environments and mitigate potential risks. Advanced mobile protection: ThreatDown K-12 Bundle provides effective protection for Chromebooks, iPadOS, iOS, and Android devices, guarding against the latest mobile threats such as ransomware, malicious apps, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). With real-time protection, schools can also prevent accidental access to harmful websites, safeguard against malicious apps, block unwanted in-app ads, and enable a secure mobile experience for students. About Malwarebytes Malwarebytes is a global cybersecurity leader delivering award-winning endpoint protection, privacy and threat prevention solutions worldwide. Built on decades of experience as the last resort to find and eradicate the latest malware, Malwarebytes is now trusted by millions of individuals and organizations to stop threats at each stage of the attack lifecycle, secure digital identities and safeguard data and privacy. A world class team of threat researchers and proprietary AI-powered engines provide unmatched threat intelligence to detect and prevent known and unknown threats. The company is headquartered in California with offices in Europe and Asia. For more information and career opportunities, visit https://www.malwarebytes.com.

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Software Security

Trellix and One Source Deliver Industry-Leading Managed Detection and Response Security Services

Trellix | January 22, 2024

Trellix, the cybersecurity company delivering the future of extended detection and response (XDR), today announced an expanded strategic partnership with One Source, a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) and technology delivery partner. Customers benefit from a Fortune 500 SOC capability built on the Trellix XDR Platform with AI-guided intelligence, enabling faster detection, investigation, and remediation. Trellix, the cybersecurity company delivering the future of extended detection and response (XDR), today announced an expanded strategic partnership with One Source, a Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) and technology delivery partner. Customers benefit from a Fortune 500 SOC capability built on the Trellix XDR Platform with AI-guided intelligence, enabling faster detection, investigation, and remediation. “The partnership aligns with Trellix’s ongoing commitment to secure organizations from advanced cyber threats,” says Sean Morton, SVP of Professional Services at Trellix. “Leveraging One Source’s MDR capabilities and expanded footprint, we enable more businesses to build cyber resilience, with continued innovation in our combined products and solution offerings to stay ahead of bad actors.” One Source has multiple SOCs leveraging Trellix’s technology, staffed by the industry’s top experts to provide Managed Detection and Response (MDR) capabilities. Their team implements a proactive cyber strategy for customers specific to industry, technology environment, and vulnerabilities, built on the Trellix XDR Platform with 24x7 monitoring. The partnership and combined expertise benefits customers with enhanced services like managed threat detection and response, incident response, security operations and analytics, threat intelligence, threat hunting and forensics, and training and enablement. “The Trellix and One Source partnership is extremely powerful; the former offers an incredible set of security solutions, and the latter excels at personalized deployment and execution,” said Paul Moline, Chief Information Officer, Lindsay Automotive Group. “I never anticipated we could protect our environment with the same security solutions used by government agencies and Fortune 50 companies: I can now sleep at night.” The Trellix XDR Platform’s open architecture and broad set of native security controls across endpoint, email, network, cloud, and data security integrates with over 500 third-party tools to create multi-vector, multi-vendor event correlation and context to speed up investigations. The Trellix Advanced Research Center provides an additional layer of protection by continuously informing the platform with information from millions of global sensors on the latest threat vectors, tactics, and recommendations. One Source experts apply these insights to stay ahead of the constantly evolving threat landscape. “The collaboration with Trellix is a game-changer in reshaping the cybersecurity landscape,” says Eric Gressel, Executive Vice President of Sales, One Source. “Thanks to our partnership, we have access to the highest level of cyber intelligence to fend off newly-revealed hackers and their means of attack, enabling our customers with the most comprehensive offering of enhanced Managed Security Services to protect their businesses.” One Source has a proven track record supporting global businesses spanning retail, restaurant, automotive, healthcare, financial, and manufacturing industries. Trellix customers can rely on One Source's leading Managed Security Services to optimize technology expenses while enhancing telecom connectivity, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity strategies. About Trellix Trellix is a global company redefining the future of cybersecurity and soulful work. The company’s open and native extended detection and response (XDR) platform helps organizations confronted by today’s most advanced threats gain confidence in the protection and resilience of their operations. Trellix, along with an extensive partner ecosystem, accelerates technology innovation through machine learning and automation to empower over 40,000 business and government customers with living security. More at https://trellix.com. About One Source One Source helps businesses simplify a complex technology world. One Source is the leading provider of Technology and Managed Security Services for enterprises. Today, One Source manages more than 2,500 customers, 45,000 business locations, and over one million assets throughout North America. In addition to Managed Security Services, One Source provides Managed Technology Expense Management, 24 / 7 local helpdesk, procures and provisions telecom & IT solutions, and manages customer service requests. One Source frequently generates triple-digit ROI for customers through contract negotiation, portfolio optimization, and ongoing expense management. In addition, One Source leverages partnerships with industry leaders, including Trellix to bring Fortune 500 security solutions and fully managed services to the mid-market. One Source's approach empowers businesses to focus on customers and revenue-generating activities. Learn more at https://www.onesource.net/.

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API Security

Cequence and Vercara Partner to Combat Cyber Threats and Revolutionize API Security

Cequence Security | January 25, 2024

Cequence Security is proud to announce a new partnership with Vercara, a leading provider of cloud-based services that secure the online experience. This collaboration aims to fortify the cybersecurity landscape by pairing Vercara’s network and application protections with Cequence Security's innovative Unified API Protection (UAP) platform. Security teams encounter substantial hurdles in safeguarding API applications from cyber-attacks, including the rapid development and deployment of API applications across diverse cloud providers. The unmanaged and unprotected nature of these APIs can harbor critical vulnerabilities, making them susceptible to exploitation. Moreover, the lack of a clear and consistent security posture across the application footprint introduces further complexities. To address these challenges, Cequence Security's UAP platform provides a comprehensive discovery of the entire API attack surface, encompassing both external and internal APIs. It ensures compliance with security and governance best practices, eliminating unknown and unmitigated API security risks. Furthermore, the solution offers native real-time inline protection, blocking API attacks before they reach applications. "The absence of API protection puts you at risk of potential theft, fraud, non-compliance, and business disruptions,” said Carlos Morales, SVP Solutions at Vercara. “Our partnership with Cequence combines our collective best-in-class services to address the evolving demands of the cybersecurity landscape, ensuring that businesses can confidently deploy needed applications and successfully navigate the complexities of API security with advanced, holistic protection.” Arun Gowda, VP, Business Development at Cequence Security, said, “In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the extensive risk of data compromise in API breaches goes beyond external APIs to internal ones. These often-overlooked internal APIs can access sensitive data not intended for public exposure. APIs have changed the game for attackers, making it imperative to prioritize the security of all assets accessible through APIs, including those not expected to be publicly exposed.” He added, “We are pleased to combine our innovative API security solutions with Vercara's innovative WAF and DDoS services to deliver advanced, holistic API protection. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to provide unparalleled security measures for businesses reliant on APIs.” Cequence Security's UAP platform is unparalleled in addressing all phases of the API security lifecycle. It provides: Discovery: A continuous API attack surface discovery management product that assesses your application footprint, offering a complete inventory of external APIs. Compliance: A security posture management product that identifies security risks in APIs, ensuring compliance with specifications, security test requirements, and governance best practices. Protection: Detects and prevents sophisticated automated API attacks and business logic abuse using advanced machine learning rules, providing real-time protection without relying on third-party components. About Cequence Security Cequence, a pioneer in API security and bot management, is the only solution that delivers Unified API Protection (UAP), uniting discovery, compliance, and protection across all internal and external APIs to defend against attacks, targeted abuse, and fraud. Requiring less than 15 minutes to onboard an API without requiring any instrumentation, SDK, or JavaScript integration, the flexible deployment model supports SaaS, on-premises, and hybrid installations. Cequence solutions scale to handle the most demanding Fortune and Global 2000 organizations, securing more than 8 billion daily API calls and protecting more than 3 billion user accounts across these customers. To learn more, visit www.cequence.ai. About Vercara Vercara is a purpose-built, global, cloud-based security platform that provides layers of protection to safeguard businesses’ online presence, no matter where attacks originate or where they are aimed. Delivering the industry’s highest-performing solutions and supported by unparalleled 24/7 human expertise and hands-on guidance, top global brands depend on Vercara to protect their networks and applications against threats and downtime. Vercara’s suite of cloud-based services is secure, reliable, and available, delivering peace of mind and ensuring that businesses and their customers experience exceptional interactions all day, every day. Pressure-tested in the world’s most tightly regulated and high-traffic verticals, Vercara’s mission-critical security portfolio provides best-in-class DNS and application and network security (including DDoS and WAF) services to its Global 5000 customers and beyond. For more information, visit vercara.com.

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Platform Security

Stellar Cyber and Proofpoint Strategic Alliance to Deliver Comprehensive Email Security Solution For SecOps Teams

Stellar Cyber | January 23, 2024

Stellar Cyber, the innovator of Open XDR, announced a new partnership with Proofpoint, a leading cybersecurity and compliance company. Through this alliance, Proofpoint and Stellar Cyber customers benefit from an out-of-the-box integration enabling swift email investigations and real-time response actions to email-driven attacks. Proofpoint Targeted Attack Protection monitors emails to identify suspicious emails and potentially malicious attachments and URLs. Once identified, the findings are shared with Stellar Cyber automatically. Stellar Cyber’s Open XDR platform ingests, normalizes, and analyzes Proofpoint findings and other collected data to deliver a comprehensive threat picture. As security analysts conduct investigations, they can instruct integrated third-party products – including Proofpoint – on corrective actions. “Protecting organizations against email-borne attacks is a top priority, and security teams need a way to automatically correlate threat telemetry across the entire attack surface in order to quickly remediate threats,” said Andrew Homer, VP of Strategic Alliances, Stellar Cyber. “This new partnership with Proofpoint is the latest example of Stellar Cyber delivering on its Open XDR strategy to provide customers turn-key integrations that improve productivity and threat detection.” “Email attacks remain the number one entry point into an organization, and the level of sophistication of these attacks continues to grow exponentially,” said D.J. Long, Vice President, Strategic Alliances & Business Development, Proofpoint. “We’re thrilled to work with Stellar Cyber on this strategic alliance to help customers protect against advanced email-based threats and unify their cybersecurity defense.” Through this alliance, Stellar Cyber and Proofpoint give security teams an advantage over attackers, resulting in the following: Real-time threat signals exchanged for proactive detection Correlation of Proofpoint alerts across the entire attack surface Automated response actions for immediate threat containment About Stellar Cyber Stellar Cyber’s Open XDR Platform delivers comprehensive, unified security without complexity, empowering lean security teams of any skill level to secure their environments successfully. With Stellar Cyber, organizations reduce risk with early and precise identification and remediation of threats while slashing costs, retaining investments in existing tools, and improving analyst productivity, delivering an 8X improvement in MTTD and a 20X improvement in MTTR. The company is based in Silicon Valley.

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