TECHNOLOGY
Andariel, a Lazarus subgroup, expands its attacks with new ransomware
August 10, 2022 7:57 p.m.
Kaspersky experts have uncovered new attacks by Andariel, an advanced persistent threat (APT) subgroup of Lazarus, known for its campaigns in South Korea.
The attacks involved modifications of the well-known malware, DTrack, as well as the use of a brand-new Maui ransomware. They targeted high-profile organizations in the USA, Japan, India, Vietnam, and Russia.
Andariel has operated for over a decade within the infamous Lazarus group, and Kaspersky researchers identified an interesting incident in Japan involving a never-before-seen Maui ransomware. However, in 2022, the group continued expanding its malware arsenal and the geography of its attacks. As CISA reported in July 2022, Andariel affected public and healthcare organizations with the Maui ransomware. Following their research, Kaspersky experts have revealed a thorough analysis of the APT group.
It shows that Andariel deploys a well-known DTrack malware, which executes an embedded shellcode, loading a final Windows in-memory payload. According to Kaspersky Threat Attribution Engine, this spyware was reportedly created by the Lazarus Group and is being used to upload and download files to victims’ systems, record keystrokes and conduct other actions typical of a malicious remote administration tool (RAT). DTrack collects system information and browser history via Windows commands. Interestingly, dwell time within target networks can last for months prior to activity.
The novel malware used by Andariel in 2021 and 2022 has been dubbed Maui ransomware. Kaspersky experts identified its launch after DTrack was deployed within an organization. Maui has been employed for attacks on multiple occasions, primarily targeting companies in the USA and Japan. Kaspersky researchers have assessed that the actor is opportunistic and may compromise any company around the world regardless of their category of business, instead focusing on their good financial standing.
“We’ve been tracking the Andariel APT group for years and see that their attacks are constantly evolving. What requires special attention is that the group has started deploying ransomware on a global scale, demonstrating ongoing financial motivations and interest,”’ comments Kurt Baumgartner, a security expert at Kaspersky.
To learn more about Maui ransomware and other malware used by Andariel, read the report on Securelist.com
To protect yourself and your business from ransomware attacks, consider following these Kaspersky recommendations:
- Do not expose remote desktop services (such as RDP) to public networks unless absolutely necessary and always use strong passwords for them.
- Promptly install available patches for commercial VPN solutions, providing access for remote employees and acting as gateways in your network.
- Always keep software updated on all the devices you use to prevent ransomware from exploiting vulnerabilities.
- Focus your defense strategy on detecting lateral movements and data exfiltration to the Internet. Pay special attention to outgoing traffic to detect cybercriminals’ connections.
- Back up data regularly. Make sure you can quickly access it in an emergency when needed.
- Use solutions like Kaspersky Endpoint Detection and Response Expert and Kaspersky Managed Detection and Response service, which help identify and stop attacks during the early stages, before attackers reach their final goals.
- Educate your employees to protect the corporate environment. Dedicated training courses can help, such as the ones provided in the Kaspersky Automated Security Awareness Platform.
- Use a reliable endpoint security solution, such as Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business, that is powered by exploit prevention, behavior detection and a remediation engine that is able to roll back malicious actions. KESB also has self-defense mechanisms, which can prevent its removal by cybercriminals.
- Use the latest Threat Intelligence information to stay aware of actual TTPs used by threat actors. The Kaspersky Threat Intelligence Portal is a single point of access for Kaspersky’s TI, providing cyberattack data and insights gathered by our team for almost 25 years. To help businesses enable effective defenses in these turbulent times, Kaspersky has announced access to independent, continuously updated and globally sourced information on ongoing cyberattacks and threats, at no charge. Request access to this offer here.
TECHNOLOGY
5-star drop-resistant HONOR X6b now available in PH exclusively on Shopee starting this 9.9 for only P5,399!
1:10 p.m. September 7, 2024
Wait there’s more! HONOR X6b has a Piso Sale on September 9 to 11 at exactly 12 midnight!
Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, finally announced the availability of HONOR X6b exclusively on Shopee Super Shopping Day on September 9 for Php 5,399. And if you get lucky, you can get the HONOR X6b during Piso Sale on 9.9 Flash Sale!
“Durability is now more affordable with HONOR X6b! If you’re eyeing an entry level smartphone that is drop-resistant, long lasting, and efficient with battery capsule, the HONOR X6b is perfect for you! In an exclusive launch with Shopee on 9.9, we are offering exciting deals that kickstart the holiday limbo as early as September!” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
Putting the HONOR X6b into a durability test, media partners and KOLs witness how the smartphone can withstand impacts at Studio 300, Makati, with HONOR X6b phones being aimed at in bowling, billiards, and soccer. Thanks to its comprehensive 360° protection across all six faces and four corners of the device, certified by SGS with industry-leading 5-Star Drop-Resistant Quality.
LONG LASTING 5200MAH BATTERY AND 35W HONOR SUPERCHARGE
Offering up to two days of light daily usage on a single charge, the HONOR X6b houses a large 5200mAh battery to power the power-efficient MediaTek Helio G85 at the core of the smartphone. The battery is also highly energy-dense at 731wh/L, fitting in the 8.39mm thin chassis that feels just right in the hand. Whether it’s for listening to music or browsing social media, the HONOR X6b stays powered for longer, with up to 26 hours of online streaming or 27 hours of social media engagement.
Moreover, charging is no longer a waiting game with the 35W HONOR SuperCharge technology. Users can activate the Turbo charging mode in a single tap and achieve a 20% charge in just 10 minutes.
MAGIC CAPSULE AND LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY
The HONOR X6b is one of the HONOR devices equipped with the Magic Capsule. The Magic capsule is located at the top of the screen shaped like a “capsule” presenting ongoing tasks, notifications, recording, clock, and more interactions.
The Magic Capsule can shrink into a “little ball” after displaying for some time and can be expanded when checking detailed status of quick operations.
Storage space is abundant in the HONOR X6b, which boasts 256GB of internal memory. This expansive storage can house over 60,000 photos, more than 24,000 songs, or over 200 movies, ensuring that users’ favorite content is always within reach. Enhancing its performance, the HONOR X6b features HONOR RAM Turbo technology, which effectively doubles the available RAM from 6GB to 12GB by utilizing a portion of the flash memory. This innovation allows for smoother multitasking and enhances the user experience.
Check out the HONOR X6b from your Shopee baskets on September 9-11 via livestream at HONOR’s Facebook page and HONOR’s Official Shopee Page and get the smartphone for only 1-peso at midnight! Moreover, the HONOR X6b is also available for only Php 5,999 as an early bird promo with FREE Earbuds II worth Php 1,299.
Don’t worry if you miss the midnight sale and early bird promo, the HONOR X6b is discounted at Php 5,399 on September 9 and during flash sales from September 10 to September 19 exclusively on Shopee. Check it out here https://shopee.ph/product/66540358/28407883555/
For more exciting announcements, check out HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
TECHNOLOGY
Tiny pad, mighty fun: Xiaomi launches Redmi Pad SE 8.7
10:44 p.m. September 2, 2024
XIAOMI recently announced the launch of its latest tablet, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7, designed to deliver an immersive theater-like experience in a device that’s super portable.
Its biggest feature is its stunning 8.7-inch display. Enjoy clear and vibrant visuals on the eye-protecting display, which features up to 600 nits of brightness and a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth and seamless scrolling and gaming. The 8.7-inch screen also creates a 5:3 aspect ratio that’s wider than the standard 16:9, making it better for all your favorite content.
The tablet also features comfortable immersion with its low blue light and flicker-free display which reduces eye strain and increases visual comfort. It also has Paper Reading mode to simulate the actual booklike paper experience, while retaining Classic Mode for a typical digital feel.
For a truly theater-like sound, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 also has Dolby Atmos® technology that delivers rich and detailed sound for a truly cinematic experience. It has 2TB of built-in storage for all your favorite video content from your usual platforms.
The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 also comes with an octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 processor, which ensures seamless and reliable multitasking and gaming, while the 6,650mAh battery provides long-lasting power that lasts up to 25.2 hours when playing video. The battery fills up fast with 18W fast charging support, getting you from 0 to 100% in just 140 minutes.
It also comes in three vibrant colors: Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, and Sky Blue. It’s also slim and lightweight at only 8.8-mm and 373 grams for easy portability.
The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 is now available on Shopee (Xiaomi Global Store) with a special Early Bird Promo until September 4. Get the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 WiFi 4+128GB for P6,399 (down from the SRP of P7,999). The 4+64GB variant is available for a special promo price of P5,399 (from P6,999 SRP).
Find out for yourself the true portable theater experience with the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 today! Learn more about it by visiting http://mi.com/ph.
TECHNOLOGY
Kickstart your side hustles with Maya Personal Loan
8:22 a.m. September 1, 2024
BEEN dreaming of opening your own coffee shop or launching an online store but stuck without the funds? Fret not! With the Personal Loan product of Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, turning your side venture into reality is effortless with just a few taps.
Boost Your Funds for your Side Hustle
Currently in early access and available to select users, Maya Personal Loan offers up to ₱250,000 with flexible repayment terms of up to 24 months and an incredibly low add-on rate of just 0.77% per month. Whether you’re planning to launch a new business, invest in essential equipment, or enhance your skills through a course, this loan gives you the capital you need to thrive.
Borrow Without the Hassle
Applying for your Maya Personal Loan is simple and stress-free! All you need is your upgraded Maya account to get started—no additional paperwork, collateral, or guarantor required. Once approved, the funds are transferred directly to your Maya Wallet, giving you instant access to the money you need.
Say goodbye to long approval processes and hello to a streamlined, hassle-free experience. Here’s how to get started:
Open your Maya app, go to the Loans tab, and start the application process by tapping ‘Apply now.’
Enter your desired loan amount, complete the application process, and wait for feedback on your eligibility.
Choose your loan offer and tap ‘Accept’ if you’re happy with the terms.
Enter a One-Time Pin (OTP) to authorize the loan disbursement.
Manage Your Loan with Ease
Managing your loan is a breeze with the Maya app. You can settle your dues directly from your Maya Wallet, which helps you maintain a good credit score. Plus, Maya’s top-notch security ensures your funds are safe, so you can focus on growing your side hustle with peace of mind.
Ready to make your next big life move? Apply for a Maya Personal Loan today and give your side hustle the boost it needs to succeed. Keep using Maya for your transactions to stay on track and become eligible for more loan opportunities. For more information, visit maya.ph and mayabank.ph, and stay connected by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
5-star drop-resistant HONOR X6b now available in PH exclusively on Shopee starting this 9.9 for only P5,399!
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