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Cybercriminals forego low-hanging fruit to go after banking, gaming

February 25, 2022 3:20 p.m.

IN 2021, Kaspersky saw a steady decline in attacks on mobile devices, while cybercriminals consolidated their efforts to focus on more dangerous (and profitable) threats instead.

New mobile malware has become increasingly complex, featuring new ways to steal users’ banking and gaming credentials, as well as other strands of personal data. 

In 2021 Kaspersky detected more than 95,000 new mobile banking Trojans, but the number of attacks using such malware remained similar.

Additionally, the share of Trojans – malicious programs capable of executing remote commands – doubled, reaching 8.8% in 2021. These and other findings are featured in Kaspersky’s Mobile Threats in 2021 report.

Kaspersky’s annual analysis of mobile threats demonstrated a positive trend – the number of attacks on mobile users worldwide has been declining, hitting 46 million in 2021 compared to 63 million in 2020. Experts attribute this development, in part, to the wave of attacks seen at the beginning of lockdown as users were forced to work from home.

That period also saw increased use of various video conferencing and entertainment apps, increasing the volume and spread of attack opportunities. Now that the situation has stabilized, cybercriminal activity declined as a result.

Still, Kaspersky experts believe it is too early to relax. In 2021, 3.5 million malicious installation packages were detected, leading to 46.2 million attacks worldwide.

Moreover, 80% of attacks were carried out by malware rather than adware (software that intrusively displays ads), or RiskTools (malicious programs with various functions such as concealing themselves from the screen). 

“Indeed, there have been fewer mobile attacks in general, however, the attacks we are still seeing have become more complex and harder to spot. Cybercriminals tend to mask malicious apps under the guise of legitimate applications, which can often be downloaded from official app stores. On top of that, with mobile banking and payment apps becoming even more widespread, there is a higher chance of cybercriminals targeting these more actively. Staying cautious and careful on the internet and avoiding downloading unknown apps is good practice, but I also strongly recommend using a reliable solution. When it comes to the security of finances, in particular, it is better to be safe than sorry,” comments Tatyana Shishkova, security researcher at Kaspersky.

To protect yourself from mobile threats, Kaspersky shares the following recommendations:

It is safer to download your apps only from official stores like Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Appstore. Apps from these markets are not 100% failsafe, but at least they get checked by shop representatives and there is some filtration system — not every app can get onto these stores.

Check the permissions of apps that you use and think carefully before permitting an app, especially when it comes to high-risk permissions such as Accessibility Services. The only permission that a flashlight app needs is to the flashlight (which doesn’t even involve camera access).
A reliable security solution can help you to detect malicious apps and adware before they start behaving badly on your device.

iPhone users have some privacy controls provided by Apple, and users can block app access to photos, contacts, and GPS features if they think these permissions are unnecessary.

A good piece of advice is to update your operating system and important apps as updates become available. Many safety issues can be solved by installing updated versions of software.

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Join the league of retail leaders: Why top brands call SM home

7:47 p.m. September 30, 2034

As consumer expectations evolve, SM Supermalls continues to lead the way, not just in expansion but in completely reimagining the mall experience. Partnering with global and local industry leaders, SM creates an unmatched platform for brands to thrive in the competitive Philippine retail market.

Why Brands Choose SM: The Perfect Partnership for Growth

More than just a shopping destination, SM Supermalls offers retailers strategic advantages that extend beyond leasing space. With millions of visitors each year and a comprehensive approach to marketing and customer engagement, SM gives brands the tools they need to succeed. Here’s why top global and homegrown retailers prefer SM:

  1. Unmatched Visibility and Foot Traffic
    SM Supermalls are strategically located in key cities across the Philippines, ensuring high foot traffic and exposure to diverse consumer demographics. For brands looking to break into the Filipino market, this visibility is critical for building awareness and driving sales.
  • Integrated Marketing Support
    SM partners benefit from extensive marketing initiatives, including in-mall promotions, digital innovations, and social media campaigns that extend the reach of new store openings, product launches, and events. SM ensures that each new partner gets the spotlight it deserves.
  • A Hub for Innovation and Global Firsts
    From first-in-the-country experiences to unique retail concepts, SM consistently attracts pioneering brands that shape the future of retail. For example, the first Disney Store in the Philippines has opened its doors at SM Mall of Asia, providing an immersive retail experience for families.  In the culinary space, two viral sensations have chosen SM to be their first home in the country. Burger & Lobster, a London-based favorite, is opening soon at SM Aura, offering an exciting new dining experience. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyuhas fired up its stone grills, bringing authentic beef-style katsu to Filipinos at SM Mall of Asia.
  • Collaborative Business Ecosystem
    SM Supermalls offer more than just retail space—they foster an ecosystem where businesses can thrive. SM provides brands access to a robust support network, enabling collaborations, strategic partnerships, and a future-focused approach to business growth.

What’s New at SM? Experience the Best, First

SM’s dynamic retail portfolio continues to grow, bringing globally and locally loved brands to Filipino consumers. Some of the latest additions include:

●      Disney Store at SM Mall of Asia – The first of its kind in the country.

●      Burger & Lobster at SM Aura – A world-renowned London eatery.

●      Venchi at SM Podium – Italy’s famous chocolatier and gelateria.

●      Allbirds at SM Megamall – Opened its first store at SM.

●      National Geographic Store at SM Aura – The first in the Philippines.

●      Maison Margiela, Le Labo, Aesop, and Victoria’s Secret at SM Mall of Asia – Top luxury and lifestyle brands.

●      Sunnies World at SM Mall of Asia  – An experiential concept store of the local cult favorite brand.

These brands have chosen SM for the strategic opportunity to grow their presence in the Philippines, where they can access an ever-growing and diverse consumer base.

Partner with SM: The Future of Retail Awaits

There’s more to come at SM Supermalls as we continue to push the boundaries of retail, transforming our malls into thriving communities where businesses and consumers alike can grow. Whether through flagship stores, exclusive partnerships, or innovative retail concepts, SM is the partner of choice for brands that want to make an impact in the Philippine market.

Stay connected with SM Supermalls and discover more about how we’re reshaping the future of retail. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow us on @SMSupermalls for exclusive previews and updates.

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Paradise Dynasty now open at Greenbelt 5

September 29, 2024

Paradise Dynasty’s #WorldsFamous 8 colored Xiao Long Bao Now Open at Greenbelt 5, 3rd Level, Ayala Center, San Lorenzo, Makati City.

Follow their socials:

Social media accounts:

fb: @paradisedynastyph

IG: @paradisedynastyph

Web: http://paradisedynasty.ph

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Jordan Brand’s New Tatum 3 delivers lightweight feel, adaptable performance

1:41 p.m. September 25, 2024

A gold medal. A championship ring. A hunger for more.

After winning on the greatest stages in the game this summer, Jayson Tatum is back for another NBA season — ready to rise to the occasion in his latest signature shoe, the Jordan Tatum 3.

The new, court-ready silhouette has all the features fit for a champion while delivering unmatched style and continuing the Tatum series’ reign as the lightest in the Jordan Brand basketball collection.

“I don’t take having a signature shoe for granted,” Jayson says. “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can co-create with Jordan Brand and have fans connect with me through my shoe. My favorite part of the 3s is the way they take on color, so my hope is that we inspire and energize a lot of people through the colorway storytelling.”

The Tatum 3 is the result of Jayson’s extensive collaboration with Jordan Brand’s footwear designers, who met his needs with a shoe that feels broken in right out of the box, and adapts to the foot without restrictions or pressure. A new upper incorporates insights from athletes’ on-court moves in the Nike Sport Research Lab, layering materials where they matter most for power and comfort, creating a supportive, conforming fit without feeling bulky or stiff. 

Cushlon 3.0 foam and a Zoom Air insert work alongside the upper’s firm frame to promote lateral movements that feel smooth and secure, and a herringbone traction pattern propels a superior first step and quick cut while helping hoopers stop on a dime.

The smoothness of Jayson’s play and his commitment to his family are built into the Tatum 3, reflected in fluid lines that represent his uninterrupted approach to the game and the foundation of his family tree. Like the Tatum 2, the name of Jayson’s son, Deuce, is featured on the inside of the tongue, opposite his signature JT logo, and his number 0 is included on the heel along with unique sayings on the heel tabs, specific to each colorway. His popular “Find A Way” quote from his 2023 “humbly” interview is also included on the medial side of the shoe.

The launch colorway, Welcome to the Garden, showcases growth in all areas of Jayson’s life — his family, his game and his pursuit of greatness — in a floral pattern that nods to his home and personal garden, where he’s surrounded by family, friends and loved ones.

Jayson first unveiled the new silhouette via the NBA 2K25 cover and during his summer tour of China, where he teamed up with fellow Jordan Brand athletes Luka Dončić, Zion Williamson and Paolo Banchero to connect with local youth and foster their love for the game.

The Tatum 3 will be available globally on jordan.com and select retailers October 10. 

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