TECHNOLOGY
Majority of business execs in SEA anticipate data theft, APT, ransomware attacks
August 3, 2022 8:04 p.m.
With the many news reports highlighting the damages of cyberattacks against businesses and countries as a whole, Kaspersky’s fresh study revealed the heightened awareness of business executives in Southeast Asia (SEA) about the sophisticated risks online.
Data theft, alongside Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) attacks and ransomware infections, are the highest on their list of concerns.
The study titled “How business executives perceive ransomware threat” surveyed a total of 900 senior non-IT management (such as CEOs, VP, and Director level) and business owners or partners at companies with 50—1000 employees. Conducted last April, the study was done globally with 100 executives from SEA.
When asked to assess the possibility of different types of cybersecurity incidents, data theft, also known as data breach, is the threat that the respondents from SEA are most concerned about (77%).
This does not come as a surprise as news about data breaches across the region were being reported almost regularly with wide victimology from e-commerce companies, digital services provider, hotel chains, insurance and health companies, and even government agencies.
Data theft – the illegal transfer or storage of personal, confidential, or financial information – is closely followed by an APT attack (75%), and a ransomware attack (73%).
An APT attack uses continuous, clandestine, and sophisticated hacking techniques to gain access to a system and remain inside for a prolonged period of time, with potentially destructive consequences.
Because of the level of effort needed to carry out such an attack, APTs are usually leveled at high-value targets, such as nation states and large corporations, with the ultimate goal of stealing information over a long period of time.
Ransomware, as the name suggests, is malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or encrypt its data until a sum of money (a ransom) is paid.
These attacks have been carried out on individuals or corporations.
The anticipation for these three damaging attacks is higher among SEA-based business leaders as compared to the global average by more or less double-digit margins.
However, the same study revealed that while the majority of the respondents anticipate a ransomware attack, almost 7 in every 10 (65%) of them believe that “the possibility of my organization being exposed to a ransomware attack is too small to worry about”.
A majority (81%) of the surveyed non-IT executives in SEA also trust that the security measures they have in place are enough to protect them from a ransomware attempt.
“At first glance, it is good to see that the business executives here are confident about their security posture to defend their organizations against damaging online attacks such as ransomware. We should, however, be careful about not letting confidence breed complacency because the reality is a ransomware attack is not something too small for enterprises to be worried about,” comments Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.
“Even though 72% of our respondents from SEA believe that ransomware attacks are being shown as a bigger threat than they actually are by the media, this type of threat is actually evolving and is transforming into a bigger menace that our security systems and IT staffs should be ready for,” adds Yeo.
Since 2020, Kaspersky experts have been warning about “Ransomware 2.0”. Almost always a “targeted ransomware”, Ransomware 2.0 refers to cybercriminal groups who moved from hostaging data to exfiltrating data coupled with blackmailing.
The aftermaths of a successful attack include significant monetary loss and damaging reputation loss.
This type of attack goes beyond kidnapping a company’s or an organization’s data. These groups are utilizing the increasingly valued digital reputation to force their prey to pay a hefty ransom.
As of 2020, at least 61 entities from the region were breached by targeted ransomware groups including companies from light industry – including the manufacturing of clothes, shoes, furniture, consumer electronics and home appliances; public service, media and Technology, heavy industry – including oil, mining, shipbuilding, steel, chemicals, machinery manufacturing; finance, and logistics.
The infamous ransomware groups Kaspersky experts closely monitor include REvil, LockBit, Conti, and more.
To help organizations protect their systems from ransomware and other sophisticated attacks, Kaspersky experts recommend the following:
- Always keep up-to-date copies of your files so you can replace them in case they are lost (e.g. due to malware or a broken device). These should be stored not only on a physical device but also in cloud storage for greater reliability. Make sure you can quickly access your backups in the event of an emergency.
- Keep your OS and software patched and up to date.
- Train all employees on cybersecurity best practices while they work remotely.
- Only use secure technologies for remote connection.
- Carry out a security assessment on your network.
- Enterprise companies are recommended to use anti-APT and EDR solutions, enabling capabilities for advanced threat discovery and detection, investigation and timely remediation of incidents, as well as to have access to the latest threat intelligence. An MDR provider could help to effectively hunt any advanced ransomware attack. All of the above is available within Kaspersky Expert Security.
- Follow the latest trends via premium threat intelligence subscriptions, like Kaspersky APT Intelligence Service.
- Know your enemy: identify new undetected malware on premises with Kaspersky Threat Attribution Engine.
- If you become a victim, never pay the ransom. It won’t guarantee you get your data back but will encourage criminals to continue their business. Instead, report the incident to your local law enforcement agency. Try to find a decryptor on the internet – you can find some of these available at nomoreransom.org.
- Never follow the demands of the criminals. Do not fight alone – contact Law Enforcement, CERT, security vendors like Kaspersky.
For companies looking to improve the expertise of their in-house digital forensics and incident response teams, as well as for IT security practitioners looking to upgrade relevant skills, Kaspersky has also expanded its online expert training portfolio.
The Windows Incident Response training was developed by experts from the company’s Global Emergency Response Team (GERT) with more than 12 years’ experience in the field.
The self-guided training course includes 40 video lessons and 100 hours of virtual lab time for hands-on learning. The estimated training duration is 15 hours, but participants will have six months of access to the platform to finish the traini
More information about the Windows Incident Response course is available via this link.
TECHNOLOGY
iProov study: Deepfakes shatter online confidence
5:18 p.m. March 21, 2026
A NEW consumer study released today by iProov, the world’s leading provider of science-based biometric identity verification solutions, warns that deepfakes have triggered The Great Trust Recession, where digital authenticity has been undermined, and skepticism has reached unprecedented levels.
The research, which surveyed 2,000 individuals across the UK and the US in Q1 2026, shows that AI-generated impersonation is increasingly seen as a real-world threat undermining confidence in what people see online. Nearly half of respondents (48%) say they now question the authenticity of “almost everything” they encounter online, signaling a profound shift in consumer confidence. Consequently, establishing genuine human presence in digital ecosystems is now essential to thwart fraud, misinformation, reputational harm, and institutional distrust, and to regain certainty about what — or who — can be believed.
The breakdown in confidence is already evolving into commercial pressure: three-quarters (74%) of consumers say they would switch banks if a competitor offered guaranteed protection against deepfake-enabled fraud. This highlights how consumer allegiance is being impacted, with many willing to endure the inconvenience of switching banks to gain stronger safeguards against AI-driven impersonation. Younger adults are leading this shift: 41% of those aged 25 to 34 say they would switch immediately, compared with just 14% of those aged 65 and older, showing that even the most digital native generations are raising expectations for stronger safeguards.
At the same time, expectations of accountability are rising sharply. More than half of respondents (52%) believe banks should be legally liable for losses caused by deepfake-enabled fraud, reflecting growing demand for institutional responsibility in the AI era.
A Government Trust Gap Is Emerging
The study also highlights evolving expectations around digital public services. While the availability of online government platforms has grown, many consumers say stronger identity protections would increase their confidence. More than half (55%) report they would be more likely to use government services online if a secure biometric login were available. When given a choice, respondents also show openness to digital-first options: 43% say they would prefer a secure face scan via a mobile app, compared with 30% who would choose an in-person appointment.
“AI has blurred the line between real and fake in digital ecosystems, and too many organizations are caught off guard. This study highlights a major shift in consumer sentiment, showing that generative AI is actively undermining the credibility of the institutions people have traditionally relied upon,” said Andrew Bud, founder and CEO of iProov. “Deepfakes are quickly undermining the trust at the heart of the digital economy, ultimately compelling consumers to change their behaviors and, importantly, who they are willing to do business with.”
Find the Fake Game
The stakes behind this research are easier to understand when experienced firsthand. iProov’s new interactive game, “Find the Fake,” challenges participants to identify a single AI-generated deepfake hidden among a grid of six seemingly real social media profiles. It’s a deceptively simple exercise and a revealing one. Try it for yourself at https://quiz.iproov.com/quiz2/en.
TECHNOLOGY
Logitech G brings premium wireless performance to PH with the G325 LIGHTSPEED
4:18 p.m. March 10, 2026
Logitech G has released its latest addition to the G3 Series, a powerful gaming headset designed to support seamless gameplay at home or on the go.
The G325 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset brings together premium features such as immersive 24-bit audio, flexible connectivity, superior comfort, and long-lasting battery life, all packed into one affordable and versatile device for modern gamers.
Richer and More Dynamic Audio Performance
Made with the modern gamer’s needs in mind, the G325 is equipped with 32 mm audio drivers and 24-bit audio over LIGHTSPEED wireless to deliver rich, detailed, and dynamic sound. This enhanced depth and clarity allow players to detect subtle in-game cues more accurately while enjoying fuller bass and more immersive soundscapes during every match.
For players who prefer tailored audio settings, a 10-band EQ and game-optimized presets allow users to personalize their sound profile based on genre, title, or personal preference. These features can be easily accessed through the Logitech G HUB software and the mobile app, giving gamers more control over how they experience their gameplay.
Comfort That Keeps Up With Long Gaming Sessions
The G325 features a flattering, modern close-fit headband design with breathable fabric materials that help keep users cool and comfortable during extended wear. The dual-layer memory foam ear cups provide a cushioned and secure fit, helping reduce pressure during long matches or casual listening sessions.
Gamers can also choose from three distinct color options (Black and White) to complement their battle stations and personal playstyles. Meanwhile, its lightweight construction at just 212 grams supports hours of continuous use without unnecessary strain, making it suitable for both competitive gaming at home and everyday wear on the go.
Clear Communication With AI-Enhanced Voice Capture
In-game coordination is key in most competitive games. The G325 comes with a dual beamforming microphone system made to focus on the user’s voice while reducing surrounding distractions. Through an integrated AI-powered noise reduction system, the microphone filters out common background sounds such as keyboard clicks, fan hums, and room noise to make every conversation sound crisp, natural, and clear during intense gaming moments.
Pro-Grade Wireless Freedom and Versatile Connectivity
Powered by Logitech G’s signature LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, the G325 delivers ultra-responsive and stable performance with an impressive wireless range of up to 30 meters. This extended range allows gamers to move freely around their space without worrying about signal drops or audio interruptions, keeping every session smooth and uninterrupted.
In addition to LIGHTSPEED wireless, the headset supports Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for seamless switching between compatible PCs, consoles, and Bluetooth-enabled devices. With just a quick toggle, users can easily transition from gaming to music or calls, making the G325 a flexible audio companion for both play and everyday use.
Designed with Sustainability in Mind
Beyond its amazing lineup of premium features at an affordable price point, the G325 also reflects a more conscious approach to product design in line with Logitech’s global environmental efforts.
The G325 is made with up to 43 percent post-consumer recycled plastics and comes in zero plastic packaging to reduce environmental impact across its life cycle. An optional 80 percent battery charge limit is also available for users to help extend battery longevity over time and promote more sustainable everyday use.
These thoughtful design choices for the G325 reinforce Logitech’s long-term sustainability direction while simultaneously giving users access to top-tier gear to enhance their gaming experience.
The G325 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset is built for players who demand performance-driven gear that looks great, feels comfortable, and is easy to use right out of the box. Combining immersive audio, reliable wireless performance, and thoughtful design, the G325 makes high-quality gaming experiences more accessible for those ready to level up their setup.
Logitech’s latest gaming headset is priced at PHP 5495 and is available on Shopee and Lazada, and Logitech Authorized Retail Partners and Gaming Specialists. To learn more about the product and upcoming product releases, follow Logitech G on Facebook. You may also visit http://www.logitechg.com for more product offerings.
TECHNOLOGY
inDrive is 4th most downloaded travel app in PH
2:11 p.m. February 12, 2026
WITH over four million installations in 2025 alone, inDrive ranked fourth among the most downloaded travel apps in the Philippines, according to market intelligence firm Sensor Tower.
This ranking underscores Filipino users’ growing demand for inDrive to expand beyond ride-hailing as it evolves into a mobility super app.
inDrive also remained the world’s second most downloaded ride-hailing app for the fourth straight year. It also climbed from fifth to fourth place among the top travel apps globally and topped this category in Pakistan, Peru, Egypt, Morocco, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Panama, and Zimbabwe.
Reflecting on this milestone, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said, “This recognition reflects the trust people place in our platform and the continued dedication of our global team. As inDrive evolves into a super app, we remain focused on our core principles of fairness, transparency, and user choice while expanding access to services that make a meaningful difference in people’s daily lives.”
Full Speed Ahead as inDrive Evolves into a SuperApp
With inDrive growing its user base year-on-year, the app has begun expanding its services beyond ride-hailing in other key markets. Among these new offerings is inDrive.Ads, an in-app advertising platform. By generating new income streams, inDrive can keep its take rate among the lowest in the industry while supporting long-term sustainability for riders, drivers, and local communities.
Now live in 20 countries, including the Philippines, inDrive.Ads plans to expand to all global markets within this year. On inDrive.Ads, ads appear across various screens in the funnel and include multiple-dimension banners featuring graphics and animation, with transparent measurement tools built in.
Tomsky said in a statement, “Diversifying our business with a high-margin stream like Ads is an important step for inDrive. This new line gives us more flexibility to fund affordability at scale.”
Sofia Guinto, inDrive Philippines Country Representative, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “inDrive.Ads is our way of championing fairness and accessibility on all facets of our SuperApp. Through this, we can maintain fares that are both affordable for passengers and lucrative for our drivers and create equal opportunities for more people and brands.”
Beyond its global launch of inDrive.Ads, inDrive has also expanded into intercity transportation, courier and grocery delivery, and financial services in other global markets. These new services utilize artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to fix mapping gaps, improve ETA accuracy, anticipate user needs, and personalize solutions. Through these AI-powered offerings, inDrive continues to drive innovation while still giving users the freedom of choice in every ride.
Throughout the rest of 2026, inDrive will continue to update its features and grow its user base, becoming a true mobility superapp. Amid this shift, it ensures that all rollouts will be built around fairness, opportunity, and people’s real needs. For more updates on inDrive’s new offerings available in the Philippines, visit www.inDrive.com or follow @inDrive.ph on social media.
iProov study: Deepfakes shatter online confidence
Transport communities welcome LTFRB fare adjustment, cite relief for drivers amid fuel price surges
Transport communities welcome LTFRB fare adjustment, cite relief for drivers amid fuel price surges
