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PH slides to top 4 in Kaspersky’s new global ranking of countries most targeted by online threats

February 5, 2024 9:46 p.m.

In 2023, web threats targeting the Philippines were about two percent less (48%) than in 2022 (49.8%), according to the latest Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) report.

With this new data, the country moved two spots down to fourth place worldwide among countries most targeted by malicious files from the internet and phishing websites. It looks like a positive development but Kaspersky is strongly advising against dropping the armor.  

“There are two things that could explain the drop in web threats, albeit slightly. First is that we see the country is slowly making headway in cybersecurity. We classify the Philippines to be in the intermediate group of countries that are identifying cyberattacks and making efforts to implement rules. The second one and this we have to seriously take note, is that cybercriminals are continuously taking other attack routes that might be off the radar. One trend that we consistently have been seeing lately is their preference for targeted attacks instead of the spray and pray method,” said Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky. 

“Complacency, however, is still not an option. Cybercriminals continue to develop their tools and techniques. They actually surprise cybersecurity experts all the time. Our mindset should be how to be able to hunt threats before they could cause harm and damage. At this point, I recommend that we should be talking more about threats as we proactively learn to detect and respond to them. This is where threat intelligence comes in handy,” added Yeo.  

Web or online threats are attacks through browsers which are also cybercriminals’ tried and tested way to spread malware. It can easily be done with or without the involvement of the victim. 

A web attack with victim participation is done through social engineering. The victim is tricked into doing something that jeopardizes their personal security or the security of the organization they work for. The objective is to get the victim to respond by clicking an infected email attachment, a compromised website, or responding to a fake unsubscribe notice, among others.  Last year’s data breaches involving a government agency and an e-wallet company, which were each reportedly traced to phishing, are examples of this type of web threat. 

An attack requiring no victim involvement is through drive-by downloads. By simply visiting a compromised website, their device gets infected automatically (and silently) particularly if they failed to apply a security update to one of their apps. This method is used in most web attacks.

In the recent global ranking, the Philippines came behind Mongolia (51.8%), Moldova (48.9%) and Greece (48.8%). Since 2019, the country has consistently been in the top 10 ranking countries. 

Among Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines is trailed by Malaysia with the overall percentage of users attacked by web-borne threats from January to December 2023. 

To stay protected, Kaspersky recommends users the following: 

  • Do not download and install applications from untrusted sources 
  • Do not click on any links from unknown sources or suspicious online advertisements 
  • Create strong and unique passwords, including a mix of lower case and upper case letters, numbers, and punctuation, as well as activating two-factor authentication 
  • Always install updates
  • Ignore messages asking to disable security systems for office or cybersecurity solution 
  • Use a robust cybersecurity solution appropriate to your system type and devices 

For organizations, Kaspersky recommends the following:

  • Always keep software updated on all the devices to prevent attackers from infiltrating network by exploiting vulnerabilities 
  • Use strong passwords to access corporate services. Use multi-factor authentication for access to remote services 
  • Choose a proven endpoint cybersecurity solution for business that is equipped with behaviors-based detection and anomaly control capabilities for effective protection against known and unknown threats 
  • Use dedicated set of effective endpoint protection, threat detection and response products to timely detect and remediate even new and evasive threats 
  • Use the latest threat intelligence information to empower your security experts
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BossJob’s BossCare Foundation, DICT bring free wifi to over 2,000 students

3:10 p.m. February 25, 2025

Sorsogon, Philippines – In a transformative step towards digital inclusion, Bossjob’s BOSSCARE Foundation, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Regional Office 5, has successfully provided free WiFi access to more than 2,000 students and faculty members at Cumadcad National High School.

This initiative is a significant stride in bridging the digital divide, ensuring that students and educators can leverage technology for enhanced learning and academic excellence.

The project, a testament to Bossjob’s unwavering commitment to help the Filipino community, was spearheaded by Bossjob Growth Director, Feby Joy Luneza, alongside DICT Regional Director, Atty. Rachel Grabador, represented by Engr. Carmela Valencia, Chief of the Technical Operations Division. The initiative was further supported by Ms. Teresita Loria, IIDB-ED Focal, ICT Industry Development, whose collective leadership helped turn this vision into reality.

With access to free WiFi, students at Cumadcad National High School now have an invaluable resource to support their studies, conduct research, and develop digital skills essential for their future. This initiative does not only uplift students but also empowers faculty members with better teaching tools, fostering an environment that is more inclusive and conducive to 21st-century learning.

“Education should never be hindered by the lack of digital resources,” said Feby Joy Luneza, Growth Director of Bossjob. “With this initiative, we are ensuring that students have access to the digital world, opening doors to greater opportunities and success.”

DICT Regional Office 5 echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their dedication to nationwide digital transformation. “Access to the internet is no longer a privilege—it is a necessity. Through this partnership, we are making meaningful steps toward a more connected and digitally empowered Philippines,” said Engr. Carmela Valencia.

Bossjob’s commitment goes beyond providing employment—it starts as early as preparing students for a brighter future by equipping them with the necessary digital skills and knowledge to become job-ready. Through initiatives like this, Bossjob is not only connecting employers with professionals but also ensuring that students are equipped to succeed in the modern workforce.

This initiative is just the beginning. Bossjob and DICT are committed to rolling out more programs aimed at empowering Filipino students and communities with digital access, training, and career opportunities.

With technology as a bridge, the future of education—and employment—is brighter than ever.

For more information on Bossjob’s BOSSCARE Foundation, Employment Opportunities and upcoming initiatives, visit Bossjob.ph or follow their social media channels.

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Agoda unveils 5 Gen Z travel trends shaping the Philippines   

8:11 p.m. February 19, 2025

Digital travel platform Agoda shares the top five Filipino Gen Z travel trends, revealing a generation that finds inspiration in the digital realm, embraces spontaneity, and values shared experiences. 

The survey highlights the unique ways travelers aged 18-27, more commonly known as Gen Z, are shaping the future of travel in the Philippines with a fresh perspective, not only by influencing travel trends but also by setting the stage for future generations to explore the world in innovative ways. 

1. TikTok inspiration: Social media is the new travel guide 

Filipino Gen Z is blazing a trail on social media, with TikTok leading the way as their top source for travel inspiration. While Millennials lean on friends and family as their preferred source of recommendations, Gen Z is scrolling through TikTok (22%) as well as travel blogs and vlogs (17%) to discover their next adventure. Despite the digital influence, personal recommendations from friends and family remain a close second (21%), proving that word-of-mouth still holds sway in the Philippines. 

2. Spontaneous spirit: Last-minute bookings on the rise

In a world where plans can change in an instant, Filipino Gen Z embraces the thrill of last-minute travel more than any other generation. One in seven Gen Z book accommodations less than a week in advance, outpacing Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers. Flights follow suit, with one in eight Gen Z travelers making bookings at the eleventh hour, showcasing their penchant for spontaneity.

3. Traveling in tandem: Partnered adventures take the lead 

For Gen Z in the Philippines, travel is a shared experience, with 40% preferring to explore the world with a partner. Group trips with friends and family vacations also rank high, highlighting the importance of connection and companionship in their journeys. Millennials, on the other hand, prioritize family trips, reflecting a generational shift in travel dynamics.   

4. Cost-conscious journeys: Spending habits align across generations 

Budget-friendly stays remain a priority for Filipino Gen Z travelers. This keeps Gen Z travelers on the same page as Millennials, with both generations preferring to keep accommodation costs under USD 50 per person per night, with Gen Z more inclined to do so (57%) than their Millennial counterparts (47%). Meanwhile, 31% of Gen Z plan to spend between USD 51-100 per person per night compared to 40% of Millennials. This trend underscores a shared commitment to affordable travel without compromising on experiences. 

5. Wanderlust unites: The desire to travel transcends generations  

Despite differing preferences in where different generations find travel inspiration, when they book their travels, and who they go with, the desire to explore the world is universal. More than half of Gen Z and nearly half of Millennials plan to embark on 1-3 trips this year, while about a third are aiming for 4-6 adventures. This shared wanderlust bridges generational gaps, proving that the love for travel knows no bounds. 

Michael Hwang, Country Director for the Philippines at Agoda shared, “Filipino Gen Z travelers are demonstrating a strong appetite for discovery, with a preference for spontaneity, and affordable yet meaningful travel experiences. These behaviors are reinforcing Gen Z travelers’ need for flexibility and digital-first experiences, and we at Agoda are happy to offer the best deals on accommodations, flights and activities for this new generation of travelers.” 

With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for Gen Z travelers to explore the world. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your next adventure today. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

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History on ice as curling team wins PH’s first Winter Asiad gold

8:14 p.m. February 14, 2025

HARBIN, China – The Philippines saved the best for last in the last day of the ninth Asian Winter Games on Friday morning just a few hours before the closing ceremony as the country’s top men’s curling team gave the Filipinos their first ever gold medal in the winter games. 

Skipper Marc Pfister along with brother second Enrico Pfister, vice skipper Christian Haller, lead Alan Frei showed nerves of steel in the last seventh and eighth ends to outplay erstwhile unbeaten South Korea, 5-3, in the final to bag the historic gold medal here at the Pingfang Curling Arena.  

“Gold medal for Team Philippines, and we expected ourselves to win. It is a great game, and we never doubt ourselves,” the 35-year-old Filipino-Swiss Pfister, who played the sport curling for 26 years, said. “It’s not just only a medal, bronze or silver, but a gold.”

Inspired by her 16-week pregnant wife Jessica Pfister that served as the team men’s coach, Marc also said that he was motivated and inspired by her upcoming first born baby and wife for joining him in their journey in the Asian winter games.

The Philippine men’s curling team formed by Curling Pilipinas President Benjo Delarmente and Secretary-General Jarryd Bello started the match really well by taking a 3-1 cushion although the World’s No. 7 South Korea mounted a comeback to tie the match to 3-3 after the sixth end. 

Despite South Korea’s threatening comeback, the No. 51 Filipinos stayed calm and composed to claim the last two ends with one point each, then becoming the first ever country in Southeast Asia to win a gold in the winter games just a few days after Thailand settled for the first winter bronze medal. 

The Filipinos are now the best performing Southeast Asian nations in the 34-country winter games.

“We are so proud of this milestone, and I would like to thank our fellow Southeast Asian nations as well for congratulating us –Filipinos – for winning the first ever gold of Southeast Asia in the winter games,” Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said. 

“Two days ago, Thailand won Southeast Asia’s first ever medal – bronze – through one of their alpine skiers,” Tolentino said, referring to Thai-French Paul Henri Vieuxtemps who bagged the men’s freeski slopestyle bronze medal in Yabuli, 229 kilometers away to Harbin City, last Tuesday.      

After finishing the round robin with a 4-1 win-loss slate for a qualification spot, the Filipinos blasted No. 10 Japan in the qualification phase, 10-4, on Thursday morning before narrowly beating host No. 17 China, 7-6, in the evening’s semifinal.   

The only loss of the Filipinos came from South Korea, 1-6, during round robin last Saturday. 

The Philippines sent a total of 19 athletes in the Asian Winter Games that competed in five sporting disciplines – alpine skiing, curling, figure skating, short track speed skating and freestyle skiing. 

And none of them made it to the podium except for the men’s curling team in the last day of the competition after surprisingly and historically capturing the gold medal in China’s coldest northernmost Heilongjiang province.  

The curling mixed doubles team of Marc Pfister and Kathleen Dubberstein was just good enough for fourth place last Saturday, while the women’s curling team didn’t qualify for the qualification spot. 

Short track speed skater Peter Groseclose didn’t qualify for the semifinal of all his events – 500 meters, 1,500m and 1000m, while women’s figure skaters Sofia Frank and Cathryn Limketkai finished 12th and ninth, respectively, while Paolo Borromeo ranked 10th in the men’s figure skating. 

The pair of Isabella Gamez and Aleksander Korovin placed fourth overall, Alpine skier Tallulah Proulx ended 16th in the women’s slalom contest, Francis Ceccarelli was disqualified in the men’s slalom after a wrong turn, and 15-year-old Laetaz Amihan Rabe placed sixth and last in her two events – women’s freeski slopestyle and freeski big air events. 

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