TECHNOLOGY
The next WannaCry and drone hacking: Advanced persistent threats in 2023
November 16, 2022 1:14 p.m.
Kaspersky researchers presented their vision of the future for advanced persistent threats (APTs), defining the changes in the threat landscape that will emerge in 2023. Attacks on satellite technologies, mail servers, the rise of destructive attacks and leaks, drone hacking and the next big cyber epidemic are among some of the predictions for the next year.
The political turmoil of 2022 brought about a shift that will echo in cybersecurity for years to come and have a direct effect on the development of future sophisticated attacks. The 2023 forecast is based on the expertise and the activities the Kaspersky Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) has witnessed this year while tracking more than 900 APT groups and campaigns.
The next WannaCry and drones for proximity hacking
Statistically, some of the largest and most impactful cyber epidemics occur every six to seven years. The last such incident was the infamous WannaCry ransomware-worm, leveraging the extremely potent EternalBlue vulnerability to automatically spread to vulnerable machines. Kaspersky researchers believe the likelihood of the next WannaCry happening in 2023 is high.
One potential reason for an event like this occurring is that the most sophisticated threat actors in the world are likely to possess at least one suitable exploit, and current global tensions greatly increase the chance a ShadowBrokers-style hack-and-leak could take place.
Major shifts will be reflected in new types of targets and attack scenarios too, as experts believe next year, we may see bold attackers and specialists adept at mixing physical-and cyber-intrusions, employing drones for proximity hacking.
Some of the possible attack scenarios include mounting drones with sufficient tooling that would allow the collection of WPA handshakes used for offline cracking of WiFi passwords or even dropping malicious USB keys in restricted areas in the hope that a passer-by would pick them up and plug them into a machine.
Other advanced threat predictions for 2023 include:
- SIGINT-delivered malware
One of the most potent attack vectors imaginable, which uses servers in key positions of the internet backbone allowing man-on-the-side attacks, may come back stronger next year. While these attacks are extremely hard to spot, Kaspersky researchers believe they will become more widespread and will lead to more discoveries.
- The rise of destructive attacks
Given the current political climate, Kaspersky experts foresee a record number of disruptive and destructive cyber-attacks, affecting both the government sector and key industries. It is likely that a proportion of them will not be easily traceable to cyber incidents and will look like random accidents. The rest will take the form of pseudo-ransomware attacks or hacktivist operations to provide plausible deniability for their real authors. High-profile cyber attacks against civilian infrastructures, such as energy grids or public broadcasting, may also become targets, as well as underwater cables and fiber distribution hubs, which are challenging to defend.
- Mail servers become priority targets
Mail servers harbor key intelligence so are of interest to APT actors and have the biggest attack surface imaginable. The market leaders of this type of software have already faced exploitation of critical vulnerabilities, and 2023 will be the year of 0days for all major email programs.
- APT targeting turns toward satellite technologies, producers, and operators
With existing capabilities, evidence of APTs being capable of attacking satellites -with the Viasat incident as an example- it is likely that APT threat actors will increasingly turn their attention to the manipulation of, and interference with, satellite technologies in the future – making the security of these technologies ever more important.
- Hack-and-leak is the new black (and bleak)
The new form of hybrid conflict that unrolled in 2022 involved a large number of hack-and-leak operations. These will persist in the coming year with APT actors leaking data about competing threat groups or disseminating information.
- More APT groups will move from CobaltStrike to other alternatives
CobaltStrike, a red-teaming tool, has become a tool of choice for APT actors and cybercriminal groups alike. With it gaining so much attention from the defenders, it is likely that attackers will switch to new alternatives such as Brute Ratel C4, Silver, Manjusaka or Ninja, all offering new capabilities and more advanced evasion techniques.
“It is quite clear 2022 saw major changes to the world’s geopolitical order and ushers in a new era of instability. A portion of our predictions focus on how this instability will translate into nefarious cyber activities, while others reflect our vision of which new attack vectors will be explored by attackers. Better preparation means better resilience and we hope our assessment of the future will enable defenders to strengthen their systems and repel cyberattacks more effectively,” says Ivan Kwiatkowski, senior security researcher at Kaspersky.
The APT predictions have been developed thanks to Kaspersky’s threat intelligence services used around the world. Read the full report on Securelist.
These predictions are a part of Kaspersky Security Bulletin (KSB) – an annual predictions series and analytical articles on key changes in the world of cybersecurity. Click here to look at other KSB pieces.
To look back at what the Kaspersky experts expected to see in the advanced targeted threats landscape in 2022, please read our previous yearly report.
TECHNOLOGY
We checked what’s inside the HONOR X9c 5G and here’s why it’s the toughest phone of 2025
7:30 p.m. January 3, 2025
Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has done it again with its viral and elevated durability challenge for the most awaited toughest phone of the year, the HONOR X9c 5G. To prove durability claims, HONOR has shared the secrets of how HONOR X9c 5G became highly durable.
“HONOR X9c 5G has an All-Angle Triple Defense now. It is not just drop-resistant anymore where HONOR X9a and X9b 5G were known for. It is now water and heat-resistant that made this smartphone the toughest phone to hit the market yet,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
What’s behind HONOR X9c 5G’s Ultra-Toughness
- Back-to-back Super Double Tempered Glass – Not only does the screen use this top-of-the-line tempered class, but the camera module also uses the same material. This glass is more durable than others making it more drop-resistant and scratch-resistant. With this, HONOR X9c 5G now has 360-degree drop resistance for up to two meters in height. HONOR X9c 5G also has survived more than 10 surfaces drop test on marble, cobblestone, gravel, asphalt etc.
- Technical principle-under-screen shock-absorbing material – Simply put, the gap between the screen and the middle frame is filled with shock-absorbing materials to reduce the impact of the hard supporting objects of the middle frame on the screen.
- 3-layer Water-Resistant Structure – The first layer is an external leakage port protection for side key port, SPK hole, and card tray hole upgraded to LIM (Liquid Injection Molding) rubber ring. The second layer protection which is for interface has USB rubber sleeve adopting straight surface matching + double sealing ribs; the card holder pokes pinholes to control roughness; and the leakage is reduced. The third layer is for board level and software protection: BTB protection with added foam; waterproof detection + software protection
All this and more when you get the HONOR X9c 5G! Interested in knowing more about the toughest phone? Don’t dare miss its grand launch live on Facebook (https://bit.ly/X9cLaunch_PR) on January 10, 6PM!
For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or 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/.
In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).
TECHNOLOGY
Capture life’s magic with vivo Y19s’ 50MP Night AI Camera
4:20 p.m. December 27, 2024
Step up your photography game with the vivo Y19s for as low as P6,499, the smartphone designed for those who live life in full color.
Equipped with a 50MP Night AI Camera and AI Photo Enhance, the vivo Y19s ensures that every shot is breathtaking, even at night!
Budget phone that revolutionizes night photography
The vivo Y19s redefines what a budget smartphone can achieve in low-light conditions. Its powerful 50MP Night AI Camera is engineered to capture crisp, vibrant, and detailed images, even in dim environments.
With advanced AI technology, it automatically optimizes your shots, making your photos vibrant and full of life any time of the day.
Even portrait shots look stunning! Check this out:
[Embed video here: https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7443407000601382200 ]
Effortless editing with AI Photo Enhance
Complementing its 50MP Night AI Camera, vivo Y19s also boasts AI Photo Enhance, a tool that optimizes images in one click by intelligently adjusting the exposure, colors, and sharpness of your photography to ensure an Instagram-ready photo!
Stylish colorways to match your flair
Beyond its camera, the vivo Y19s is built for seamless, all-day use. Whether you’re scrolling through social media, watching videos, or gaming with friends, this smartphone is made to keep up:
- Bright and Vibrant Display: The 6.68-inch screen with 1000 nits peak brightness ensures clear visuals, even under direct sunlight.
- Enduring Power: With a 5500mAh battery and 15W fast charging, the vivo Y19s powers your day from start to finish.
- Durable and Stylish Design: Choose from Pearl Silver, Glacier Blue, or Glossy Black and enjoy IP64 dust and water resistance – style and durability combined.
Get yours today
The vivo Y19s is available for as low as P6,499 with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Ready to make your memories even more stunning? Grab yours today at the vivo e-store, Shopee, or Lazada, or visit the nearest vivo physical store!
TECHNOLOGY
Zoom into the Powerful Camera Features of the OPPO Find X8
6:25 p.m. December 26, 2024
In today’s fast-paced world, capturing memories isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way to tell your story. Whether you’re sipping a latte at your favorite hidden café, enjoying a vibrant night out, or exploring scenic landscapes, the OPPO Find X8 ensures every moment is captured in stunning detail.
Hasselblad Master Camera System: Professional Quality in Your Pocket
At the heart of the OPPO Find X8 is the Hasselblad Master Camera System, a game-changer for mobile photography. Featuring three 50MP cameras—a wide-angle, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens—it allows you to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intricate close-ups with outstanding quality.
The AI Telescope Zoom lets you snap crystal-clear images even at 120x, so you can immortalize those far-off moments.
Additionally, the periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom and AI-enhanced 60x zoom brings distant subjects into sharp focus. Imagine capturing the perfect shot of your idol on stage—even from the nosebleed section of the concert hall.
Love taking portraits? The Hasselblad Portrait Mode recreates the iconic bokeh effect of Hasselblad’s legendary lenses. Whether it’s a candid shot during brunch or a golden-hour portrait at the park, your photos will radiate elegance and clarity.
Pro Tip: Elevate your portraits by playing with the lighting. With the OPPO Find X8’s intelligent subject detection, even low-light settings turn into your personal photo studio.
Lightning Snap: Perfect for Action Shots
Life doesn’t wait for the perfect moment, and neither should you.
With the OPPO Find X8’s Lightning Snap feature, you can freeze moving subjects, be it a bustling city street or your bestie dancing at a rooftop bar. The camera captures bursts at up to 7 frames per second, ensuring you never miss a beat.
Pro Tip: Hold down the shutter button while capturing motion. Later, select your favorite frame to showcase your creativity.
HyperTone Image Engine: True-to-Life Photos
The HyperTone Image Engine takes your photos to the next level by merging multiple frames into one breathtaking image. Vibrant colors, balanced lighting, and rich details make every shot gallery-worthy. Whether it’s the latte art on your cappuccino or a vibrant sunset, your photos will pop with lifelike beauty.
LivePhoto: Bring Moments to Life
Why settle for static photos when you can have dynamic ones? The LivePhoto feature captures both stills and short video clips, letting you relive moments exactly as they happened. It’s perfect for capturing a bustling market scene or the cheers during a celebration.
Make Every Night an Adventure
Night owls will love the OPPO Find X8’s low-light capabilities. Its advanced sensors and AI ensure noise-free, vibrant photos even in dim settings. Whether you’re capturing neon lights at your favorite bar or a starry night during a getaway, the results are nothing short of magical.
Make Memories That Last
Whether it’s a solo café session, or a night out with friends, or a weekend getaway, the OPPO Find X8 ensures every moment is picture-perfect. Its intelligent, user-friendly features make it the ideal tool for modern, on-the-go creatives.
The OPPO Find X8 is now available nationwide. It’s priced at PHP 54,999 and comes in two colorways – Space Black and Star Grey. Visit any authorized OPPO stores or shop in the OPPO’s official stores in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop to get your hands on this powerhouse device.
Celebrate Christmas the Maligayang PaskOPPO way
Are you a My OPPO App user? Register now to participate in the Maligayang PaskOPPO promo where over Php 500 million worth of gifts await Filipino shoppers until January 5, 2025 both online and in stores.
Download the My OPPO App or visit this link to know more or drop by your nearest OPPO stores nationwide to enjoy these exciting perks
To know more about the OPPO Find X8, Maligayang PaskOPPO Campaign, and the My OPPO App, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
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