This Week in Security News: Adware and Ransomware
Welcome to our weekly roundup, where we share what you need to know about the cybersecurity news and events that happened over the past few days. This week, learn about an adware that disguised itself as different apps and monitors mobile devices. Also, learn more about the different ransomware attacks Trend Micro has been tracking.
Read on:
Adware Disguised as Game, TV, Remote Control Apps Infect 9 Million Google Play Users
This adware discovered by Trend Micro is capable of displaying full-screen ads, hiding itself, monitoring a device’s screen unlocking functionality, and running in the mobile device’s background.
Reddit locks out users with poor password hygiene after spotting ‘unusual activity’
Some Redditors have been locked out of their accounts over a mysterious security problem that the internet forum’s admins have blamed on people reusing old passwords.
German Man Admits to Politician Data Breach
A 20-year-old man has admitted to police that he was behind the recent data breach that exposed the personal data and documents of almost 1,000 German politicians and public figures online.
Tech Support Scams: What are They and How do I Stay Safe?
If you’re still unsure what tech support scams are, and how you can protect yourself, this handy guide will tell you everything you need to know.
Chubb Announces Key Cyber Security Trends to Watch in 2019
As business decision-makers look to the year ahead, it is critical to address existing and new cyber security concerns. To help with that process, Chubb has launched its first annual cyber security predictions, which focus on the top risks in 2019 and beyond.
Millions of Android Users Tricked Into Downloading 85 Adware Apps From Google Play
Researchers at Trend Micro discovered 85 apps that were pushing adware designed to squeeze money out of around 9 million affected Android users.
Ransomware MongoLock Immediately Deletes Files, Formats Backup Drives
Trend Micro has been following MongoLock ransomware attacks that demands a payment of 0.1 bitcoin from victims within 24 hours to retrieve the files allegedly saved in the cybercriminals’ servers.
Samsung Phone Users Perturbed to Find They Can’t Delete Facebook
With consumers becoming more alert about their digital rights and privacy, Android phone users have begun to question Samsung’s deal to sell phones with a permanent version of Facebook.
JavaScript Malware in Spam Spreads Ransomware, Miners, Spyware, Worm
Trend Micro observed a sudden spike in JavaScript malware in more than 72,000 email samples that sourced and spread at least eight other kinds of malware beginning December 31, 2018.
Kitchenware Companies Breached in Dual Attacks
OXO International, a maker of kitchen utensils, and Discountmugs.com, which sells a variety of kitchenware promotional materials, each reported attacks this week.
Do you think adware and ransomware will continue to be prominent cybersecurity issues this year? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below or follow me on Twitter to continue the conversation: @JonLClay.
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