GIGABIT SYSTEMS

?? New scam Warning for 2 Billion Apple Users: “Your Apple ID Is Suspended” ???? As the holiday shopping frenzy kicks in, so do the scammers. A new phishing scam is targeting Apple users—claiming your Apple ID is suspended due to suspicious activity. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself: How the Scam Works ?? You receive an email resembling an official Apple message. ?? Urgency is emphasized, warning your account is suspended due to suspicious activity. ?? It prompts you to click a link or provide personal information to “resolve the issue.” ?? The link leads to a fake site, designed to steal your credentials and possibly bypass 2FA security. Why It’s Convincing ?? These scams are increasingly AI-driven, mimicking Apple’s tone and branding almost perfectly. ?? Personal information is often included in the email to build trust. ?? A sense of urgency pressures you into acting without thinking. How to Stay Safe 1?? Verify the Sender: Always check the sender’s email address for discrepancies. 2?? Don’t Click Links: Instead of clicking, go directly to Apple’s official website or app. 3?? Never Share Security Info: Apple will never ask for your password, 2FA code, or device passcode. 4?? Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Even if credentials are stolen, 2FA adds a strong layer of protection. 5?? Trust Your Instincts: If it feels off, it probably is. Take time to think and verify independently. Apple’s Advice Apple states: ?? They don’t request passwords or 2FA codes via email or text. ?? They don’t convey urgency in their communication to avoid pressuring users. ?? Always contact Apple directly if in doubt about your Apple ID status. Phishing scams are becoming more sophisticated, especially during high-spending periods like Black Friday. Protect yourself and your loved ones by sharing this information! Have you or someone you know encountered this scam? Let us know in the comments to help others stay vigilant. ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #CyberSecurity #AppleIDScam #PhishingAlert #StaySafeOnline #HolidayShopping #data #technology

? Starbucks is under Ahhack- Ransomware Attack Disrupts coffee giants Systems ???? Cybersecurity strikes again—this time hitting Starbucks. A ransomware attack on third-party software provider Blue Yonder has forced Starbucks to pay its baristas manually while working around disrupted scheduling systems. Here’s what happened and why it matters. What We Know: ?? Blue Yonder, a cloud services provider used by major corporations, was hit by ransomware. ?? Starbucks, one of Blue Yonder’s clients, scrambled to ensure employees are paid despite the outage. ??Other impacted companies include major grocery chains and automaker Ford, with ripple effects across industries. ?? Blue Yonder has enlisted cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike to recover from the attack, as efforts to restore systems continue. The Bigger Picture: Ransomware attacks are escalating, especially during critical periods like the holiday shopping season. In 2023 alone, hackers extorted $1.1 billion in ransom payments globally. For companies relying on interconnected systems, the fallout from such attacks is swift and wide-ranging: ?? Disrupted Operations: Starbucks had to pivot to manual processes to ensure payroll continuity. ?? Supply Chain Risks: As companies like Ford investigate potential impacts, it’s clear how a single provider’s breach can cascade across multiple sectors. ?? Holiday Timing: Hackers are strategic, targeting businesses during high-pressure periods to maximize their leverage. What Can Businesses Learn? 1?? Vet Third-Party Vendors: Ensure providers have robust cybersecurity protocols. 2?? Segment and Secure Data: Limit how much sensitive data any one vendor can access. 3?? Have Backup Plans: Prepare for manual operations to maintain business continuity during outages. 4?? Train Employees: Human error often opens the door to attacks—education is critical. 5?? Invest in Incident Response: Work with experts to detect, mitigate, and recover swiftly. A Call to Action: This Starbucks incident isn’t just a headline; it’s a reminder that no business is immune to ransomware attacks. Whether you’re managing a coffee shop or a global enterprise, proactive cybersecurity measures can mean the difference between resilience and chaos. ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #CyberSecurity #Ransomware #BusinessContinuity #Starbucks #ThirdPartyRisk #HolidaySeason #technology #data

?? Think Before You Scan: The Amazon QR Code Scam ???? Scammers are always on the lookout for new ways to trick unsuspecting users, and their latest scheme targets Amazon customers through fake QR codes. Here’s how it works and what you can do to stay safe. How the Scam Works: 1?? You receive a package with a note saying, “Thank you for your purchase! Scan this QR code to leave a review and claim your reward.” 2?? The QR code takes you to a fake website that looks like Amazon or another trusted site. 3?? You’re asked to log in or provide personal information—giving scammers access to your data. The Risks: ?? Stolen Credentials: Logging into the fake site compromises your Amazon account. ?? Identity Theft: Sharing personal or payment information puts you at risk. ?? Malware: Scanning the QR code could download harmful software to your device. How to Protect Yourself: ?? Verify Before You Scan: If you didn’t expect the package or the message seems off, don’t scan the code. ?? Go Directly to Amazon: Use the official app or website to check orders or leave reviews. ?? Check URLs Carefully: If you scan, ensure the URL is legitimate. Look for “https://www.amazon.com.” ?? Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of protection to your account. ?? Report Suspicious Activity: Notify Amazon if you suspect a scam and don’t engage further. QR codes are convenient but can also be a trap for unsuspecting users. Always think twice before scanning—your security depends on it! Have you encountered scams like this? Share your story in the comments to help others stay informed. ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #CyberSecurity #AmazonScam #QRCodeSafety #ThinkBeforeYouScan #OnlineSafety #data #technology

Protecting a Company is Like Smoking a Brisket: Slow, Steady, and Strategic ???? Running a business and protecting it from threats is a lot like smoking a brisket—it’s all about patience, preparation, and attention to detail. Here’s how the comparison stacks up: 1?? Preparation is Key: Just as you season a brisket and get your smoker to the perfect temperature, protecting your company starts with preparation. This means setting up firewalls, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and employee training to defend against threats. 2?? Anticipate and Work Through the Stall: Every brisket hits “the stall,” where the cooking seems to stop, and temperatures plateau. In cybersecurity, this is like encountering a persistent issue—phishing campaigns, insider threats, or compliance hurdles. Success comes from anticipating these moments, staying calm, and pushing through with strategic solutions. 3?? Slow and Steady Wins the Race: A brisket takes hours of consistent heat to cook properly. Similarly, cybersecurity isn’t a one-and-done effort—it requires ongoing monitoring, updates, and vigilance to keep your defenses strong over time. 4?? Watch for Flare-Ups: If you’re not careful, a sudden flare-up can ruin your brisket. In business, unexpected threats like phishing attempts or ransomware attacks can cause serious damage if you’re not ready to respond. Regular monitoring is essential. 5?? The Right Tools Make All the Difference: From thermometers to the right wood chips, tools matter when smoking a brisket. In cybersecurity, tools like endpoint protection, intrusion detection, and threat monitoring software are critical for success. 6?? Work with the Right Vendor: Choosing the right brisket starts with selecting the right cut of meat—it sets the foundation for success. Similarly, partnering with the right vendors ensures you have the expertise, tools, and support needed to secure your business. A great vendor aligns with your needs and provides consistent quality, much like a well-marbled brisket. 7?? Patience Pays Off: Rushing a brisket leads to disaster—just like rushing security measures can leave vulnerabilities. Take the time to implement strong policies and test them regularly to ensure they’re effective. 8?? The Final Product is Worth It: When you’ve done everything right, the reward is a delicious brisket—or in this case, a company that’s protected from threats, resilient in the face of challenges, and ready for future growth. So, next time you’re thinking about your company’s security, imagine you’re smoking a brisket. It’s about balance, effort, and keeping an eye on the details. After all, protecting your business is as much an art as it is a science. What’s your “secret sauce” for protecting your business? Share your tips below! #CyberSecurity #BusinessProtection #PatiencePaysOff #Anticipation #VendorSelection #Resilience #technology #data

Let’s be real - you have no idea of what’s installed on your computer or the damage it can cause. In many organizations, employees install software or apps without IT’s approval, known as “shadow IT.” While it’s often done for convenience or to increase productivity, (or to save money on expensive software), this practice can create significant security and compliance risks. Here’s why allowing users to install unapproved software is dangerous: 1?? Data Exposure & Breaches: Unapproved software often lacks robust security measures, leaving sensitive company data at risk. Cybercriminals can exploit these tools to gain access to networks and steal valuable information. 2?? Increased Vulnerability to Attacks: Shadow IT can bypass firewalls, lack regular updates, and be more susceptible to malware. IT teams can’t monitor or protect what they don’t know exists. 3?? Compliance Violations: Organizations may face fines or legal consequences if unapproved software violates industry regulations or data protection standards. 4?? Productivity and System Instability: Software that hasn’t been vetted by IT can create conflicts within existing systems, leading to downtime or performance issues that slow down work across the organization. What Can Be Done? 1?? Promote Awareness: Educate employees on the security and compliance risks of shadow IT. 2?? Set Clear Policies: Define acceptable software, communicate policies clearly, and enforce them. 3?? Provide Approved Alternatives: Offer vetted tools that meet employees’ needs to reduce the urge for unapproved installs. 4?? Implement Monitoring Tools: Use software that detects and reports unauthorized applications on the network. 5?? Implement Elevated Access Tools: Limit installation rights to only those who truly need it, ensuring that only IT-approved software can be installed by standard users. By taking proactive steps, companies can protect sensitive data, maintain system integrity, and ensure compliance. Remember, it’s better to address software needs through IT rather than allowing employees to take matters into their own hands. ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #CyberSecurity #ShadowIT #DataProtection #ITSecurity #RiskManagement #data #computersecurity #technology

Think Before You Click: Threats Aren’t Just in Emails Anymore! ???? Scam links are everywhere these days—not just in emails, but in texts, WhatsApp, and social media messages. Whether it looks like it’s from your bank, USPS, or a multi-factor authentication prompt, scammers are finding new ways to target users. It’s critical to pause and think before clicking. ??Here’s a quick safety tip: ?? Use URLVoid.com to scan any suspicious link before you click. While it may not catch everything, it can alert you to potential risks and help you avoid harmful links. Five additional tips to stay safe: 1?? Be skeptical of unexpected links: especially those asking for personal info. 2?? Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages:—verify with the sender directly if possible. 3?? Check for unusual or misspelled URLs: as scammers often use look-alike sites. 4?? Hover over links (if possible) before clicking :to preview the URL and ensure it matches the legitimate website. 5?? Regularly update your devices and security software: as many security features help protect against known phishing sites. In the digital age, one click can lead to serious trouble. Stay vigilant, and remember: when in doubt, don’t click. #CyberSecurity #ScamAwareness #ThinkBeforeYouClick #StaySafeOnline #DigitalSafety #technology #data #bigdata

10 Myths About Email Security Everyone Should Stop Believing ???? Email remains a vital part of our digital lives, yet common myths about its security can leave us vulnerable. Here are 10 myths you should stop believing to protect your email: 1?? Myth: A Strong Password Is Enough Fact: Strong passwords are just the start. Phishing, data breaches, and keyloggers can still compromise your account. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) and monitor for unusual activity. 2?? Myth: Email Services Are Fully Secure Fact: Not all email providers offer the same security. Your email’s safety depends on your provider—and how you use it. 3?? Myth: Spam Filters Catch Everything Fact: While helpful, spam filters aren’t foolproof. Cybercriminals constantly adapt, so stay alert for suspicious emails that make it past filters. 4?? Myth: Emails from Known Contacts Are Safe Fact: Familiar email accounts can be hacked. Verify unexpected messages, especially those with urgent requests or attachments. 5?? Myth: Encryption Is Only for Tech Experts Fact: Encryption has become user-friendly. Many email platforms offer easy encryption—use it to protect sensitive info. 6?? Myth: Deleting Suspicious Emails Is Enough Fact: Deleting alone doesn’t guarantee safety. Some emails contain hidden code that activates upon opening, so always handle suspicious messages carefully. 7?? Myth: Public Wi-Fi Is Safe for Email Fact: Public Wi-Fi leaves you vulnerable. If you must check email on public networks, use a VPN to secure your connection. 8?? Myth: Only Work Emails Need Security Fact: Personal email accounts are often connected to other sensitive information, such as banking or social media. Security matters for all accounts. 9?? Myth: Outdated Email Software Is Fine Fact: Older email software may lack protection against newer threats. Always update to benefit from the latest security patches. ?? Myth: Email Security Is the IT Team’s Responsibility Fact: While IT provides tools, each user plays a crucial role in email security. Stay educated on threats and follow best practices to help protect your organization. Email is a cornerstone of digital communication—protect it by debunking these myths and adopting a proactive approach to security. ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #CyberSecurity #EmailSecurity #Phishing #DataProtection #DigitalSafety #data

Complete abuse of power… Whistleblower Claims Comey Ordered Secret ‘Honeypot’ Spies to Infiltrate Trump’s 2016 Campaign ???♀????? A new whistleblower disclosure to the House Judiciary Committee alleges that former FBI Director James Comey directed a secret off-the-books investigation into Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign. This operation, reportedly starting shortly after Trump announced his run, involved two undercover FBI agents who infiltrated the campaign, acting as “honeypots” to gather information on Trump’s team. ?? What We Know: ?? High-Level Infiltration: The whistleblower claims the agents traveled with Trump’s team, gathering data without an official case file, predicated foundation, or oversight from the DOJ Inspector General. ?? Targeted Individuals: Campaign figures, including George Papadopoulos, were reportedly under surveillance. The operation was allegedly kept from Trump’s legal counsel. ?? Institutional Bias?: The disclosure hints at possible bias, as agents were instructed not to discuss the operation and rewarded for their roles. Former FBI officials call this “a booming violation” of protocols, raising questions about the balance of power in political investigations. As Congress investigates these claims, this case may redefine how agencies approach sensitive political campaigns. What do you think? Should political campaigns have greater safeguards against surveillance by federal agencies? ==================================== Follow me for mind blowing information and cybersecurity news. Stay safe and secure! ==================================== #Whistleblower #FBI #ElectionSecurity #JamesComey #PoliticalSurveillance #privacy

Cybersecurity played a huge role in the 2024 Presidential Election ??????? The 2024 U.S. election brought Donald Trump a victory, but it also underscored the intense cybersecurity measures required to protect our democratic process. Here’s a brief summary of how public and private sectors fortified election security against modern threats: ?? Blockchain Verification In select areas, blockchain provided an immutable audit trail for ballots, adding transparency and ensuring tamper-resistance in critical regions. ?? Network & Infrastructure Security Key states adopted zero-trust models and partnered with CISA to prevent disruptions, ensuring only verified personnel accessed sensitive systems. ???? Cyber Hygiene Training States like Pennsylvania trained election staff on phishing resistance and multi-factor authentication, significantly reducing human vulnerabilities. ?? AI-Driven Threat Detection Advanced threat monitoring flagged and addressed potential breaches in real time, allowing election officials to respond before threats could escalate. Emerging Threats: From ransomware on voter databases to foreign cyber-espionage, the focus on robust, layered defenses helped mitigate both external and insider threats. The election’s success is a testament to the dedication of cybersecurity professionals, tech innovations, and the collaborative approach between agencies and private sector partners. It’s a win for democracy and a crucial step in cybersecurity resilience. #ElectionSecurity #CyberSecurity #Blockchain #ZeroTrust #CyberHygiene #DigitalDemocracy #2024Election #data

Are your apps leaking your location? Strava Reveals Sensitive Info of Secret Service Movements ???? A recent investigation by Le Monde uncovered a major digital security lapse: Secret Service agents using the Strava fitness app inadvertently exposed sensitive movement patterns for President Biden, Vice President Harris, and former President Trump. This incident highlights how simple tech tools can create unexpected security risks. Strava, a popular app used by 120 million people worldwide, allows users to track and share fitness routes. But this convenience comes with hidden risks. Here’s what we can learn from this: ?? Risky Visibility: An agent’s fitness route during Biden’s trip to San Francisco inadvertently revealed the president’s hotel location. Le Monde also tracked movements for other high-profile figures, including former first ladies and international leaders. ?? Privacy Lessons for Everyone: 1. Be mindful of location-sharing: Publicly sharing location-based activities can reveal sensitive patterns. 2. Use privacy settings: Many apps have settings to limit data sharing—use them. 3. Off-duty tech use can create on-duty risks: Even personal activities can lead to security vulnerabilities. 4. Limit apps that track your location: For professionals in sensitive roles, this is crucial. ?? For Organizations: Consider policies on employee app use, especially for location-sharing apps. Regular reviews and training on tech-based risks can help prevent unintended disclosures. In the digital age, security isn’t just about physical threats; it’s also about managing the information trail our devices leave behind. #data #DigitalSecurity #LocationPrivacy #CyberAwareness #Strava #SecretService #InfoSecurity