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Introduction

With the increasing frequency and severity of cyber-attacks on critical sectors, the government of India has formulated the National Cyber Security Reference Framework (NCRF) 2023, aimed to address cybersecurity concerns in India. In today’s digital age, the security of critical sectors is paramount due to the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Cybersecurity measures are crucial for protecting essential sectors such as banking, energy, healthcare, telecommunications, transportation, strategic enterprises, and government enterprises. This is an essential step towards safeguarding these critical sectors and preparing for the challenges they face in the face of cyber threats. Protecting critical sectors from cyber threats is an urgent priority that requires the development of robust cybersecurity practices and the implementation of effective measures to mitigate risks.

Overview of the National Cyber Security Policy 2013

The National Cyber Security Policy of 2013 was the first attempt to address cybersecurity concerns in India. However, it had several drawbacks that limited its effectiveness in mitigating cyber risks in the contemporary digital age. The policy’s outdated guidelines, insufficient prevention and response measures, and lack of legal implications hindered its ability to protect critical sectors adequately. Moreover, the policy should have kept up with the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape and emerging technologies, leaving organisations vulnerable to new cyber-attacks. The 2013 policy failed to address the evolving nature of cyber threats, leaving organisations needing updated guidelines to combat new and sophisticated attacks.

As a result, an updated and more comprehensive policy, the National Cyber Security Reference Framework 2023, was necessary to address emerging challenges and provide strategic guidance for protecting critical sectors against cyber threats.

Highlights of NCRF 2023

Strategic Guidance: NCRF 2023 has been developed to provide organisations with strategic guidance to address their cybersecurity concerns in a structured manner.

Common but Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR): The policy is based on a CBDR approach, recognising that different organisations have varying levels of cybersecurity needs and responsibilities.

Update of National Cyber Security Policy 2013: NCRF supersedes the National Cyber Security Policy 2013, which was due for an update to align with the evolving cyber threat landscape and emerging challenges.

Different from CERT-In Directives: NCRF is distinct from the directives issued by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) published in April 2023. It provides a comprehensive framework rather than specific directives for reporting cyber incidents.

Combination of robust strategies: National Cyber Security Reference Framework 2023 will provide strategic guidance, a revised structure, and a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling organisations to tackle the growing cyberattacks in India better and safeguard critical sectors. Rising incidents of malware attacks on critical sectors

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in malware attacks targeting critical sectors. These sectors, including banking, energy, healthcare, telecommunications, transportation, strategic enterprises, and government enterprises, play a crucial role in the functioning of economies and the well-being of societies. The escalating incidents of malware attacks on these sectors have raised concerns about the security and resilience of critical infrastructure.

Banking: The banking sector handles sensitive financial data and is a prime target for cybercriminals due to the potential for financial fraud and theft.

Energy: The energy sector, including power grids and oil companies, is critical for the functioning of economies, and disruptions can have severe consequences for national security and public safety.

Healthcare: The healthcare sector holds valuable patient data, and cyber-attacks can compromise patient privacy and disrupt healthcare services. Malware attacks on healthcare organisations can result in the theft of patient records, ransomware incidents that cripple healthcare operations, and compromise medical devices.

Telecommunications: Telecommunications infrastructure is vital for reliable communication, and attacks targeting this sector can lead to communication disruptions and compromise the privacy of transmitted data. The interconnectedness of telecommunications networks globally presents opportunities for cybercriminals to launch large-scale attacks, such as Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks.

Transportation: Malware attacks on transportation systems can lead to service disruptions, compromise control systems, and pose safety risks.

Strategic Enterprises: Strategic enterprises, including defence, aerospace, intelligence agencies, and other sectors vital to national security, face sophisticated malware attacks with potentially severe consequences. Cyber adversaries target these enterprises to gain unauthorised access to classified information, compromise critical infrastructure, or sabotage national security operations.

Government Enterprises: Government organisations hold a vast amount of sensitive data and provide essential services to citizens, making them targets for data breaches and attacks that can disrupt critical services.

Conclusion  

The sectors of banking, energy, healthcare, telecommunications, transportation, strategic enterprises, and government enterprises face unique vulnerabilities and challenges in the face of cyber-attacks. By recognising the significance of safeguarding these sectors, we can emphasise the need for proactive cybersecurity measures and collaborative efforts between public and private entities. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, sharing threat intelligence, and adopting best practices are essential to ensure our critical infrastructure’s resilience and security. Through these concerted efforts, we can create a safer digital environment for these sectors, protecting vital services and preserving the integrity of our economy and society. The rising incidents of malware attacks on critical sectors emphasise the urgent need for updated cybersecurity policy, enhanced cybersecurity measures, a collaboration between public and private entities, and the development of proactive defence strategies. National Cyber Security Reference Framework 2023 will help in addressing the evolving cyber threat landscape, protect critical sectors, fill the gaps in sector-specific best practices, promote collaboration, establish a regulatory framework, and address the challenges posed by emerging technologies. By providing strategic guidance, this framework will enhance organisations’ cybersecurity posture and ensure the protection of critical infrastructure in an increasingly digitised world.

Introduction:

A new Android malware called NGate is capable of stealing money from payment cards through relaying the data read by the Near Field Communication (“NFС”) chip to the attacker’s device. NFC  is a device which allows  devices such as smartphones to communicate over a short distance wirelessly.  In particular, NGate allows forging the victims’ cards and, therefore, performing fraudulent purchases or withdrawing money from ATMs. . 

 About NGate Malware: 

The whole purpose of NGate malware is to target victims’ payment cards by relaying the NFC data to the attacker’s device. The malware is designed to take advantage of phishing tactics and functionality of the NFC on android based devices. 

Modus Operandi: 

• Phishing Campaigns: The first step is spoofed emails or SMS used to lure the users into installing the  Progressive Web Apps (“PWAs”) or the WebAPKs presented as genuine banking applications. These apps usually have a layout and logo that makes them look like an authentic app of a Targeted Bank which makes them believable. 

• Installation of NGate: When the victim downloads the specific app, he or she is required to input personal details including account numbers and PIN numbers. Users are also advised to turn on or install  NFC on their gadgets and place the payment cards to the back part of the phone to scan the cards. 

• NFCGate Component: One of the main working features of the NGate is the NFCGate, an application created and designed by some students of Technical University of Darmstadt. This tool allows the malware to:
  • • Collect NFC traffic from payment cards in the vicinity. 
    • Transmit, or relay this data to the attacker’s device through a server. 
    • Repeat data that has been previously intercepted or otherwise copied.

It is important to note that some aspects of NFCGate mandate a rooted device; however, forwarding NFC traffic can occur with devices that are not rooted, and therefore can potentially ensnare more victims. ‍

Technical Mechanism of Data Theft:

• Data Capture: The malware exploits the NFC communication feature on android devices and reads the information from the payment card, if the card is near the infected device. It is able to intercept and capture the sensive card details.  

• Data Relay: The stolen information  is transmitted through a server to the attacker’s device so that he/she is in a position to mimic the victim’s card. 

• Unauthorized Transactions: Attackers get access to spend money on the merchants or withdraw money from the ATM that has NFC enabled. This capability marks a new level of Android malware in that the hackers are able to directly steal money without having to get hold of the card. 

Social Engineering Tactics: 

In most cases, attackers use social engineering techniques to obtain more information from the target before implementing the attack. In the second phase, attackers may pretend to be representatives of a bank that there is a problem with the account and offer to download a program called NGate, which in fact is a Trojan under the guise of an application for confirming the security of the account. This method makes it possible for the attackers to get ITPIN code from the sides of the victim, which enables them to withdraw money from the targeted person’s account without authorization. 

 Technical Analysis:

The analysis of malicious file hashes and phishing links are below:

Malicious File Hashes:

csob_smart_klic.apk:

• MD5: 7225ED2CBA9CB6C038D8
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.B

csob_smart_klic.apk:

• MD5: 66DE1E0A2E9A421DD16B
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C

george_klic.apk:

• MD5: DA84BC78FF2117DDBFDC
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C

george_klic-0304.apk:

• MD5: E7AE59CD44204461EDBD
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C

rb_klic.apk:

• MD5: 103D78A180EB973B9FFC
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.A

rb_klic.apk:

• MD5: 11BE9715BE9B41B1C852
• Classification: Android/Spy.NGate.C.

Phishing URLs:

Phishing URL: 

• https://client.nfcpay.workers[.]dev/?key=8e9a1c7b0d4e8f2c5d3f6b2

Additionally, several distinct phishing websites have been identified, including:

• rb.2f1c0b7d.tbc-app[.]life
• geo-4bfa49b2.tbc-app[.]life
• rb-62d3a.tbc-app[.]life
• csob-93ef49e7a.tbc-app[.]life
• george.tbc-app[.]life.

Analysis:

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Broader Implications of NGate: 

The ultramodern features of NGate mean that its manifestation is not limited to financial swindling. An attacker can also generate a copy of NFC access cards and get  full access when hacking into restricted areas, for example, the corporate offices or restricted facility. Moreover, it is also safe to use the capacity to capture and analyze NFC traffic as threats to identity theft and other forms of cyber-criminality. 

Precautionary measures to be taken:

To protect against NGate and similar threats, users should consider the following strategies:

• Disable NFC: As mentioned above, NFC should be not often used, it is safe to turn NFC on Android devices off. This perhaps can be done from the general control of the device in which the bursting modes are being set. 

• Scrutinize App Permissions: Be careful concerning the permission that applies to the apps that are installed particularly the ones allowed to access the device. Hence, it is very important that applications should be downloaded only from genuine stores like Google Play Store only. 

• Use Security Software: The malware threat can be prevented by installing relevant security applications that are available in the market. 

• Stay Informed: As it has been highlighted, it is crucial for a person to know risks that are associated with the use of NFC while attempting to safeguard an individual’s identity. 

Conclusion: 

The presence of malware such as NGate is proof of the dynamism of threats in the context of mobile payments. Through the utilization of NFC function, NGate is a marked step up of Android malware implying that the attackers can directly manipulate the cash related data of the victims regardless of the physical aspect of the payment card. This underscores the need to be careful when downloading applications and to be keen on the permission one grants on the application. Turn NFC when not in use, use good security software and be aware of  the latest scams are some of the measures that help to fight this high level of financial fraud. The  attackers are now improving their methods. It is only right for the people and companies to take the right steps in avoiding the breach of privacy and identity theft.

Reference:

• https://www.welivesecurity.com/en/eset-research/ngate-android-malware-relays-nfc-traffic-to-steal-cash/
• https://therecord.media/android-malware-atm-stealing-czech-banks
• https://www.darkreading.com/mobile-security/nfc-traffic-stealer-targets-android-users-and-their-banking-info
• https://cybersecuritynews.com/new-ngate-android-malware/

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Introduction

As we navigate the digital realm that offers unlimited opportunities, it also exposes us to potential cyber threats and scams. A recent incident involving a businessman in Pune serves as a stark reminder of this reality. The victim fell prey to a sophisticated online impersonation fraud, where a cunning criminal posed as a high-ranking official from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). This cautionary tale exposes the inner workings of the scam and highlights the critical need for constant vigilance in the virtual world.

Unveiling the scam

It all began with a phone call received by the victim, who lives in Taware Colony, Pune, on September 5, 2023. The caller, who identified himself as "Manish Pande, department head of HPCL," lured the victim by taking advantage of his online search for an LPG agency. With persuasive tactics, the fraudster claimed to be on the lookout for potential partners.

When a Pune man received a call on September 5, 2023. The caller, who introduced himself as “department head of HPCL”, was actually a cunning fraudster. It turns out, the victim had been searching for an LPG agency online, which the fraudster cleverly used to his advantage. In a twisted plot, the fraudster pretended to be looking for potential locations to establish a new LPG cylinder agency in Pune. 

Enthralled by the illusion

The victim fell for the scam, convinced by the mere presence of "HPCL" in the bank account's name. Firstly victim transferred Rs 14,500 online as “registration fees”. Things got worse when, without suspicion, the victim obediently transferred Rs 1,48,200 on September 11 for a so-called "dealership certificate." To add to the charade of legitimacy, the fraudster even sent the victim registration and dealership certificates via email.

Adding to the deception, the fraudster, who had targeted the victim after discovering his online inquiry, requested photos of the victim's property and personal documents, including Aadhaar and PAN cards, educational certificates, and a cancelled cheque. These seemingly legitimate requests only served to reinforce the victim's belief in the scam.

The fraudster said they were looking for a place to allot a new LPG cylinder agency in Pune and would like to see if the victim’s place fits in their criteria. The victim agreed as it was a profitable business opportunity. The fraudster called the victim to “confirm” that his documents have been verified and assured that HPCL would be allotting him an LPG cylinder agency. On September 12, the fraudster again demanded a sum of money, this time for the issuance of an "HPCL license." 

As the victim responded that he did not have the money, the fraudster insisted on an immediate payment of at least 50 per cent of the stipulated amount. So the victim transferred Rs 1,95,200 online. On the following day the 13th of September 2023, the fraudster asked the victim for the remaining amount. The victim said he would arrange the money in a few days. Meanwhile, on the same day, the victim went to the HPCL’s office in the Pune Camp area with the documents he had received through the emails. The HPCL employees confirmed these documents were fake, even though they looked very similar to the originals. The disclosure was a pivotal moment, causing the victim to fully comprehend the magnitude of the deceit and ultimately pursue further measures against the cybercriminal.

Best Practices

• Ensuring Caller Identity- Prioritize confirming the identity of anyone reaching out to you, especially when conducting financial transactions. Hold back from divulging confidential information until you have verified the credibility of the request. 
• Utilize Official Channels- Communicate with businesses or governmental organizations through their verified contact details found on their official websites or trustworthy sources. Avoid solely relying on information gathered from online searches. 
• Maintaining Skepticism with Unsolicited Communication- Exercise caution when approached by unexpected calls or emails, particularly those related to monetary transactions. Beware of manipulative tactics used by scammers to pressure swift decisions.
• Double-Check Information- To ensure accuracy, it is important to validate the information given by the caller on your own. This can be done by double-checking and cross-referencing the details with the official source. If you come across any suspicious activities, do not hesitate to report it to the proper authorities. 
• Report Suspicious Activities- Reporting can aid in conducting investigations and providing assistance to the victim and also preventing similar incidents from occurring.  It is crucially important to promptly report cyber crimes so law enforcement agencies can take appropriate action. A powerful resource available to victims of cybercrime is the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, equipped with a 24x7 helpline number, 1930. This portal serves as a centralized platform for reporting cybercrimes, including financial fraud.

Conclusion

This alarming event serves as a powerful wake-up call to the constant danger posed by online fraud. It is crucial for individuals to remain sceptical, diligently verifying the credibility of unsolicited contacts and steering clear of sharing personal information on the internet. As technology continues to evolve, so do the strategies of cyber criminals, heightening the need for users to stay on guard and knowledgeable in the complex digital world.

References:

• https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/cybercriminal-posing-hindustan-petroleum-official-cheat-pune-man-9081057/
• https://www.timesnownews.com/mirror-now/crime/pune-man-duped-of-rs-3-5-lakh-by-cyber-fraudster-impersonating-hpcl-official-article-106253358