Guarding Your Android: A Roadmap to Digital Safety
Introduction
In the advanced age of digitalization, the user base of Android phones is high. Our phones have become an integral part of our daily life activities from making online payments, booking cabs, playing online games, booking movie & show tickets, conducting online business activities, social networking, emailing and communication, we utilize our mobile phone devices. The Internet is easily accessible to everyone and offers various convenient services to users. People download various apps and utilize various services on the internet using their Android devices. Since it offers convenience, but in the growing digital landscape, threats and vulnerabilities have also emerged. Fraudsters find the vulnerabilities and target the users. Recently, various creepy online scams such as AI-based scams, deepfake scams, malware, spyware, malicious links leading to financial frauds, viruses, privacy breaches, data leakage, etc. have been faced by Android mobile users. Android mobile devices are more prone to vulnerabilities as compared to iOS. However, both Android and iOS platforms serve to provide safer digital space to mobile users. iOS offers more security features. but we have to play our part and be careful. There are certain safety measures which can be utilised by users to be safe in the growing digital age.
User Responsibility:
Law enforcement agencies have reported that they have received a growing number of complaints showing malware being used to compromise Android mobile devices. Both the platforms, Android and Google, have certain security mechanisms in place. However, cybersecurity experts emphasize that users must actively take care of safeguarding their mobile devices from evolving online threats. In this era of evolving cyber threats, being precautious and vigilant and personal responsibility for digital security is paramount.
Being aware of evolving scams
- Deepfake Scams: Deepfake is an AI-based technology. Deepfake is capable of creating realistic images or videos which in actuality are created by machine algorithms. Deepfake technology, since easily accessible, is misused by fraudsters to commit various cyber crimes or deceive and scam people through fake images or videos that look realistic. By using the Deepfake technology, cybercriminals manipulate audio and video content which looks very realistic but, in actuality, is fake.
- Voice cloning: To create a voice clone of anyone's, audio can be deepfaked too, which closely resembles a real one but, in actuality, is a fake voice created through deepfake technology. Recently, in Kerala, a man fell victim to an AI-based video call on WhatsApp. He received a video call from a person claiming to be his former colleague. The scammer, using AI deepfake technology, impersonated the face of his former colleague and asked for financial help of 40,000.
- Stalkerware or spyware: Stalkware or spyware is one of the serious threats to individual digital safety and personal information. Stalkware is basically software installed into your device without your consent or knowledge in order to track your activities and exploit your data. Stalkware, also referred to as spyware, is a type of malicious software secretly installed on your device without your knowledge. Its purpose is to track you or monitor your activities and record sensitive information such as passwords, text messages, GPS location, call history and access to your photos and videos. Cybercriminals and stalkers use this malicious software to unauthorisedly gain access to someone's phone devices.
Best practices or Cyber security tips:
- Keep your software up to date: Turn on automatic software updates for your device and make sure your mobile apps are up to date.
- Using strong passwords: Use strong passwords on your lock/unlock and on important apps on your mobile device.
- Using 2FA or multi-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication provides extra layers of security. Be cautious before clicking on any link and downloading any app or file: Users are often led to click on malicious online links. Scammers may present such links to users through false advertisements on social media platforms, payment processes for online purchases, or in phone text messages. Through the links, victims are led either to phishing sites to give away personal data or to download harmful Android Package Kit (APK) files used to distribute and install apps on Android mobile phones.
- Secure Payments: Do not open any malicious links. Always make payments from secure and trusted payment apps. Use strong passwords for your payment apps as well. And secure your banking credentials.
- Safe browsing: Pay due care and attention while clicking on any link and downloading content. Ignore the links or attachments of suspicious emails which are from an unknown sender.
- Do not download third-party apps: Using an APK file to download a third-party app to an Android device is commonly known as sideloading. Be cautious and avoid downloading apps from third-party or dubious sites. Doing so may lead to the installation of malware in the device, which in turn may result in confidential and sensitive data such as banking credentials being stolen. Always download apps only from the official app store.
- App permissions: Review app permission and only grant permission which is necessary to use that app.
- Do not bypass security measures: Android offers more flexibility in the mobile operating system and in mobile settings. For example, sideloading of apps is disabled by default, and alerts are also in place to warn users. However, an unwitting user who may not truly understand the warnings may simply grant permission to an app to bypass the default setting.
- Monitoring: Regularly monitor your devices and system logs for security check-ups and for detecting any suspicious activity.
- Reporting online scams: 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:
The era of digitalisation has transformed our lives, with Android phones becoming an integral part of our daily routines. While these devices offer convenience, they also expose us to online threats and vulnerabilities, such as scams like deepfake technology-based scams, voice clones, spyware, malware, and malicious links that can lead to significant financial and privacy breaches. Android devices might be more susceptible to such scams. By being aware of emerging scams like deepfakes, spyware, and other malicious activities, we can take proactive steps to safeguard our digital lives. Our mobile devices remain as valuable assets for us. However, they are also potential targets for cybercriminals. Users must remain proactive in protecting their devices and personal data from potential threats. By taking personal responsibility for our digital security and following these best practices, we can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, ensuring that our Android phones remain powerful tools for convenience and connection while keeping our data and privacy intact and staying safe from online threats and vulnerabilities.
References:
Related Blogs
Introduction
The advancement of technology has brought about remarkable changes in the aviation industry, including the introduction of inflight internet access systems. While these systems provide passengers with connectivity during their flights, they also introduce potential vulnerabilities that can compromise the security of aircraft systems.
Inflight Internet Access Systems
Inflight internet access systems have become integral to the modern air travel experience, allowing passengers to stay connected even at 30,000 feet. However, these systems can also be attractive targets for hackers, raising concerns about the safety and security of aircraft operations.
The Vulnerabilities of Inflight Internet Access Systems:
Securing Networked Avionics
Avionics, the electronic systems that support aircraft operation, play a crucial role in flight safety and navigation. While networked avionics are designed with robust security measures, they are not invulnerable to cyber threats. Therefore, it is essential to implement comprehensive security measures to protect these critical systems.
- Ensuring Robust Architecture: Networked avionics should be designed with a strong focus on security. Implementing secure network architectures, such as segmentation and isolation, can minimise the risk of unauthorised access and limit the potential impact of a breach.
- Rigorous Security Testing: Avionics systems should undergo rigorous security testing to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Regular assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability scanning are essential to proactively address any security flaws.
- Collaborative Industry Efforts: Collaboration between manufacturers, airlines, regulatory bodies, and security researchers is crucial in strengthening the security of networked avionics. Sharing information, best practices, and lessons learned can help identify and address emerging threats effectively.
- Continuous Monitoring and Updtes: Networked avionics should be continuously monitored for any potential security breaches. Prompt updates and patches should be applied to address newly discovered vulnerabilities and protect against known attack vectors.
Best practices to be adopted for the security of Aircraft Systems
- Holistic Security Approach: Recognizing the interconnectedness of inflight internet access systems and networked avionics is essential. A holistic security approach should be adopted to address vulnerabilities in both systems and protect the overall aircraft infrastructure.
- Comprehensive Security Measures: The security of inflight internet access systems should be on par with any other internet-connected device. Strong authentication, encryption, intrusion detection, and prevention systems should be implemented to mitigate risks and ensure the integrity of data transmissions.
- Responsible Practices and Industry Collaboration: Encouraging responsible practices and fostering collaboration between security researchers and industry stakeholders can accelerate the identification and remediation of vulnerabilities. Open communication channels and a cooperative mindset are vital in addressing emerging threats effectively.
- Robust Access Controls: Strong access controls, such as multi-factor authentication and role-based access, should be implemented to limit unauthorised access to avionics systems. Only authorised personnel should have the necessary privileges to interact with these critical systems.
Conclusion
Inflight internet access systems bring convenience and connectivity to air travel but also introduce potential risks to the security of aircraft systems. It is crucial to understand and address the vulnerabilities associated with these systems to protect networked avionics and ensure passenger safety. By implementing robust security measures, conducting regular assessments, fostering collaboration, and adopting a comprehensive approach to aircraft cybersecurity, the aviation industry can mitigate the risks and navigate the sky with enhanced safety and confidence. Inflight internet access systems and networked avionics are vital components of modern aircraft, providing connectivity and supporting critical flight operations. Balancing connectivity and cybersecurity is crucial to ensure the safety and integrity of aircraft systems.
Executive Summary:
Recently PAN-OS software of Palo Alto Networks was discovered with the critical vulnerability CVE-2024-3400. It is the software used to power all their networks in the next generation firewalls. This vulnerability is a common injection vulnerability which provides access to unauthenticated attackers to execute random code having root privileges on the attacked system. This has been exploited actively by threat actors, leaving many organizations at risk for severe cyberattacks. This report helps to understand the exploitation, detection, mitigations and recommendations for this vulnerability.
Understanding The CVE-2024-3400 Vulnerability:
CVE-2024-3400 impacts the particular version of PAN-OS and a certain configuration susceptible to this kind of a security issue. It is a command injection, which exists in the GlobalProtect module of the PAN-OS software. The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthorized user to run any code on the firewall having root privileges. This targets Active Directory database (ntds.dit), important data (DPAPI), and Windows event logs (Microsoft-Windows-TerminalServices-LocalSessionManager%4Operational.evtx) and also login data, cookies, and local state data for Chrome and Microsoft Edge from specific targets leading attackers to capture the browser master key and steal sensitive information of the organization.
The CVE-2024-3400 has been provided with a critical severity rating of 10.0. The following two weaknesses make this CVE highly severe:
- CWE-77: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')
- CWE-20: Improper Input Validation.
Impacted Products:
The affected version of PAN-OS by CVE-2024-3400 are-
Only the versions 10.2, 11.0, and 11.1, setup with GlobalProtect Gateway or GlobalProtect Portal are exploited by this vulnerability. Whereas the Cloud NGFW, Panorama appliances and Prisma Access are not affected.
Detecting Potential Exploitation:
Palo Alto Networks has confirmed that they are aware of the exploitation of this particular vulnerability by threat actors. In a recent publication they have given acknowledgement to Volexity for identifying the vulnerability. There is an increasing number of organizations that face severe and immediate risk by this exploitation. Third parties also have released the proof of concept for the vulnerability.
The suggestions were provided by Palo Alto Networks to detect this critical vulnerability. To detect this vulnerability, the following command shall be run on the command-line interface of PAN-OS device:
grep pattern "failed to unmarshal session(.\+.\/" mp-log gpsvc.log*
This command looks through device logs for specific entries related to vulnerability.
These log entries should contain a long, random-looking code called a GUID (Globally Unique Identifier) between the words "session(" and ")". If an attacker has tried to exploit the vulnerability, this section might contain a file path or malicious code instead of a GUID.
Presence of such entries in your logs, could be a sign of a potential attack to hack your device which may look like:
- failed to unmarshal session(../../some/path)
A normal, harmless log entry would look like this:
- failed to unmarshal session(01234567-89ab-cdef-1234-567890abcdef)
Further investigations and actions shall be needed to secure the system in case the GUID entries were not found and suspicious.
Mitigation and Recommendations:
Mitigation of the risks posed by the critical CVE-2024-3400 vulnerability, can be accomplished by the following recommended steps:
- Immediately update Software: This vulnerability is fixed in software releases namely PAN-OS 10.2.9-h1, PAN-OS 11.0.4-h1, PAN-OS 11.1.2-h3, and all higher versions. Updating software to these versions will protect your systems fully against potential exploitation.
- Leverage Hotfixes: Palo Alto Networks has released hotfixes for commonly deployed maintenance releases of PAN-OS 10.2, 11.0, and 11.1 for the users who cannot upgrade to the latest versions immediately. These hotfixes do provide a temporary solution while you prepare for the full upgrade.
- Enable Threat Prevention: Incase of available Threat Prevention subscription, enable Threat IDs 95187, 95189, and 95191 to block attacks targeting the CVE-2024-3400 vulnerability. These Threat IDs are available in Applications and Threats content version 8836-8695 and later.
- Apply Vulnerability Protection: Ensure that vulnerability protection has been applied in the GlobalProtect interface to prevent the exploitation on the device. It can be implemented using these instructions.
- Monitor Advisory Updates: Regularly checking for the updates to the official advisory of Palo Alto Networks. This helps to stay up to date of the new releases of the guidance and threat prevention IDs of CVE-2024-3400.
- Disable Device Telemetry – Optional: It is suggested to disable the device telemetry as an additional precautionary measure.
- Remediation: If there is an active exploitation observed, follow the steps mentioned in this Knowledge Base article by Palo Alto Networks.
Implementation of the above mitigation measures and recommendations would be in a position to greatly reduce the risk of exploitation you might face from a cyber attack targeting the CVE-2024-3400 vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks' PAN-OS software.
Conclusion:
The immediate response should be taken against the offensive use of the critical CVE-2024-3400 vulnerability found in the PAN-OS platform of Palo Alto Networks. Organizations should actively respond by implementing the suggested mitigation measures such as upgrading to the patched versions, enabling threat prevention and applying vulnerability protection to immediately protect from this vulnerability. Regular monitoring, implementing security defense mechanisms and security audits are the necessary measures that help to combat emerging threats and save critical resources.
.webp)
Introduction
The recent events in Mira Road, a bustling suburb on the outskirts of Mumbai, India, unfold like a modern-day parable, cautioning us against the perils of unverified digital content. The Mira Road incident, a communal clash that erupted into the physical realm, has been mirrored and magnified through the prism of social media. The Maharashtra Police, in a concerted effort to quell the spread of discord, issued stern warnings against the dissemination of rumours and fake messages. These digital phantoms, they stressed, have the potential to ignite law and order conflagrations, threatening the delicate tapestry of peace.
The police's clarion call came in the wake of a video, mischievously edited, that falsely claimed anti-social elements had set the Mira Road railway station ablaze. This digital doppelgänger of reality swiftly went viral, its tendrils reaching into the ubiquitous realm of WhatsApp, ensnaring the unsuspecting in its web of deceit.
In this age of information overload, where the line between fact and fabrication blurs, the police urged citizens to exercise discernment. The note they issued was not merely an advisory but a plea for vigilance, a reminder that the act of sharing unauthenticated messages is not a passive one; it is an act that can disturb the peace and unravel the fabric of society.
The Massacre
The police's response to this crisis was multifaceted. Administrators and members of social media groups found to be the harbingers of such falsehoods would face legal repercussions. The Thane District, a mosaic of cultural and religious significance, has been marred by a series of violent incidents, casting a shadow over its storied history. The police, in their role as guardians of order, have detained individuals, scoured social media for inauthentic posts, and maintained a vigilant presence in the region.
The Maharashtra cyber cell, a digital sentinel, has unearthed approximately 15 posts laden with videos and messages designed to sow discord among the masses. These findings were shared with the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar (MBVV) police, who stand ready to take appropriate action. Inspector General Yashasvi Yadav of the Maharashtra cyber cell issued an appeal to the public, urging them to refrain from circulating such unverified messages, reinforcing the notion that the propagation of inauthentic information is, in itself, a crime.
The MBVV police, in their zero-tolerance stance, have formed a team dedicated to scrutinizing social media posts. The message is clear: fake news will be met with strict action. The right to free speech on social media comes with the responsibility not to share information that could incite mischief. The Indian Penal Code and Information Technology Act serve as the bulwarks against such transgressions.
The Aftermath
In the aftermath of the clashes, the police have worked tirelessly to restore calm. A young man, whose video replete with harsh and obscene language went viral, was apprehended and has since apologised for his actions. The MBVV police have also taken to social media to reassure the public that the situation is under control, urging them to avoid circulating messages that could exacerbate tensions.
The Thane district has witnessed acts of vandalism targeting shops, further escalating tensions. In response, the police have apprehended individuals linked to these acts, hoping that such measures will expedite the return of peace. Advisories have been issued, warning against the dissemination of provocative messages and rumours.
In total, 19 individuals have been taken into custody in relation to numerous incidents of violence. The Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar police have underscored their commitment to legal action against those who spread rumours through fake messages. The authorities have also highlighted the importance of brotherhood and unity, reminding citizens that above all, they are Indians first.
Conclusion
In a world where old videos, stripped of context, can fuel tensions, the police have issued a note referring to the aforementioned fake video message. They urge citizens to exercise caution, to neither believe nor circulate such messages. Police Authorities have assured that no one involved in the violence will be spared, and peace committees are being convened to restore harmony. The Mira Road incident serves as a sign of the prowess of information and responsibility that comes with it. In the digital age, where the ephemeral and the eternal collide, we must navigate the waters of truth with care. Ultimately, it is not just the image of a locality that is at stake, but the essence of our collective humanity.
References
- https://youtu.be/gK2Ac1qP-nE?feature=shared
- https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-crime-news/article/mira-road-communal-clash-those-spreading-fake-messages-to-face-strict-action-say-mira-bhayandar-vasai-virar-cops-23331572
- https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/mira-road-communal-clash-cybercops-on-alert-for-fake-clips-23331653
- https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2024/01/24/bom43-mh-shops-3rdld-vandalism.html
