HLB Cyber News Insights September 2024
In This Issue:
Ireland rated the 'most phished' country in the world
Research reveals nearly two-thirds of Irish adults have fallen victim to phishing attempts, making Ireland the most phished country in the world. Phishing involves sending deceptive emails to trick individuals into disclosing personal data, and the rate in Ireland is almost twice the global average. The findings, part of the WIN World Survey on data collection and AI, highlight that over one in five Irish adults have experienced credit card fraud or bank account hacking, which is also nearly double the global rate. Despite these high fraud levels, only 23% of Irish citizens are aware of how their personal information is handled by data collectors. Furthermore, knowledge of artificial intelligence in Ireland is lower than the global average, with only 21% expressing a strong understanding. The alarming statistics underscore an urgent need for improved cybersecurity education and stronger government interventions to safeguard against such threats.
Source: https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2024/0927/1472219-ireland-phishing/
Whatsapp - Necro Malware Leaves Over 11 Million Android Devices at Risk
A dangerous new Android malware called Necro has infected over 11 million devices by hiding within legitimate apps on the Google Play Store. The malware, embedded in an advertising tool, was discovered in popular apps like Wuta Camera and Max Browser. Once installed, it can secretly run harmful actions, such as displaying invisible ads and rerouting internet traffic. While Wuta Camera has been fixed, Max Browser remains unsafe, and users are urged to delete it. Necro has also spread through modified apps found on third-party websites, such as versions of WhatsApp and Spotify. This incident highlights the need for Android users to be cautious, even when downloading apps from trusted sources, by always checking reviews, ratings, and download numbers.
New Cyber Security Grant of up to €3,000 Launched to Protect Irish Businesses
Enterprise Ireland, in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre, has launched the Cyber Security Review Grant, aimed at helping SMEs bolster their online security measures. Through this grant, businesses can access up to €3,000 to cover 80% of the cost of a cyber security review conducted by an external expert. This initiative is part of the €85 million Digital Transition Fund allocated through the EU's NextGenerationEU scheme, supporting Ireland's National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The grant allows companies to assess vulnerabilities and implement best practices to mitigate cyber threats, ensuring their digital transformation is secure. This support is crucial as Irish businesses increasingly rely on AI and other advanced digital tools, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks. By empowering SMEs to adopt robust cyber security measures, the scheme aligns with Ireland's long-term strategy to build a resilient cyber security industry.
AIB Warns of Sophisticated Text Scams Targeting Customers
AIB has issued a stark warning to customers regarding a rise in sophisticated text message fraud, where cybercriminals impersonate bank anti-fraud teams. These scammers trick victims into adding "money mule accounts" as payees, potentially leading to financial loss. The fraudulent messages, often cleverly embedded in legitimate conversation threads, direct users to fake websites or fraudulent call centres. AIB stresses that it will never request banking login details, passwords, or PINs through text messages or calls. One customer, nearly defrauded by such a scam, shared how she was asked to provide her login details under the guise of stopping fraudulent activity. Fortunately, AIB urges users to stay vigilant, avoid clicking suspicious links, and only use verified contact information from their website. The bank encourages customers to act immediately if they suspect fraud and report it both to AIB and the Gardaí. As fraud tactics become increasingly sophisticated, AIB’s advice is clear: stop, think, and verify before reacting.
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