Interpol Carries Out Major Arrests in Global Cybercrime Crackdown
In a significant operation called “Operation Red Card,” Interpol has apprehended more than 300 individuals linked to cyber-attacks targeting both public and private organizations across Africa. Those arrested are believed to be involved in a wide range of cybercrimes, including mobile banking fraud, investment scams, messaging app fraud, cryptocurrency fraud, and espionage activities.
The operation, which was conducted in collaboration with the South African government, was supported by critical intelligence provided by Kaspersky to Interpol. Authorities also seized over 1,900 devices and approximately 240 domains during the crackdown.
Russia Launches Cyber Attack on Ukraine’s Railway System Amid Ongoing Conflict
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine enters its fourth year, peace talks remain distant, with both nations continuing to face significant disruption. In the latest development, Russia has reportedly launched a cyber attack targeting Ukraine’s railway network, disrupting ticketing and distribution systems. Despite the attack, the railway network continues to operate, though delays have resulted in overcrowded trains and frustrated passengers.
To address the challenges, Ukrzaliznytsia is managing services manually, with an additional 15% of staff deployed to handle the surge in demand. The Ukrainian government’s CERT team is working to restore normalcy, while the SBU (Security Service of Ukraine) has made considerable progress in restoring the railway’s mobile app functionality.
23andMe Faces Financial Crisis After Data Breach
In 2023, the DNA-testing company 23andMe experienced a significant data breach, resulting in multiple lawsuits claiming the company failed to adequately protect its customers’ sensitive information. A court ruling mandated the company to provide financial assistance to those affected. However, 23andMe has failed to meet this obligation, and as a result, the company is expected to file for bankruptcy.
As for the 15 million customers whose genetic data may have been compromised, the company is reportedly seeking legal and financial guidance in an effort to manage the fallout. Updates will follow as the situation develops.
Google Introduces Enhanced Anti-Theft Feature for Pixel and other Android Phones
Google is rolling out a new security update for older Pixel and other Android phones that includes a feature designed to help users lock their devices remotely in case of theft. The update enables the phone to enter an emergency mode, allowing users to lock the phone through an online platform after authenticating their identity. Additionally, if a thief attempts to use a different SIM card, the device will automatically lock itself.
So, the next time your Android phone is lost or stolen, make sure to lock it down permanently to protect your data.
Belgian websites taken down by NoName057
Belgian government websites remain disrupted for the past few hours and information is out that a pro-russian hacking group dubbed NoName057 has taken down the web portals as a retaliation to some old political issue. The Walloon Parliament website and multiple web portals belonging to Brussels was also disrupted in the cyber-attack. As Belgium is supporting Ukraine in its war with Kremlin and has offered a 1 billion Euros aid package to the populace.
