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What is a PSYOP, and how can it be used in hybrid war?

 

ESET Research recently discovered a new disinformation campaign, Operation Texonto, aiming to break the spirits of Ukrainian people close to the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The notion that war is only physical and happens exclusively in the real world has long been disproven. Many believe that Stuxnet was the first indicator that international conflict had moved to a hybrid setting, in which digital actions could impact physical outcomes. Today we see a different digital dimension to conflicts: psychological operations that are being carried out online and aim to demoralize and break the spirit of targeted communities and, in this latest case, ultimately trying to convince participants that Russia holds the upper hand.

Stuxnet is a malicious computer worm, first identified in 2010, that targets industrial control systems and was responsible for causing substantial damage to Iran’s nuclear program. Unlike typical malware, Stuxnet does not just steal information but is designed to sabotage systems and cause real-world physical effects, marking a significant evolution in cyber warfare tactics.

Operation Texonto, a new component to the already hybrid war between Russia and Ukraine – in addition to numerous DDoS attacks and cyber threats involving malware – is a PSYOP.

A PSYOP is a psychological operation with the goal of conveying selected information and indicators to certain audiences to influence their motives, objective reasoning, and behaviors. This can be aimed at countries, organizations, and groups of power. In this case, it is to raise doubts in the minds of Ukrainians (and citizens of other European countries).

PSYOPs are not only confined to kinetic warzones but are also being sophisticatedly deployed to interfere in electoral processes, influence public opinion, and undermine democratic governments in countries that are not at war. They leverage new technologies to amplify their impact and reach, marking a new era in psychological warfare.

PSYOP almost three years into the war
Operation Texonto, which is the name given to the campaign by ESET Research, mostly consists of spam emails. ESET detected two different waves of this attack: the first in November 2023 and the second at the end of December 2023.
In the first wave, which seemed to be more elaborate, ESET detected a wave of emails delivered to hundreds of Ukrainians’ mailboxes (people working in government, energy companies, individuals, etc.) with a PDF attachment.
The goal of this email was to demoralize and sow doubt in the minds of Ukrainians. One of the emails suggested that there might be “heating interruptions this winter.” Another was allegedly from the Ukraine Ministry of Health, claiming that there was a shortage of medicine available. Another suggested that people eat “pigeon risotto,” giving instructions on its preparation, claiming a shortage of food in the country.

Caption

Figure 5. PDF allegedly from the Ministry of Agriculture 

The aim of these was most likely to instill fear and demoralize Ukrainians in an effort to destabilize communities and the resolve of Ukrainian citizens. This campaign also shares some similarities with campaigns using social engineering; however, none of these emails included malicious links or urged people to give up their personal information. The techniques used here align with common Russian propaganda themes. They are trying to make Ukrainian people believe they won’t have enough resources and heat as a result of Russian aggression.

Social engineering is a tactic used by cybercriminals to manipulate people into sharing information they normally wouldn´t share, download malicious software, or send money to a perpetrator. This tactic is used on individuals and businesses alike.

The second wave appeared a little less elaborate or even ill-prepared but was much darker in its messaging. The emails included disturbing messaging, with the attackers pretending to be Ukrainian citizens urging other Ukrainians to mutilate themselves to avoid military deployment. Sadly, this is a textbook wartime PSYOP campaign.
Spearphishing in the wild
In addition to the misinformation campaign, ESET Research also detected spearphishing campaigns targeting a Ukrainian defense company in October 2023 and an EU agency in November 2023. Both aimed to steal Microsoft Office 365 account credentials. These campaigns share similarities with the abovementioned PSYOPs; thus, ESET researchers believe these are connected.

Spearphishing is a highly tailored campaign through which attackers use social engineering techniques to urge the victims to click on a malicious link or an attachment. The goal is to steal sensitive information and/or enter a network undetected.

ESET Reserach also revealed that the domain names used as part of Operation Texonto related to internal Russian topics, such as Alexei Navalny, a well-known Russian opposition leader. Navalny was recently declared dead while serving jail time in Russia.
Those domains include:
•    navalny-votes[.]net
•    navalny-votesmart[.]net
•    navalny-voting[.]net

From the mentioned domains, researchers believe that it’s possible that the operation also included spearphishing or information operations targeting Russian dissidents.

A new layer of complexity to the war
The emergence of PSYOPs on the digital landscape of warfare has added a new layer to the already complex and ongoing hybrid war between Russia and Ukraine. Since the start of the Russian invasion, Russia-aligned groups, such as Sandworm, have been busy disrupting Ukrainian infrastructure using wipers. Operation Texonto is yet another use of technology to try to influence the outcome of the war. It underscores the shifting battlegrounds, from physical to psychological, aiming to demoralize and destabilize communities through disinformation campaigns.
It is crucial for nations, organizations, and individuals to stay vigilant, prioritize cybersecurity, and promote accurate information dissemination to counter such threats. As we circle back to the initial concept of PSYOPs, it’s evident that while the tactic has been in use for a long time, its modern incarnations are more sophisticated and insidious. This underscores the importance of understanding and recognizing PSYOPs as part of the broader spectrum of hybrid warfare tactics, a component that is likely to become increasingly prevalent in future conflicts.
To read more from ESET Research, head over to WeLiveSecurity.com.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About ESET
For 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services for businesses and consumers worldwide. With solutions ranging from endpoint security to encryption and two-factor authentication, ESET’s high-performing, easy-to-use products give individuals and businesses the peace of mind to enjoy the full potential of their technology. ESET unobtrusively protects and monitors 24/7, updating defenses in real time to keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. Evolving threats require an evolving IT security company. Backed by R&D facilities worldwide, ESET became the first IT security company to earn 100 Virus Bulletin VB100 awards, identifying every single “in-the-wild” malware without interruption since 2003.

Finding Microsoft Exchange Servers with runZero

As part of its updates released on February 13, 2024, Microsoft has disclosed a vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange that would allow attackers to authenticate to Microsoft Exchange servers using a captured NTLM hash (a so-called “pass-the-hash” vulnerability). This would allow an attacker to authenticate to an Exchange server as any user for whom the attacker passed a valid NTLM hash.

NTLM authentication is an authentication mechanism used by Microsoft Windows and related products that uses a challenge-response protocol to avoid transmitting user passwords directly across the network. A “pass-the-hash” vulnerability is a form of credential reuse vulnerability, where an attacker who posesses a hashed form of a victim’s password can use that hash directly for authentication. Microsoft’s Mitigating Pass-the-Hash (PtH) Attacks and Other Credential Theft discusses this sort of vulnerability in detail.

This vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024-21410, has a CVSS score of 9.1, indicating a critical vulnerability. Note that Microsoft has indicated that there is limited evidence that this vulnerability has been exploited in the wild.

What is the impact?

Upon successful exploitation of this vulnerability, an attacker would be able use a compromised NTLM hash to log into an Exchange server as a different user, with all of the privileges of that user.

Are updates or workarounds available?

Enabling Extended Protection will mitigate this vulnerability.

Additionally, Microsoft has released a mitigtation as part of the 2024 H1 cumulative update for Exchange Server.

How do I find Exchange servers with runZero?

From the Services Inventory, use the following query to locate potentially vulnerable assets your network that may need remediation or mitigation:

product:"Exchange Server"

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About runZero
runZero, a network discovery and asset inventory solution, was founded in 2018 by HD Moore, the creator of Metasploit. HD envisioned a modern active discovery solution that could find and identify everything on a network–without credentials. As a security researcher and penetration tester, he often employed benign ways to get information leaks and piece them together to build device profiles. Eventually, this work led him to leverage applied research and the discovery techniques developed for security and penetration testing to create runZero.

10 Security Metrics You Need to Be Monitoring Now

Monitoring key security metrics is an essential practice for network protection. By meticulously observing these indicators, you gain a better understanding of your security’s strength and potential weak spots, allowing for informed decision making and efficient planning of cybersecurity initiatives. This proactive approach provides an effective defense against potential threats.

Importance of Monitoring Security Metrics

In today’s complex cybersecurity landscape, the need for tracking and understanding security metrics is pivotal. These quantifiable indicators serve as a beacon, guiding your path through the challenging terrain of network security. They shed light on the performance and efficacy of your security systems, pinpointing the potential areas of vulnerability and charting the success of your team’s threat detection and mitigation efforts.

Security metrics, when carefully analyzed, equip you with the power to shape your cybersecurity approach effectively. They help in prioritizing resource allocation, ensuring you invest in areas that need the most attention. By providing an accurate picture of your organization’s compliance status, these metrics allow you to meet regulatory standards, thereby protecting your reputation and avoiding financial penalties.

With the right set of metrics, you can fine-tune your cybersecurity budget, ensuring every dollar spent contributes to enhancing your network security. Moreover, these metrics can identify potential opportunities for automation, an emerging force that can significantly boost your overall security and efficiency.

However, merely tracking these metrics is not enough. It’s crucial to imbibe these numbers into your strategic planning process, making data-driven decisions that bring about optimal results. This calls for a profound understanding of these metrics and their role in shaping your cybersecurity posture.

In the battlefield of cybersecurity, these metrics are your arsenal. They arm you with knowledge, insight, and the power to make strategic decisions. Leveraging them correctly can be the difference between a well-guarded fortress and a susceptible target. Hence, the importance of monitoring security metrics cannot be overstated. They are your compass in the intricate labyrinth of cybersecurity, guiding you towards a safer, more secure digital future for your organization.

Top 10 Security Metrics to Monitor

In the convoluted world of cybersecurity, there are vital security metrics that can serve as your organization’s touchstone. Monitoring these metrics not only provides insightful data but also aids in shaping a robust defense against cyber threats.

Here are the top 10 security metrics that deserve your constant attention:

  1. Incidence Response Time: This denotes how swiftly your team acts upon detecting a potential threat. A prompt response is crucial to minimizing damage.
  2. Patching Cadence: This metric measures how often and how rapidly your organization applies security patches. Regular, quick updates help to seal potential vulnerabilities.
  3. Password Hygiene: An evaluation of the strength and frequency of password modifications throughout your network can significantly impact your cybersecurity strength.
  4. Vulnerability Density: Monitoring the amount of vulnerabilities per system or application will enable your team to prioritize their remediation efforts.
  5. Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR): These represent the average span it takes to discover and address a breach or threat. Lower values here indicate stronger security procedures.
  6. Risk Appetite: It’s vital to understand the level of risk your organization is prepared to withstand while navigating through its digital operations.
  7. Cost per Incident: Recognizing the financial repercussions of each security breach or incident provides a clearer picture of your cybersecurity ROI.
  8. User Behavior: Identifying unusual or risky patterns in user behavior can serve as early warning signs of a potential security threat.
  9. Compliance Status: Keeping tabs on your alignment with relevant industry regulations and standards will help avoid non-compliance penalties.
  10. Threat Intelligence: Gauge how effectively your team utilizes their knowledge about the latest cybersecurity threats. This metric directly impacts your capability to stay one step ahead of potential cyber threats.

Properly comprehending and monitoring these metrics can illuminate your cybersecurity team’s path, assisting them in formulating effective strategies to safeguard your organization’s digital environment.

Achieving Success Against these Metrics

Attaining triumph against these metrics is a complex endeavor that calls for a thoughtful, comprehensive strategy. The cornerstone of this endeavor is a thorough grasp of these metrics and their respective implications on your cybersecurity landscape. By defining tangible benchmarks for success for each metric and regularly tracking your progression towards these benchmarks, you foster a culture of continual improvement in your cybersecurity operations.

Initiating an ongoing learning program for your team is equally crucial. This initiative will ensure that every member comprehends these metrics, appreciates their importance, and contributes effectively towards achieving your cybersecurity goals.

Integration of potent cybersecurity tools is another pivotal step towards success. Leverage technologies that provide actionable insights, bolster your defenses, and help you stay apace with the evolving threat landscape. Seek products that seamlessly align with your existing infrastructure, complement your security protocols, and deliver value for your investment.

Automation can be a game-changer in your quest for success against these metrics. When appropriately deployed, automation can take over routine tasks, free up your team’s bandwidth for more strategic activities, and significantly enhance your cybersecurity efficiency. It enables quicker detection and mitigation of threats, thereby improving your overall security posture.

Proactive engagement is yet another key to success. Encourage your team to stay vigilant, constantly analyze patterns, anticipate potential threats, and act swiftly when an issue is detected. This proactive approach is invaluable in a domain where threats can emerge at any moment and can quickly escalate if not addressed promptly.

Lastly, create an environment where every team member feels accountable for cybersecurity. Make it clear that cybersecurity is not just the responsibility of a specific team, but a shared responsibility across the organization. This mindset fosters a security-conscious culture, where everyone is actively engaged in protecting the organization’s digital assets.

In essence, attaining success against these metrics is a journey that demands a clear vision, the right tools, continual learning, proactive engagement, and a shared sense of responsibility. With these elements in place, you are well on your way to shaping a robust cybersecurity posture.

Risks of Failing to Monitor these Metrics

The repercussions of overlooking the surveillance of these security metrics can be quite perilous for your organization. Without these quantifiable indicators, evaluating the efficacy of your cybersecurity measures becomes a daunting task, potentially leaving your digital fortifications ill-equipped against the rapidly evolving and highly sophisticated cyber threats. Consequently, you may find your organization in the unenviable position of reacting to attacks rather than proactively preventing them.

Besides, in the absence of these critical metrics, your decision-making process regarding the allocation of resources might be compromised, leading to potential inefficiencies or even unnecessary spending. By bypassing these vital indicators, you may inadvertently misdirect your investments, leading to underprotected areas within your cybersecurity landscape.

Ignoring these metrics could also expose your organization to compliance risks. Without constant monitoring of your compliance status, there’s a significant risk of unknowingly breaching regulations, leading to costly penalties and potential reputational damage. Thus, failing to track these metrics can have serious implications for your organization’s regulatory alignment.

Also, by disregarding these metrics, you may be neglecting the potential for technological advancements, such as automation, to enhance your cybersecurity. This missed opportunity could leave your team burdened with routine tasks that could have been automated, leaving less time for strategic activities aimed at fortifying your network security.

Finally, without these metrics, you may find it challenging to anticipate and adapt to the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. The inability to identify and track threat intelligence effectively could leave your organization playing catch-up, a position that’s far from ideal in the high-stakes game of cybersecurity.

Therefore, by sidestepping the surveillance of these critical security metrics, you risk impairing your organization’s ability to protect itself in the ever-complex world of cybersecurity. The role of these metrics in maintaining a robust defense against cyber threats cannot be underestimated, making their constant monitoring an absolute necessity.

Conclusion

Navigating the ever-evolving labyrinth of cybersecurity is an intricate endeavor, made even more critical given the increasing sophistication and prevalence of cyber threats. In this complex arena, monitoring security metrics stands as an indispensable cornerstone. These measurable indicators serve as vital guides to your strategic formulation, enabling resource optimization, and fortifying your defense against the ceaseless tide of cyber threats. By giving due diligence to these ten key security metrics, you empower your team with the essential tools to effectively counter cyber threats, thereby safeguarding your organization’s invaluable digital assets. In essence, these security metrics are not just beneficial – they are a lifeline in the increasingly intricate and volatile world of cybersecurity. Therefore, any successful cybersecurity management approach should prioritize these metrics to secure a safer digital future for the organization.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

Cybersecurity Trends and Threats in 2024

From the quantum computing breakthroughs that promise to revolutionize encryption methodologies to the relentless evolution of malware, today, we’re delving into the core trends and threats defining the cybersecurity landscape in 2024, offering multifaceted insights and more.

AI duality: Fortifying and breaching digital systems

As we forge ahead into 2024, the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) on cybersecurity has never been more profound, or more complex. These technologies have evolved from buzzwords to the frontlines of our cyber defenses and, paradoxically, to tools in the arsenal of our cyber adversaries.

Last year marked a significant shift. Cybercriminals are now leveraging AI and ML with frightening efficiency, automating attacks in ways we’ve never seen before. It’s a game-changer: AI isn’t just for identifying targets anymore; it’s about executing attacks at scale and with precision that manual efforts could never achieve

But it’s not all doom and gloom. On our side, AI and ML are set to power up our defenses, predicting threats, and hopefully stopping cyber attacks before they start. The agility and intelligence these technologies provide are quickly becoming indispensable.

The global regulatory stage presents a mixed picture. In the U.S., we’re seeing a push towards rigorous oversight of AI, focusing on safety, security, and ethics. Europe is balancing innovation with risk, enacting the Artificial Intelligence Act to classify and regulate AI systems based on their threat levels. Meanwhile, China’s rapid AI development, prioritizing advancement over regulation, raises eyebrows.

In 2024, the cybersecurity landscape demands that businesses implement a nuanced approach, utilizing AI and ML not just as tools for defense but as integral components of their strategic arsenal against cyber threats.

Moreover, organizations must stay ahead of the curve by actively engaging with and adapting to regulatory changes, ensuring compliance, and influencing the development of policies that impact the digital realm. 

2024 will be a pivotal year where AI’s dual role in cybersecurity comes into sharp focus. We’re at a crossroads, where the potential of AI to both defend and compromise our digital world is more apparent than ever. 

Evolving malware: Get ready to battle shapeshifting threats

Reflecting on the data from last year — looking at nearly 3 million malware attacks — we see a clear sign of the escalating challenge we face. But it’s not just the volume that’s alarming — it’s the sophistication as well.

Polymorphic and metamorphic malware are at the forefront of this evolution, displaying an ability to dodge traditional detection by altering their code signatures or completely rewriting their code. This adaptability makes them nearly invisible to the defenses we’ve relied on for years.

In response, the cybersecurity community is not standing still. We’re harnessing the power of AI and ML to develop solutions that can adapt as quickly as the threats do, creating dynamic defense systems capable of identifying and neutralizing these shapeshifting threats.

As we navigate through 2024, the message is clear: the fight against malware requires a sophisticated, multi-layered defense strategy that involves advanced detection and mitigation tools. It’s about leveraging cutting-edge technology, sure, but it’s also about fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness across organizations.

Quantum computing: Encryption’s shifting frontier

The world of quantum computing in 2024 is no longer a distant future; it’s an emerging reality with profound implications for cybersecurity. The advent of quantum computing is set to revolutionize how we think about encryption and data security, challenging the very foundations of our current methodologies, and in 2024, we can expect significant advancements in the quantum race.

Quantum computers operate on qubits, enabling them to process data at speeds unfathomable to classical machines. This leap in computing power is exciting but also presents a significant challenge: many of our standard encryption techniques, which rely on the computational difficulty of tasks like factoring large prime numbers, may soon be vulnerable.

Enter — quantum-resistant algorithms. These new cryptographic standards are designed to withstand the unparalleled capabilities of quantum computing, ensuring that our digital assets remain secure even in the quantum era.

As we navigate through this transformative period, it’s clear that quantum computing will both amplify our computing capabilities and redefine the cybersecurity landscape. The new era calls for businesses to recalibrate their cybersecurity strategies. The transition to quantum-resistant encryption isn’t just a necessity; it’s a strategic move that will let you stay ahead of the curve. Organizations should begin by assessing their current encryption methodologies, seeking expertise to weave quantum-resistant algorithms seamlessly into their security fabric.

Ransomware’s new era: Cybercrime-as-a-Service

Ransomware is undergoing a transformation in 2024, evolving into a more pervasive and sophisticated threat landscape. This shift is fueled by the rise of Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS), which has made advanced cybercrime tools more accessible than ever, democratizing the tools of cyber extortion. The GRIT Ransomware Annual Report 2023 offers a stark illustration of this trend, with manufacturing and technology sectors bearing the brunt, followed closely by retail & wholesale.

The evolution doesn’t stop there; we’re witnessing the refinement of double extortion tactics. Attackers don’t just encrypt data; they threaten to leak it, putting additional pressure on organizations to meet their demands. 

In turn, businesses should aim for a wider adoption of more sophisticated mitigation strategies, integration of advanced threat detection, and comprehensive backup and recovery strategies. These measures are becoming the new standard in our ongoing battle against ransomware.

Tug of war in the supply chain: Defending interconnected networks

In 2023 the cybersecurity community has been starkly reminded of the formidable threat posed by supply chain attacks. This wasn’t a new phenomenon, but its prominence has surged due to our increasingly interconnected digital ecosystems. A single breach in any component can cascade into a system-wide crisis, as vividly demonstrated by the 2023 Okta breach.

This incident, originating from a compromised employee account, served as a wake-up call. It highlighted how attackers could infiltrate leading identity and access management providers, subsequently impacting countless customers and partners. The Okta breach underscores the critical vulnerabilities within supply chains, where bad actors can exploit trust and dependency.

Facing this reality, it’s imperative for organizations to extend their cybersecurity vigilance beyond their immediate operations. The entire supply chain ecosystem must be secured, a task that requires collaboration, transparency, and a shared commitment to security principles. Organizations looking to succeed in a market saturated by a variety of cyber threats should delve into comprehensive risk assessments across their partnerships, tightening access controls to safeguard against unauthorized access.

Regulatory mazes: Navigating 2024’s cybersecurity lawscape

This year, significant legislation such as the NIS2 Directive and the Cyber Resilience Act are coming into sharper focus, impacting a wide array of sectors and fundamentally altering how organizations approach cybersecurity.

The NIS2 Directive, building upon its predecessor, broadens its reach to include digital services and entities like cloud computing services and digital infrastructure providers. It introduces stringent security requirements and enhanced incident reporting obligations. Similarly, the Cyber Resilience Act is setting new benchmarks for digital product and service security.

These legislative developments signal a decisive move towards a more unified cybersecurity strategy across the European Union, affecting key sectors like healthcare, energy, transport, and banking. The aim is clear: to bolster the digital infrastructure that underpins both the economy and society at large.

Initiating comprehensive audits to map current cybersecurity practices against the new standards is a critical first step. This assessment should lead to the development of a tailored action plan that addresses any gaps in compliance and security measures. 

Additionally, organizations should prioritize establishing a continuous monitoring system that not only tracks compliance but also dynamically responds to legislative changes. Investing in training programs for staff to understand the implications of these laws on day-to-day operations can further embed a culture of compliance and resilience.

For organizations, navigating this evolving regulatory maze has become a strategic priority. Compliance is no longer just about ticking a box; it’s about integrating these regulatory requirements into the fabric of our cybersecurity strategies.

Unchaining security: The passwordless access paradigm

The world is witnessing a monumental shift towards passwordless authentication. This move is not just a fleeting trend; it’s a transformative shift driven by the need for stronger security measures and a more seamless user experience.

Gone are the days when passwords were the linchpin of security. Today, advancements in biometrics, mobile technology, and public key cryptography are paving the way for passwordless systems that offer both heightened security and convenience. These systems use a unique cryptographic pairing for each user-service interaction, significantly reducing the attack surface for cybercriminals by eliminating traditional phishing and brute-force attacks.

Passkeys offer a consistent and secure authentication experience across various platforms and devices, a versatility that’s been embraced by giants like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Roblox since 2023.

As the trend towards passwordless authentication gains even more traction in 2024, businesses will virtually have no choice but to strategically embrace this shift to enhance security and user experience. A pivotal action is the integration of advanced biometric systems and public key infrastructure. This requires a comprehensive evaluation of current authentication methods and a plan to transition to passwordless solutions that align with the organization’s security needs and user expectations. The momentum towards passwordless authentication is clear. It reflects a broader shift in digital security practices, emphasizing not just robust protection but also ease of use and accessibility. 

Wrapping up

As we look towards the state of cybersecurity in 2024, it’s evident that we are navigating through a period of significant paradigm shifts. The emergence of groundbreaking technologies like quantum computing, alongside the dual role of AI and ML, presents both opportunities and challenges. The complexities introduced by supply chain vulnerabilities, the rapid evolution of malware, and the democratization of cybercrime through Cybercrime-as-a-Service all paint a picture of a future where cybersecurity is not just about defense but anticipation, adaptation, and proactive engagement.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What is MSSP in cybersecurity?

A Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) is a specialized IT service company focusing on cybersecurity. MSSPs help businesses protect themselves from cyber threats, enhance their security operations, and navigate the complex landscape of information security with greater ease and expertise.

MSSP vs. MSP: what’s the difference?

While both Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer outsourced services, their focus areas differ significantly.

MSSPs specialize in cybersecurity, offering security services tailored to protect businesses from cyber threats. MSPs, on the other hand, provide a broader range of IT services, including but not limited to network management, support services, and software management. 

The key distinction lies in the Managed Security Service Provider’s specialized focus on securing your digital assets against cyber threats.

What kinds of services do MSSPs offer?

Navigating the complexities of cybersecurity requires more than just a keen eye—it necessitates a comprehensive suite of services designed to protect, detect, and respond to threats efficiently.

MSSPs offer this critical support of managed security services, delivering a range of specialized services tailored to enhance an organization’s security posture. Let’s examine the key offerings that define the role of MSSPs in safeguarding digital assets.

Security event monitoring

MSSPs continuously monitor your network for security events, ensuring that any potential threats are identified and addressed promptly. This proactive approach helps minimize the risk of breaches.

Security event monitoring is the cornerstone of what MSSPs offer, providing round-the-clock surveillance of network and system activities. This service ensures that any unusual or potentially harmful activity is spotted immediately, enabling swift action to mitigate risks. It’s about keeping a vigilant watch over your digital domain, ready to flag anything out of the ordinary.

Managed detection and response (MDR)

Through MDR services, MSSPs not only detect threats but also respond to them swiftly, often before they can cause significant damage. This includes isolating affected systems and removing malicious entities.

MDR goes beyond spotting threats by actively taking steps to stop them in their tracks and by deploying countermeasures to prevent the spread of an attack. MDR services embody the rapid reflexes needed to defend against cyber threats effectively.

Penetration testing

Penetration testing is akin to a stress test for your cybersecurity defenses. Using a simulation strategy to create cyber-attacks, MSSPs identify vulnerabilities in your infrastructure that could be exploited by malicious actors. This proactive approach allows organizations to fortify their defenses before real threats emerge.

Threat hunting

MSSPs actively search for indicators of compromise within your environment that may elude traditional detection methods. This proactive search uncovers hidden threats, ensuring they’re addressed before causing harm.

Managed firewall

Managed firewall services focus on the management, maintenance, and monitoring of firewall infrastructure. This includes configuring firewall rules to allow legitimate traffic while blocking malicious or unauthorized access attempts. It’s a critical line of defense in controlling data flow in and out of the network.

Vulnerability management

Through vulnerability management, a Managed Security Service Provider helps identify, assess, remediate, and report on security vulnerabilities in your systems and software, keeping your IT environment secure.

Benefits of working with an MSSP

The decision to partner with an MSSP is not just about outsourcing but also about empowering your organization with a robust security framework. This framework is designed to defy the complexities of modern cyber threats.

The benefits of engaging with an MSSP are various, touching upon not just the technological aspects of cybersecurity but also the strategic and operational enhancements it brings to an organization. Here’s a closer look at the key advantages:

Comprehensive protection and scale-up of security

MSSPs offer a broad spectrum of security services that cover all aspects of your cybersecurity needs, allowing for scalable protection as your business grows.

Comprehensive protection and scale-up of security encapsulate the essence of MSSP engagement. Organizations gain a dynamic shield, capable of adapting to evolving threats and expanding in tandem with business growth. This isn’t just about having more tools in the arsenal; it’s about ensuring each layer of security is interwoven to form an impenetrable defense.

Access to specialized expertise and filling internal IT skills gaps

Access to specialized expertise and filling internal IT skills gaps addresses a critical challenge many organizations face: the scarcity of cybersecurity talent.

Partnering with a Managed Security Service Provider bridges this gap by bringing in a team of experts. They improve the organization’s security posture without requiring lengthy and often unsuccessful recruiting and training processes.

Cost savings and efficiency

Cost savings and efficiency emerge from the strategic allocation of resources that an MSSP facilitates.

Instead of bearing the high costs associated with maintaining a comprehensive in-house security team and the latest technologies, organizations can save money and work more efficiently by using MSSPs. This approach not only optimizes spending but also allows businesses to focus their internal resources on core activities.

Improved visibility into threats and expedited security responses

Improved visibility into threats and expedited security responses are critical in a landscape where the speed and stealth of cyber attacks continue to increase.

MSSPs offer advanced monitoring and detection capabilities, ensuring that threats are identified and addressed with speed and precision. This rapid response mechanism minimizes potential damage and maintains business continuity.

Support for compliance with industry standards and regulations

MSSPs help ensure that your business stays compliant with relevant cybersecurity standards and regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and breaches.

MSSPs possess the expertise to navigate these complex regulations, ensuring that organizations meet and maintain compliance standards, thereby avoiding penalties and safeguarding their reputation.

Selecting the right MSSP

Selecting the right MSSP is a critical decision that can significantly impact your organization’s cybersecurity posture.

When choosing an MSSP, consider their expertise in cybersecurity, the technology they use, their cost-effectiveness, and their ability to provide threat intelligence. Look for providers with excellent customer service and efficient onboarding processes to ensure a smooth partnership.

Tips on selecting the right Managed Security Service Provider

To ensure you partner with a provider that aligns with your security needs and business objectives, consider the following guidelines and factors:

Security expertise

  • Track record: evaluate the MSSP’s history of success in your industry. Look for case studies or references demonstrating their capability to manage complex security environments.

  • Certifications: check for industry-recognized certifications among their team members, such as CISSP, CISM, or others relevant to cybersecurity. This indicates a level of expertise and commitment to professional development.

  • Custom security solutions: ensure the MSSP can tailor its security services to fit your unique business requirements rather than offer a one-size-fits-all approach.

Technology

  • Advanced tools: investigate whether the MSSP employs state-of-the-art security technologies and tools that can effectively detect and mitigate threats.

  • Integration capability: the ability of the MSSP to integrate their solutions with your existing IT infrastructure is crucial for a seamless security posture.

  • Continuous innovation: look for signs that the MSSP invests in research and development to stay ahead of emerging cybersecurity threats.

Cost-effectiveness

  • Transparent pricing: seek an MSSP that offers clear, upfront pricing models without hidden fees. This transparency helps in budgeting and assessing the overall value of their services.

  • ROI analysis: consider whether the MSSP can provide evidence or case studies demonstrating a return on investment for their clients through enhanced security and risk mitigation.

Threat intelligence

  • Global threat landscape awareness: the MSSP should have a robust mechanism for gathering and analyzing threat intelligence worldwide, offering proactive protection against emerging threats

  • Custom threat reporting: ensure they can deliver personalized threat reports that are relevant to your business, enabling informed decision-making.

Customer service

  • Availability: confirm that the MSSP offers 24/7 support to address any security incidents or concerns as they arise.

  • Communication: assess the MSSP’s commitment to informing you about your security status, including regular updates and reviews.

Onboarding processes

  • Smooth transition: the MSSP should have a clear and efficient onboarding process that minimizes disruption to your operations

  • Training and support: check if they provide training for your team on their systems and processes, ensuring you can fully leverage their services from day one.

Compliance and regulation support

  • Expertise in compliance: ensure the MSSP has experience with and understanding of the specific compliance requirements relevant to your industry, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS.

  • Compliance services: some MSSPs offer services specifically designed to help you meet compliance standards, including regular audits, compliance gap analysis, and reporting.

How does NordLayer enhance MSSP capabilities?

NordLayer enhances the capabilities of MSSPs by offering advanced security features and services, such as Secure Remote Access, end-to-end encryption, and threat intelligence integration.

By partnering with NordLayer, MSSPs can offer their clients a more robust security solution, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can protect their digital assets effectively and efficiently based on their security requirements.

NordLayer’s security software complements the MSSP’s expertise, providing a comprehensive security posture that meets the evolving threats in the cybersecurity landscape. A collaboration of cybersecurity professionals helps achieve the best results in cybersecurity services, data security, and network security.

Are you looking for a trusted partner to secure your clients’ networks? NordLayer offers a Partner Program with a focus on tangible benefits for its partners and simple yet effective solutions to protect businesses in the hectic cybersecurity landscape.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

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