Security News, Features, and Interviews

• Data61 ports seL4 microkernel to RISC-V architecture

  Data61 has released an initial version of the seL4 microkernel for the RISC-V architecture

• This is how blockchain might solve the internet privacy problem

  Blockchain, with its encrypted and immutable record, will eventually be used create universal digital identities, filled with information that only we will control and that will link back to the issuing banks, governments or even employers.

• Bitcoin mining leads to an unexpected GPU gold rush

  Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency miners have created a dearth of mid-range and high-end GPU cards that are selling for twice as much as suggested retail. The reason: miners are setting up server farms with the cards.

• Don’t rush to deploy 5G if you want IoT security, agency warns

  Flaws in 2G, 3G and 4G networks could be repeated in 5G, says EU IT security agency

• Latvian mobile operator invites cyber attackers to have a go

  Security researchers wanting to test the kind of malware that could break public networks now have a place to do so in safety

• Getting the most out of your next generation firewall

  Are you getting the most out of your next generation firewall? Probably not if you take to heart recent research from SafeBreach.

• Microsoft to test blockchain-based self-sovereign ID system

  Microsoft plans to pilot a blockchain-based digital ID platform that would allow users to control access to sensitive online information via an encrypted data hub.

• Tech Talk: What's trending for 2018?

  The end of passwords may – or may not – be nigh. Blockchain is clearly evolving, as is 'serverless' computing. And our panel remains convinced Apple's HomePod is late to the game.

• How to use VPNs in China without breaking the law

  There are ways to use corporate VPNs in China to protect sensitive data and not run afoul of China’s cybersecurity laws

• Skygofree: More Android malware malarkey

  A lot of Android virus and malware stories are hooey. Skygofree is a prime example.

• How blockchain makes self-sovereign identities possible

  Who are you? And who decides you’re really you and can be trusted? The answer, and the systems involved, differ in the real world and online. But blockchain technology could make establishing identity and trust much easier for everyone. Here’s how.

• Meltdown and Spectre exploits: Cutting through the FUD

  A breakdown of what the Meltdown and Spectre exploits are, what they aren’t, the risks they pose, and what you should do.

• Mingis on Tech: Blockchain explained

  One of the buzziest topics in IT right now involves blockchain, the distributed ledger tech that underpins Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. But it can – and likely will – do much more than that.

• How blockchain will underpin the new trust economy

  Over the next two years, businesses will increasingly turn to blockchain to establish trust among parties looking to transfer everything from money and movable goods to property.

• Tech Talk: Uber hack, Google tracks, AWS packs (in China) ... and Firefox is back

  Uber comes in for criticism in how it handled last year's hack – as does Google for allowing Android to track its users location. Meanwhile, AWS is selling off hardware in China and one panelist wonders about the future of Firefox.

• IT Distribution moves full circle to VAD: WatchGuard's Randy Johnson

  WatchGuard Technologies continues its steadfast focus on delivering integrated, multi-function threat management appliances. A provider of network security appliances, the company has overhauled its distributor ecosystem as and when to ensure a profitable channel that caters to the changing security needs of the organizations globally. ChannelWorld India spoke exclusively to Randy Johnson, Director, Worldwide Distribution, WatchGuard on his recent India visit on the current state of network security, the distribution model and the channel ecosystem.

• Tech Talk: The technology that scares us

  Halloween may be over, but the frights remain. Whether it's from the loss of privacy from Alexa or Google Home, fake news on social media or A.I. the future could be a tech dystopia.

• Dishwashers on the rampage: LG IoT security bug highlights risks of home automation

  The discovery this week of a security vulnerability within SmartThinQ, a technology touted by LG for automating communication with its range of home appliances and devices, has reinforced the risks of remote Internet of Things (IoT) takeover as attackers progressively master new methods of attacking increasingly smart devices.

• Office 365 account compromise attempts on the increase

  While moving email services to Office 365 is a fantastic way to provide anywhere access for employees and reduce costs, its ubiquity has also made it a breeding ground for highly personalised, compelling attacks by cyber criminals.

• Synchronized security is the right arsenal for modern CSOs: Sophos exec

  CSO India had an intriguing chat with Joergen Jakobsen, senior vice president and managing director, APJ Sales, Sophos on the company’s big focus to steer its value proposition to the organizations.