Gigamon, the leading deep observability company, has been named the Most Innovative Cloud Security Monitoring Vendor for its breakthrough Precryption™ technology from Cyber Defense Magazine (CDM), the industry's leading electronic information security magazine.

Gigamon Named 2023 Top InfoSec Innovator Awards' Most Innovative Cloud Security Monitoring Vendor

CISOs can lead the charge in protecting their organization’s operations, reputation and ultimately the safety of personnel and facilities.

Protecting Critical Infrastructure: Enhancing OT Security

Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to prioritize cyber security and implement comprehensive measures to safeguard their sensitive information ... vulnerabilities in your business’s network infrastructure, software applications, and data storage ...

10 Essential Cyber Security Measures Every Business Should Implement in Birmingham

With this application for listing on the OTCQB Markets, Integrated Cyber aims to broaden its global presence and provide an enhanced avenue for investors in the United States to engage with the Company's mission of safeguarding digital landscapes against cyber threats.

Integrated Cyber Solutions Files Application for Listing on the OTCQB Market

Forcepoint Global Governments and Critical Infrastructure has appointed five cybersecurity industry veterans to its leadership team nearly a month after it was acquired by global alternative asset management firm TPG (Nasdaq: TPG).

Forcepoint G2CI Adds Cybersecurity Veterans to Leadership Team; Sean Berg Quoted

Lloyd's cyber insurance specialist, Trium Cyber, has appointed Aspen Insurance's John Jankowski as its Chief Information Officer (CIO). Jankowski has

Trium Cyber appoints John Jankowski as CIO

According to a new report on "Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Security Market Size and Forecast (2020–2030), Global and Regional Share, Trends, and Growth Opportunity

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Security Market Size worth $29.6 Billion, Globally, by 2030 - Exclusive Report by The Insight Partners

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The cyber and physical security connection

Singaporean cyber risk management firm Protos Labs has raised SGD$3 million (approximately $2.2 million USD) in seed funding from BEENEXT, VinaCapital Ventures, Artem Ventures (in partnership with FWD Insurance), Plug and Play Silicon Valley, Investible, Gan Konsulindo, 1337 Ventures, and Gobi Partners.

RTX (formerly known as Raytheon) is selling its cybersecurity business. Accenture acquires MNEMO Mexico. CISO challenges, across sectors.

Get the most recent info and news about Cyber Infrastructure Inc. on HackerNoon, where 10k+ technologists publish stories for 4M+ monthly readers.

Think Big. We make IT possible! Our mission is to Empower and Enhance lives of Billions of users through Profound technology solutions. We invite you to Think Big and join this movement as our Clients, Partners and Employees. Follow this page to receive interesting updates. Started on 7th November 2003, Cyber Infrastructure (CIS) is CMMI Level 5 compliant, ISO 9001, ISO 27001 and is Microsoft Gold Partner, SAP Partner Organization. CIS is Fast Growing IT/ Technology Services Company. CIS combines our strength in technology, domain knowledge, and proven quality processes to deliver solutions that help our clients fulfill their Business Dreams. We are globally recognized with multiple offices in the USA, UK, Middle East, Europe, Asia & Australia. And Software Development Centers in cities incl. Indore, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Ahmedabad & Jaipur. Our biggest assets are our employees, who are highly motivated and dedicated, with a high degree of professionalism. Our 1000+ professional's have the convergence of multi-platform skills and extensive industry specific knowledge, which has geared them to handle sophisticated International assignments. For more info please visit https://www.cisin.com

Cyber Infrastructure Inc.

Top 15 Outsourcing Software Development companies in India & USA for Startups & SME's | 2019

Since its inception, blockchain technology has just transformed the way financial transactions happen by the companies. Blockchain is undeniably an ingenious invention that provides the best way to record & transfer data that is transparent, auditable, safe, & resistant to outages. As per the graph shown above, it can be seen how blockchain adoption had skyrocketed in the past years and is expected to increase exponentially in the coming years. With its growing popularity and ever increasing demand, blockchain applications have now entered the mainstream market. This has, therefore, resulted in the growing demand for reputed and renowned . These are the companies who acknowledge that blockchain technology holds immense potential that may help them and their customers grow, as well as get a competitive edge. top blockchain development companies However, when you select what blockchain company to hire, it’s always a big challenge. First, you need to find a company that would cater to the requirements of your business. Then, blockchain-related questions would start counting: What programming language and platform to choose? Which of the modifications are important and which can be optional? What’s of the highest priority for your blockchain solution — multifunctionality, scale, or speed? I am an experienced blockchain developer, and having worked as a developer in a software company for around 15+ years, I am now at a position to help the enterprises, ISVs, business owners about some of the best blockchain companies. With my experience and expertise, I am sure that this checklist will surely help you in taking the right decision. This list is prepared based on some of the decision making factors like contractual models and services offered, core areas of expertise, and ability to access the services provided. Remember, you just cannot compromise on these aforementioned aspects to make a right decision. To make your task more easy, I have mentioned top 10 best known blockchain development firms in India and US. My research is based on the ratings provided on Goodfirms and Clutch platforms. The other parameters that I have taken into consideration are: Size of the team Years in the industry Cost of the services Experience and understanding of the market standards and business development Reference by customers, media, and other organizations Let’s Begin… PixelCrayons ( Has maintained the top position since 5+ years) SoluLab Inc ( Ranked higher in the top companies list) ArcTouch ( Expensive but provides quality solutions) Sofocle Technologies ( Maintained the same position) ABES Lab ( Moved one position down since last year) ( Cyber Infrastructure Inc Same position) Ftechiz Solutions ( Relatively costly) Technoloader ( Same position) Prolitus ( Same position) Kamtor ( Same position) Let’s now understand the working process and services provided by these companies one by one: Rank 1: PixelCrayons: An award-winning blockchain development company based in India Founded in the year 2004 in India, PixelCrayons made its mark in the competitive industry within a few years of its inception. Their efficient and talented team of experienced professionals is dedicated to provide a wide range of blockchain development services to its global customers. You can from PixelCrayons since they have great expertise in the areas of smart contracts, initial coin offering, bitcoin, hyperledger, cryptocurrencies, ethereum, and IoT in blockchain. hire blockchain developers The company is also known for providing valuable advice to businesses, startups, ISVs who are looking to gain something big in the industry. Their team of blockchain developers, blockchain marketers, designers, and consultants know how to utilize the effective tools to help their customers work in a decentralized environment. Trust, transparency, resilience, and efficiency are some of the major USPs of their blockchain based apps that are widely loved and appreciated by the customers globally. Their blockchain developers know exactly how to create various types of Cryptocurrency Wallets which are used for storing, transacting, and recording in demand transformative currency. The company has enlisted big clients like Puma, Vodafone, Adobe, Warner Bros, etc., in its kitty. One thing that makes this company stand different from others is their level of adapting new technologies instantly and they make sure to deliver all their client projects right on time. Not only blockchain, the company also provides web development services for other technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Ecommerce applications, Healthcare, Banking & Finance, etc. Rank 2: SoluLab Inc: A blockchain development agency in US SoluLab is a reputed software firm with blockchain expertise. It specializes in blockchain application development, money transfer solutions, enterprise cryptocurrency platforms, and loyalty programs. The company caters to retail, healthcare, high tech, and Ecommerce organizations. The best blockchain development organization must obtain a deep domain knowledge, and this is exactly what SoluLab has managed to do over these years in different business verticals. Their expertise extends to Big Data, QA automation, AI, hybrid apps & DevOps. As blockchain solutions usually require expertise in several IT domains, this is another plus for SoluLab Paired with the amount of experienced experts and their wide-ranging skill sets, this company can be an option for big enterprises looking into blockchain solutions and blockchain ecosystems. All of this makes this company a top blockchain development company with a great knowledge experience in the field. Rank 3: ArcTouch: A cryptocurrency solution provider based in US Founded in the year 2008, ArcTouch is a reputed blockchain development company which has achieved indefeasible feats in the industry. It has helped various businesses transform the way their organization processes function. Their core services are related to blockchain development domain, including blockchain app development, blockchain consultation, smart contracts & marketing services for ICO. The company focuses on fulfilling all the financial operations and functions as per the client’s requirements. The agency’s core focus is on blockchain technology and also includes some core services & manages business needs. The company focuses on R and D of innovative technology solutions. They transform the contract management process to a fully automated process to provide easy approval execution. Rank 4: Sofocle Technologies: A global blockchain development company Sofocle Technologies is a global blockchain development company in India that provides all sorts of crypto coin arrangement and application wallet development services to fulfill their customer needs. As they have been underscoring upon from their inception, they offer the most important and services to their global clients. They have possessed the capacity to achieve the peak in the industry & pick up generosity in addition to the trust and confidence of the clients. They hold a great potential of working with a range of financial sector firms. They believe that blockchain technology can do wonders by fulfilling the scalability and longevity needs of a business. Rank 5: ABES Lab: A leading blockchain development company This company is a dedicated lab of R & D experts for blockchain applications for a software development company. It offers a full range of services which include design, blockchain consulting, services and applications development, smart contracts, and support and maintenance. The company’s experts are able to handle the intricacies of the blockchain projects very well and offer their customers a solution according to their needs. In a nutshell, they can play an important role in transforming your business to achieve great success by making your business processes all the more effective. Rank 6: Cyber Infrastructure Inc: A global blockchain development enterprise This company’s services are designed to take any business to a next level by reducing the gap between the individual and the success that they wish to achieve. The company has the right expertise to help you with all your technology needs. They have consistently delivered the optimal solutions for the wide-ranging global client base. CIS has established as a leading name in providing innovative technology services and solutions that always adhere to latest technology trends and globally recognized standards. Rank 7: Ftechiz Solutions: Enterprise blockchain development company This company helps the clients leverage the strength of blockchain technology for their businesses. They make it seamless for customers to break the old paradigm of centralized consensus & replace it with distributed blockchain paradigm in order to power numerous range of applications. The company keeps on working for the development of new and innovative technological solutions by providing a great balance between economic sustainability and technology for the start-ups. Rank 8: Technoloader: Mobile and Blockchain experts Technoloader is an emerging company known to deliver best blockchain solutions to all of their clients worldwide. This company uses different techniques and tools for operating cryptocurrency. By creating a blockchain platform everywhere, the company aims at focusing on the financial requirements. According to their customers, this company provides the best blockchain development around financial requirements. Rank 9: Prolitus: A complete blockchain development service provider As a blockchain development company, Prolitus focuses on fulfilling all financial operations & functions as per the client’s requirements and needs. This company’s core focus is on blockchain technology and also includes some core services and manages business requirements. Their core focus is to provide a wide range of blockchain services to its clients worldwide Their main aim is to help organizations to achieve their objectives with blockchain app development. Rank 10: Kamtor: Crypto Exchange and Blockchain development company Kamtor is a USA-based blockchain development company with a solid background of developing result-oriented and innovative software applications. They mainly focus on helping startups & businesses turn their imaginations & dreams into a profitable reality by creating a feasible blockchain project development plan, and presenting a realistic budget & also, then doing their best to stick with the specific timeframe while delivering the best possible solutions and applications to their clients. Conclusion With a variety options available at your disposal, choosing one of the best blockchain development service company should not be a problem. Now that I have listed the top blockchain development firms in India & USA, choosing the one that best fits your needs should not be a problem. The major things you must be focusing on should be the areas of expertise and budget of the company you wish to associate with. Not all the companies in the market can meet up to your expectations; hence, you need to be careful while deciding your technology partner. After all, it has to be worth every single penny you plan to spend. Truly speaking, if you exactly know what you need, choosing the blockchain development organization will not be an issue at all.

Top 10 Blockchain Companies in India & US

With the blockchain tech industry and the cryptocurrency market such hot property right now, many countries like the ubiquitous Puerto Rico, but also Malta, and the Philippines are vying for business. The question is, which country will fare best in the great crypto-hub race? 1. Puerto Rico — Puertopia Puerto Rico has suffered economic volatility over the years but a new wave of crypto business — due to welcoming tax rates and close ties to the US — has been warmly received as the country aims to get its status back on track. is at the helm of a growing group of ‘bitcoin millionaires’ setting up shop in this tropical paradise with the aim of making it their new home. His goal is to create a cryptopia while giving back to those struggling to climb out of poverty in the region. Brock Pierce Further Reading: Puertopia: The new crypto-utopia for billionaires 2. Malta — Blockchain Island The population including the Junior Finance Minister of Malta — Silvio Schembri — are excited about the potential for foreign investment that crypto businesses are bringing to their island. Binance, Tron, and OKEX Tech have already made Malta a base for their companies. And, ‘the little country that could’ aims to encourage even more of the same. With English as an official language, low tax rates, and clear crypto regulations, it’s no surprise that Malta has established itself as a first choice destination for crypto projects. Further Reading: How Malta Became a Hub of the Cryptocurrency World 3. The Philippines — Crypto Paradise The geography of the Philippines is as diverse as its interest in crypto and the Filipino government, along with the central bank, have both recognized the potential of this tech. Seeing the potential to propel their emerging economy forward they have adapted their official policies to encourage this growth. As it happens, 5 million of the 100 million population already own crypto wallets. MergeCommit, Bloom Solutions, and Satoshi Citadel have also spotted the potential opportunity by moving their business to paradise. Further Reading: The Watchlist: Three Potential Cryptocurrency Hubs Around The World 4. Costa Rica — Tropical Technology Costa Rica is a truly inviting crypto zone. To show the value they place in the industry employers can now partially pay their workers in cryptocurrency. Challenged by the country’s high unemployment rate and national debt, Costa Rica is ready to embrace the crypto market and blockchain tech to change its fortune. Costa Rica has welcomed Green Earth Zero and BlockchainCR, amongst several other blockchain companies. Further Reading: Costa Rican Workers Can Be Legally Paid in Cryptocurrency 5. Georgia — Eastern Hothouse Georgia is a rising star of blockchain tech and crypto in Eastern Europe. Strategically placed in between Europe and Russia, Georgia also boasts very low tax rates. These factors, along with the low cost of electricity, make Georgia an ideal place for bitcoin mining — in fact, it is ranked second in the world for ‘drilling’ crypto (China being number one). Blockchain businesses include Cyber Infrastructure Inc, Patientory, and 10Clouds Dedicated Developers. Further Reading: How The Tiny Nation Of Georgia Became A Bitcoin Behemoth 6. Gibraltar — Rock of Crypto Don’t be fooled by its size, Gibraltar is ready to rock the blockchain world. Boasting a strong economy, and low import duty, with a dedicated subsidiary of the stock exchange, Gibraltar is fast becoming home to crypto business in Europe. The Gibraltar Blockchain Exchange, dedicated to trade in blockchain tech is attracting interest from across the continent. Lendo has relocated to ‘the rock’ and it’s likely that other big names will soon follow suit. Further Reading: Top Crypto Friendly (and Hostile) Countries 7. Liechtenstein — Bitcoinstein Liechtenstein is on the map when it comes to being a player in the world of blockchain tech. It benefits from being a member of the EEA, allowing it to skirt some of the most onerous EU regulations, while still trading across the continent. The country is home to Ethereum, Chainium, and Vimana, and the government has plans to make Liechtenstein the most blockchain-friendly country in Europe, with new regulations like the Blockchain Act being introduced all the time. Further Reading: As Blockchain Booms, Small Countries Become Thriving Hubs for Crypto Industry 8. Denmark — Northern Lights Make way for Denmark: one of the new epicenters of the blockchain world. This highly developed economy has wooed big blockchain hitters to establish themselves in its country, and, being so keen to attract blockchain business, they have established the most crypto industry-friendly environment possible with a low tax rate and crypto regulation exemptions. It’s easy to see why blockchain companies are so attracted to Denmark’s market. Further Reading: 5 Most Crypto-Friendly Countries in Europe 9. The Netherlands — Dutch Courage Famed for their liberal attitude, the Netherlands has embraced this new tech at a rapid rate with Dutchchain and FoodInsights both establishing themselves here. The government also backs a bold approach, seeing crypto as ‘low risk’ in relation to financial stability. Not only that, but Amsterdam hosts the ‘Bitcoin Embassy’ and boasts the highest density of bitcoin ATMs in the world, as the government experiments with their very own: De Nederlandsche Bank BNBcoin. Further Reading: The Top 5 Crypto-Friendly Nations 10. Singapore — Sing Blockchain The interest in innovative fintech in Singapore is plain for all to see. Mainly concentrated in the capital, blockchain business flourishes alongside a considerably low tax rate. LINE is just one of the major blockchain players that have launched into the Singapore market. In a country where English, Malay, and Mandarin meet, tech business is booming, the potential for innovation in blockchain tech and the cryptocurrency market on Singapore’s shores is undeniable. Further Reading: 5 Unexpected Countries That May Become Cryptocurrency Meccas An interesting fact is how many of these hubs are showing up in areas of economic volatility, where reigning financial systems have previously failed. Coincidence? Perhaps, perhaps not. Which of these nations will be crowned the ‘king of crypto’? What will be the deciding factor? Is there another competitor that we haven’t spotted yet? Let us know in the comments below! Follow us on for a daily aggregate of all things blockchain tech and crypto. Twitter Subscribe to our for all proprietary research, reports, and op-eds. website

9 unexpected crypto-havens around the world (and Puerto Rico)

The Russian war against Ukraine has not only escalated into the most extensive use of cyber operations in the history of state conflicts but has also propelled cybersecurity and geopolitical tensions to the forefront of global concern. With the World Economic Forum's Global Risk Report 2024 ranking cyber insecurity as the fourth most severe short-term global risk, and cybersecurity being a top worry among CEOs as per PwC’s CEO Survey, the significance of this digital warfare extends far beyond the battlefield. This conflict has reshaped the cybersecurity landscape, compelling nations and businesses worldwide to reassess and fortify their cyber defense strategies in anticipation of an uncertain future. The blend of cyber warfare with traditional geopolitical conflicts presents a complex challenge, urging a continuity of cyber defense that blurs the lines between competition, crisis, and war in cyberspace. The Kyivstar Attack: A Stark Reminder The cyberattack on Kyivstar, Ukraine's largest mobile operator, in December 2023 was not just another statistic in the annals of cyber warfare but a stark revelation of the vulnerability of critical national infrastructure. Orchestrated by the Russian Sandworm group, this meticulously planned operation plunged 24.1 million subscribers into a communications blackout, effectively isolating a significant portion of the nation during a critical time of war. The aftermath of the attack was catastrophic, with services disrupted for over 58 hours, leading to a direct financial hit to Kyivstar of UAH 3.4 billion due to the cancellation of subscription fees. This incident underscores the multifaceted impact of such cyber operations, affecting not just the economic bottom line but also national security and civilian well-being. The attack's implications extended beyond immediate operational disruptions. It was a psychological maneuver designed to instill fear and uncertainty, impacting millions. The destruction was near-total, wiping out critical infrastructure, including thousands of virtual servers and PCs. The level of access gained by the attackers raised alarms over potential intelligence gathering, including the theft of personal information and the interception of communications. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the escalating cyber threat landscape and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. For Kyivstar and similar entities, the attack has necessitated a reevaluation of cybersecurity protocols and the adoption of more aggressive defense mechanisms to prevent future breaches. It highlights the essential need for continuous vigilance, advanced threat detection capabilities, and swift response strategies to mitigate the risks posed by state-sponsored cyberterrorism. Strengthening Cybersecurity Teams Amidst Rising Threats With cyber investments projected to reach $215 billion in 2024, the focus on securing our digital world has never been more acute. However, as threats proliferate, a critical challenge emerges: the widening talent gap in cybersecurity. The ISACA State of Cybersecurity report reveals that 71% of organizations have unfilled cybersecurity positions, underscoring the urgent need for skilled professionals to counter these evolving threats. The cybersecurity landscape is increasingly becoming a battlefield, with demand for expertise far outpacing supply. In 2023, we've witnessed a 13% surge in the global workforce gap, particularly in pivotal areas like cloud computing security, AI/ML security, and Zero Trust frameworks. Yet, the gap isn't just in technical skills; there's a pronounced need for professionals who excel in leadership, flexibility, and communication. From our vantage point, working closely with leading cybersecurity firms, it's clear that bridging this gap requires more than just competitive wages and training programs. It demands a holistic approach to fostering a culture of innovation and growth. For instance, one of our long-standing clients, a cybersecurity pioneer, has embarked on a mission to cultivate a workforce that is not only technically adept but also possesses strong soft skills. They've established a mentorship program that pairs seasoned professionals with emerging talent, focusing on the development of leadership and communicative excellence alongside technical proficiency. CEO Insights: Practical Strategies for Cyber Resilience In the face of today's heightened cyber risks, it's imperative for CEOs and boards to prioritize cybersecurity as a core component of their strategic agenda. Here are a few strategies that have proven effective for our clients, from SMEs to large enterprises: Allocate Adequate Budget: One of our clients, a fast-growing tech startup, allocated 15% of its annual budget to cybersecurity initiatives. This bold move supported their defensive measures and facilitated the development of a robust talent pipeline. Partner with Reliable Providers: Another multinational corporation's client enhanced its defense capabilities by forging a strategic partnership with a top-tier cybersecurity service provider. This collaboration has fortified their resilience against sophisticated cyber threats. Build Strong Teams: Recognizing the value of exceptional talent, we've helped several clients streamline their hiring processes to attract and retain the industry's best. This includes creating roles that appeal to the desire for career growth and learning opportunities. Educate Your Team: Acknowledging the human factor as a potential vulnerability, we've observed a trend among our clients toward implementing comprehensive cybersecurity awareness programs. These initiatives aim to foster a culture of vigilance and preparedness across all levels of the organization. Conduct Regular Assessments: Regular cybersecurity assessments and tabletop exercises have become a staple for our clients. These practices identify vulnerabilities and prepare teams for potential attacks, ensuring a swift and effective response. Conclusion As the geopolitical landscape continues to influence the cyber domain, the lessons learned from the ongoing conflict and its challenges are invaluable. The Kyivstar attack and the broader implications of the war on global cybersecurity underscore the need for a proactive, informed, and strategic approach to cyber defense. By adopting these practical strategies, CEOs can lead their organizations towards greater resilience, safeguarding their assets and contributing to a more secure digital future in these uncertain times.

Two Years On: How Ukraine's Cyber Warfront Is Redefining Global Cybersecurity Strategies

The recent attack on a U.S. pipeline impacting almost half the fuel on the East Coast, is confirmation that the acceleration in sophisticated ransomware attacks is continuing. The numbers don’t lie. We are in the midst of the cyber pandemic.  After COVID-19 caused a rapid rise in ransomware attacks in 2020, the increase in attacks in 2021 has accelerated.  Just take a look at these frightening ransomware statistics from Check Point’s ThreatCloud database: Attacks in the U.S. alone have increased 300% in the past 9 months U.S. Utilities have been attacked 300 times every week for an increase of 50% in just 2 months Cybercriminals have continued to take advantage of the increase in .  Phishing attacks have been highly successful for launching a . Leveraging IT-OT convergence Cyber criminals can breach the network by getting some unsuspecting employee working from home to click on an email. They can then take their time searching the internal network for a critical enterprise device to hold for ransom.  In general, ransomware attacks are often easy for cyber criminals to orchestrate and largely profitable. All that is needed is some research, a small sum of cash, and access to the Dark Web in order to pull off a successful ransomware attack. remote work required by the COVID-19 pandemic ransomware attack Attacks on Industrial Control Systems (ICS) that Operate Critical Infrastructure A prime target for cybercriminals has been the that manage our critical infrastructure. Critical infrastructure includes the water we drink, the electricity that powers our homes, and the transportation that ship’s cargo around the world by sea, land and air. Critical infrastructure dispatches our emergency services and ensures our traffic turns smoothly.  It automates the manufacturing of the products we use daily and powers our oil, gas and renewable energy industry. It even controls the building management systems in hospitals, data centers, and office buildings. Operational Technology (OT) networks and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) These attacks have huge implications not only on businesses, but also on communities, cities, states and entire countries. The consequences can be dire like the attack on the Israel water system where a nation state tried to poison the water. Industrial operations can be directly impacted and shut down. In 2020, both a U.S. natural gas pipeline and Australian steel company operations where shut down until the attack was contained. Adoption of M2M Automation Expanding Industry Control System Attack The OT and ICS attack surface is expanding with 61% of incidents disrupted production processes. Securing today’s critical infrastructure against cyber-attacks is more challenging than ever before for a couple of reasons. First, ICS assets are more vulnerable to attack as many were never meant to be connected to a network.  Second, are become more connected as companies embrace ‘Industry 4.0.’  Industry 4.0 is the combination of traditional manufacturing with the latest technology, including IoT and machine to machine (M2M) communications, to enable automated, smart processes. ICS systems This has great benefits, but it has expanded the OT and ICS networks to connect tens of thousands new, intelligent devices – which means thousands of new points of vulnerability.  This has continued to blur the line between OT and IT networks making it easier for hackers to move laterally across the network. Best Practices for Preventing Ransomware and other Sophisticated Cyber Attacks some insights on why ransomware attacks happen, how they happen, and what can be done to protect your organization. In a 2020 webinar on Protecting Industrial Control Systems and OT Networks from a Cyber Pandemic, Check Point shared The first step is to get visibility into the threat risk in your network and devices. Companies need an easy way to identify what devices are connected to the network, what information is being passed, and determine the vulnerability and risk of that communication. The second is being able to monitor ICS and SCADA protocols and commands, so security professionals can determine if the systems are connecting and communicating as they should be. And lastly, you need to be able to easily create security policies designed for OT and ICS systems that can prevent security breaches and keep up with the latest threats. Where companies run into headaches is making sure all of this is done without impacting security operations. Security must be easy to implement and automatically updated, so security does not impact day to day operations.  Here are some key security best practices to keep in mind, so you are protected when a cyber-criminal tries to sneak through the back door of your network. Check Point’s Critical Infrastructure Security Solution: Quantum Rugged 1570 R Security Gateway Check Point’s ICS security solution including is the quickest way to minimize your risk exposure across IT and OT environments, and block attacks before they reach critical assets. All in a way that is easily scalable and non-disruptive to critical processes. Quantum Rugged Next Generation Firewalls, 1. Always Have the Ability to Discover & Assess Network/Device Risks Check Point enables you to discover all OT and ICS assets as well as determine the security risks and vulnerabilities. From a single console, you can view all assets classified based on their risk level and drill down for a risk analysis per asset. 2. Implement Zero Trust Security Policies Once your risks are identified, you should practice policies customized per device to instantly minimize your risk exposure. This saves months of manual policy configurations and ensures your OT assets are secure, even when they are first connected to the network. This allows you to easily implement policies that will ensure systems only use communication protocols they are allowed to use and enables you to block unauthorized access. Zero Trust security 3. Threat Prevention Starts with IT/OT Network Segmentation They key to network design is SEGMENTATION, so hackers can’t latterly move across your IT infrastructure to the manufacturing facility. provide boundary protection between the IT and the OT network and micro segmentation among product lines and departments on the shop floor.  The Purdue module in the diagram is the preferred method of IT and OT . With granular visibility into SCADA protocols and commands, these firewalls provide access control throughout the OT environments. Check Point Next-Generation Firewalls like the Quantum Rugged 1570R network segmentation 4. Threat Prevention with Protection Against the latest Threats As we learned earlier, security should be easy to implement without impacting operations. Check Point’s solutions enable you to protect all devices against known and unknown through virtual patching. Check Point has over 300 IPS prevention signatures against OT related attacks that are constantly being updated through our ThreatCloud threat intelligence database.   Check Point ThreatCloud is the largest threat intelligence network on the globe. It has unmatched visibility the latest malware and phishing attacks. Zero day attacks Get Prepared to Prevent a Ransomware Attack on your Organization We are aware that this could all seem a little daunting, but we’re here to help you every step of the way with security solutions that meet the unique needs of your organization.   Given the recent stories in the news regarding the rapid increase of ransomware attacks. It’s no longer a matter of IF, but WHEN it will happen to you.  It’s never too early to start implementing a preventative security strategy to protect your organization. , so we can show you how Check Point OT Security Solutions and the 1570R can help secure your industrial control systems. Sign up for a free demo

Ransomware Attacks: How to Protect Enterprises and Critical Infrastructure

Toppled power lines catalyze fires and electrical injuries amid an already upsetting hurricane. Natural disaster recovery is expensive and time-consuming, as its ferocity makes operations more complex. The time for resilient, modern infrastructure is now and that is visible in the planet’s extensive network of underwater cables. However, critical fixtures like these are prime targets for cybercriminals because of how much data travels through them. Are humans doing enough to safeguard them? The Importance of Undersea Internet Cables Undersea cables are as subtle as they can be despite worldwide. They are small in diameter and house impressively thin wires despite the immense pressures and climate of the deep ocean. Visualizing how much they impact the world’s day-to-day operations is challenging. However, they are deceptively critical for our productive, communicative planet, sending up to 224 Tbps (terabits per second). spanning 1.4 million kilometers Global Connectivity An estimated through hundreds of fiber-optic undersea cables. Disrupting this much communication and data transfer with careless cable management and security could uproot societies. 97% of Earth’s information passes The subsea infrastructure map describes international relations and what regions are responsible for the most information distribution and retrieval. Because this information is public, it’s straightforward for criminal syndicates to craft a profitable project. Economic Impact Nations connected to these cables have a more impressive global reach, signifying international economic prominence, expansion, and urban development. Unfortunately, cybersecurity breaches are expensive to isolate and recoup from, and prices balloon yearly. Critical infrastructure compromises have a price tag higher than any other type of breach, per instance. This is a culmination of essential businesses shutting down and becoming inoperable, labor required to contain the threat, and resources necessary to put everything back online and salvage extricated data. averaging around $5 million Technological Advancements Submarine cables are one of the backbones of digital transformation and tech development. These were and the Internet of Things because they deliver high-speed, low-latency connections to every area. The robust infrastructure makes communities more efficient and convenient, but its surface area means more entry points and potential vulnerabilities for hackers. critical in expanding 5G Physical Threats to Undersea Cables Cybersecurity risks are not all hidden within the digital ether — physical threats accompany those efforts. How do they appear and how can the world defend against them? Natural Disasters and Wildlife Seismic activity and oceanic storms threaten cable sturdiness. Additionally, sharks and other marine life add more stress. Severed cables leave gaps for hackers to tinker and fix the wires to work for them. Advocating for regulation to standardize the usage of strong materials that do not degrade under sand and water is necessary for keeping them out of harm’s way. Additionally, endorsing any legislation to reduce climate change impacts indirectly supports subsea cable health. Human Activities Consider how a heavy anchor could cut or smash an old cable. Threat actors are just as capable of this type of physical destruction to cyber infrastructure as they are of executing it within digital landscapes. Other destructive activities include drilling or fishing. Additionally, and could permeate any commercial industry with financially-susceptible interests. nation-state sabotage is not unheard of Aging Infrastructure New cables may hit ocean floors, but this does not mean old ones are getting the upgrade they need. Additionally, many of the most critical wires are in clumps, making it easier to attack a lot at once. Updates should include redistributing chokepoints for less concentrated attack surfaces. Even amateur hackers know antiquated technology stops receiving support, meaning vulnerabilities abound. Undersea transmission must be able to receive ongoing patches and updates to withstand novel threat variants. Cyber Threats to Undersea Cables The attacks within digital spaces are arguably more destructive. These are the most notable threat variants and ways humanity should protect cables. Wiretapping Tapping undersea cables has been , demonstrating the literal leagues people will go to impede and damage communications and information. This can happen by going underwater or tapping it from a landing station. happening since the First World War DDoS Attacks Interrupting internet connections is a lucrative venture, primarily when and health care rely on connectivity just as much as everyone else. Overwhelming submarine cables are an obvious way to extend the outage duration because remediation takes so long. essential services like finance Data Interception Instead of destroying or bombarding cables, why not place a small bug to capture bytes of sensitive data? Disrupting signals allows criminals to receive immediate information while redirecting or obstructing communication — a popular option for espionage. Surveillance threats are harder to catch, making them enticing to criminal outfits. Intercepting data may also occur through social engineering, such as manipulating an official to steal credentials to access subsea wire operating systems. Protection of Undersea Cables Dedicated upkeep makes these techniques viable for the long term. Next-generation remote monitoring and maintenance systems will be quintessential for identifying threat attempts, detecting backdoors, submitting updates, and gathering data. This calls for upgraded inventory management systems , as well as coordinate and record each cable with greater visibility. to cut costs and improve efficiency Education on physical and digital threats is vital for forging plans to make undersea cables secure. The International Cable Protection Committee is an example of the degree of commitment the planet needs. They submit calls to action from the most powerful entities, including recent events like involving hard-to-access, damaged cables. the compromises in the Red Sea Generally, international laws to deliver the coverage undersea cables demand. Writing contingency plans, filling out regulatory gaps, and completing more risk assessments require dedicated research into the resilience and distribution of the wires. This knowledge is limited, publicly unavailable or hard to access. need to be more holistic Advanced encryption and security measures based on the most up-to-date compliance frameworks ensure the industry’s best knowledge shields these cables. More digital and physical walls equate to better data integrity. Authorities must get into the habit of consulting with leaders like the ICPC and related organizations for informed guidance. This includes discussing industry threats and thoughtful operations execution with businesses like fisheries. Out of Sight, Out of Mind Ignoring the power and value of submarine cables allows their data and influence to fall into the hands of cybercriminals. More comprehensive and strict protective measures are crucial for withstanding the modern hacker’s constantly developing and subversive tactics. Global connectivity and sustainable development mandate it, which only happens with collaboration and awareness of how essential underwater infrastructure is.

Are We Ignoring the Cybersecurity Risks of Undersea Internet Cables?

In this series we’ll discuss the role of both operational and information technology in critical infrastructure from the point of view of an electric utility. We’ll then explore the role that Enterprise Resource Planning plays in this context. In doing so, we’ll demonstrate that, in addition to being an integral component of business operations, ERP systems also contain mission critical applications, crucial to maintaining safe and reliable critical infrastructure. We’ll expose the issues IT and Cybersecurity teams face in maintaining and protecting ERP systems, including a lack of transparency with business units, complexity as a result of high customization, and, most importantly, a persistent lack of adequate resources to maintain healthy and performant systems. Finally, we’ll demonstrate how a dedicated team of risk professionals can right these wrongs, gain a windfall of additional resources from federal and state governments, and build better, more transparent relationships with regulators. In the process, they’ll form lasting, collaborative relationships between IT and the rest of business, building a steadfast coalition dedicated to the highest purpose of all, greater public safety. ERP and Critical Infrastructure: A Series Electricity is the lifeblood of modern civilization, powering our homes, industries, and essential services. While electric, gas, and water utilities stand at the forefront, other forms of critical infrastructure include telecommunications, transportation systems, and healthcare facilities. Critical infrastructure refers to assets, systems, and networks foundational for our society to function. Electric utilities run on both Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) networks. OT networks in electric utilities prioritize real-time operational functions, such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems and process control systems. These specialized networks facilitate the monitoring and control of physical devices and processes. IT networks, on the other hand, are the conventional user networks that the rest of the business uses to run its day-to-day operations and communicate with the outside world. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are part of the IT network. They integrate various business processes, including finance, human resources, procurement, and inventory management. ERP systems streamline operations by providing a centralized platform for data management and decision-making, enhancing efficiency and resource utilization. … Can we safely and reliably provide electricity without it? That’s the question an electric utility asks itself when determining which of its assets are mission critical. In the context of an electric utility, and other critical infrastructure, mission critical assets are thought to live on the OT network. And they do. A failure or compromise of Operational Technology could result in the flooding of an entire city. This is because OT systems control the operation(s?) of dams. OT hydroelectric power generation systems exercise precise control over the flow of water, a process fundamental to achieving optimal power generation while maintaining safety standards and preserving environmental integrity. If compromised, such systems hold the potential to trigger a catastrophic event. The is provided by The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for utilities to determine the criticality of their tech-enabled dams based on the number of people at risk if compromised. flowchart below A failure or compromise of OT systems could also impact grid reliability, disrupting essential services and endangering public safety. OT bulk power systems control the power supply across North America. Due to the interconnected nature of the North American power grid, even a handful of utilities experiencing OT failures could have cascading effects throughout the entire region, or even across regions, causing widespread blackouts (region map below). This happened on November 9th, 1965, when a power failure in Ontario, Canada cut off power to over 30 million people in parts of Canada, New York, New Jersey and most of New England. And on August 14 and 15, 2003, the northeastern U.S. and southern Canada suffered the worst power blackout in history. Areas affected extended from New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey west to Michigan, and from Ohio north to Toronto and Ottawa, Ontario. Approximately 50 million customers were impacted. So who regulates this? The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) was chartered as a result of the Department of Energy Organization Act of 1977, signed by President Jimmy Carter. FERC serves as an independent agency within the US Department of Energy (DOE) that regulates the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil. To maintain the reliability of the bulk power system, FERC reviews, approves, and enforces mandatory reliability standards developed by an organization called the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). FERC’s reliability jurisdiction primarily focuses on reliable operation of the grid. The aim is to ensure the real-time and day-to-day operations of the grid by developing and enforcing operational and business standards ( ). see “grid” as defined by FERC below According to FERC, grid reliability is based on two key elements: – A reliable power grid has the ability to withstand sudden electric system disturbances that can lead to blackouts. Reliable operation - Generally speaking, resource adequacy is the ability of the electric system to meet the energy needs of electricity consumers. This means having sufficient generation to meet projected electric demand. Resource adequacy OT systems are used to ensure “reliable operation” by isolating failures so they do not spread across the interconnected power grid. They are used to ensure “resource adequacy” by optimizing the distribution of electricity based on real-time demand and using automated load balancing to manage the flow of power to match consumption patterns, preventing overloading. OT systems also track the condition of equipment, analyzing performance data to predict potential failures, allowing proactive maintenance and protecting the lives of crew members in the field. They employ sensors and monitoring devices to detect faults, such as short circuits or equipment malfunctions that could cause disastrous and potentially deadly fires. And, In the event of emergencies like natural disasters, OT systems facilitate coordinated responses. They enable quick isolation of affected areas, rerouting power to minimize the impact of these life threatening events. A stable, protected, and defended electric utility is imperative to prevent disruptions that can have cascading effects on various sectors, including hospitals, elderly care homes, emergency response systems, and other critical infrastructure. When we think about IT technology in this context, we worry about adequate network segmentation to avoid cyber threats traversing from IT networks where they’re disruptive to OT networks where they’re potentially catastrophic (see illustration below). AT&T’s network segmentation But what if I told you that an attack on the IT network alone can also be catastrophic? That you could not safely and reliably provide electricity without ERP systems? And that these systems are far too often fragile, underprotected, under-resourced sitting ducks? More on that in part two

Enterprise Resource Planning & Critical Infrastructure

Benefits and Challenges of Implementing ASPM According to a report by Gartner, "by 2022, 60% of enterprise application security budgets will be allocated to application security posture management (ASPM), up from less than 10% in 2020." Application Security Posture Management (ASPM) is an approach to managing the security of applications throughout their lifecycle, from development to production. It helps organizations identify, prioritize, and remediate vulnerabilities, comply with regulations and reduce the risk of data breaches. Implementing ASPM can be challenging, but it offers many benefits, including improved security posture, reduced risk of data breaches, and regulatory compliance. Organizations can start with ASPM by understanding the ASPM framework, conducting a risk assessment, developing a security plan, and implementing security controls. By adopting a comprehensive approach to security management, organizations can protect their valuable data and reduce the risk of cyber-attacks. TLDR: Introduction In the digital age, applications are crucial to a business's success. However, they are now vulnerable to cyber-attacks due to their increasing complexity and dependencies. Organizations are adopting Application Security Posture Management (ASPM) to ensure data and system security. ASPM is a holistic approach that identifies, prioritizes, and remediates vulnerabilities in applications throughout their lifecycle. By adopting ASPM, organizations can reduce the risk of data breaches, comply with regulations, and improve their overall security posture. This review provides an overview of ASPM and its benefits, implementation challenges, and public reports supporting its adoption. With ASPM, businesses can safeguard their applications from cyber threats. Learn more about ASPM and enhance your organization's security. What is Application Security Posture Management? ASPM is a holistic approach to managing the security posture of applications throughout their lifecycle, from development to production. It involves processes, tools, and techniques that help organizations identify, prioritize, and remediate vulnerabilities in their applications. ASPM aims to provide a comprehensive view of an organization's application security posture by considering risk, impact, and compliance factors. Benefits of Application Security Posture Management ASPM offers several benefits to organizations, including: Improved Security Posture: ASPM helps organizations identify and prioritize vulnerabilities, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate risks and improve their overall security posture. Regulatory Compliance: ASPM helps organizations comply with industry regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS by identifying and addressing application security gaps. Reduced Risk of Data Breaches: By identifying and remediating vulnerabilities, ASPM reduces the risk of data breaches and other security incidents. ASPM vs. CSPM ASPM focuses specifically on managing the security of applications throughout their lifecycle, from development to production. It involves identifying and addressing application vulnerabilities by implementing processes, tools, and techniques that provide a comprehensive view of an organization's application security posture. On the other hand, CSPM is focused on managing the security of cloud infrastructure, including public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. CSPM involves identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in cloud infrastructure by implementing processes, tools, and techniques that provide a comprehensive view of an organization's cloud security posture. While both approaches share some similarities, such as focusing on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, they differ in several ways. ASPM is primarily concerned with the security of applications, whereas CSPM is focused on cloud infrastructure security. ASPM typically involves collaboration between development, operations, and security teams, whereas CSPM often involves collaboration between IT and security teams. Finally, ASPM is focused on managing the security posture of applications throughout their lifecycle, whereas CSPM is focused on managing the security posture of cloud infrastructure at all times. Overall, both ASPM and CSPM are essential approaches to managing the security posture of modern organizations. By adopting a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to security management, organizations can effectively identify and address vulnerabilities in their applications and cloud infrastructure, reducing the risk of cyber-attacks and protecting their valuable data. Aspect ASPM CSPM Focus Applications Cloud infrastructure Scope Development to production All times Collaboration Development, operations, and security teams IT and security teams Objective Managing the security posture of applications Managing the security posture of cloud infrastructure Complexity Moderate High Metrics Focus on application vulnerabilities Focus on cloud infrastructure vulnerabilities ASPM vs. CNAPP Application Security Posture Management (ASPM) and Cloud-Native Application Posture Protection (CNAPP) are two approaches focused on securing applications. While by considering risk, impact, and compliance factors, ASPM aims to provide a comprehensive view of an organization's application security posture CNAPP focuses explicitly on managing cloud-native applications designed and built for cloud environments. In today's digital age, the importance of ASPM cannot be overstated. No matter how secure a cloud configuration may be, various factors can influence an application's security when released into the wild. Third-party dependencies, exposed APIs, sensitive data flows, and late-breaking or zero-day vulnerabilities can all pose significant threats that are difficult to understand, let alone manage, when releasing code to production at scale. ASPM is a holistic approach to managing the security posture of applications throughout their lifecycle, from development to production. It involves implementing processes, tools, and techniques that enable organizations to identify, prioritize, and remediate vulnerabilities promptly and efficiently. By doing so, organizations can significantly reduce their risk of security breaches and protect their applications from potential threats. Challenges in Implementing Application Security Posture Management Implementing ASPM can be challenging for organizations. Some of the common challenges include: Lack of Resources: Implementing ASPM requires specialized skills and tools, which can be expensive and time-consuming to acquire and implement. Resistance to Change: ASPM involves changes to existing processes, which can be met with resistance from development, operations, and security teams. Complexity: The sheer complexity of applications and their dependencies can make identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities challenging. Lack of Metrics: Measuring the effectiveness of ASPM can be challenging without proper metrics and reporting. How to Get Started? Getting started with Application Security Posture Management (ASPM) can be overwhelming, but the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed guidelines to help organizations implement ASPM effectively. Here's how to get started with ASPM: Familiarize yourself with the ASPM framework developed by NIST. This framework guides establishing, managing, and improving an ASPM program. provides detailed guidance on ASPM and can be a helpful reference. Understand the ASPM framework: NIST Special Publication 800-204, "Security Strategies for Microservices-based Application Systems," Determine the scope of your ASPM program by identifying the applications that need to be assessed and the security standards and regulations that apply to them. Identify the scope of your ASPM program: Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and risks to your applications. This will help you prioritize your ASPM efforts and focus on the most critical areas. Conduct a risk assessment: Develop a security plan that outlines the security controls, policies, and procedures you will implement to mitigate identified risks and vulnerabilities. Develop a security plan: Implement security controls to address the risks and vulnerabilities identified in the risk assessment and outlined in the security plan. Implement security controls: Monitor your ASPM program regularly to ensure that security controls are adequate, risks are identified and addressed, and compliance with security standards and regulations is maintained. Monitor and evaluate your ASPM program: Organizations should also refer to the for guidance on how to start with ASPM. The publication provides organizations can use to assess, monitor, and protect their applications. NIST SP800-53 a comprehensive set of security controls Additionally, organizations should consider leveraging existing tools and approaches, such as threat detection, identity, and access management (IAM) solutions, software composition analysis (SCA), and containerization with secure by design, to protect their data further. Conclusion: ASPM is a Vital Approach Application Security Posture Management is an essential approach for organizations to ensure the security of their applications and protect their data in today's digital age. While implementing ASPM can be challenging, the benefits it offers are invaluable. Numerous public reports and studies have highlighted the importance of ASPM, emphasizing the need for organizations to adopt a holistic approach involving people, processes, and technology (PPT Framework). By adopting ASPM, organizations can ensure their applications are secure, meet regulatory compliance requirements, and reduce the risk of data breaches, ultimately protecting their business and customers from cyber threats. Thank you for reading. May InfoSec be with you🖖.

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CYBER INFRASTRUCTURE INC.

cisin.com

1K-5K employees

Since 2003

COMPANY RANKING

CYBER INFRASTRUCTURE INC.

EVERGREEN INDEX #2941

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