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Ransomware volume already doubled 2021 total by end of Q1 2022 says WatchGuard Threat Lab Report

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New research shows Log4Shell detections tripled, PowerShell scripts heavily influenced a surge in endpoint attacks, the Emotet botnet came back in a big way and malicious cryptomining activity increased

28 June 2022 – Ransomware detections in the first quarter of this year doubled the total volume reported for 2021, according to the latest quarterly Internet Security Report from the WatchGuard Threat Lab. Researchers also found that the Emotet botnet came back in a big way, the infamous Log4Shell vulnerability tripled its attack efforts and malicious cryptomining activity increased.

Although findings from the Threat Lab’s Q4 2021 report showed ransomware attacks trending down year over year, that all changed in Q1 2022 with a massive explosion in ransomware detections. While Q4 2021 saw the downfall of the infamous REvil cybergang, WatchGuard analysis suggests that this opened the door for the LAPSUS$ extortion group to emerge, which along with many new ransomware variants such as BlackCat – the first known ransomware written in the Rust programming language – could be contributing factors to an ever-increasing ransomware and cyber-extortion threat landscape.

The report also shows that EMEA continues to be a hotspot for malware threats. Overall regional detections of basic and evasive malware show WatchGuard Fireboxes in EMEA were hit harder than those in North, Central and South America (AMER) at 57% and 22%, respectively, followed by Asia-Pacific (APAC) at 21%.

“Based on the early spike in ransomware this year and data from previous quarters, we predict 2022 will break our record for annual ransomware detections,” said Corey Nachreiner, chief security officer at WatchGuard. “We continue to urge companies to not only commit to implementing simple but critically important measures but also to adopt a true unified security approach that can adapt quickly and efficiently to growing and evolving threats.”

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Other key findings from this Internet Security Report include:

  • Log4Shell makes its debut on the top 10 network attacks list – Publicly disclosed in early December 2021, the Apache Log4j2 vulnerability, also known as Log4Shell, debuted on the top 10 network attack list fashionably late this quarter. Compared to aggregate IPS detections in Q4 2021, the Log4Shell signature nearly tripled in the first quarter of this year. Highlighted as the top security incident in WatchGuard’s previous Internet Security Report, Log4Shell garnered attention for scoring a perfect 10.0 on CVSS, the maximum possible criticality for a vulnerability, and because of its widespread use in Java programs and the level of ease in arbitrary code execution
  • Emotet’s comeback tour continues – Despite law enforcement disruption efforts in early 2021, Emotet accounts for three of the top 10 detections and the top widespread malware this quarter following its resurgence in Q4 2021. Detections of Trojan.Vita, which heavily targeted Japan and appeared in the top five encrypted malware list, and Trojan.Valyria both use exploits in Microsoft Office to download the botnet Emotet. The third malware sample related to Emotet, MSIL.Mensa.4, can spread over connected storage devices and mostly targeted networks in the US. Threat Lab data indicates Emotet acts as the dropper, downloading and installing the file from a malware delivery server.
  • PowerShell scripts lead the charge in surging endpoint attacks – Overall endpoint detections for Q1 were up about 38% from the previous quarter. Scripts, specifically PowerShell scripts, were the dominating attack vector. Accounting for 88% of all detections, scripts single-handedly pushed the number of overall endpoint detections clear past the figure reported for the previous quarter. PowerShell scripts were responsible for 99.6% of script detections in Q1, showing how attackers are moving to fileless and living-off-the-land attacks using legitimate tools. Although these scripts are the clear choice for attackers, WatchGuard’s data shows that other malware origin sources shouldn’t be overlooked.
  • Legitimate cryptomining operations associated with malicious activity – All three new additions to the top malware domains list in Q1 were related to Nanopool. This popular platform aggregates cryptocurrency mining activity to enable steady returns. These domains are technically legitimate domains associated with a legitimate organization. However, connections to these mining pools almost always originate in a business or education network from malware infections versus legitimate mining operations.
  • Businesses still facing a wide range of unique network attacks – While the top 10 IPS signatures accounted for 87% of all network attacks; unique detections reached their highest count since Q1 2019. This increase indicates that automated attacks are focusing on a smaller subset of potential exploits rather than trying everything but the kitchen sink. However, businesses are still experiencing a wide range of detections.

WatchGuard’s quarterly research reports are based on anonymised Firebox Feed data from active WatchGuard Fireboxes whose owners have opted to share data in direct support of the Threat Lab’s research efforts. In Q1, WatchGuard blocked a total of more than 21.5 million malware variants (274 per device) and nearly 4.7 million network threats (60 per device). The full report includes details on additional malware and network trends from Q1 2022, recommended security strategies and critical defence tips for businesses of all sizes and in any sector, and more.

For a detailed view of WatchGuard’s research, read the complete Q1 2022 Internet Security Report here, or visit: https://www.watchguard.com/wgrd-resource-center/security-report-q1-2022

About WatchGuard Technologies
WatchGuard® Technologies is a global leader in network security and intelligence, advanced endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, and secure Wi-Fi. The company’s award-winning products and services are trusted around the world by more than 17,000 security resellers and service providers to protect more than 250,000 customers. WatchGuard’s mission is to make enterprise-grade security accessible to companies of all types and sizes through simplicity, making WatchGuard an ideal solution for midmarket businesses and distributed enterprises. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. To learn more, visit WatchGuard.com.

For additional information, promotions and updates, follow WatchGuard on Twitter (@WatchGuard), on Facebook, or on the LinkedIn Company page. Also, visit our InfoSec blog, Secplicity, for real-time information about the latest threats and how to cope with them at www.secplicity.org. Subscribe to The 443 – Security Simplified podcast at Secplicity.org, or wherever you find your favourite podcasts.

WatchGuard is a registered trademark of WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

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Bitcoin

LQWD Technologies To Attend Pacific Bitcoin Conference 2023

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Photo Source: pacificbitcoin.com

LQWD Technologies (TSXV: LQWD) (OTC: LQWDF) a front-runner in Bitcoin Lightning Network solutions, is pleased to announce its participation in the Pacific Bitcoin Conference 2023. This premier event is scheduled to take place in Santa Monica, CA, on October 5-6.

Representing LQWD Technologies at the conference will be CEO Shone Anstey, who will be hosting a dedicated booth.

The Pacific Bitcoin Conference serves as a nexus for knowledge exchange and networking in the realm of Bitcoin and blockchain technologies.

Those interested in attending can find more information and purchase tickets on the official event website. To arrange a meeting with the LQWD Technologies team, please reach out to [email protected].

Website: www.lqwdtech.com
Twitter: @LQWDTech

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the Company’s business plans and the outlook of the Company’s industry. Although the Company believes, considering the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company assumes no responsibility to update them or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances other than as required by applicable securities laws. 

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Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

 

 

 

SOURCE LQWD Technologies Corp.

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Bitcoin

GoMining Reveals Cutting-Edge North NFT Collection

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Leveraging its vast experience since 2017, GoMining is leading the way in bitcoin mining, providing users with an effortless and user-friendly service. Now the company has introduced the so-called North Collection.

The company’s NFT collections provide daily bitcoin rewards to holders, with their substantial fleet of real equipment installed across the globe. Continuing their successful streak after the highly acclaimed East NFT Collection, this latest release marks the next installment in a series of crypto art devoted to various regions. GoMining’s fresh North NFT Collection draws inspiration from three key references: the critical role of low temperatures in mining device operations, the restraint and resilience found in northern regions, and the empowering force driving their endeavors. These references served as the foundation for the collection’s captivating images, reflecting the core principles behind GoMining’s innovative approach to bitcoin mining.

GoMining’s new NFT series is issued on the Binance Smart Chain, utilizing the BEP-20 standard for seamless integration and accessibility. With an impressive energy efficiency rating of 35 W/TH, these NFTs ensure the quickest payback period for holders. Moreover, the NFTs offer a diverse range of computing power options, spanning from 1 to 128 TH/s, accommodating various mining requirements and preferences.

In just over two years, GoMining has achieved remarkable growth. The platform has distributed more than 2,000 BTC to holders, issued 20,000 NFTs, and elevated its overall hash power from 100,000 TH/s to an astounding 2,359,877 TH/s. This exponential progress showcases the project’s resounding success and commitment to innovation in the cryptocurrency and NFT space.

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As per GoMining’s CEO Mark Zalan, the company is doing everything to offer a broad variety of options to its holders, proving its sustainability and transparent approach. “We’ve been in operation for over two years providing consistent rewards for our holders daily. All of our efforts are aimed at showing tangible infrastructure behind the product – in this case real equipment with data centers in different regions like Norway.”

GoMining remains dedicated to introducing updated versions of its NFTs, originally crafted to provide easier access to bitcoin mining. All NFT collections, such as the renowned collaboration with MMA star Khabib Nurmagomedov, combine visually stunning designs with real equipment-generated computing power, offering continuous mining rewards to their owners.

The new North collection is available here.

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Bitcoin

New study reveals the cryptocoins that the US wants to sell the most

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A new study has revealed the cryptocoins Americans want to sell the most, with Bitcoin taking the top spot.

The research was conducted by crypto gambling experts at cryptogambling.tv, who analyzed Google Trends data to establish the cryptocurrencies the US wants to sell the most out of the 24 largest cryptocurrencies by market cap, giving an average weekly search volume for the interest in selling each cryptocoin.

The study revealed that Bitcoin has the highest number of searches from Americans looking to sell this cryptocurrency. Searches to ‘sell bitcoin’ were the highest at the end of July in the United States and worldwide.

Many factors might sway someone to sell their Bitcoin, with the main reason being the current financial and economic strain many countries in the world are facing, prompting people to tap out and cut their losses. Last year the price of the cryptocoin dropped below $16,000, which highlights its downfall tremendously, and with Bitcoin’s value being based purely on speculation, it can be challenging for those who don’t know whether or not to stick with it. 

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Ethereum is the second cryptocoin Americans want to sell the most, with searches for ‘sell Ethereum’ being the highest in September worldwide. Although the currency is known for owning around 20% of the global crypto market, those wanting to invest tend to agree that it is one of the safest long-term coins. The current price of Ethereum is $1,458, and with the cryptocoin shifting its process from PoW to PoS, it’s predicted its supply may reduce.

XRP is the third cryptocoin Americans want to sell the most, as it is predicted that its price will be near $0.198 by the end of this year. XRP runs by RippleNet and is a low-cost coin which is excellent for those who want to begin investing; however, due to the current lawsuit proceedings with the SEC, there is a significant decrease in interest for the currency, which has undoubtedly urged investors to act fast and sell.

The fourth cryptocoin Americans want to sell the most is Dogecoin, which, although it has remained one of the top cryptocurrencies in the industry, is still not a solid investment for many investors. The coin rose over 15,000% over 2021, and for a cryptocoin which was created as a joke when it first began, it has truly exceeded expectations. Many avoid investing in Dogecoin due to its price volatility, no supply limit, and not being as widely accepted as other competing coins; these are reasons why many also want to sell.

Shiba Inu is the fifth cryptocoin that Americans are looking to sell, and while the coin is top-rated, it is advised that those looking to invest should not use it as a long-term investment. The coin is down almost 92% since 2021, but many investors hope it will still go up in time as it is currently at over 589 trillion.

An expert at cryptogambling.tv commented: “The cryptocurrency market is forever fluctuating, and with the increase in economic stress worldwide, it can be an uncertain and nerve-racking time for those hoping to make sound investments in the crypto world.

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“This study offers an interesting insight into which cryptocoins Americans currently want to sell, with Bitcoin being the most popular to sell.” 

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