Dr. Chase Cunningham - Defend & Conquer Weekly Review November 29, 2023

In this week's cybersecurity news report, we delve into some key topics that are shaping the future of cybersecurity. From the adoption of Zero Trust principles to the latest cybersecurity trends, it is crucial for organizations to stay informed and prepared. Let's explore these topics in more detail.

Australia Sets Whole-of-Government Zero Trust Target

The Australian government has taken a significant step towards improving cybersecurity by setting an ambitious target to have a Zero Trust culture embedded across the Australian public service by 2030. In a revised security strategy released recently, the government outlined its commitment to building a Zero Trust culture and expanding the role of the National Cybersecurity Coordinator. This move highlights the importance of adopting a Zero Trust approach at the organizational level to enhance overall security posture and protect critical assets against emerging threats.

Cybersecurity Trends for 2023

Cybersecurity trends are constantly evolving as threat actors adapt to new technologies and strategies. In a recent article by Rachel Blair Frazier, managing editor of Remote Workforce at Securitymagazine.com, several trends are identified for the coming year:

1. Cyber Insurance: While cyber insurance is not a foolproof solution, it is still essential for organizations to consider as an added layer of protection.

2. Generative AI: With the rise of artificial intelligence, its potential for both positive and negative applications is a key concern in cybersecurity.

3. Security Awareness Training: While often deemed repetitive and unengaging, security awareness training remains an important component of a robust cybersecurity program.

4. API Security: In the era of interconnected systems, securing Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) becomes a critical priority to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

5. Zero Trust: The adoption of a Zero Trust architecture, where security permissions are granted on a need-to-know basis, is increasing due to its effectiveness against lateral movement in networks.

6. Posture Management: Ensuring a strong security posture is crucial to mitigate attack vectors and vulnerabilities, making it an ongoing trend in the cybersecurity landscape.

Keeping up to date with these trends and aligning with best practices will help organizations stay ahead of evolving threats.

Healthcare Network in East Texas Faces Cybersecurity Incident

In a distressing incident, a network of hospitals in East Texas had to turn away ambulances due to a cybersecurity breach. The UT Health East Texas network, which consists of ten hospitals and over 90 clinics, experienced system disruptions that prevented them from accepting patients. This incident underscores the critical importance of maintaining robust cybersecurity measures in healthcare organizations. Lives could be at stake when cybersecurity incidents disrupt emergency services, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive protection in critical infrastructure sectors.

Small and Mid-Sized Businesses Face Legitimate Tool Based Attacks

Despite the common notion that only large organizations are targeted by cyber attacks, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming victims of cybercriminals. Huntress, a leading cybersecurity company, reports that threat actors are shifting their focus from traditional malware-based attacks to exploiting legitimate tools. This tactic allows adversaries to blend into the network, making detection more challenging. Organizations must recognize the threat posed by legitimate tools, such as PowerShell, and take necessary steps, such as disabling unused tools and implementing comprehensive security measures, to safeguard their networks.

Preparedness for Cyberattacks in Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

A recent poll conducted by HBS Dealer revealed that only around 40% of small and mid-sized businesses feel adequately prepared for a cyberattack. This statistic is alarming, considering the increasing number of breaches targeting SMBs. It is crucial for organizations of all sizes to prioritize cybersecurity strategies and invest in comprehensive defenses to protect their assets, customers, and brand reputation. Ignoring cybersecurity can have severe consequences, including financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities.

In conclusion, staying informed about emerging cybersecurity trends and adopting robust security measures is essential for organizations of all sizes. The adoption of Zero Trust principles, awareness of cybersecurity trends, and implementing comprehensive security strategies can significantly enhance an organization's defense against evolving threats. Organizations must prioritize cybersecurity and implement necessary measures to protect critical assets and ensure the trust of their stakeholders. Remember, cybersecurity is not an option; it is a necessity for businesses to thrive in the digital age.

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*Chase Cunningham is a cybersecurity expert and Zero Trust advocate. He holds a doctorate in cybersecurity and serves as a contributing writer for CybersecurityHQ.*