Apple has released another security update in less than two weeks to bolster the security of iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. The latest update iOS 4.3.5 resolves a validation issue associated with the handling of X.509 certificates. X.509 is one of the standards used for defining digital certificates. The vulnerability could allow an attacker, who has already gained privileged access to a network to identify various Secure Socket Layer (SSL)/Transport Layer Security (TLS) sessions, intercept the traffic and extract or alter the transmitting content. As such, for successful exploitation of the vulnerability, an attacker must have already compromised a machine and have attained access to the network. The update is applicable to iPad, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 (GSM), iPod Touch 3G and 4G. Apple has also released a separate update iOS 4.2.5 for iPhone 4 (CDMA) users for addressing the same security issue.

Attackers may gain access to confidential personal information related to the individuals by exploiting the vulnerability. They may use the extracted data for fraudulent purposes. They may even devise more sophisticated schemes to extract further information. Earlier in the month, Apple issued an update to fix an issue that allowed people to unlock or jailbreak their devices, and run restricted software. Apple was relatively quick in issuing the out-of-cycle update.

Vulnerabilities in software products may arise due to coding errors, wrong assumption of the operating environment, creation of new exploits by cybercriminals among others. Negligence and lack of security awareness among users also provide opportunities for attackers to exploit flaws and gain unauthorized access to devices. Vulnerabilities come into light either by their active exploitation by attackers, or on their identification by independent security researchers or professionals affiliated to various developers. In this case, security researchers affiliated to BSI and SpiderLabs identified the vulnerabilities. Developers must regular test the strength of the software products through penetration testing, detect and mitigate security flaws. Professionals qualified in masters of security science may help developers in understanding the prevalent risks in the business environment.

While attackers solely concentrate on exploiting flaws, developers face the constant challenge of developing innovative products to beat the competition. They also face shortage of experts in meeting the challenges posed by cybercriminals. Again, attackers take advantage of the time lag between patch release by a developer and its subsequent implementation by individuals and organizations. Threats in the IT space are vibrant and professionals must update their technical skills and know-how by undertaking online university degree programs and security certifications.

Individuals must keep track of the security updates by subscribing to alerts, following security blogs and advisories by developers. E-tutorials and online degree programs may help individuals in understanding and implementing cyber security fundamentals. Users must immediately install the security update to safeguard their devices and sensitive information stored on them. Proactive approach to security is required to deal with ever evolving and sophisticated threats in the IT environment. Developers and Internet security firms must coordinate to improve IT security awareness among the end-users and improve security practices.

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EC-Council
Website: http://www.eccuni.us
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 505-341-3228

EC-Council University is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico and offers Master of Security Science (MSS) degree to students from various backgrounds such as graduates, IT Professionals, and military students amongst several others. The MSS is offered as a 100% online degree program and allows EC-Council University to reach students from not only the United States, but from all around the world.

EC-Council is a member-based organization that certifies individuals in cybersecurity and e-commerce skills. It is the owner and developer of 16 security certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI) and EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)/License Penetration Tester (LPT). Its certificate programs are offered in over 60 countries around the world.

EC-Council has trained over 80,000 individuals and certified more than 30,000 members, through more than 450 training partners globally. These certifications are recognized worldwide and have received endorsements from various government agencies including the U.S. federal government via the Montgomery GI Bill, Department of Defense via DoD 8570.01-M, National Security Agency (NSA) and the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS). EC-Council also operates the global series of Hacker Halted security conferences.

Advancements in information and communication technologies have led to development and proliferation of innovative mobile and wireless devices. The changing dynamics of business has resulted in increased penetration of smartphones in large organizations. According to a survey by market research firm TNS, smartphone usage represents more than 50% of all handheld wireless devices used by corporate users in United States (U.S). Further, one in three households now use smartphones, signifying growth in consumer adoption.

At the same time, mobile devices are increasingly becoming popular targets of cybercriminals. Almost all IT security firms have cautioned users against rising threat to mobile and wireless devices. Recently, security researchers identified security flaws in Wi-Fi, which could be exploited to extract sensitive information and conduct identity theft and fraud. The research sponsored by Guardian involved tests with volunteers. Security researchers were able to extract confidential information such as usernames, passwords, and messages from smartphones. The research identified that fraudsters may easily download communications equipment and software, from the Internet and set up counterfeit Wi-Fi gateways in hotels, train stations and airports. Attackers may use software, which could be run on a laptop to decrypt information transmitted through the gateway.

In a case of another test by security researchers, a counter Wi-Fi hotspot was used, which enticed users to connect to Internet by paying through credit card. Users have to click a box to accept the terms and conditions. The terms and conditions clearly indicate that personal log in and credit card information could be used for any purpose. Negligent users, who agree to the services, without reading the terms and conditions, expose themselves to data theft. The extracted information could be misused for making fraudulent transactions, impersonation, and collecting further user and company information. Fraudsters could also gain unauthorized access to e-mail accounts, and use them for propagating spam e-mails.

The vibrant threats pose challenge to counter crime agencies. Hiring services of information security experts could help counter crime agencies in identifying fake schemes and techniques used by fraudsters. Professionals working with counter crime agencies could update themselves on latest threats by undertaking e-learning and online university degree programs.

Fraudsters also strive to identify and exploit security flaws in mobile devices. The recent spate of data breaches has reemphasized the significance of information security. While mobile devices add to the convenience of the users, manufacturers must address the information security concerns of customers. Professionals qualified in masters of security science and penetration testing may help manufactures in identifying the security flaws in devices and recommend corrective action.

Regulatory authorities must collaborate with manufactures, counter crime agencies and information security experts to create security awareness among users. Online degree programs, e-tutorials, e-flyers and social media sites could be used to create understanding of security threats and precautionary measures to be adopted by customers.

Contact Press

EC-Council
Website: http://www.eccuni.us
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 505-341-3228

EC-Council University is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico and offers Master of Security Science (MSS) degree to students from various backgrounds such as graduates, IT Professionals, and military students amongst several others. The MSS is offered as a 100% online degree program and allows EC-Council University to reach students from not only the United States, but from all around the world.

EC-Council is a member-based organization that certifies individuals in cybersecurity and e-commerce skills. It is the owner and developer of 16 security certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI) and EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)/License Penetration Tester (LPT). Its certificate programs are offered in over 60 countries around the world.

EC-Council has trained over 80,000 individuals and certified more than 30,000 members, through more than 450 training partners globally. These certifications are recognized worldwide and have received endorsements from various government agencies including the U.S. federal government via the Montgomery GI Bill, Department of Defense via DoD 8570.01-M, National Security Agency (NSA) and the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS). EC-Council also operates the global series of Hacker Halted security conferences.

Does your company rely on a computer network? Do you have multiple computers that are connected to the same Internet connection and that share files on the same network? If so, you must concern yourself with the general security of your business computer network. If you don’t concern yourself with the security of your business network, you could end up becoming vulnerable to virtual attacks and could also end up facing major damages that could result in a loss of money and clients.

Every year multiple companies are attacked by hackers or outside sources. These hackers will invade a company’s computer network and will either steal information from their database or will unleash viruses onto the network that will destroy business files. Many hackers will invade business computer networks in order to steal financial documents. They will hack into billing statements and will steal credit card numbers and will begin making charges on the accounts.

This can have terrible effects on a company’s public image. First and foremost, they could end up losing customers due to lack of security and secondly they could be held liable financially for repaying all money that is lost. Therefore, all business owners must go out of the way to protect their business computer networks.

Penetration testing, also known as pen testing, can assist a company in ensuring the security of their business computer network. Penetration testing can be used to test a computer network in order to determine its security.  Penetration testing carries out numerous actions. First, it will scan your system and will determine if it is vulnerable to attacks. It will then run “mock” attacks on your business network to see how your system responds.  If your network fails to respond properly, this Penetration testing will provide you with a detailed report on what you need to do to fix these issues.

Penetration testing can also be used as an antispam appliance. It can successfully provide protection to your computer networks Internet connection in order to put a stop to spam attacks. An antispam appliance can effectively put a stop to common spam that attacks company emails or that is the direct result of a spam related website that any employee of your company may visit while using your computer network. In fact, spam is one of the most popular forms of virus releasing that hackers use. This makes it even more important for your company to take advantage of an antispam appliance.

The Penetrator from Sec Point is an antispam appliance and penetration testing device that can effectively provide protection and security for your entire business network. It can ensure that your system is protected not only from spam but from attacks from hackers as well. The Penetrator is in fact one of the top selling antispam appliance applications available to businesses.

Another great thing about The Penetrator is that it is priced to sale!  It is a very affordable antispam appliance that businesses of all sizes can easily fit into their tight budgets.

The Protector is an antispam appliance and penetration testing
System from Sec Point. It is a very effective and affordable pen testing system that can easily and effectively protect your business computer network.