Mozilla has declared openly that its new VPN – Firefox Private Network is presently undergoing an extended beta after it has been tested for months a part of the Firefox Test Pilot program.
Mozilla, the organization behind the popular Firefox web browser, is venturing into the realm of virtual private networks (VPNs) with the introduction of Firefox Private Network.
Following an extended testing period within the Firefox Test Pilot program, the service is now entering a public beta phase, initially targeting users in the United States.
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Free Tier with Limitations
While Mozilla offers a free tier of Firefox Private Network, it comes with some restrictions. Users can only access the free browser extension, which safeguards their browsing activity solely within the Firefox web browser. This means other applications and online activities won’t be protected by the VPN.
Additionally, the free tier imposes a usage limit of 12 hours per month. To incentivize users to try the service, Mozilla provides 12 one-hour “passes” that can be used within that monthly timeframe. A Firefox account is mandatory to utilize the free browser extension.
Recognizing the limitations of the free tier, Mozilla is also developing a device-level VPN service. This paid version won’t require users to be actively within the Firefox browser to benefit from its protection.
For a limited introductory price of $4.99 per month during the beta phase, this service will offer comprehensive VPN protection for Windows 10 devices.
The paid tier boasts several advantages:
Full Device Protection:Â Unlike the free tier, the paid version encrypts all internet traffic on your device, not just within the Firefox browser. This extends protection to all your online activities, regardless of the application or service you’re using.
Multi-Device Support:Â The paid tier allows connection on up to five devices simultaneously. This means you can safeguard your entire household’s devices with a single subscription, offering wider coverage compared to the free tier.
Global Server Network:Â The paid tier grants access to servers in over 30 countries, providing greater flexibility for geo-restriction bypass and potentially faster connection speeds depending on your location.
Early Access and Future Plans
Those interested in securing a spot in the beta for the paid tier of Firefox Private Network can sign up for the waiting list. For those who prefer immediate access, the free browser extension is readily available for download.
Mozilla’s plans extend beyond the initial beta phase. They intend to expand the paid service to other platforms, including Android, Linux, Mac, iOS, and Chrome OS. This broader availability will cater to a wider range of users seeking a comprehensive VPN solution.
A Privacy-Focused Alternative
Mozilla, with its reputation for championing online privacy, positions Firefox Private Network as a privacy-centric VPN service. Users concerned about data collection and logging practices can potentially find comfort in Mozilla’s established commitment to user privacy.
The introduction of Firefox Private Network presents a new option for users seeking a VPN solution. The free tier offers a basic level of browser protection, while the paid tier provides comprehensive device-level protection at a competitive price during the beta phase.
With expansion plans for multiple platforms on the horizon, Firefox Private Network has the potential to become a compelling choice for users who value online security and privacy.
Note: This was initially published in December 2019, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
This post will show you how hyper-converged market is shifting.
In recent years, hyper-converged industry experts have stayed consistent, but technological options among such giants and other companies have evolved.
Hyper-converged infrastructure pledges can improve IT by merging storage and processing in a single appliance or system. This one-box strategy condenses the flexibility of networked storage and virtualization.
Likewise, providers are increasingly aiming to supply hyper-converged software, particularly software-defined storage.
However, the market is shifting. This is partly due to consumer demand and the increasing focus on cloud-based and as-a-service-style usage during the outbreak, which is expected to last.
Read on to learn what hyper-converged infrastructure is and how the hyper-converged market is shifting.
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What Exactly Is Hyper-Converged Infrastructure?
HCI (hyper-converged infrastructure) combines servers and storage into a single, global system with intelligent software, producing flexible, basic components that replace traditional infrastructure consisting of individual servers, storage arrays, and networks.
It combines data center server hardware with locally connected storage devices and is driven by a distributed software layer to minimize the typical pain points associated with outdated infrastructure.
The 5 Changes In The Hyper-Converged Market
While some vendors have determined that hyperconverged infrastructure is not a viable business model for them, some have joined the industry, particularly with software-defined products.
HCI is now well established as an on-premise alternative, particularly in installations where administrative simplicity is critical. We will look at some of the changes in the hyper-converged industry.
1. As-a-Service
Suppliers market HCI as a service, and it becomes part of the product line. The rise of hyper-converged as a service may be driven more by vendors recognizing a chance to provide resources on a subscription model than by technological advances.
On one level, it makes perfect sense for enterprises purchasing infrastructure as a service (IaaS) to acquire HCI. Scalability of cloud infrastructure on a node-by-node basis will decrease administration overheads if the workload suits itself to horizontal instead of vertical scaling. It may also make it easier to replicate on-premise HCI workloads onto the cloud.
In response, CIOs must determine if HCI is appropriate for the workloads they want to migrate to IaaS or the public cloud in general. One advantage of the cloud is the ability to purchase computing and storage resources independently and scale them up or down as needed.
Some of this intrinsic flexibility is lost when using HCI as a service. However, providers are investing in as-a-service delivery, which should simplify fine-tuning hyper-converged instances to accommodate varied workloads, especially when combined with the opportunity to utilize OpEx rather than CapEx for HCI.
Famous companies demonstrate that HCI is gaining momentum among suppliers worldwide. The system offers recovery, backup, and high-quality application performance.
Although HCI software is primarily designed for data storage/data centers, it offers a wide range of services due to enhanced IT controls. Due to its horizontal scalability, HCI can handle a massive workload.
Moreover, with the increased popularity of HCI among suppliers, some believe the technology does not meet their demands. According to several observers, certain vendors no longer consider HCI services.
Famous suppliers may be found in the technology business. Other providers are developing software-only solutions to maintain market share. Rather than physical items, the companies are focused on supplier-agnostic software.
The basic goal of hyper-converged infrastructure is to combine all components. The adaptable software enables IT developers to install solutions effectively and quickly. This saves firms money and time, ensuring efficient system administration. HCI software is more horizontally oriented than vertically oriented in terms of size.
Additionally, vertical scaling applications do not require the use of an HCI system. However, some customers use SAP Hana on HCI, although most monolithic software does not support HCI. Hyper-converged systems are unable to grow resources independently.
HCI elements are being divided by manufacturers, easing the scalability. VMware is a fantastic software that enables customers to share storage across several locations. It is simple for vendors and people to share Dell storage over the vSAN architecture by utilizing VxRail.
However, HCI cannot scale resources on its own. Because the storage, computing, and virtualization are all housed in the same chassis, administrators must include all three, even if they only need one of them.
Vendors that missed the initial HCI wave attempted to join the market with disaggregated solutions that could scale independently for servers and storage.
Traditional HCI suppliers, on the other hand, paid heed. This year, VMware introduced the HCI Mesh functionality to its vSAN HCI software, enabling flexible scalability. Instead of purchasing extra HCI nodes with storage and computing. However, all vSAN clusters require vSAN storage.
4. HCI for Containers
HCI is extensive and includes support for containers. Various providers in the technology sector value containerized workloads. Some businesses operate with Red Hat to develop open-source Kubernetes versions.
Although the HCI system isn’t yet ready for containers, providers are creating hyper-converged nodes to meet the demand. Because HCI supports containers, it is a reliable technology for many providers and purchasers. Most businesses are investing in containers, which HCL providers should follow.
HCI provides solutions to some of the challenges businesses face when implementing technology in branch offices, small offices, or remote sites. These may not have separate IT staff or data rooms for larger and more complex equipment.
Similarly, hyper-converged will lend itself to border applications, mainly when offered in a durable appliance form. By eliminating the demand for separate storage, computing, and network interface, cooling requirements and energy consumption are reduced.
Furthermore, using a single supplier also implies fewer moving components. It may be an exaggeration to state there is less to go wrong with hyper-converged systems – they may be complicated – but IT teams should be able to oversee all of their systems from a single management console.
However, as one corporation warns, there is no uniform industry concept of edge. Suppliers are considering a wide variety of use cases, and you should avoid those claiming to be able to satisfy all of them.
CIOs must begin by examining the use case for hyper-converged infrastructure in their specific context and then determine which vendors offer the best solution for the workload and configuration.
How Hyper-Converged Market Is Shifting: Frequently Asked Questions
The hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) market is undergoing a period of significant change, driven by evolving technology trends, growing user demands, and intensifying competition. Here are frequently asked questions about the current landscape:
What are the major trends shaping the market?
Integration with public cloud: HCI vendors are increasingly integrating their offerings with public cloud services, enabling hybrid and multi-cloud deployments.
Focus on edge computing: HCI’s ability to simplify management and resource allocation makes it attractive for edge deployments, driving growth in this segment.
Software-defined everything (SDx): The HCI architecture aligns well with SDx principles, offering greater flexibility and automation.
Security and compliance: Security concerns remain paramount, with vendors focusing on advanced features and certifications.
AI and machine learning integration: The integration of AI and ML unlocks new capabilities for performance optimization and resource management.
Consolidation: The market is experiencing consolidation, with established players such as Nutanix and Dell EMC facing competition from cloud giants like AWS and Azure.
Open-source options: Open-source HCI options, such as RancherOS and StarWind, are gaining traction, driven by their lower costs and flexibility in customization.
Focus on specific verticals: Vendors are increasingly targeting specific industry verticals, such as healthcare and education, with tailored offerings.
Partnerships and acquisitions are becoming increasingly common as vendors seek to expand their reach and capabilities.
What are the key challenges facing the market?
Skill gap:Â Finding skilled professionals to manage and troubleshoot HCI systems can be challenging.
Integration complexity: Integrating HCI with existing IT infrastructure can be complex, requiring careful planning and expertise.
Vendor lock-in: Some HCI vendors may create vendor lock-in, making it difficult to switch to other solutions.
Keeping pace with innovation:Â The rapid pace of technology advancement necessitates continuous evaluation and upgrade strategies.
What does the future hold for the HCI market?
Despite these challenges, the HCI market is expected to continue growing as organizations seek simpler, more flexible, and scalable IT infrastructure solutions.
Key areas of growth will likely include:
Increased adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud deployments.
Greater focus on security and compliance.
Enhanced integration with AI and ML for automation and intelligence.
Wider adoption of HCI in edge computing scenarios.
More partnerships and consolidation within the market.
Conclusion
You must upgrade your IT infrastructure to thrive in such a rapidly expanding environment. To put it another way, you should make it more hyper-converged.
This will help you develop a more effective IT infrastructure that enhances cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and performance.
Staying informed about these trends and challenges will be crucial for businesses to navigate the evolving HCI landscape and make informed decisions about their IT infrastructure investments.
Hopefully, the above discussion may provide insights into how significant hyper-converged changes are for each industry.
Here is the Ted Ross Interview with SecureBlitz. SpyCloud is a top-notch cybersecurity company that deals with account takeover (ATO) prevention. They prevent all ranges of data breaches and account takeovers directly or through product integrations.
With their award-winning solutions, businesses and employees can proactively prevent Business email compromise (BEC) and phishing attempts by cybercriminals. Also, SpyCloud’s fraud investigation team can hunt down any cyber-fraud incidents.
In this exclusive interview, we sat down with Ted Ross, CEO and Co-Founder of SpyCloud, to learn more about the company, its cybersecurity solutions, and the future of the cybersecurity industry.
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Question: SpyCloud has provided innovative cybersecurity solutions to well-known B2B and consumers. Can you tell us your success story?
Ted Ross: In a world where breaches are almost inevitable, we saw a need to help companies outpace cybercriminals. Using human intelligence that goes deeper than the typical dark web scanning service, we can recover breach data within days of a breach occurring and are often the first to disclose to the victim organization that they have been breached.
In parallel, we cleanse the breached data, add context, and decrypt passwords to determine when our customers’ information was contained in the breach. We then get the exposed data into our customers’ hands so they can reset exposed passwords before criminals can exploit them. It’s an arms race.
We aim to destroy the criminal’s ability to profit from any data they steal. Changing an exposed password before a criminal can use it is key. Early data recovery plus automated remediation sets us apart for enterprises that must protect employees and consumers from account takeover and the associated loss of time, money, and reputation.
Question: Can you tell us about the challenges of protecting sensitive information at all levels?
Ted Ross: This is a broad topic that can go in many directions. So, let’s think about it from an enterprise perspective: whether you’re a CISO or an individual, there’s a huge level of personal responsibility involved — one that is very difficult to breed in employees whose credentials can unlock customer data, financials, IP, and more.
Enterprises do their best to secure areas that employees could expose, but they also realize that the larger the company, the more challenging this becomes. When it comes to security, people are the weakest link. If it’s difficult to solve this issue at an employee level, it’s even worse when it comes to trusting third-party partners and vendors in an enterprise supply chain.
Some have access to your payroll and financial data, employee PII, and other sensitive information, and their exposure can open the door to your network. As security practitioners, we not only mandate strong password hygiene for employees (and many businesses and consumers, too) but now have to address the risk associated with third parties (not to mention 4th and 5th parties).
Third-party risk has become a board-level issue (along with identity), and ensuring remediation of third-party breach exposure is now a growing responsibility among vendor risk and M&A teams.
Question: Would you say governments are involved in security breaches? And how can government interference be curbed?
Ted Ross: Since we are focused on the cybercrime domain, we hand that over to the authorities when we run into an activity that may be nation-state-related. That said, a customer constantly deals with targeted account takeover attacks from Iran.
The sophistication of these attacks indicates that they are well-funded, and our customer strongly believes that the attackers are sponsored. Nation-states using account takeover techniques should not come as a surprise to anyone. All attackers (sophisticated or nation-state sponsored) will use this attack vector because it is successful. Then, once they are in the organization, they will move laterally to seek out high-valued assets and intellectual property.
Attackers are human – even nation-state-sponsored attackers. They will take the path of least resistance. Account takeovers are now a part of that easy attack path. Targeted account takeover prevention will slow them down and stop them from taking advantage of this path of least resistance in the same way it prevents criminals.
Question: What do your Clients have to worry about?
Ted Ross: In addition to what we view as the set of challenges to protecting sensitive information at all levels (as discussed with your second question), many businesses think they are preventing account takeover by deploying bot detection/firewall technology. The truth is that protection from cybercriminal attacks requires more.
It would be best to have a “targeted” account takeover prevention solution everywhere you have a bot firewall. We’re seeing security teams underestimate the damage caused by manual, targeted attacks performed by sophisticated cybercriminals (as opposed to brute-force credential stuffing attacks performed by bots).
Customers on our Advisory Board recently told us that targeted attacks (which do not emanate from a bot) account for 80% of their overall loss. While untargeted, credential stuffing attacks account for the other 20% of the loss.
Early prevention solutions that detect exposures that do not come through bots can only stop targeted attacks. For that, you need access to the most current breach data possible. Choose an ATO prevention partner who can detect potential compromises early and automate the remediation (password reset) process.
Question: From your Client’s feedback, do they experience more internal or external security breaches?
Ted Ross: Internal breaches are rarer, and bad actors inside an organization often leave a more obvious trail of evidence than external attackers. After all, they’re exploiting their privileged access, which makes it more likely that there’s a record of their access to follow during a breach investigation.
Question: What are the challenges facing the market? What are your strong points against your competitors in solving the marketplace challenges?
Ted Ross: One of the biggest challenges for businesses of all types is staying ahead of threat actors. This was one of the reasons we created SpyCloud – to outpace the criminals. We need relevant, high-valued assets circulated in the criminal underground as early as the attack lifecycle to pull this off.
Many of our competitors focus on data later in the attack lifecycle on the visible “deep and dark web,” which often means sophisticated threat actors have already had a chance to monetize that data.
At SpyCloud, we collect data directly from the first team of criminals who have access to it. We’re plugged into the criminal underground – where breach data is shared first, but only among actors that are “trusted”.
Pulling data this early in the timeline enables our customers to take action – reset exposed passwords – before criminals exploit the data. Invalidating breached data is the only way to win.
Question: How would you rate the success of HUMINT in combating social engineering threats? In what other areas will your HUMINT technology come into play?
Ted Ross: Every online user needs to adopt the zero-trust model. This is the best way to combat social engineering. Don’t click on a link, don’t open an attachment in an email, or trust anything you receive over email, SMS, etc.… Our HUMINT team is constantly interacting with criminals who focus on social engineering – which goes well beyond account takeover.
SpyCloud comes into play around employee accounts. Under the zero trust model, you should not trust that someone logging into your network is an employee – unless you validate accounts with SpyCloud first. Without checking for account exposures, a criminal could act like an employee, sending emails from the employee’s mailbox and furthering their abilities to social engineer victims, which may be your executives, customers, or supply chain vendors.
Question: How can everyday users benefit from Human Intelligence (HUMINT) in protecting their privacy?
Ted Ross: HUMINT cannot be done without much training and experience. It’s an advanced tradecraft that professionals must perform – or it could quickly lead to dangerous outcomes.
Let SpyCloud do the HUMINT heavy lifting so you don’t put yourself or your resources at risk. We will find exposures at a massive scale before they can become a problem for the everyday user. We empower our customers and individuals using our free monitoring service to be diligent about changing their passwords when their information is exposed to a breach.
Our service offers enough information so that users can understand the level of risk they face. Resetting complex, unique, unexposed passwords and using two-factor authentication wherever possible are the best ways to protect individuals from account takeover and resultant breaches.
Question: What is the future of SpyCloud?
Ted Ross: Today, we focus on eliminating account takeovers and preventing criminals from profiting from breached data. Over the next few months, our customers will benefit from new software that will allow them to automate the prevention aspects further.
We would love to share this as we are proud of our roadmap, but we are keeping the details close to our chest for now. We hope to leapfrog certain types of cyber criminals, so we must be careful not to tip our hand beforehand.
Do you use Windows PC (7 or 10) and Apple Mac OS X? This post will show you how to access Windows computers from your Mac.
In today’s diverse technological landscape, many households have a mix of Windows and Mac PCs.
While both operating systems offer robust functionality, situations may arise where you need to access files or programs on a Windows computer from your Mac PC. This guide will delve into the two primary methods for achieving this: File Sharing and Remote Desktop.
File sharing allows you to establish a connection between your Mac and Windows PC, enabling you to browse and transfer files between them. This method is ideal if you simply access specific documents, photos, or other data stored on the Windows machine.
Setting Up File Sharing on Windows
Enable Network Discovery: Right-click on “This PC” (or “My Computer”) and select “Properties.” Click “Network settings” to ensure “Turn on network discovery” is checked.
Turn On File Sharing: Return to “Network settings” and click “Change advanced sharing settings.” In the “Private” profile, select “Turn on network sharing” and “Turn on file and printer sharing.” Click “Save changes.”
Create Shared Folders: Open File Explorer, navigate to the folder you want to share, right-click on it, and select “Properties.” Go to the “Sharing” tab and click “Advanced Sharing.” Click “Share this folder” and select specific users or groups to assign access permissions. Click “Apply” and “OK.”
Open Finder: Click “Go” in the menu bar and select “Connect to Server.”
Enter Server Address: In the server address field, type smb://Windows PC name (replace “Windows PC name” with the actual name of your Windows computer). Click “Connect.”
Authenticate (if necessary): You may be prompted to enter a username and password. Enter the credentials for a user account on the Windows PC with access to the shared folder.
Browse Shared Folders:Â The shared folders will appear on your Mac’s desktop or in the Finder sidebar. You can now access the files within these folders.
Remote Desktop: Taking Control
Remote Desktop offers a more comprehensive approach, allowing you to see and interact with the entire desktop environment of the Windows PC from your Mac. This method is beneficial when running Windows-specific programs or performing actions directly on the Windows machine.
Installing Microsoft Remote Desktop
Since macOS doesn’t have a built-in remote desktop client for Windows, you’ll need to download Microsoft Remote Desktop from the Mac App Store.
Enable Remote Desktop: Right-click “This PC” and select “Properties.” Go to “Remote settings,” and under “Remote Desktop,” select “Allow remote connections to this computer.” Click “Apply” and “OK.”
Configure User Accounts:Â Go to System Settings and navigate to “Users & accounts.” Ensure the user account you want to use for remote access has administrator privileges.
Connecting with Microsoft Remote Desktop (Mac)
Launch Microsoft Remote Desktop:Â Open the app on your Mac.
Add PC:Â Click the “+” button and select “Add PC.” Enter the name or IP address of the Windows computer in the “PC name” field. Click “Add.”
Connect:Â Double-click the added PC in the list. You might be prompted to enter the username and password for the user account with remote access permission on the Windows PC. Click “Connect.”
Remote Access: Once connected, you’ll see the Windows desktop on your Mac screen. You can now use your mouse and keyboard to interact with the Windows PC as if sitting in front of it.
Firewalls:Â Ensure firewalls on both computers allow connections for file sharing or remote desktop access.
Performance: The performance of remote access can be affected by both the network speed and hardware capabilities of the computers involved.
Security:Â Be cautious when granting remote access permissions. Only provide access to trusted users and consider using strong passwords.
To increase the security level of your Mac computer, it is highly recommended that you use MacKeeper.
How to Access Windows Computer from a Mac PC: FAQs
Here’s a breakdown of some common questions regarding accessing Windows computers from your Mac PC:
How do I connect my Windows PC to a Mac?
There are two main methods for connecting your Windows PC to a Mac:
File Sharing:Â This allows you to browse and transfer files between the two computers.
Remote Desktop:Â This grants you remote access to the entire Windows desktop environment, enabling you to run programs and interact directly with the Windows PC.
Can you access Windows on a Macbook?
Yes, you can access Windows on a Macbook in two ways:
File Sharing:Â You can access specific files and folders stored on the Windows PC.
Remote Desktop: By installing Microsoft Remote Desktop on your Mac, you can see and interact with the entire Windows desktop as if using the Windows machine.
How do I remote desktop from Mac to Windows?
Here’s how to remotely access a Windows PC from your Mac:
Download and install Microsoft Remote Desktop from the Mac App Store.
Configure Remote Desktop access on the Windows PC by enabling it in the system settings.
Launch Microsoft Remote Desktop on your Mac and add the Windows PC using its name or IP address.
Connect to the added PC by entering the username and password with remote access permissions on the Windows machine.
Can I access Windows files on Mac?
Yes, you can access Windows files on your Mac through file sharing. Enable file sharing on the Windows PC and configure permissions for specific folders. Then, from your Mac, use the “Connect to Server” function in Finder to access the shared folders on the Windows machine.
While there isn’t a built-in screen-sharing tool for Mac to access a Windows PC directly, you can achieve similar functionality using third-party screen-sharing applications. These applications typically require installation on both computers and offer features like remote viewing and control.
Can you transfer files from Windows to Mac?
Yes, transferring files from Windows to Mac is possible through various methods:
File Sharing:Â Set up file sharing on the Windows PC and access the shared folders from your Mac’s Finder. You can then copy and transfer files between the computers.
External Storage Devices: Use an external hard drive or USB flash drive to transfer files between the machines.
Cloud Storage Services:Â Upload files to a cloud storage service like Dropbox or Google Drive from the Windows PC and then download them to your Mac.
Choosing the Right Method
The best method for accessing a Windows computer from your Mac PC depends on your specific needs.
File sharing is a straightforward solution for accessing specific files, while Remote Desktop offers more control and functionality, making it ideal for running Windows programs or troubleshooting issues.
Following these steps can bridge the gap between your Mac and Windows PC. Whether you need to access shared documents or take full control of a remote machine, these methods provide the tools to work seamlessly across different operating systems.
You can unlock the potential for a more cohesive and productive computing experience with a little understanding and configuration.
I hope you can now access a Windows computer from your Mac. Drop a comment below.
Note: This was initially published in November 2019 but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
While several years have passed since the infamous 2019 BriansClub hack, its impact on the cybersecurity landscape continues to ripple.
This event, where a mysterious entity exposed over 26 million stolen payment cards, sparked debate and raised questions about the complexities of digital security and the blurred lines between black and white hat hacking. Let’s delve deeper into this intriguing cyber incident.
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A Marketplace of Stolen Data: BriansClub in the Spotlight
Operating in the dark underbelly of the internet, BriansClub functioned as a notorious online marketplace where stolen credit card information was bought and sold.
This platform facilitated countless acts of financial fraud, putting millions of individuals and businesses at risk.
The Mysterious Hack: Data Exposed, Millions “Rescued”
In October 2019, BriansClub itself became the target of a hack. The entire database, containing over 26 million compromised card details, was leaked to the public.
While this exposure could have resulted in widespread financial losses, security experts believe it effectively rendered the stolen data unusable, protecting many unsuspecting victims.
Hero or Hacker? Unmasking the Motive
The identity of the hacker responsible for this act remains shrouded in secrecy. Theories abound, suggesting possible motives like:
Rival Cybercriminal Group:Â Some speculate it was a competitor aiming to eliminate BriansClub and dominate the stolen data market.
White Hat Hacker with a Mission: Others theorize it was a vigilante hacker, driven by a desire to disrupt criminal activity and protect individuals from harm.
While the ultimate outcome may have been positive, the ethical implications remain complex. Dr. Maya Patel, cybersecurity expert at SecureBlitz, cautions, “We cannot condone illegal hacking, regardless of its intended results. It sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the rule of law.”
Lessons Learned: Beyond the BriansClub Incident
This event serves as a stark reminder of several crucial points:
The interconnectedness of the cyber realm:Â Even criminal networks within the internet are vulnerable to attacks.
The limitations of vigilante action: While the BriansClub hack’s outcome may seem beneficial, relying on illegal activities to address cybercrime poses serious risks.
The importance of proactive security measures:Â Robust cybersecurity practices remain the ideal solution to prevent data breaches and protect sensitive information.
The BriansClub hack, although years past, continues to offer valuable lessons for the cybersecurity community.
It highlights the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, the need for ongoing vigilance, and the ongoing debate surrounding ethical hacking practices.
As we move forward, understanding and learning from such incidents are crucial steps toward building a more secure digital future.
What are your thoughts on the BriansClub hack? Share your perspectives and join the conversation in the comments below!
Remember the Jetsons? Voice-controlled homes seemed like a futuristic fantasy. Today, smart speakers like Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Google Home are commonplace, seamlessly integrating into our lives. But with convenience comes a lurking shadow: security concerns.
For years, security experts have highlighted the potential for voice assistants to be exploited through traditional hacking methods. Now, researchers at the University of Michigan and collaborating institutions in Japan have unveiled a surprising new vulnerability –– lasers.
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Shining a Light on a Hidden Threat
Imagine unlocking your smart door or making online purchases with a simple laser pointer. While it sounds like something from a spy movie, researchers have demonstrated the possibility of manipulating voice assistants using light.
Their findings, published in a recent study, reveal how a modulated laser beam aimed at a smart speaker’s microphone from over 100 feet away can trick the device into interpreting the light pulses as voice commands.
The researchers showcased the vulnerability in several scenarios. They could unlock the door remotely by directing a laser at a voice assistant connected to a garage door opener.
In another demonstration, they used a telephoto lens to focus the laser beam on a device over 350 feet away, effectively hijacking the assistant.
The potential consequences are concerning. Hackers armed with this technique could gain control of various smart home features, including:
Smart Locks:Â Imagine your front door unlocking for an unauthorized person simply by aiming a laser from afar.
Online Shopping Sprees:Â Malicious actors could use the voice assistant to make unauthorized purchases on your behalf.
Light Control Hijacking:Â The ability to control lighting could disrupt routines or create security vulnerabilities in a home.
Connected Car Control: In a worst-case scenario, a laser attack could unlock or even start a car linked to a vulnerable voice assistant.
Researchers: A Wake-Up Call for the Industry
Professor Kevin Fu, a researcher at the University of Michigan who was involved in the study, emphasized, “This opens up an entirely new class of vulnerabilities. It’s difficult to know how many products are affected because this is so basic.”
The research team spent seven months studying the light-based flaw before publishing their findings. They believe a complete redesign of microphones might be necessary to eliminate this vulnerability.
This isn’t the first time voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Home are susceptible to hacking. Previous research has identified vulnerabilities to hidden audio commands that are inaudible to the human ear.
The University of Michigan researchers see their findings not as a reason to panic but as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing security in our increasingly connected homes.
The Future of Voice Assistants: Balancing Convenience and Security
The ability to control our homes with our voices offers undeniable convenience with Alexa, Siri, and Google Home. However, the laser hacking revelation highlights the ongoing need for robust security measures in smart devices.
As voice assistants evolve, manufacturers and security researchers must work together to develop solutions that balance user-friendliness with robust protection against traditional and unconventional hacking methods.
By staying informed and implementing available security measures, users can help protect their smart homes from the shadows and ensure their voice assistants remain a helpful tool rather than a security Achilles’ heel.
Note: This was initially published in November 2019 but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
Learn how to make your thrift store a success in this post.
People love to shop and often want to do so in person versus online. One business idea is to open up a thrift store. It can be especially rewarding if you’re someone who enjoys fashion and helping customers.Â
There are certain actions you can take to ensure that you can thrive long-term. It will require some hard work and effort on your part but it’ll be well worth it in the end. Learn how to make your thrift store a success so you have happy customers for years to come.
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Have Plenty of Inventory
You want your store to be somewhere people can find what they need. Therefore, you should make sure that you have plenty of inventory. You want to offer a wide range of items and a diverse selection of clothing that will suit most people’s needs.Â
Make sure that it is well organized so that customers can find what they’re looking for. You also want to make certain that you set your items at an attractive price point. You want to confirm there are plenty of options and choices for your customers to pick through.Â
Set Up A Pleasing Atmosphere
You want your thrift store to be welcoming and charming. Therefore, you should take the time to set up a pleasing atmosphere for your customers to enjoy. This means keeping your store clean and well organized as well as having some appealing background music playing. Here you can gather tips about choosing a thrift store playlist that will be suitable and agreeable. You may also want to have some items such as accessories placed in display cases near the front of the store for people to look through.Â
Provide Excellent Customer Service
You should know your thrift store well as the owner and operator. You should also hire and train your employees so they are prepared to help customers. Your goal should be to always provide excellent customer service. This means being able to answer questions and point your shoppers in the right direction.
You should want to please your customers and make sure that they will come back and continue to shop at your store in the future. It may also be helpful to gather feedback from your customers so you can make changes based on these suggestions.Â
Market Your Business
No one is going to know about your thrift store unless you get out there and spread the word. Be sure to take the time to market your business both online and offline. Get out there and be willing to network and introduce yourself to people in your community.
If you want to increase the amount of customers that shop with you then you have to be willing to invest in marketing and advertising campaigns. You may also want to host special events that are a chance for new people to check out your store.
Conclusion
Running a thrift store can be a challenge. However, there are many actions you can take that will make your job easier. Start by considering implementing these tips so that you can make your thrift store a greater success.Â
Learn how to monetize your mobile app effectively in this post.
The success of creating an effective mobile application is a significant milestone, but it is not the endpoint of the process. It is the eventual ambition of most developers and businesses to generate revenue from their inventions.
Selecting the most appropriate monetization strategy is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the long-term sustainability and profitability of your app.
There is a wide range of models available to use; it is essential to understand which one fits best with your application’s purpose and who your target audience is to transform your digital product into a sustainable business.
Table of Contents
The Foundation: Understanding Your App and Audience
It is essential to understand your value proposition and the expectations of your users before diving into monetization models. What is the issue you are trying to solve with your app? Is it a game, a productivity platform, a content platform or a service? The type of app you are in will hugely determine the nature of monetization strategies that are best.
It is also essential to have knowledge of your audience. Will they be prepared to make upfront payments? Do they tend to get irritated by advertisements? The answers to these questions will assist you in making a decision that will lead to the highest revenue without losing your user base.
A lot of companies collaborate with a mobile app development company in Saudi Arabia not only to create the app, but to plan the most appropriate monetization strategy at the early stages.
The Freemium Model: Offering a Taste of Value
One of the most successful and popular ones is the freemium model. It provides the simplest variant of your application free of charge and can be upgraded to the premium functionality on a payment basis.
This strategy is effective since it eliminates the first-mover advantage, allowing you to attract a multitude of users. After displaying a value to your free offering, the users will have more chances of paying a premium to access a better experience.
This might incorporate an advertisement-free version, enhanced functionality, or exclusive content. The trick here is to ensure that the free version is good enough to have users stick with it and the premium edition is good enough to make them upgrade.
In-App Purchases (IAPs): Driving Revenue Through Microtransactions
In-app purchases enable users to purchase digital goods/services in your app. This model is highly popular in mobile gaming whereby individuals have the ability to buy virtual currency, additional lives and cosmetics.
But it is not restricted to games alone. Other apps in the market can be sold as productivity apps, content apps can be sold as individual articles or issues, and dating apps can be sold as super likes or boosts. IAPs may be consumable (used once, such as power-up), or non-consumable (permanent, such as unlocking a new level).
It is an effective tactic when the purchases are actually helping the user experience instead of seeming as an obstacle.
The Subscription Model: Creating Recurring Revenue
One of the most popular monetization methods is now subscription-based services, especially for content and service-oriented apps. This model consists in charging users a recurring fee (monthly or yearly) to access the content or services of your app. Consider streaming services, news applications, and fitness applications.
Subscriptions give a steady flow of revenue, which is very appealing to business planning. Although this model is formidable, your online presence should be flawless to warrant the expense that is recurrent.
This is often accompanied by a supporting site that reflects the quality of the app, a service that can be offered by a leading web development company Dubai to have an integrated and professional brand interface across all platforms.
In-App Advertising: Monetizing with User Attention
In-app advertising can be a good choice if you want to increase your user base and not charge them directly. With this model, you earn money by displaying advertisements on third-party networks within your application. To consider the ad formats there are a number of ad formats:
Banner Ads: Small banners that are usually put at the top or the bottom of the screen. They are widespread and can be easily overlooked.
Interstitial Ads: Full-screen ads that appear at natural transition points in the app, such as between levels in a game or after completing a task.
Rewarded Video Ads: This is a type of video advertisement that users can watch voluntarily and receive an in-app reward (e.g., additional points or premium content). This form is usually popular because it is an option.
Native Ads: Ads designed to blend in seamlessly with the app’s content, providing a less disruptive experience.
The Paid App Model: Charging Upfront
The easiest monetization path is the paid, or, pay-to-download, one. The app store charges the user a single fee to download and install your app. It is simple, but this is also among the most difficult to succeed with in the present.
A highly desirable value offer is necessary in such a market where there are many free applications and you have to entice users to spend your money before they even test your product.
It is best suited for niche applications with a well-defined, high-value purpose or for well-established brands with a strong following. High-quality screenshots, an engaging app description, and positive reviews are essential.
Sponsorships and Partnerships: A Targeted Approach
For apps with a consistent and targeted user base, sponsorships can be an effective monetization strategy. This means joining forces with another business whose target will be similar to yours.
The sponsor may want their brand to be placed in your app, the whole app may be skinned in their branding temporarily or the advertiser can be the sole advertiser. This model may be more lucrative and less obtrusive than conventional banner advertisements, as the sponsorship can be a natural part of the app.
Data Monetization: Unlocking Value from User Insights
Although this should be done very carefully and openly, the anonymized user data can be a source of income. This is done by gathering non-personal information regarding the user behavior, preferences, and demographics and selling them to third parties, including researchers or marketers.
Being honest with your users regarding your data collection practice in your privacy policy as well as adhering to all the regulations such as GDPR and CCPA is absolutely crucial. Violating user trust in this respect can be disastrous for the brand.
Choosing the Right Mix: Hybrid Monetization
There is no need to focus on a single monetization strategy. A hybrid approach is used by many of the most successful apps. To illustrate, in-app ads may also be used in a freemium application to the free version, but they will be canceled in case of premium subscribers.
A content application may provide a few articles free of charge (with advertisements), sell single articles (IAPs), and provide a subscription. Augmentation of models enables you to both diversify your revenue base and serve various segments of your users.
Test, Measure, and Optimize
App monetization cannot have a single suitable solution. Constant testing and analysis will be the key to determining the best strategy for your app. Monitoring the important metrics that can be tracked using analytics tools includes the conversion rate, average revenue per user (ARPU), and customer lifetime value (LTV).
Run A/B tests across various price points, types of ads, and subscription packages and determine which options are the most popular with your audience. The mobile application market is not stagnant, and thus your monetization strategy must be responsive to adapt to user feedback and market trends.
The Path to Profitability
Mobile apps must be effectively monetized through a user-centric approach. Having learned about the various models available in the market, including freemium, subscriptions, in-app purchases, and advertising, you can make the right choice that suits the app’s purpose and meets user expectations. The trick is to offer true value and open up revenue opportunities.
By being well-planned, thoroughly tested, and capable of making adjustments, you can turn your mobile app into a viable and sustainable venture.
Discover how to obtain a German virtual number and receive SMS messages online in this article.
A virtual or cloud number is an alternative to your regular SIM card. It exists in the cloud, and you have access to it through your personal account on the virtual mobile operator’s website. This is my review of Hottelecom’s service, with reflections on its pros and cons.
When purchasing a SIM card, German residents must provide a valid form of identification (such as an ID card) and provide their address. My main SIM card was obtained in this way. On the one hand, such a system ensures the safety of citizens and reduces the possibility of fraud.
On the other hand, I felt that I didn’t have enough privacy. I was worried that someone could trace my location or address through my phone number. This hasn’t happened, but I’m still a little nervous about it.
Besides, having one phone number means having several inconveniences:
Constant newsletters from restaurants, deliveries, fitness clubs, etc.;
The need to provide a real phone number on websites when registering.
The risk of giving out your number to fraudsters.
All this prompted me to seek alternatives.
How To Get A Cloud SIM Card?
To get a number, you need to:
Register on the mobile operator’s website. I created an additional email to avoid using my main one.
Specify the country whose number you want to receive calls from. You don’t need to provide any personal data.
Specify the type of number. I’ve chosen the one for receiving SMS. Other options include voice calls, faxes, or one-time SMS messages.
Select the direction of SMS forwarding. This can be another phone number, HTTP(s) address, or email address. I chose the latter and specified my additional email, which is intended solely for SMS.
Pay for the service.
The only thing I miss in this service is a mobile app. It would be convenient. But the advantages are greater. First, I maintain my privacy and anonymity. Now, I make all my registrations with a virtual number.
Secondly, my phone is free from spam. Therefore, I can wholeheartedly recommend this service to anyone who values their privacy and comfort.
Beyond Anonymity: Exploring the Diverse Uses of German Virtual Numbers
While privacy is a compelling reason to use a German virtual number, as you’ve highlighted, its versatility extends far beyond anonymity. Here are some additional scenarios where a German virtual number can be valuable:
International Business
Establish a local presence:Â Operate in Germany without needing a physical office by using a local number for customer service, marketing campaigns, or lead generation.
Build trust with German clients:Â A German number fosters trust and familiarity compared to an international one, potentially increasing conversion rates.
Separate business and personal:Â Maintain clear boundaries between your professional and personal life by using a dedicated number for business communication.
Travel and Convenience
Avoid roaming charges:Â Receive SMS notifications, verification codes, or two-factor authentication messages while abroad without incurring expensive roaming fees.
Temporary phone line:Â Access short-term phone functionality for travel, temporary projects, or online services without committing to a long-term contract.
Manage multiple numbers:Â Easily switch between your virtual German number and your main line depending on the situation.
Additional Features
Number masking:Â Protect your personal number while sharing contact information online or with strangers.
Call forwarding: Receive calls on your preferred device, such as your laptop or an alternative phone number, for added flexibility.
Virtual voicemail:Â Access voicemails remotely and manage them conveniently through your online account.
Consider your needs:Â Do you need SMS only, calls, or both? How frequently will you use it?
Compare pricing:Â Look for transparent pricing models and avoid hidden fees.
Read reviews and ratings:Â Gain insights from other users’ experiences.
Customer support:Â Ensure the provider offers helpful and responsive support.
By understanding the diverse benefits of German virtual numbers, you can unlock new possibilities for personal privacy, business operations, and convenient communication. Remember to carefully evaluate your needs and choose a service that aligns with your budget and usage patterns.
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