In this episode of Cyberside Chats, we dive into the surprising pardon of Ross Ulbricht, creator of the infamous Silk Road dark web marketplace. What does this decision mean for the future of cybercrime enforcement and your organization’s security? We’ll explore the potential policy shift, how it could embolden criminals, and actionable steps you can take to stay ahead of evolving threats. Don't miss these critical insights! 

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In this episode of Cyberside Chats, we explore the FBI’s daring takedown of PlugX malware. By commandeering the malware’s command-and-control infrastructure, the FBI forced PlugX to uninstall itself from over 4,200 devices globally. This bold move echoes similar actions from 2021, such as the removal of malicious web shells from Exchange servers.

We unpack the legal, ethical, and operational implications of these law enforcement actions and provide actionable advice for IT and security leadership to prepare for similar events.

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Resources:

“FBI Hacked Thousands of Computers to Make Malware Uninstall Itself”

“The Microsoft Exchange Server Hack: A Timeline”

“Taking Down the Waledac Botnet (The Story of Operation b49)”

Have thoughts or questions about this episode? Contact us to discuss this and more with other cybersecurity professionals.

#cybersecurity #PlugX #PlugXhack #hack #hacker

In Episode 2 of CyberSide Chats, Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin dive into the launch of the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark, a new security initiative aimed at making Internet of Things (IoT) devices more secure for consumers. As the number of connected devices continues to rise, the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark promises to help users make informed decisions about the security of products like cameras, smart locks, and voice assistants.

Sherri and Matt will discuss the potential impacts of the Cyber Trust Mark and discuss the ongoing challenges of securing IoT devices. They also tackle the rising threat of QR code phishing, as more devices will carry QR codes for secure setup—raising new concerns for consumers.

Tune in to learn how this new mark can help protect your privacy and security in an increasingly connected world!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to stay informed on the latest cybersecurity trends!

#USCyberTrustMark #cybersecurity #cyberaware

Join hosts Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin in this first engaging episode of CyberSide Chats, as they dive into the top cybersecurity priorities for 2025. This insightful discussion was recorded with a live Q & A, and it covers the pervasive influence of AI, the emerging threats of deepfakes, and the complexities of managing third-party risks in an increasingly digital world.

This episode not only prepares listeners for the potential challenges of 2025 but also equips them with the knowledge to enhance their cybersecurity measures effectively. Tune in to stay informed and ready for the future!