14.05.2024 - Access to many applications on the internet is now protected by two-factor authentication. Smartphones are playing an increasingly important role as a second security factor when logging into online applications. Cybercriminals therefore try to gain access to these devices in order to obtain the login data. A case reported to the NCSC last week shows that entering a password in a phishing attack on an apparently non-critical internet service may nonetheless have serious consequences. It may also undermine the two-factor authentication process.
13.05.2024 - The director of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Florian Schütz, will be attending two key international events in the field of cybersecurity in Birmingham on 13–15 May 2024. The trip is aimed at strengthening international cooperation on cybersecurity and the fight against ransomware.
07.05.2024 - Crowdfunding platforms have revolutionised the way in which creative projects and innovations can generate financial support. However, even these crowdfunding platforms are not immune to fraudulent practices. Fraud attempts can hinder crowdfunding campaigns or diminish the trust of potential donors. It is therefore important that campaign organisers and donors are aware of the risks, remain vigilant and protect themselves against fraud attempts.
06.05.2024 - More than 30,000 cyber incidents were reported to the NCSC in the second half of 2023, twice as many as in the same period last year. The strategy of the new federal office is based on four pillars in order to strengthen cyber security for the general public, businesses and public authorities in the face of increasing threats and the emergence of AI-driven fraud.
30.04.2024 - Classified ad site for buying and selling items have been popular for a number of years – and this makes them interesting to scammers. In fact, classified ad fraud is one of the most commonly reported offences.
25.04.2024 - Cybercriminals develop malware for a number of purposes: to disrupt or prevent the normal operation of a device, steal data or spy on the users' behaviour. Normally what is known as a 'downloader' is first sent to the device. It is not initially clear what damage this type of malware will cause.
23.04.2024 - The NCSC frequently receives reports from victims where the scam emails seem plausible because they happen to match a current situation. In such cases, it is particularly difficult to spot scam emails, as shown by three examples that have been reported to the BACS in recent weeks. However, by following a few basic rules, it is still possible to spot such emails.
18.04.2024 - The NCSC warns of the security vulnerability in Palo Alto's Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW). These firewalls are mainly used by companies and public authorities. They have a critical vulnerability that is already being exploited by cyber criminals. The attackers exploit the vulnerability to execute commands. The NCSC has already received corresponding reports from organisations in Switzerland. The NCSC recommends installing the security updates as quickly as possible or even reinstalling the NGFW if possible.
18.04.2024 - A virus scanner helps to ensure that your device is not infected by malware. It is one of the most important software components that protects your device and your data. The program scans new files, e.g. email attachments, and the entire device for signs of infection. It is important to install this software and keep it up to date.
16.04.2024 - The NCSC has been monitoring the phenomenon of fake calls from alleged police authorities for nine months now. In the last three weeks, reports reaching the NCSC about this phenomenon have almost tripled and account for the highest number of reports received since the contact point was founded. However, the high number of incoming reports is not all bad.mittlerweile das Phänomen der gefälschten Anrufe von angeblichen Polizeibehörden. In den letzten drei Wochen haben sich die Meldungen zu diesem Phänomen beim BACS nahezu verdreifacht und sind verantwortlich für den höchsten Meldeeingang seit Gründung der Anlaufstelle. Der hohe Meldeeingang ist jedoch nicht nur negativ einzustufen.
