Tag Archives: Security

Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Microsoft, The Gadget Man

Global Windows Crash Crisis: The Crowdstrike Falcon Update Fiasco

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Earlier today, a significant issue has come to light affecting Windows users globally. CrowdStrike’s Falcon sensor update for Windows hosts has led to widespread system crashes, commonly known as the “blue screen of death” (BSOD). This disruption has impacted critical sectors across the globe, including transport, banking, and media.

What Happened?

The latest content update from CrowdStrike for its Falcon sensor, designed to enhance security measures, inadvertently introduced a defect. This defect has caused systems to crash, triggering BSOD errors. Users began experiencing these problems shortly after the update was deployed, leading to a flurry of reports and concerns from various industries dependent on uninterrupted system operations.

Affected Areas

The fallout from this update has been extensive. Industries such as transport have seen operational disruptions, banking systems have faced downtime affecting transactions, and media outlets have struggled with system reliability. This has not only caused inconvenience but has also raised concerns about the stability and reliability of critical cybersecurity tools.

Cloudstrike Statement
Cloudstrike Statement

CrowdStrike’s Response

In response to the crisis, CrowdStrike has issued a statement acknowledging the problem and detailing their steps to mitigate the issue. They have provided guidelines for affected users to stabilise their systems and are working on a resolution to prevent further incidents. CrowdStrike’s team is actively investigating the root cause and is committed to restoring normal operations as swiftly as possible.

What to Do If You’re Affected

Users experiencing issues are advised to follow CrowdStrike’s interim measures to disable the problematic update and revert to a stable version of the Falcon sensor. Detailed instructions are available on CrowdStrike’s official blog, ensuring that users can manage their systems and mitigate the immediate impact while a permanent fix is developed.

For ongoing updates and support, affected users are encouraged to stay in touch with CrowdStrike’s customer service and monitor their communication channels.

Conclusion

This incident underscores the critical importance of robust update testing and rapid response mechanisms in cybersecurity. While CrowdStrike’s proactive measures are a step in the right direction, the incident highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness in handling unforeseen software issues.

For more detailed information, you can visit the official statement from CrowdStrike here.

Crowdstrike, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Microsoft, Podcast, Technology, The Gadget Man, Worldwide Outage

Global Windows Crash Crisis: Crowdstrike Falcon Sensor Update “Defect” Disrupts Key Sectors Worldwide

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Today, I’m addressing a significant issue affecting numerous Windows users worldwide. Reports have emerged of widespread crashes, commonly referred to as the “blue screen of death,” impacting various critical sectors, from transportation to banking and media.

I spoke with Sarah Julian at BBC Radio WM about the worldwide problems that continue to persist

Understanding the Issue:

The root cause of these crashes has been traced back to an overnight software update for CrowdStrike’s Falcon Sensor. For those unfamiliar, Falcon Sensor is a security tool designed to act as a sentinel for your computer, monitoring and protecting against malicious activities. A single corrupted system file from this update is causing Windows systems to crash upon booting.

Why This Matters:

Windows holds a substantial market share, with 72% of global computers running this operating system. The automatic update to Falcon Sensor has inadvertently introduced a fault, leading to these severe crashes. The update, once applied, seems to corrupt system functionality, causing the dreaded blue screen on countless machines.

Impact Across Sectors:

The ripple effect of this issue is profound. The update has disrupted services across various sectors:

  • Transportation: Both train and plane operations have been hampered.
  • Banking: Financial institutions are facing operational challenges, with payment systems affected.
  • Media: Broadcast systems have been affected, causing interruptions, including Sky News and CBBC.
  • Healthcare: NHS GP surgery systems are impacted, with reports of doctors having to handwrite prescriptions.
  • Emergency Services: Even essential services like emergency call centres have not been spared.
  • Airports: Airports, including Birmingham Airport, have reported issues with check-in services, and operations at the Port of Dover are also impacted.

Al Lakhani, CEO of IDEE, said:

“Many people might be thanking Microsoft for their accidental day off, but countless businesses are suffering due to Microsoft’s and their partners’ failure to maintain their services. This incident underscores the importance of businesses thoroughly researching and vetting their cybersecurity solutions before implementation. Microsoft clearly fell short in this regard, and we are witnessing a cascade of operational failures around the world as a result.”

“CrowdStrike’s platform approach, which relies on a single agent focused on detection, might seem good at first glance, but as we can see, it can create significant issues. For instance, agents require installation and maintenance of software on multiple different OSes, adding layers of complexity and potential points of failure. Moreover, agents can become a single point of failure, as a bad update can compromise the entire network, as seen with the SolarWinds attack.

“The lesson here is blindingly obvious: investing in cybersecurity is not just about acquiring the latest or most popular tools but ensuring those tools are reliable and resilient. This is why businesses must prioritise agentless solutions like MFA 2.0, which reduce the risk of widespread failures and ensure more resilient defences.”

Cloudstrike Falcon Sensor Blue Screen of Death BSOD Global Outage
Cloudstrike Falcon Sensor Blue Screen of Death BSOD Global Outage

Current Status and Actions:

Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and stated that a fix is in place. However, this does not immediately rectify the situation for all affected devices. Many computers remain non-functional, and a manual fix may be required. One proposed solution involves removing the corrupted update link to restore system operations.

Security Concerns:

This incident raises critical questions about our reliance on third-party providers and the level of access they have to our systems. The Falcon Sensor update had kernel-level access, the deepest level of system access, which allowed it to cause such widespread disruption.

Tech Alert Windows Crashes Related to Falcon Server
Tech Alert Windows Crashes Related to Falcon Server

Moving Forward:

As we navigate this challenging situation, it’s essential to stay informed and take proactive steps to secure our systems. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available and solutions are implemented.

For now, if you’re experiencing issues, consult with your IT department or follow the suggested manual fix to remove the problematic update. Manual intervention is likely to be needed to address the corrupted system file causing the crashes. Stay vigilant and prioritise your system’s security.

2024, Gadget Man, General Election, Interview, Matt Porter

The Gadget Man General Election Special Part Two – We Love Hitchin Interviews – Bim Afolami Conservate Party Candidate for Hitchin Constituency

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The We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024 were conducted by Gadget Man, Matt Porter, the founder of We Love Hitchin.

Matt took the initiative to interview each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the General Election, providing an in-depth look at their visions and plans for the community.

You can view the interview below or listen to the podcast episode by clicking the play-head above.

 

Welcome to the We Love Hitchin Interviews 2024! As part of our series, we are sitting down with each candidate running for the Hitchin Constituency in the upcoming General Election on the 4th of July 2024. In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Bim Afolami, the Conservative Party candidate.

Join us as we delve into Bim Afolami’s vision for Hitchin, exploring his plans for economic stability, public safety, and community development. Discover his stance on key issues such as infrastructure, business support, and education. Bim shares his dedication to fostering a prosperous and secure future for Hitchin and its residents.

Interview Breakdown

00:00 Opening Titles 00:09 Welcome from Matt Porter, Founder of We Love Hitchin Facebook Group 01:09 Welcome to Bim Afolami

  • 01:16 Background and Motivation: Bim shares his background and explains his motivation for running in the new Hitchin Constituency.

02:06 Q1: Cost of Living Crisis

  • 02:33 A1: Bim discusses measures to alleviate financial pressures caused by the rising cost of living.

08:05 Q2: NHS and Healthcare

  • 08:37 A2: Bim outlines his plans to improve healthcare services, reduce waiting times, and address staffing shortages in the NHS.

12:40 Q3: Economy

  • 13:14 A3: Bim’s strategies for addressing inflation, unemployment, and ensuring economic stability.

17:44 Q5: Crime

  • 17:58 A5: Bim’s plans to enhance personal safety and improve the effectiveness of law enforcement in the community.

20:41 Q6: Housing

  • 20:57 A6: Measures to address the housing crisis, particularly focusing on affordability and availability for younger people and those on lower incomes.

Community Questions

23:32 Andrea’s Question on Water Companies

  • 24:45 Bim’s Response: Bim answers Andrea’s question about voting on a motion to bring water companies back into the public sector.

27:45 Nyland and Lauren’s Question on Gaza War and Palestine Recognition

  • 28:06 Bim’s Response: Bim discusses the provision of arms or assistance in the Gaza conflict and the recognition of Palestine as an independent state.

30:58 Vanessa and Nicola’s Question on Special Needs Education and Care

  • 31:49 Bim’s Response: Bim addresses the concerns of SEN families, pledging improved support and resources.

36:01 Bim’s Closing Appeal

  • 36:17 Bim asks for your vote: Bim Afolami explains why he should be chosen as the representative for Hitchin on the 4th of July.

39:11 Matt Porter’s Thanks and Closing Remarks 40:19 Closing Titles

Election Results for Hitchin Constituency 2024

The General Election results for the Hitchin Constituency have been announced. Here are the final tallies:

  • Bim Afolami (The Conservative Party Candidate): 14,958 votes
  • Charles Bunker (Reform UK): 6,760 votes
  • Sid Cordle (Christian Peoples Alliance): 181 votes
  • Will Lavin (Green Party): 2,631 votes
  • Chris Lucas (Liberal Democrats): 4,913 votes
  • Alistair Strathern (Labour Party): 23,067 votes – Elected

Congratulations to Alistair Strathern, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Hitchin! His victory marks a significant shift in the constituency, and we look forward to seeing his plans for Hitchin come to fruition.

AI, Artificial Intelligence, OpenAI

OpenAI’s Sora – A Groundbreaking AI tool for the Creation of Super-Realistic Video

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OpenAI’s Sora is a new AI tool designed to expand the possibilities of artificial intelligence applications. As a product of OpenAI’s ongoing research and development, Sora aims to make advanced AI technologies more accessible to a broad range of users, including those in education, healthcare, and entertainment sectors.

Sora distinguishes itself with a focus on adaptability, learning from complex data to offer predictions and insights with high accuracy. It incorporates advanced machine learning algorithms, highlighting its capacity for continuous evolution and improvement.

Key to Sora’s development is an ethical framework that prioritizes privacy, security, and fairness, addressing some of the most pressing concerns in AI deployment today.

Overall, Sora represents OpenAI’s commitment to advancing AI in a responsible and user-friendly manner, offering a tool that combines innovative technology with a strong ethical foundation.

Home Security, Security

The Benefits of Expertise: Advantages of Choosing Professional Burglar Alarm Installation

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When it comes to ensuring the security of our homes and businesses, installing a burglar alarm is a crucial step. While there are various options available for DIY installation, opting for professional burglar alarm installation offers several distinct advantages. In this article, we will explore the benefits of choosing expert installation for your burglar alarm system.

Enhanced Security Features and Configurations

Professional burglar alarm installers have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field. They are well-versed in the latest security technologies and can recommend the most suitable burglar alarm system for your specific needs. By choosing professional installation, you gain access to advanced security features and configurations that may not be readily available with off-the-shelf DIY alarm systems.

The Benefits of Expertise: Advantages of Choosing Professional Burglar Alarm Installation

Expert Advice and Customization

One significant advantage of professional installation is the expert advice and customization that comes with it. Professional installers have in-depth knowledge of security principles and can assess your property to identify any vulnerabilities or specific requirements. They can tailor the burglar alarm system to meet your unique needs, including zoning, sensors, and control panels, ensuring optimal protection.

Quality and Reliability

When it comes to the security of your property, quality and reliability are of utmost importance. Professional burglar alarm installers work only with reputable suppliers and manufacturers, ensuring that the system they install is of the highest quality. Additionally, they have the expertise to install the system correctly, minimising the risk of malfunctions or false alarms.

Certifications and Compliance

Professional burglar alarm installers are well-versed in local regulations and standards regarding alarm system installations. They ensure that the system they install meets all compliance requirements, including relevant British Standards and industry certifications. Choosing expert installation ensures that your burglar alarm system is installed in accordance with all applicable regulations, providing peace of mind and avoiding any potential legal issues.

The Benefits of Expertise: Advantages of Choosing Professional Burglar Alarm Installation

Expertise in Wiring and Integration

Proper wiring is crucial for effective and reliable burglar alarm systems. Professional installers have the expertise to handle complex wiring and integration tasks. They can seamlessly integrate the alarm system with other security features, such as CCTV cameras or access control systems, providing a comprehensive security solution for your property.

Maintenance and Support

Choosing professional installation ensures that you have ongoing maintenance and support for your burglar alarm system. Professional installers offer regular maintenance services to ensure that the system remains in optimal working condition. If any issues arise, they have the expertise to identify and resolve them promptly. Additionally, they typically offer support services, including troubleshooting guidance and emergency response, further enhancing the security of your property.

Insurance Benefits

Many insurance providers offer discounts on premiums for properties with professionally installed burglar alarm systems. By choosing expert installation, you may be eligible for these insurance benefits, potentially reducing your insurance costs in the long run. Professional installers can provide the necessary documentation and certifications to support your insurance claims, ensuring a smooth process and maximising your savings.

The Bottom Line

Opting for professional burglar alarm installation offers numerous benefits for your home or business. From enhanced security features and customization to expert advice and ongoing support, professional installers are well-equipped to provide you with a reliable and effective burglar alarm system. 

Additionally, complying with local regulations, integrating security features, and potentially lowering insurance costs are added advantages of choosing expert installation. When it comes to the security of your property, investing in professional installation is a decision that pays off in terms of peace of mind and comprehensive protection.

Internet of Things, Internet Security, IoT

Is IoT Right for Your Business?

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IoT, or the internet of things, has taken the world by storm. In 2018, the smart devices market value is estimated at a whopping $164 billion and will grow exponentially in the next few years.

Every discerning business owner might be wondering whether IoT is ideal for their business and what they stand to lose by not investing in it. 

Well, here is all the information you need to decide whether to invest in IoT. 

What Is the Internet of Things?

Simply put, IoT refers to all the devices that collect and transmit data over the internet. Also known as smart devices, these appliances help to make life more convenient for users. 

For example, IoT devices include smart fridges that regulate temperature independently and smartwatches that double as health devices.

What Are the IoT Advantages for Business Owners?

IoT use is highly prominent in the personal sphere. However, the past few years have seen increased use of this technology in the corporate and manufacturing world. Some of the benefits that organisations enjoy by employing this technology include:

Lower Operational Costs

Smart devices can help businesses save a lot on their utilities. An innovative HVAC system, for instance, maintains a building’s temperature to a suitable degree. This minimises unnecessary heating or cooling that often leads to energy wastage. Over time, you will end up saving a substantial amount of money.

Additionally, you can use IoT devices to reduce your labour costs. For instance, voice assistants can competently accomplish most tasks that assistants do, like organising your calendars, connecting with customers on live chat video software and reminding you of when projects are due. 

Offers More Convenience

IoT devices make life much easier for everyone at the office. Take a smart printer, for example. Rather than deal with disgruntled employees inconvenienced by a lack of ink in the printer, you can have smart printers that detect ink levels and inform you when you are running low. 

Some devices even pinpoint issues as they arise, thus giving you ample time to rectify them. This can save your company a lot of inconvenience and worry. 

Smart locks are yet another IoT device that offers incredible convenience. With them, you don’t need to carry keys around all day. Additionally, since you can use an app to open the door, it is easier to access buildings when you are in a hurry.

Improve Your Competitiveness

There is no denying that the IoT is the future of business. Therefore, a company that fails to take advantage of this new technology will lose its competitive edge in the coming decade.

For instance, in the manufacturing field, IoT for automation can tremendously improve a company’s efficiency. The more efficient an organisation is, the better it will be at handling its customer’s needs. This enables it to retain its current customers and attract new ones. 

IoT Concerns

Granted, IoT has its fair share of concerns. However, the most prominent one is the security risk the devices pose due to their susceptibility to hackers.

However, you can quickly mitigate these risks by investing in solid security infrastructure.

So, Should You Invest in IoT?

By and large, the pros of using IoT in your company far outweigh the cons. However, before you decide to invest in it, ensure that it will help you meet your company goals. If it will, do not hesitate to incorporate it into your entity.

Data

Surprising Things That Put Your Data At Risk

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The start of the pandemic has seen a sudden surge in home-based work and, almost simultaneously, a sharp increase in cybersecurity attacks. For businesses of all sizes, cyber incidents became a top concern around the world. Experts estimate that the worldwide cost of cybercrime will rise to $6 trillion by the end of 2021. It goes with saying: the pandemic has caused major disruption in the workplace and the security around the workplace. 

Additionally, hackers have seized the unique opportunity to create pandemic-related scams, capitalising on pandemic anxiety and fear. Some hackers targeted stolen information from individuals and companies by creating a global map of COVID-19 cases with malware embedded inside it. Others targeted work-from-home individuals with brutal cyberattacks and phishing content, gaining protection to confidential files, work and home networks. Yet, as cybercriminals doubled their efforts, businesses and their teams rapidly learned to identify vulnerabilities and suspicious content. But cyber vulnerabilities can come in different shapes, some of which may be unexpected. Here are the most surprising things that can put remote workers’ data at risk. 

An unsafe backpack

Do remote workers still work from home? Recent surveys reveal that people are looking for new work environments, such as co-working spaces and their local coffee shops. Thankfully, many employees are familiar with the dangers of public connections. Therefore, many have been adding a VPN to their work routine. However, what they have not considered is the role their laptop bag plays. Indeed, a secure backpack makes it difficult for thieves on public transport to gain advantage of the crowd. Theft-proof backwards design means that nobody can access the content of the bag when you’re carrying it. Laptops, smartphones and other personal devices are unlikely to end in the wrong hand. 

 

Not using tech support to its full extend

We get it. Sometimes, you accidentally press the wrong button or pick the wrong option, and things can go out of control. This is especially frequent when downloading important documentation or using new tools without proper understanding. More people don’t realise that IT support professionals can help read between the lines and keep your data protected. Ultimately, the biggest vulnerability for your laptop is not the network or the digital solution; it’s the user. We are prone to make mistakes, so it’s helpful to gain tech guidance when needed. 

Long working hours

Working remotely tends to increase the average working day by up to two hours. The pandemic has boosted the UK’s reputation for being the “unpaid overtime capital of Europe” to new records. Unfortunately, working longer hours is no productivity miracle. It’s the opposite. The long-hours culture affects productivity, concentration and creativity, making overworked employees more likely to make mistakes. Phishing emails and scams can become believable communication when you’re too tired to think clearly. 

An unexpected compliment

Working from home can be tiring and stressful. Many employees agree that they’re having frustrating days when they feel that nobody is noticing their efforts. When you are isolated from your team, you could be more vulnerable to flattery. A scammer who pays a compliment, either on the phone or via email, is more likely to gain someone’s trust. 

Tackling cybersecurity threats further in a post-pandemic environment requires a deep understanding of human psychology. Criminals act when they see an opportunity, which means it’s essential for business and professionals to maintain a strong approach to their work routine. 

Gadget Man, Radio Interview, Security, The Gadget Man

Gadget Man – Episode 154 – Protecting Small Businesses from Cyber Attacks

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More and more businesses are being targeted by criminals who are hijacking there websites and online accounts in order to blackmail them.

Here I am talking to Georgie Jameson on BBC Radio Suffolk about what small businesses can do to protect themselves from these kinds of attacks.

Matt Porter, The Gadget Man speaking on Radio Suffolk

Cyber Security, Security, wifi, Wireless broadband

Keeping Customer Data Safe In Your Business

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You’ve got a business, and you’ve got plenty of customers milling in and out of it every day you’re open and operating. Even when you’re closed, you’ve got an ecommerce website that allows people to order what they want from you whenever they want, allowing you to ship out products or services as soon as you’re next able to. It’s a great element to have to your business, and increases your exposure, outreach, and potential sales from these by tenfold.

But that means you’ve got a lot of data to keep track of at the same time. And this data is very important, so you need to keep it safe. So here’s just a couple of details to remember about storing customer data, in the safe and right ways.

 

Always Give Customers an Option

Whenever a customer comes through your ecommerce site, give them plenty of choice over how their details are used. Let them know how their information will be used whilst they’re on the site. Let your customers know they have the option to store their credit or debit details when they use your site, and that they also have the option for the system to forget all about their card. After all, it’s completely up to the person shopping with you whether or not you have their details on file, and you shouldn’t want it any other way.

Move On From Physical Storage

If you’re using physical storage to keep a track of your customer details, you might be missing a trick here. Not only do things like hard drives, USB sticks, and filing cabinets all have a maximum capacity to them, but they’re also quite hard to sort through. Flash drives alone have a huge risk to them, in that the data stored on them can be lost at any moment, and pieces are chipped away every time you log one in and out of your computer. And then you’ll have to look up a guide like https://setapp.com/how-to/usb-data-recovery.

So use cloud storage, or server based storage, instead. There’s a lot more room for expansion, and you can invest in private storage that only you have access to. End to end encryption, as well as the ability to search for the right files in seconds – it’s a real upgrade to have a look into at least.

Keep Outside Connections to a Minimum

If you’re looking to stay safe and secure in the modern day and age, you need to be sure as few people as possible have access to your company files. Especially the customer details you have stored for ease of access on both sides of the screen. So make sure only a select few people have the passwords or keys to the storage, and make sure only secured WIFIs have access.

Customer data is a priority. Security is a big part of maintaining business longevity, so it needs to be something you prioritise in your quest to take your company higher.

CCTV, Voice Recorders

Top Surveillance Gadgets for Small Businesses

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We are living in an increasingly technological age and there are all sorts of different gadgets that you have probably already considered incorporating into your business. But for now, let’s focus on surveillance gadgets! Sure, Orwell might have foretold that we’d end up living in an age where “Big Brother” is always watching – but surveillance gadgets have proven indispensable for small business owners time and time again. Here are a couple you might like to consider investing in.

CCTV

Top of the list when it comes to surveillance gadgets, of course, is CCTV. CCTV stands for “closed circuit television” and is a form of surveillance camera system that has become commonly used by small business owners, large business owners, and even domestic households alike. Now, CCTV can be used in a very obvious way. It can be placed outside of your commercial property to prevent would-be vandals from defacing your store front, smashing glass, or causing other damage to your commercial property’s exteriors. It can also be placed inside your commercial property, reducing theft (people have been found much less likely to steal when they feel they are being recorded) and general shoplifting. But CCTV can have other benefits too! Studies have determined that many business owners, unfortunately, lose profit from staff theft. So, you could place CCTV in important areas such as stock rooms or overlooking cash registers too. This, again, deters crime, but can also be used as evidence if you find yourself in the sad situation of having to prove a staff member’s guilt. Finally, CCTV can be used to draw up footage if there is ever any incident in your commercial premises. If someone is hurt, the footage can determine whether it was an accident or whether someone was at fault. This could come in extremely useful during court cases. If this interests you, you can find facts about security cameras here.

Voice Recorders

Of course, you can’t just record people without their permission. You really will have to have consent to record conversations that you hold with anyone. But voice recorders can come in extremely useful when you are conducting important meetings with members of staff. Employees, of course, have rights, and it’s extremely important that you meet requirements when dealing with them. But it also serves well to have a recorded copy of important issues that have been discussed in meetings with HR. These can include one to one meetings where progression is noted and targets are set out, meetings where concerning behaviour is brought up, or any other formal discussion that you might need to refer back to at a later date. Just make sure any recordings are stored confidentially.

These are just two different surveillance gadgets that you might want to consider when it comes to running a small business successfully. Having footage of particular scenarios can serve you well in the long run! So, don’t hesitate to look further into these options that you have and invest where you need to!