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VIPRE Security Group’s Annual Email Threat Landscape Shows Advanced Methods Needed for Security

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9 months ago

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Analysis of 7 billion emails shows clean links are duping users, malicious EML attachments increased 10-fold in Q4, and social engineering attacks are at all-time highs.

NEW YORK, Feb. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — VIPRE Security Group, a global leader and award-winning cybersecurity, privacy and data protection company, today released its report titled “Email Security in 2024: An Expert Look at Email-Based Threats.” The 2024 predictions for email security in this report are based on an analysis of more than 7 billion emails processed by VIPRE worldwide during 2023. This equates to almost one email for everyone on the planet. Of those, roughly 1 billion (or 15%) were malicious.

This research warns that in 2024, QR code hacks or quishing will increase, use of AI to create content for spam emails including deepfakes will rise; highly personalized social media mining will grow further; and a wide array of file types and formats – especially EML – will be used to propagate phishing and malware attacks. There will also be a marked uptick in state-sponsored attacks.

Key highlights 
As network security tools have improved in recent years, the corporate inbox has become an ever more attractive target to attackers. Often protected by nothing more than human nature and an antivirus, cybercriminals continue to use email to launch their most basic and persistent attacks. Now and again, they get a bit creative, which has come to bear in the past twelve months.

Clean links are duping users. When it comes to the method of attack, threat actors this past year favored links over other delivery methods (like attachments and QR codes) nearly seven to one (71%). The year before, VIPRE saw a 50/50 split, but their popularity is improving as attackers are getting smarter about what kinds of links they leverage. Based on this current trend, the use of such links are expected to increase this year, although not in the ways we might assume.

EML attachments defy detection. While EML attachments were a present threat throughout 2023, they increased tenfold in Q4. The benefit of sending malicious payloads via EML file is that they can get easily overlooked by many basic email security solutions when attached to the actual phishing email (which comes out clean). The malicious directions, hidden in plaintext within the body of the EML, may then encourage users to navigate to a link, call a phone number, or otherwise engage in a scam. Partly because of the novelty of EML use, curious users are prone to open, follow, and fall prey.

Browsers under attack. Q4’s top malware family, AgentTesla, infiltrates a target machine and harvests sensitive data off any number of qualifying browsers. This shows that attackers are launching malware merely for reconnaissance now, as valuable artifacts like username, computer name, operating system, CPU name, RAM, and IP address may fetch more on the Dark Web than they could garner in a one-off attack.

Malware skyrockets – still not top spot. Email-delivered malware remains a favorite, increasing by 276% between January and December of last year. However, despite the boost, it accounted for only 5% of malspam overall, trailing commercial spam (“Deal Ends Now!”), general scams, and phishing. Perhaps threat actors have found that it’s easier to trick end users than security solutions, which do manage to snag malware despite falling behind in emerging tactics like social engineering attacks. Consequently, numbers are low. The real weak link remains humans, as the prevalence of social engineering attacks will attest; of all spam emails, 35% were scams, and 22% were phishing attempts.

Targeted verticals. Financial services (22%) was the most targeted sector by phishing and malspam emails, followed by information technology (14%), healthcare (14%), education (10%), and government (8%). Information technology experienced a 59% increase in attacks between Q1 and Q4, whilst attacks on government inboxes went up by a staggering 16,000%.

“When you take a look at the kinds of [email] threats we’re seeing today, a lot of them are preventable. It just takes the right tools, but most companies don’t know they exist because email doesn’t always get the same kind of security attention as the rest of the network. Unfortunately, threat actors know this,” said Usman Choudhary, general manager, VIPRE Security Group.

To read the full report, click here: Email Security in 2024: An Expert Look at Email-Based Threats.

VIPRE leverages its unique understanding of email security to equip organizations with the information they need to protect themselves. This annual report is based on proprietary intelligence that is gleaned from months of effort and round-the-clock vigilance.

About VIPRE Security Group

VIPRE Security Group, part of Ziff Davis, Inc., is a leading provider of internet security solutions purpose-built to protect businesses, solution providers, and home users from costly and malicious cyber threats. With over 25 years of industry expertise, VIPRE is one of the world’s largest threat intelligence clouds, delivering exceptional protection against today’s most aggressive online threats. Our award-winning software portfolio includes next-generation antivirus endpoint cloud solutions, advanced email security products, along with threat intelligence for real-time malware analysis, and security awareness training for compliance and risk management. VIPRE solutions deliver easy-to-use, comprehensive layered defense through cloud-based and server security, with mobile interfaces that enable instant threat response. VIPRE is a proud Advanced Technology Partner of Amazon Web Services operating globally across North America and Europe. 

The group operates under various brands, including VIPRE®, StrongVPN®, IPVanish®, Inspired eLearning®, Livedrive®, and SugarSync®. www.VIPRE.com

Press Contact:
Scott E. Rupp
941-448-7566
https://millerrupp.com/

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SOURCE VIPRE Security Group

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Orion Innovation Names Brian Bronson Chief Executive Officer

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1 hour ago

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November 15, 2024

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Technology Industry Executive and Leader to Drive Next Phase of Company Growth

EDISON, N.J., Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Orion Innovation (“Orion”), a leading digital transformation and product development services firm, today announced the appointment of Brian Bronson as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. With over 25 years of leadership experience across global technology sectors, Bronson will lead Orion’s next phase of growth and transformation, focusing on expanding the company’s digital capabilities and market presence. Brian succeeds Raj Patil, who will transition to an advisory role with the company and One Equity Partners.

“Brian’s impressive track record of driving profitable growth and leading large-scale organizational transformation makes him the ideal leader for Orion’s next chapter,” said Carlo Padovano, Partner at One Equity Partners and Lead Director of Orion Innovation. “His deep expertise in product engineering, GenAI adoption, and digital transformation perfectly aligns with our vision for Orion’s future.

On behalf of the Orion Board, I’d like to thank Raj for his leadership and dedication in helping develop Orion into a market leader. Raj will transition to an advisory role with the company and One Equity Partners.”

“I’m honored to take on this role and excited about the tremendous opportunities ahead for Orion,” said Bronson. “The company has built an impressive foundation with a blue-chip roster of clients, a global delivery platform, and a talented team with deep domain and engineering expertise. I look forward to working closely with our employees, clients, and partners as we deliver transformative solutions to our clients, drive innovation, and scale our capabilities.”

Before joining Orion, Brian served as EVP of US Telecom, Media, and Entertainment at Capgemini. Additionally, he led the integration and execution of Capgemini’s global engineering services business across the Americas and Asia. This included driving growth in many industries leveraging innovative capabilities tied to 5G, connectivity, and software product engineering. Previously, as President & CEO of Radisys, a leading provider of open telecom solutions, he led the company’s strategic transformation from a hardware company to a provider of cutting-edge software and enabling technologies for the telecom, technology, and medical industries. This transformation culminated in the sale of Radisys to Reliance Industries in 2018, marking a successful exit for the company.

About Orion Innovation

Orion Innovation (“Orion”) is a leading digital transformation and product development services firm. Rooted in engineering and design thinking, along with a unique combination of agility, scale, and maturity, its team of approximately 6,400 associates helps Fortune 1000 companies improve efficiencies, enhance customer experiences, and develop new digital offerings. Through its delivery centers in North America, EMEA, India and Latin America, Orion serves clients across Telecom, Media & Technology, Sports & Entertainment, Professional Services, Financial Services, and Healthcare industries. For more information, visit www.orioninc.com. 

About One Equity Partners

One Equity Partners (“OEP”) is a middle market private equity firm focused on the industrial, healthcare, and technology sectors in North America and Europe. The firm seeks to build market-leading companies by identifying and executing transformative business combinations. OEP is a trusted partner with a differentiated investment process, a broad and senior team, and an established track record generating long-term value for its partners. Since 2001, the firm has completed more than 400 transactions worldwide. OEP, founded in 2001, spun out of JP Morgan in 2015. The firm has offices in New York, Chicago, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. For more information, please visit www.oneequity.com.

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Morrison Securities launches one of Australia’s first plug-and-play global trading to 15 countries with ViewTrade

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November 15, 2024

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SYDNEY, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Equities clearing business Morrison Securities (“Morrison”) is launching one of Australia’s first plug-and-play global trading to 15 countries with trading technology provider ViewTrade.

This will mean Morrison’s 38,000+ active clients trading $30 billion annually will only need to go through KYC once and then will be provided unprecedented rapid global trading access.

Morrison will now also offer enhanced global equity and options trading, fixed income, ETFs, seamlessly integrate domestic and global trading, and choice between fully disclosed or omnibus operating models.

ViewTrade has calculated that implementation of solutions like this across all of Australia’s global trading could generate efficiencies of nearly $240 million annually.

A business the size of Morisson launching this solution is a watershed moment for enhancing global opportunities for Australia’s wealth management sector, according to ViewTrade.

Nigel Singh, CEO of ViewTrade International Australia, said: “We are excited to work with Morrison Securities. Together, we are unlocking a world of investment opportunities for Australians. By accessing global markets, firms can offer their clients more diversified portfolios, reducing risk and protecting wealth. This benefits both domestic and international clients. We invite other firms to join us in this partnership and unlock the potential of global market access.”

William Slack, CEO of Morrison Securities, said: “We’ve designed a solution that integrates global market access into our domestic offering for a superior customer experience. With our combined expertise, we’re confident in delivering an efficient, scalable solution tailored to the specific needs of our clients.”

Laksh Gangwani, Chief Revenue Officer – APAC and Middle East at ViewTrade, added: “We are thrilled about the partnership with Morrison Securities as they launch one of Australia’s first plug-and-play global trading solutions to 15 countries. Morrison’s integrated approach to technology, compliance, and operations is enabling investors to complete KYC once, while accessing multiple markets and asset classes with ease. This will ensure Australian investors can build diversified international portfolios with ease.”

ViewTrade (www.viewtrade.com) is a global leader in investment and trading infrastructure solutions that power cross-border investing for financial services firms throughout the world. ViewTrade provides the technology, support, and brokerage services that business innovators need to launch or enhance retail investing experiences. For more than 20 years, ViewTrade has partnered with over 300 clients – from technology startups to large banks, brokers and advisors – to deliver innovative investment solutions and exceptional customer service.

Morrison Securities (https://www.morrisonsecurities.com/) Established in 1985, Morrison Securities is an Australian Broking firm specialising in trading, execution, and clearing services tailored to advisory firms and wholesale clients. They partner with firms to navigate operational challenges and help them realise their full potential. Their comprehensive suite of solutions covers seamless international market access, advanced equities and options trading, capital raising and DVP settlement services, integrated APIs, and stock lending. With a platform-agnostic approach and enterprise-level client service, they prioritise operational excellence and long-term partnerships.

 

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SOURCE ViewTrade

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Australia’s least-favourite chores just got easier with Roborock’s Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals

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1 hour ago

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November 15, 2024

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SYDNEY, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Roborock, the global best-selling robot vacuum brand[i], is thrilled to announce its exclusive deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024.

Starting from 21 November to 4 December 2024, Roborock is offering significant discounts on a wide range of popular models, with savings of up to $700 – including popular models such as the S8 MaxV Ultra, Qrevo MaxV, Q8 Max+, Qrevo Master, Qrevo S, and Flexi Pro.

In a recent survey conducted across Australia, Roborock found that 27% of Australians would happily skip cleaning their floors forever, with many Aussies also admitting to neglecting high-maintenance tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, and appliance cleaning. With these cleaning challenges in mind, Roborock is offering unbeatable savings on popular models across Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with savings of up to $700.

The deals are available at Robrock Australia’s Official Online Store, Roborock’s Amazon storefront and all authorised retailers.

 Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals

S8 MaxV Ultra – (SAVE $700) – MSRP $2,999 / Promo: $2,299The S8 MaxV Ultra is the company’s most powerful one-stop cleaning solution, combining the company’s most sophisticated deep cleaning technology with user-friendly features. The model introduces a unique robotic arm and an extra mop that efficiently cleans challenging areas with complete corner cleaning capabilities. Newly launched.Qrevo Master – (SAVE $700) – MSRP $2,699 / Promo: $1,999Newly launched and the most advanced model in the mid-range Qrevo series, the Qrevo Master is built for those who seek top-of-the-line cleaning technology at a mid-range price point. With high-powered suction, deep corner cleaning capabilities, and complete self-maintenance features, it’s designed to tackle the toughest cleaning challenges effortlessly.

Qrevo MaxV – (SAVE $700) – MSRP $2,199 / Promo: $1,499Offers users a complete hands-free floor cleaning experience at the mid-range price point, taking both vacuuming and mopping off your plate while combining powerful cleaning functions, self-maintenance capabilities, and intelligent features such – as pet recognition from flagship models – into one convenient cleaning package.

Qrevo S – (SAVE $400) – MSRP $1,499 / Promo: $1,099Newly launched, the Qrevo S is ideal for those looking for their first robot vacuum that excels at both vacuuming and mopping with self-maintenance features. It blends cleaning performance with a streamlined design for everyday cleaning.

Q8 Max+ – (SAVE $500) – MSRP $1,299 / Promo: $799The Q8 Max+ delivers high-performance cleaning with enhanced navigation and automatic dirt disposal. It’s equipped with powerful suction and a flagship roller brush system making it perfect for homes with mainly hard floors, ensuring a deep and thorough clean.

Flexi Pro – (SAVE $300) – MSRP $999 / Promo: $699 (Available starting 14th November)The Flexi Pro is a versatile handheld vacuum option designed for deep floor cleaning and tight spaces. Capable of handling both wet and dry messes, and the ability to clean itself after every clean-up, the Flexi Pro tackles all types of messes with ease.

According to Roborock’s recent survey, garages are the dirtiest spaces in Australian homes, with 46% of respondents admitting they need more attention. Other problem areas include bathrooms (41%), kitchens (38%), and even kids’ playrooms (32%). Given the demands of busy lives, it’s easy to see why some chores fall through the cracks.

With these exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers, Roborock makes it easier than ever for Aussies to maintain a clean and comfortable home – without the hassle. Whether it’s tackling neglected garages, high-traffic kitchens, or hard-to-reach corners in the bathroom, Roborock’s innovative products are ready to take on the task.

For more information on Roborock products, please visit https://au.roborock.com  

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors: 

The Roborock survey was conducted by TGM Research and involved 1,028 nationally representative respondents across Australia. The survey aimed to understand the cleaning habits, preferences, and challenges faced by Australians ahead of the launch of Roborock’s Qrevo Master, Qrevo S and H5. 

About Roborock     

Roborock is a leading smart cleaning brand renowned for its intelligent cleaning solutions. With a steadfast dedication to becoming a global leading smart appliance player, Roborock enriches liveswith its innovative line of robotic, cordless, wet/dry vacuum cleaners, and washer-dryers. Rooted in a user-centric approach, our R&D-driven solutions cater to diverse cleaning needs in over 15 million homes across 170+ countries.  Headquartered in Beijing and with strategic subsidiaries in key markets, including the United States, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, and South Korea, Roborock is dedicated to elevating its market presence worldwide. For more information, visit https://au.roborock.com/.    

[i] [1] The data comes from Euromonitor International (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. The sales figures of robotic vacuum cleaners worldwide in the first three quarters of 2023 (in RMB hundred million) were used for calculation. Roborock ranks first in the industry. Robotic vacuum cleaner refers to vacuum cleaners that automatically move around rooms using sensors to clean floors. The research was completed in February 2024.

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SOURCE Roborock

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