Technology

BlackBerry Reports 40 Percent Increase in New Malware Used in Cyberattacks

Published

3 months ago

June 25, 2024

5.2 attacks per minute detected between January and March 2024

WATERLOO, ON, June 25, 2024 /CNW/ — BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) today released its latest Global Threat Intelligence Report, revealing that BlackBerry® cybersecurity solutions detected and stopped 3.1 million cyberattacks (37,000 per day) in the first quarter of 2024. Between January and March 2024, BlackBerry detected 630,000 malicious hashes, representing a 40 percent increase from its previous reporting period. Sixty percent of attacks targeting industry were directed at critical infrastructure, including government, healthcare, financial, and communication industries, of which 40 percent targeted the financial sector.

“Each iteration of this report highlights startling new trends: novel malware is growing with no signs of stopping, and threat actors are highly motivated, be it for financial gain or to create chaos,” said Ismael Valenzuela, Vice President of Threat Research and Intelligence at BlackBerry. “In a year where over 50 countries are holding elections, geopolitical tensions are at an all-time high, and every nation will soon be fixated on the Olympic Games, the threat landscape can feel overwhelming to navigate. This report provides a snapshot of where threat actors are looking, how they are operating, and what we can expect in the coming months so defenders can be one step ahead.”

Highlights from the latest BlackBerry Global Threat Intelligence Report include:

The United States Severely Outnumbers the World in Cyberattacks: According to our internal telemetry, 82 percent of cyberattacks targeted the U.S. during this reporting period. Fifty-four percent of those attacks contained unique (new) malware, meaning attacks contained malware that was previously not observed.Attacks Based on Novel Malware Increased by 40 Percent Per Minute: BlackBerry observed a 40 percent per-minute increase in novel hashes (unique malware), compared to the previous reporting period. This represents an average of 7,500 unique malware samples per day targeting our customer base, or 5.2 per minute.Commercial Enterprise Threats Slowly but Surely Rise: 36 percent of all threats targeted commercial enterprises (including retail, manufacturing, automotive and professional services), a three percent increase from the last reporting period. Yet, this sector saw a 10 percent jump in instances of new malware. Commercial enterprise remains a target for threat actors as they grow more sophisticated, often using social engineering to obtain account credentials and distribute malware.CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) are Rapidly Weaponized in All Forms of Malware – Especially Ransomware and Infostealers: CVEs provide a framework for identifying, standardizing and publicizing known security vulnerabilities and exposures. Fifty six percent of the 8,900 CVEs reported during this reporting period were given a severity score of seven out of a possible 10. This represents a three percent increase from the previous reporting period.Despite Takedowns, Ransomware Groups Wreak Havoc: Globally, the top three ransomware groups active this period were LockBit, Hunters International, and 8Base.

These threats will continue to be underpinned by a politically charged year globally, with disinformation and deepfake campaigns continuing to be pervasive across social media. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the continuing conflict in the Middle East, and global elections will be the dominant variables in how threat actors select their targets and methodologies.

Based on its data analysis, the BlackBerry Threat Intelligence and Research team predicts that threat actors will continue to take extensive measures to carefully target their victims. A rise in new ransomware and infostealers indicates that private data will continue to be highly sought after by threat actors, where sectors like healthcare and financial services will be top targets for attack.

Download a copy of BlackBerry’s Global Threat Intelligence Report at BlackBerry.com, and register to attend the Global Threat Intelligence Report Deep Dive webinar on Wednesday, June 26th at 11:00 am EDT to discover more.

About BlackBerry
BlackBerry (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) provides intelligent security software and services to enterprises and governments around the world. The company’s software powers over 235M vehicles. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company leverages AI and machine learning to deliver innovative solutions in the areas of cybersecurity, safety, and data privacy solutions, and is a leader in the areas of endpoint management, endpoint security, encryption, and embedded systems. BlackBerry’s vision is clear – to secure a connected future you can trust.

For more information, visit BlackBerry.com and follow @BlackBerry.

Trademarks, including but not limited to BLACKBERRY and EMBLEM Design, are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.

Media Contacts:
BlackBerry Media Relations
+1 (519) 597-7273
mediarelations@BlackBerry.com

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SOURCE BlackBerry Limited

Technology

EcoCharge® and Balancell Partner to Drive Energy Efficiency in Africa with Advanced and Stable Charging Technologies

Published

51 mins ago

September 24, 2024

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Two advanced energy solutions companies are announcing a multi-year partnership to support the growing demand for reliable and efficient charging solutions across the African market. The IDEAL Industries, Inc. brand EcoCharge by Enatel®, a global leader in battery charging technologies, is supplying charging technology to Balancell, a cutting-edge battery manufacturer and energy supplier.

Empowering Africa’s Energy Transition

Africa is experiencing a dynamic shift toward sustainable energy and electric mobility. Global banks and investors funded $76.04 billion in solar, hydropower, and wind projects across Africa from 2012 to 2021. The investments supported renewable energy developments like Kenya’s Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, a $1.095 billion wind farm that boosted their total electricity supply by 13%. Electrification is also rising; Africa’s electric vehicle market is expected to nearly double between 2021 and 2027.

However, more work remains. Africa attracts less than 5% of the world’s energy investments, using only 11% of its hydropower potential and 0.01% of its wind potential. Over 40% of Africans still lack access to electricity.

To advance battery charging solutions in Africa, Balancell will leverage charging technologies from EcoCharge to electrify the African material handling fleet. This initiative will help reduce CO2 emissions and enhance charging efficiency.

“We are thrilled to be part of the renewable energy transition in Africa,” said Enatel General Manager Mike Clifford. “By partnering with Balancell, we are matching a leading-edge battery design with an advanced charger. We’re confident this winning combination will help our customers achieve faster charging, less energy waste, and higher performance.”

Partnering for Growth and Sustainability

Under the agreement, EcoCharge will supply Balancell with a range of chargers that meet the challenging needs of the African market, such as unstable electrical grids and harsh environments. These advanced chargers will be integrated into Balancell’s advanced industrial batteries, providing the perfect match for optimal energy management and control.

“Partnering with EcoCharge allows us to offer our customers superior charging solutions that are both innovative and sustainable,” said Paul Osborne, Director and Chief Financial Officer of Balancell. “This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver comprehensive energy solutions that support Africa’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.”

Driving Innovation

EcoCharge chargers are known for their durability, efficiency, and adaptability, making them suitable for deployment in diverse and sometimes challenging environments across Africa. This partnership with Balancell not only strengthens the product offerings available to the African market but also underscores the EcoCharge commitment to continued innovation and investment in sustainable energy solutions.

To learn more about the transition to sustainable energy, visit: https://www.EcoCharge.net/

About EcoCharge®
EcoCharge leads the battery charging market with a range of high-quality products, including single phase chargers, three phase chargers and BMM’s. They are designed and manufactured in New Zealand to ISO9001 standards and carry global compliance marks.

About Enatel®
Enatel is a world leader in power conversion and battery charging technology based in Christchurch, New Zealand. The company specializes in developing high-efficiency and sustainable charging solutions for a variety of applications.

To learn more about the transition to sustainable energy, visit: https://www.enatel.net/

About IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. is a global, diversified 108-year-old family-owned business that designs and manufactures superior products for the electrical, power management and industrial charging industries.

For more information, visit www.idealindustries.com.

About Balancell
Balancell is a leading provider of energy solutions, with a focus on lithium-ion battery technology and energy management systems. Headquartered in Cape Town, Balancell serves a diverse range of industries, including telecommunications, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.

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SOURCE IDEAL Industries

Technology

Global Digital Health Leaders Converge in Seoul for HIMSS24 APAC Conference

Published

2 hours ago

September 23, 2024

SEOUL, Korea, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 2024 HIMSS Asia Pacific Health Conference & Exhibition, one of the most influential digital health conferences in the APAC region, will be hosted for the first time in Seoul, Korea. The conference will take place from 1 – 4 October at the Coex Convention & Exhibition Center.

The HIMSS24 APAC Conference will bring together healthcare experts and innovators from around the world to collaborate and exchange ideas and insights that will help shape the future of healthcare.

The conference presents a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from world-renowned experts, network with leading healthcare executives and professionals, and learn about cutting-edge developments and technologies addressing critical issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, interoperability, and data analytics.

Produced in partnership with Messe Esang, Korea’s largest exhibition company, the HIMSS24 APAC Conference will feature visionary keynotes, interactive demonstrations, and a digital health technology exhibition that will illuminate cutting-edge health tech topics, enhance knowledge, and foster innovation.

Through a partnership with the Korean Hospital Association, attendees of the HIMSS APAC conference will have complimentary access to the K-Hospital + Healthtech Fair, the largest healthcare exhibition in South Korea.

Sessions catered to HIMSS24 APAC’s four learning tracks on artificial intelligence, smart hospitals, cybersecurity, and innovations will include fireside chats, real-world case studies, demonstrations, and more. Exclusive to HIMSS24 APAC, attendees can also experience advanced medical systems and management practices shaping the future of global healthcare with guided tours of leading hospitals in Korea.

The HIMSS APAC Conference follows the memorandum of understanding signed by HIMSS, the Korea Hospital Association (KHA), and the Korea Health Information Services (KHIS) on May 17, 2024.

HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) is a global advisor, thought leader, and member-based society committed to reforming the global health ecosystem through the power of information and technology. As a mission-driven nonprofit, HIMSS offers a unique depth and breadth of expertise in health innovation, public policy, workforce development, research, and digital health transformation to advise leaders, stakeholders, and influencers across the global health ecosystem on best practices.

Click here to register or learn more about HIMSS24 APAC.

Journalists interested in attending the conference can contact HIMSS to receive complimentary press credentials.

Contact:

Albe Zakes
HIMSS Communications Director
Email: albe.zakes@himss.org
Phone: +1.267.221.4800

Sukhjit Singh
Senior Director, HIMSS APAC
Email: Sukhjit.Singh@himss.org
Phone: 65.6664.1187

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/global-digital-health-leaders-converge-in-seoul-for-himss24-apac-conference-302256242.html

SOURCE HIMSS-HEALTHCARE INFORMATION AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS SOCIETY

Technology

EDC expands Indo-Pacific presence with a new representation in Japan

Published

2 hours ago

September 23, 2024

Tokyo hub in key “gateway to Asia” nation will better support Canadian exporters

OTTAWA, ON and TOKYO, Sept. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Export Development Canada (EDC) announced the opening of its new representation in Tokyo, Japan. This marks EDC’s ninth Indo-Pacific representation, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to helping Canadian companies diversify into higher-growth markets.

As the world’s fourth-largest economy and fifth-largest export destination for Canada in 2023 (accounting for 1.9% of national exports), Japan presents a wealth of opportunities for Canadian exporters of all sizes. Boasting a trusted free market and a strong business and a regulatory environment supported by democratic institutions, the country serves as a strategic launchpad offering exporters easier entry into the region and subsequently into other Indo-Pacific markets. EDC’s Tokyo representation will serve as a vital hub, offering on-the-ground support, market insights and tailored financial services to Canadian companies.

“Japan is a key trading partner for Canada, and our countries enjoy deep economic and trade relations spanning 95 years,” said Mairead Lavery, President and CEO, EDC. “With Japan’s reliance on imports, the opportunities for Canadian exporters— particularly in sectors like cleantech, agriculture, and bioscience—are too big to ignore. This representation will offer on-the-ground support necessary for Canadian businesses to capitalize on emerging opportunities and succeed in the Japanese market.”

In 2023, Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) stock into Canada reached $49.3 billion, solidifying its role as the leading source of FDI from the Indo-Pacific and third largest worldwide, according to Global Affairs Canada. Additionally, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), in force since 2018, continues to provide Canadian investors with access to Japanese markets by having eliminated or reduced tariffs on most key Canadian exports to the country.

The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, welcomed the announcement: “Canada’s longstanding economic and trading partnership with Japan reflects the powerful collaboration between our two countries that benefits Canadian and Japanese people alike. EDC’s new Tokyo representation is a testament to the enduring economic relationship between Canada and Japan and will play a crucial role in supporting Canadian businesses in the Indo-Pacific. I look forward to seeing our trade and investment relationship advance further through these new collaborations.”

George Monize, EDC’s Managing Director and Head of the Indo-Pacific emphasized the strategic importance of Japan for Canadian companies: “Japan has many of the critical elements for Canadian exporters’ expansion in this region. But to really thrive here—strong relationships are key. And that is why we are here, getting to know the market inside and out to forge the connections Canadian companies need to grow and succeed. The Tokyo representation will work closely with our established Singapore hub—harnessing our learnings, experience and networks to ensure we have the right recipe of support in place for Canadian businesses.”

With efforts led by EDC’s Chief Representative, Jean-Bernard Ruggieri, the Tokyo office will collaborate closely with local agencies, government and partners in Japan to navigate market complexities and facilitate business opportunities for Canadian companies. Tokyo complements EDC’s existing representations in Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Jakarta, Seoul, and Singapore.

About EDC

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians. For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca.

Media Contact: Media | Export Development Canada, 1-888-222-4065, media@edc.ca

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