July # 1 - BlackCloak Cyber Alert: Chrome, Prime, and Chinese Malware

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In this cyber alert, learn about the latest security patch Google has issued for its Chrome browser, how Chinese authorities are extracting data from devices, and a warning Amazon is issuing to its Prime members regarding impersonation scams.

Google Releases Security Patch For Chrome Browser

Google has released a new security update for its Chrome browser to address several vulnerabilities. Google confirmed one of the vulnerabilities has been actively exploited.

If you aren't sure whether you are running the latest version of Chrome, it's important to update your browser as soon as possible.

What To Do About This?

  • Follow our Browser Update guide for the exact steps to check and update your Chrome browser.

  • Don't forget to restart your browser to complete the update process.

  • It is vitally important to ensure your browsers are constantly updated. By using an outdated version of your browser, you run the risk of cybercriminals gaining access to valuable information. To learn more, watch this on-demand webinar from BlackCloak Education Coordinator Ryan Chiavetta, titled Browser Update Essentials.

Click Here to Access The Browser Update Essentials Webinar


Chinese Authorities Using Malware to Hack Seized Phones, Extract Data

Security researchers have found Chinese authorities are using a new type of malware to extract data from phones they seize. The malware allows them to obtain text messages, images, location histories, contacts, audio recordings, and more.

Anyone who is planning on taking a trip to China should be cautious about which devices they bring with them. It is highly recommended that travelers bring burner phones with them should they travel to China. To learn more about the dangers of bringing devices containing sensitive information to nation-states, please watch the webinar below. If you have any questions, please reach out to the BlackCloak Concierge team.

Click Here to Access The Dangers of Bringing Devices to Nation-States Webinar


Amazon Warns Prime Members About Impersonation Scams

Amazon has issued a warning to members of its Prime subscription service regarding an increase in scams where bad actors impersonate the company. In the email, Amazon states scammers have been sending fake emails claiming that Amazon Prime subscriptions will automatically renew at an unexpected price.

These fake emails might include personal information gathered from other sources to make the communication appear legitimate, and could also include a "cancel subscription" button that would lead to a fake Amazon login page designed to steal login credentials and banking information.

What To Do About This:

  • Contact the BlackCloak Concierge team if you receive any suspicious communications. Our team will determine whether any communication is legitimate

  • You can also report the message to Amazon directly

  • Do not click on any links or attachments within any communications where you do not recognize the sender, or are questionable in nature

  • If you click on any suspicious links or attachments, monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity

  • Amazon recommends accessing its platform directly from the app or by typing in the website yourself

  • Set up multifactor authentication for your Amazon account

If you have any additional questions, email us at [email protected] or schedule a Concierge Session via the BlackCloak app Support tab.

Here for you,

The BLACKCLOAK Team