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Preventing Automated SaaS Ransomware with Passwordless Authentication

Cybersecurity is no longer about the attacks you can see; it’s about the ones you can’t. In a recent unsettling breach, SaaS ransomware crept into the spotlight, targeting not machines, but the very services that drive our daily work. Attackers didn’t compromise employee computers or infiltrate internal networks; they simply logged in with stolen credentials and discreetly extracted sensitive data from a widely-used service: SharePoint Online.

This bypassing of endpoints marked a departure from the norm and highlighted a glaring vulnerability in password-dependent security protocols. It’s thought to be the first attack of its kind, but it likely won’t be the last.

With this in mind, let’s unravel the specifics of this breach and what organizations can do to prevent automated SaaS ransomware attacks. We’ll look at the transition to passwordless and certificate-based authentication systems as critical defenses in the modern cybersecurity arsenal. By understanding the full scope of the attack and the emerging protective technologies, you’ll be equipped to safeguard your enterprise’s environments against these silent threats. So let’s get into it.

The First Instance of Automated SaaS Ransomware Extortion

Ransomware attacks are nothing new. In 2022 there were around 493.3 million ransomware attacks, a decrease from the year before, but still higher than every other year in the last decade. However, not all ransomware attacks are the same, and threat actors continually adapt their methods for more effective and precise attacks.

The most recent tactic switch, and the first of its kind, is automated SaaS ransomware extortion that entirely bypasses endpoints.

Let’s Break Down This Attack

Cybersecurity researchers at security firm Obsidian have reported a ransomware attack on SharePoint Online, executed via a hijacked Microsoft Global SaaS admin account, sidestepping the typical endpoint compromise. Here’s how it worked:

  • Initial Access: The attackers began by exploiting a weakly secured administrator account that was shockingly accessible from the public internet and lacked multi-factor authentication (MFA), a critical security layer.
  • Elevation of Privilege: They used the stolen credentials to create a new user named “0mega” in the Active Directory and then systematically assigned this account a staggering level of administrative privileges across the SharePoint, Exchange, and Teams environments. They also removed more than 200 existing administrators within 2 hours.
  • Exfiltration of Data: With the illicitly gained permissions, the “0mega” account accessed the company’s SharePoint Online libraries, stealing hundreds of files.
  • The Silent Exit: They transferred the stolen data to a virtual private server (VPS) hosted by a Russian web hosting company, utilizing the “sppull” Node.js module, which facilitates file downloads from SharePoint.
  • The Unveiling: After the heist, the attackers uploaded text files to the victim’s SharePoint site using the “got” Node.js module, brazenly informing the organization of the breach.

Key Insights

Let’s unpack what we’ve learned from a cyber heist that turned the tables on traditional ransomware tactics. This attack didn’t follow the usual script of endpoint compromise—it was a privileged access heist within a SaaS application. What’s the takeaway? A clear signal that attackers are now turning their sights on the SaaS landscape, exploiting softer targets and laying bare the need for tighter security measures. These are the critical takeaways:

  • No Endpoint Compromise: Unlike typical ransomware attacks that rely on endpoint compromise to spread and encrypt files, this attack was purely based on privileged access abuse within the SaaS application.
  • A First of Its Kind: According to security experts, this method of automated SaaS ransomware extortion, bypassing endpoints, has not been publicly recorded before.
  • A Rising Trend: There has been a noticeable increase in attacks targeting enterprise SaaS environments, attributed to the attackers capitalizing on the less fortified security measures in SaaS applications compared to endpoint defenses. One study found a 300% surge in SaaS attacks since March 1, 2023.
  • The Need for Better SaaS Security: The alarming rise in SaaS-focused attacks underlines the urgent need for organizations to enhance their security posture across SaaS platforms.

Why Is This Attack Considered Ransomware?

Although this attack didn’t involve encrypting files – typical of ransomware attacks – it’s still considered a new form of SaaS ransomware. This is because the attackers uploaded thousands of PREVENT-LEAKAGE.txt files to inform the organization of the stolen files and negotiate payment to avoid having the contents leaked online.

Will We See More Attacks Like This?

Yes, we’re likely to see more attacks like this one. Obsidian’s researchers believe the trend will gain traction because the attackers have invested in automation, indicating they’re prepping for future hits. Plus, most companies are stronger in endpoint defense than in SaaS security, leaving a gap ripe for exploitation. The shift to data theft over encryption is also appealing to attackers, minimizing risks and simplifying their operations.

How does data theft minimize risks for attackers? Put simply, it’s a quieter form of cyber looting. Encryption attracts immediate attention; it’s noisy, disruptive, and often triggers a swift response from security teams. In contrast, data theft can go undetected for longer, allowing attackers to slip away unnoticed.

Moreover, without the need to provide decryption keys, attackers avoid the complexities and potential technical failures associated with ransomware deployment. This stealthier approach means they can sidestep the spotlight while still holding valuable data for ransom, potentially leading to a lower profile and fewer chances for law enforcement to catch up with them.

Tactics for Preventing Automated SaaS Ransomware

If we’re going to be seeing more of these attacks, we have to take proactive measures to minimize their success. With this in mind, let’s look at some of the ways we safeguard our systems from automated SaaS ransomware attacks.

Multifactor Authentication and Its Limits

Researchers highlight how one of the reasons this attack was possible is due to the lack of MFA on the SaaS account. Having MFA enabled makes using stolen credentials much harder. However, it doesn’t eliminate this type of attack.

Researchers pointed out that even with MFA in place, determined attackers could still bypass it. They could procure the necessary credentials from dark web forums and leverage tactics like MFA push fatigue, where they bombard a user with authentication requests until the user, overwhelmed and frustrated, finally approves one.

And that’s exactly why passwordless authentication is a better solution here – it’s both more secure and more user-friendly.

Passwordless Authentication as a Tool To Prevent SaaS Ransomware Attacks

User credentials were a critical weak point in the SharePoint attack – it wouldn’t have been possible without a stolen username and password. Which is why many security experts are recommending ditching passwords altogether.

Shifting to passwordless authentication addresses the core vulnerabilities associated with traditional passwords. Conventional passwords are often the weakest link, susceptible to being stolen, guessed, or forgotten. By adopting passwordless solutions like biometrics, security keys, and certificate-based authentication, we enhance security through unique personal identifiers that are significantly more difficult for intruders to replicate.

This shift not only enhances security by making unauthorized access considerably more challenging but also simplifies the user experience, eliminating the need for users to create, remember, and manage an array of passwords. It’s a win-win: stronger security with a side of convenience.

Key Benefits of Passwordless Authentication

  • Enhanced Security: Without traditional passwords, attackers can’t leverage stolen credentials, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
  • Reduced Phishing Risks: Phishing campaigns often target passwords. Passwordless authentication removes this vulnerability.
  • Lower Administrative Burden: It eliminates the need for password resets and management, reducing IT overhead.
  • Improved User Experience: Users no longer need to remember or enter complex passwords, streamlining the login process.

Certificate-Based Authentication: A Step Further in Security

Certificate-based authentication, as part of the passwordless spectrum, involves the use of digital certificates. These certificates are like digital passports, providing a secure and private method of asserting a user’s identity. They work like this:

  • Issuance: A trusted Certificate Authority (CA) issues a digital certificate to a user or device.
  • Storage: The certificate is securely stored on the user’s device or a smart card.
  • Verification: During authentication, the certificate is presented to the server, which verifies it against a list of trusted CAs.

Critically, certificate-based authentication offers robust security. Why? It inherently incorporates two-factor authentication (2FA), as access requires not just the certificate—which acts like a digital ID card (something you have)—but also ties in a device or a PIN, adding a layer of security tied to something you know or are. It also introduces a level of accountability through non-repudiation, ensuring that transactions can’t be readily contested, making it clear who did what.

Plus, for businesses already running on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), it scales with ease, slotting into the existing setup without a hitch. This dual promise of enhanced security and easy integration makes certificate-based authentication a smart choice for modern organizations.

Why Organizations Should Adopt Passwordless Authentication

With the increase in SaaS ransomware attacks, passwordless authentication, and particularly certificate-based methods, offers a compelling solution. It aligns with zero-trust security models by “never trusting, always verifying,” ensuring that every access request is securely authenticated without relying on vulnerable password systems.

Organizations adopting passwordless and certificate-based authentication stand to benefit from:

  • Compliance: Meeting stringent regulatory requirements for data protection.
  • Agility: Adapting quickly to evolving security threats without overhauling the entire access management system.
  • Reduced Attack Surface: Minimizes the risk of phishing and credential stuffing attacks since passwords are no longer the weakest link.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Lowers the total cost of ownership by reducing the need for password-related support and infrastructure.
  • Future-Proofing: Aligns with emerging technologies and standards, making it a forward-looking investment that anticipates the next wave of cyber threats.
  • User Experience: Streamlines the login process, eliminating password fatigue and reducing help desk calls for password resets.

It’s Time to Harden SaaS Controls

In an era where SaaS platforms are repositories for regulated, confidential, and sensitive information, hardening SaaS controls is no longer optional—it’s essential. Organizations invest substantially in these platforms. However, while companies have advanced significantly in detecting threats, across endpoints, networks, and cloud infrastructures, many are still lacking when it comes to SaaS threat detection. This needs to change.

A robust approach to strengthening SaaS security involves several critical strategies:

  • Privilege Restriction: Tighten access controls by revoking unnecessary privileges. Only the necessary users should have administrative access, and even then, companies should enforce the principle of least privilege.
  • Integration Oversight: Many SaaS applications offer integrations with third-party services. It’s crucial to audit these connections, revoking any that are unsanctioned or pose a high risk.
  • Log Analytics: Consolidate and scrutinize SaaS audit and activity logs. Analytical tools should be employed to sift through this data to identify patterns indicative of a compromise, insider threat, or rogue third-party integration.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Implement real-time monitoring solutions specifically designed for SaaS applications to detect anomalous behaviors and potential security incidents.

Final Thoughts

This alarming automated SaaS ransomware extortion incident reveals a pivotal cybersecurity weakness: reliance on passwords. The assault on SharePoint Online underscores the critical vulnerability passwords pose, especially when multifactor authentication is absent. To thwart such breaches, it is not enough to strengthen passwords; we must redefine access security through passwordless and certificate-based authentication.

Certificate-based authentication introduces a robust framework against this type of exploitation. By leveraging digital certificates, this method validates identities with a precision that passwords simply cannot match. The certificates, issued by trusted Certificate Authorities, provide a much higher level of assurance as they are almost impossible to forge or steal without detection. And their integration with Public Key Infrastructure enables seamless scalability and robust two-factor authentication without the need for passwords.

Embracing passwordless methods not only elevates the security posture but also streamlines user access, effectively shutting down avenues for ransomware attackers. Organizations that adopt these technologies benefit from reduced administrative burden, enhanced compliance, and a fortified defense against the rising tide of SaaS-targeted attacks. They eliminate the weakest link—passwords—from the security chain, drastically narrowing the attack surface.

In short, by adopting certificate-based authentication companies can significantly mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, ensuring that their SaaS platforms remain secure in an increasingly hostile digital landscape. As we move forward, the integration of these advanced authentication methods will be paramount in safeguarding against the sophistication of future cyber threats, making it not just a strategic move but a necessary evolution in cyber defense.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

Keys to integrate IT support and manage your after-sales service better

We are all aware of the importance of attracting new customers for business growth purposes, but focusing solely on this goal is not actually the best decision. Delivering quality customer service is also key to success. For that reason, many companies that sell their products or services over the Internet have decided to implement an after-sales support service as a fundamental part of their business.

How to make yourself stand out among your competitors with a good after-sales support service? 

More than a century ago, the Japanese businessman and philosopher Konosuke Matsushita, known for being the founder of Panasonic and one of the promoters of the “Japanese economic miracle”, laid the foundations of a revolutionary business philosophy for his time. Matsushita was based on concepts such as social contribution, teamwork, customer focus and technological innovation as differentiating factors. He wrote several works throughout his life, projecting his particular vision on business and society. Regarding after-sales support, he was of the opinion that: “After-sales service is more important than assistance before the sale, because it is through this service that permanent customers are achieved.”

These regular customers can really become your best brand ambassadors, so they should be pampered, so that they feel satisfied and share their positive experiences or make new purchases and hires.

How to offer a customer-centric after-sales service?

One of the biggest difficulties that companies encounter when managing customer service is how to convey closeness and proximity in a service as automated as IT support and offered remotely?

In the past, when there was no Internet, customers had to call a call center to solve their doubts or report any problems. Today, IT support centers use tools like chatbots that save human teams a lot of time. The use of these virtual assistants grew dramatically during the pandemic, allowing companies to respond to very high activity peaks and continue to offer 24/7 services.

However, by returning to normal, users are demanding a more conversational and less transactional customer service. Most of them rate chatbots positively as a way to get quick answers to their questions, but they don’t want machine interactions to completely replace people. For example, McKinsey’s “Next in Personality 2021” report reveals that 71% of customers expect businesses to offer custom interactions and 76% get frustrated when this doesn’t happen.

Finding the perfect balance between automation and human support is vital to offer a fast, efficient after-sales support service based on customer needs. You cannot swim against the tide or try to put a brake on digitization. On the contrary, we must rely on the advantages of technology by integrating it into the company’s IT support to access information in a unified way and know which requests can be automated and which need personalized attention.

How to integrate the IT support center to provide customers with good after-sales service?

IT support center integration needs to be planned carefully to ensure orderly and efficient business workflow.

Some essential steps for a successful integration are as follows.

Implementing a service management system (ITSM)

To manage any type of incident or complaint, it is essential to have a structured framework in which the policies to be followed by the support department are defined.

Professionals in this area are responsible for coordinating IT services with business goals. In addition, they train the team and define which tasks can be automated.

Create an IT support infrastructure

Companies that receive a high volume of requests may be in critical situations if they don’t have the tools that allow them to create dynamic workflows.

In this sense email is a painful management tool since it does not allow you to do things as basic as prioritizing important requests, keeping track of them, or escalating them to a higher level when the frontline support team is not able to solve them.

If you try to offer an after-sales support service through this means, you will soon see that the email inbox becomes saturated until it becomes a catch-all. No employee will know where to start!

Do you already know about Pandora ITSM Ticketing Helpdesk? This tool is all you need to make things easier for the support team and build customer loyalty.

As the name suggests, Ticketing Helpdesk works through a ticketing system. Each time a customer makes a request through the platform, a new ticket is opened with their data, date and subject of the incident.

Tickets are automatically cataloged according to their status: new, pending, solved, etc. You may also prioritize those that require immediate action, define automation rules or transfer complex cases that could not be solved to higher support levels.

Helpdesk Ticketing is a flexible tool and ready to work in an omnichannel environment. It can be easily integrated with other IT infrastructure tools such as project managers or CRM, to avoid process redundancy and take advantage of all the information available to improve the operation of other departments and the after-sales service itself.

Use the information collected to optimize customer service

As already mentioned, Ticketing Helpdesk collects query data, analyzes it and generates custom reports with relevant information such as:

  • Number of tickets closed
  • Number of tickets that remain open
  • Average ticket resolution time
  • Most common incidents
  • Performance of each agent (customer feedback)
  • Tickets that were escalated to higher levels

Keeping track of these metrics is very useful to know the long-term performance of the service and detect possible anomalies that would go unnoticed when analyzing isolated data.

It also ensures compliance with contractual agreements related to the service (SLA) such as downtime and support response capacity (for example, resolution of incidents in 24 hours). Respecting these agreements is important for building customer trust. In addition, non-compliance involves financial compensation that companies must assume. With the Helpdesk tool you may manage this key information and create automatic alerts if the service remains inactive for a long time.

Finally, in addition to automatic reporting, Pandora ITSM Ticketing Helpdesk also collects information from satisfaction surveys that users may answer by email or via a web form. It is a reliable way to know if the service is working as expected and the agents in charge of the support area effectively solve customer problems.

Still unsure whether Pandora ITMS will meet your expectations?

Try it for free for 30 days. You do not need a credit card, only advanced knowledge in the IT area and some free time to become familiar with all its features.

Estudié Filología, pero las circunstancias de la vida me llevaron a trabajar en el sector del Marketing como redactora de contenidos. Me apasiona el mundo del blogging y la oportunidad de aprender que se presenta con cada proyecto nuevo. Te invito a seguir mis publicaciones en el blog de Pandora FMS para descubrir las tendencias tecnológicas que están transformando el mundo de los negocios.=

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About PandoraFMS
Pandora FMS is a flexible monitoring system, capable of monitoring devices, infrastructures, applications, services and business processes.
Of course, one of the things that Pandora FMS can control is the hard disks of your computers.

Top 5 innovative countries for remote work in 2023

Suppose you want to work remotely from the most innovative and technologically advanced countries. In that case, we present to you the Top 5 you should consider as your next stop in the digital nomad’s journey. As you will see, each has its own pros and cons that might be a deciding factor for you. However, neither of these countries will let you down with tourism attractiveness.

Why choose the most innovative country for remote work?

When it comes to finding the best locations for working remotely, you’ll see Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, or Tenerife Island, which belongs to Spain. Had enough of Europe? Then try the Puerto Vallarta beaches in Mexico or the tiny Mauritius, right next to Madagascar. And, of course, how can we forget the Asian gems, such as Bali, Indonesia, or Thailand?

But what if you don’t want to go where all fresh remote workers go? What if you’ve already been to all these destinations, most of which are packed with tourists? After all, Spain, Mexico, and Thailand are among the most visited countries.

When you’re done with the globetrotting and thinking about your next destination as a more permanent place, other factors suddenly come into play. Expats may want to trade ancient temples for well-developed digital and physical infrastructure and choose pioneering technologies over gorgeous mountain views.

If you’re tech-oriented and want to find an innovative destination for remote work, explore the best options in 2023 below. Most importantly, as you will see, choosing the most ingenious country for working remotely doesn’t mean giving up golden beaches or snow-peaked mountains.

How we found the top innovative countries for remote work

To find the best innovative countries for working remotely, we split the task in two. First, we used the Global Innovation Index 2023 (GII 2023) by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to determine the most advanced ones. This evaluation uses seven dimensions – institutions, human capital and research, infrastructure, market sophistication, business sophistication, knowledge and technology outputs, and creative outputs.

These dimensions are further split into 21 sub-dimensions that consist of 80 factors in total. Some of those are R&D investments, ICT use, venture capital investments, and unicorn valuation. All this data gives a comprehensive view of the most advanced countries in 2023.

Then, we used our latest Global Remote Work Index (GRWI) to see where these countries stand when it comes to working remotely. The four main elements of the GRWI are cyber safety, economic safety, digital & physical infrastructure, and social safety. Each of these had the same impact on the final scores.

These four elements covered a number of factors, such as infrastructure integrity, healthcare access, internet speed and stability, and the availability of human rights. In total, GRWI measured 27 sub-factors.

We’re eager to keep the suspense to the very end, but if you want to find out which innovative country is the best for remote work, here’s the list.

Top 5 most innovative countries in the world 2023

According to GII 2023, these are the most innovative countries:

  1. Switzerland

  2. Sweden

  3. The United States

  4. The United Kingdom

  5. Singapore

Now, let’s dive into some takeaways:

  1. Switzerland has been the most innovative country since 2011. It’s also leading in knowledge and technology and creative outputs categories, especially in intellectual property receipts and GitHub commits per million people.

  2. Sweden was always bouncing between the 2nd and the 3rd place. This country stands out as the leader in the business sophistication category. If we dig deeper, we’ll find Sweden ranks first in both the number of researchers per million people and the number of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patents per unit of GDP.

  3. The United States finished 2nd last year but got manhandled by Sweden in 2023. Despite that, it’s 1st by market and 2nd by business sophistication plus knowledge and technology output. Also, the US has top universities, along with the biggest entertainment and media market.

  4. The United Kingdom has always been in the 4th position, with the exception of 2019 GRWI results. Its strongest suits are creative outputs and market sophistication. But if we delve into factors from other dimensions, we’ll find the UK is 2nd in university rankings and environmental performance and 1st by citable documents (H-index).

  5. Singapore was 8th most of the time when last year it moved to 7th, throwing away the Netherlands this year. It has no competition in the institutions dimension, scoring the highest in most factors. Another strong side of Singapore is human capital and research, especially tertiary education. We also found it leading logistics performance, received venture capital value, and cultural and creative services exports.

It is clear that all five most innovative countries are also popular tourist destinations, meaning there’s plenty to see and experience when you close the laptop for the day.

Top 5 countries for remote workers in 2023

Now, it’s time to evaluate the remote work friendliness of the most innovative countries with the help of the GRWI 2023 index.

1. Switzerland

When considering remote work destinations, Switzerland’s ranking at 29th for digital nomads may come as a surprise, given the fact that it’s the most advanced country in the world.

For starters, let’s acknowledge that Switzerland has the best social safety. Whether it’s personal rights, inclusiveness, or physical safety index, this country delivers.

Moreover, this most innovative country in 2023 is doing well in digital and physical infrastructure (5th). That’s most evident from the internet connection quality (5th), despite its lower e-government ranking within the Top 30.

Cyber safety is an area for improvement in Switzerland. It does not crack the Top 10 when factors like infrastructure, response capacity, and legal frameworks are weighed, landing it at 43rd place globally.

Economic safety is the most significant hurdle for remote workers considering Switzerland, primarily due to the high cost of living (98th) that overshadows its attractions, language proficiency, and healthcare quality.

Overall, Switzerland can be a good place for remote work if you’re not on a budget and haven’t seen Rhine Falls or Chapel Bridge yet. For those seeking more economical alternatives within Europe, there are plenty of options that combine the allure of affordability with the convenience of remote working.

2. Sweden

We move north to see if forward-thinking Sweden has thought about the WFA generation. It turns out it did, boasting the fifth spot in our GRWI 2023 rankings.

To start off, Sweden has a Top 10 economic safety and digital & physical infrastructure. For instance, it’s the best place to get well as the No #1 healthcare just won’t disappoint. Also, the e-infrastructure is great (5th), along with the internet quality (11th).

Even social safety, ranked 15th, comes with outstanding personal rights (2nd) and inclusiveness (3rd). However, we must point out that safety (64th) can be a concern in the second most innovative country.

Sweden struggles the most with cyber safety (21st). While response capacity (4th) is top-notch, the same cannot be said about infrastructure (19th).

Even though Sweden is cheaper than Switzerland, it is still expensive (79th), which is a primary concern for most remote workers. At least there’s a lot to see, and asking for directions in English will bring positive results most of the time.

3. The United States

It’s always tough to generalize countries of such magnitude, but we did our best and found the US to be the 16th option for remote nomads and digital workers. While that might not sound impressive after Sweden, we want to point out that this highly innovative country is still more remote-friendly than 85% of the world.

So, where are its biggest strengths? The most eye-catching factor is economic safety – the US is second only to the UK. Plus, it has the best tourism attractiveness and English proficiency. Even the much-discussed healthcare is great (4th).

USA a remote haven in the spotlight 1400x719

Furthermore, the US has advanced digital and physical infrastructure (6th). In this dimension, internet affordability and e-government shine the brightest (both 2nd).

Cyber safety (33rd) and social safety (37th) are the two dimensions that drag the US down. While the former at least has the best infrastructure, the latter’s top result is 20th place.

Ultimately, the US is too big and multicultural to offer the same experience for every remote worker. But as with the countries above, the cost of living is its Achilles heel.

4. The United Kingdom

As the 19th country for remote work, the UK remains in the Top 10 according to many factors. Once again, that’s not a bad result by any means, given that GRWI 2023 analyzed 108 countries in total.

The United Kingdom is the strongest in economic safety. That mainly comes from tourism attractiveness (3rd) and English proficiency (1st).

Then we have the digital and physical infrastructure (12th), with the physical part being especially strong (2nd). The UK has some work to do with its social safety (28th), though, as only personal rights (10th) make it to the Top 20.

An essential dimension for digital nomads, cyber safety needs the most attention (36th). However, if we dig deeper into separate factors, we’ll find a superior infrastructure (2nd).

Just like the other most innovative countries above, the UK offers a myriad of options for tourists. And just like the same locations, its high cost of living (including quite expensive and not-so-great internet) will make remote workers seek out locations that offer a better cost-efficiency balance.

5. Singapore

And now, the time has come for the only Asian country on our list. The innovative and modern Singapore is 28th on our GRWI 2023 rankings. It feels like Switzerland (29th) is in the rear, but as you’ll find out, the pros and cons for digital nomads differ quite a bit.

If digital and physical infrastructure matters to you most, there’s no better place to be than Singapore. It has the best e-government and physical infrastructure, with internet quality (4th) not far behind. However, its price is below average (58th).

The rest of the dimensions are below the Top 20. Under cyber security, Singapore can be proud of its infrastructure (4th). Tourism attractiveness and English proficiency, both 3rd, are a big plus for remote workers. Sadly, the same cannot be said about the cost of living (96th) and personal rights (80th).

In fact, Singapore’s personal rights index may give some individuals pause when considering it as a destination. While the country offers top-notch digital and physical infrastructure along with tourism options, the high prices and average healthcare make it less attractive for a longer stay as an expat.

The best tech country for remote work in 2023

After evaluating the GII and GRWI data, we proclaim Sweden the best innovative country to work remotely in 2023. It’s followed by the US, the UK, Switzerland, and Singapore.

Sweden won first place thanks to its attractiveness to remote workers. Its tourism appeal, quality healthcare, and well-developed e-infrastructure, along with remarkable inclusiveness and personal rights, sealed the deal. The biggest concern for digital nomads will be the high cost of living, but that can be said about all other most advanced countries for remote work.

In the end, each of us has different priorities and expectations before starting to work remotely. Therefore, some other country might look like the top destination for you. We encourage you to dive deeper into the GRWI ranking and find your personal favorite. 

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Nord Security
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

What is Cloud Computing? Everything you need to know about the cloud explained

Content:

Cloud Computing is a service offered by several software providers paying a rent either by the hour, month or use of said service. They can be virtual machines, databases, web services, or other cloud technologies. These services are on remote servers provided by companies such as Google, Microsoft and Amazon among others that for rental or in some cases free of charge, provide such services. It is very convenient to have these services, since from a mobile phone or a not very sophisticated machine, you can have access to important services of all kinds just by having access to the internet.

Services provided in the cloud

The most common services provided in the cloud are as follows:

  • Storage in the cloud. Where the service allows multiple files, images, or other data to be stored in the cloud. It’s kind of like an internet-connected super hard drive.
  • Cloud Databases. You may access servers or databases such as SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, etc. Note that you no longer need to access the entire server with the operating system (which is also possible). NoSQL databases, which are databases that do not use a relational database, can also be accessed. Instead of using tables, it uses documents or value keys to save the information.
  • Data Lake. The Data Lake service is, as the name suggests, a data lake. You may have structured, unstructured and semi-structured data. These services are used to manage what we know as Big Data. That is, lots of information. Today, data can no longer be handled in traditional databases exclusively without very large amounts of information. That is why other storage media such as Data Lakes are used.
  • Data analysis. Tools for analyzing data are also provided. There are tools for reporting, analytics using Machine Learning and other technologies.
  • Software in the cloud. There is the possibility of programming in different languages using cloud services. There are platforms to upload the code and websites.
  • Data Integration Services. Services such as AWS Glue, Google Cloud Data Fusion and Azure Data Factory among others, are services that allow you to integrate data. That is, copying data from one database to another or to a text file, moving data from a Data Lake to a database, etc.
  • Network Services. Networking services help connect on-premise applications with cloud applications. These services provide connectivity, security, and scalability. Some services offer gateways between the local network and the cloud. There is also the Virtual Network Gateway service. It connects the virtual network and the cloud. Another common service is the Load Balancer which distributes traffic between servers. There are also other Networking services such as application links, traffic handlers, etc.
  • Other Services. There are an infinite number of cloud services such as Machine Learning, AI, IoT…

How Cloud Computing Works

Saving is important. Instead of spending money on a good server or infrastructure, you may directly rent these cloud computing services. While the costs of renting cloud services from major vendors like Azure, AWS, and Google may seem high for small and medium-sized businesses, there are savings in staff.

A smaller team of IT professionals is required to maintain applications in the cloud. No time is wasted on hardware or many other aspects of security. While cloud service providers are not 100% responsible for security, much of the responsibility lies with them. They take care of the replications, of changing the hardware. Through a simple payment you may make your database server support more people connected simultaneously. That, in a local environment, would imply the purchase of new expensive servers and migrating information from one place to another.

Changing old hard drives, renewing servers, hardware problems, all of that is solved with the cloud, where you no longer have to worry about that aspect. Basically, it’s paying for the service and using it.

Services available

Some basic services are Microsoft 365 offering MS Word in the cloud, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher and Teams among other cloud applications. For example, documents in Excel are no longer saved on the hard drive but in the cloud. That is, on Microsoft Azure, servers to which you connect from your machine using the Internet.

Google offers Google Workspace which is similar to Microsoft 365. For example, it provides Google Sheets (a kind of online Excel), Google Docs (similar to MS Word), Gmail (similar to Outlook for emails), Google Slides (similar to MS PowerPoint).

Here are some of the many applications in the cloud. However, the cloud goes much further. It can offer Windows Servers, Linux. Databases of all kinds, whether relational or NoSQL, analytics services, IoT, Devops, websites, application programming platform, data analytics service, Machine Learning, APIs, cloud software and much more.

Examples of Cloud Computing

In everyday life we have been using cloud services for a long time. For example, Hotmail was the first service to use cloud technology. The concept of the cloud was not used then, but emails were stored on remote servers. Then came Yahoo’s mail services, Gmail.

Eventually Microsoft 365 arrived where it was already possible to use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. using cloud technology. Then with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and other providers, there are endless cloud services already mentioned above.

Source of the term Cloud Computing

Many people ask: what is the cloud? The term cloud computing is actually a metaphor. Since the 1960s, a cloud has been used to represent networks. Since 2000, the word has become popular and in a way indicates that the network is in heaven. That is, it is not within your physical reach but in another place that you may access through the internet.

History of Cloud Computing

As early as the 1960s, to represent networks, a cloud was used to represent them when they were connected to computers. However, it was not until the 1990s that the term began to be used to describe software as a service (SaaS). Through the service, machines connected to the internet without having to manage it from their computers.

However, the term became popular starting in 2000 with the rise of virtual machines and network computing. Cloud computing encompasses the multiple services offered on the network.

Importance of the Cloud

Large companies are taking their chances on the cloud. Microsoft for example upgraded its technology certifications to the cloud. The technologies located in the physical company have already been removed from the list of Microsoft certifications. Amazon on the other hand started in the cloud and was a pioneer. The trend is to spend less on an IT team and spend more on the rental of cloud services. Every year, the use of cloud services will grow more. According to Gartner, in 2025, 51% of IT services spending. They will be invested in the cloud.

Leading Cloud Providers

The following table shows the top cloud service providers and their market percentage:

Vendor

market percentage

Amazon Web Services (AWS)33,3 %
Microsoft Azure21,1 %
Google Cloud9,2 %
Alibaba8,4 %
IBM Cloud6,5 %
Salesforce5,9 %
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)4,7 %
VMware3,1 %

As it can be seen in the table, AWS remains the leader and Microsoft maintains a second place. Google is in third place.

Key Elements of Cloud Computing

There are several types of services, which are IaaS, PaaS and SaaS. Below, we describe each one:

  • IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) provides access to cloud services such as servers, storage, and networking. In this type of service, users are responsible for installing, configuring and managing the software and applications that are used.
  • PaaS (Platform as a Service) provides a complete platform for developing, running, and managing applications. In Paas, users are responsible for developing the application, however, the cloud provider is responsible for the underlying infrastructure and services.
  • SaaS (Software as a Service) provides access to complete applications over the Internet. The user does not have to install or manage the software, as all this is handled by the cloud provider.

Multi-Cloud Computing

Large companies usually choose to purchase different services from different cloud service providers. It is very common for a company to have services in Microsoft, Google and AWS. This is due to different factors such as price, IT service technical skills, some special offers from vendors, etc. Fortunately, major vendors are not very different from each other in their services.

Benefits of Cloud Computing

The main benefit is that users will not waste time on hardware maintenance, buying hardware, scaling and migrating servers. Business and IT teams will focus on business and applications. They’re not going to waste a lot of time on computer installations and configurations.

Advantages and disadvantages of Cloud Computing

As advantages, we already talked about a work reduction in software installation, security, installation time and hardware purchase. However, we hardly talked about the disadvantages.

In many cases, they are very expensive services. It is very common to hear jokes from people who say they went bankrupt for forgetting to turn off cloud servers. And there are services so expensive that they are paid by the hour, which, if you forget to turn them off, the cost increases considerably.

For example, suppose you have a cloud service that costs $100 an hour. $800 per day for 8 hours of use. However, imagine that the employee who uses it, forgot to turn off the machine in the cloud, that can make the service charge you $2,400 a day instead of $800. Another problem is that staff must be trained because if a hacker gets in the cloud, they can access all business information, which would make your company and its computers utterly vulnerable.

Widespread Adoption of Cloud Computing

There is a clear upward trend in the use of cloud services. In 2020, according to Gartner, 20% of the workload was handled by the cloud. In 2023, this figure doubled. Despite increased competition from cloud providers, the demand for cloud services and the benefits of companies offering these services are steadily increasing.

Challenges and Future of Cloud Computing

There are several challenges of cloud computing. IoT, or the internet of things, handles sensors. One may detect for example the status of the machines, maintain inventory, review production, track products. The use of cloud APIs, artificial intelligence services, is increasing. The cloud provides quite a few services and these are constantly increasing.

Conclusion

Cloud computing offers a host of services such as: data analysis, artificial intelligence services, web pages, application server, development platforms, DevOps and lots of others. The trend is to migrate much of the on-premise infrastructure to the cloud.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About PandoraFMS
Pandora FMS is a flexible monitoring system, capable of monitoring devices, infrastructures, applications, services and business processes.
Of course, one of the things that Pandora FMS can control is the hard disks of your computers.

Atera vs. ConnectWise: Comparing IT Management Software

For any IT department or technology solutions business, choosing a comprehensive IT management platform management is an essential piece of day-to-day efficiency. Atera and ConnectWise are two of the top IT management platforms for IT departments, and both have received rave reviews in terms of ease of use, customer experience, user interface, and more. 

 

So, which is right for you and the unique goals of your company? In this article, we will provide an in-depth comparison of the features, usability, pricing, and support offered by each platform. This guide is formulated specifically for IT department decision makers, so you’ll find all the relevant information you need to make an informed choice.

 

Both Atera and Connectwise have hundreds of reviews on review sites, but on G2 for example, Atera garnered a rating of 4.6, while Connectwise has a rating of 4.1. So, which platform is right for you?

 

User interface and usability

 

Both Atera and ConnectWise have received positive reviews in terms of user interface and usability. ConnectWise offers an interface that is easily navigable, although some users have commented that there is a bit of a learning curve. With comprehensive coverage, ConnectWise allows users to gain a big-picture understanding of their full network.

View on Connectwise dashboard

Screenshot from Capterra

 

At Atera, we’re renowned for our high-quality visual interface, intuitive user journey, and ease of navigation. With the capability to manage IT assets, workflows, and tasks all in one place, our system is built specifically for IT departments and managed service providers and prioritizes the needs of these groups.

 

In fact, Atera’s userface is so intuitive and easy to onboard, that it gets a ton of shoutouts on customer reviews like this one!

Plus, with a variety of integration options, Atera’s potential for customization is virtually endless.

View on Atera's dashboard

Screenshot from Atera

 

Features and capabilities

Both Atera and ConnectWise offer a core suite of features highly relevant to IT departments. ConnectWise’s features include cybersecurity management, unified monitoring and management, RMM offerings, and more. Over at Atera, our platform offers many similar features, including world-class RMM (remote monitoring and management), network discovery, patch management, helpdesk, AI integrations, and more. What really differentiates Atera is its AI-powered capabilities that enable 95% faster ticket resolution and 99% quicker response times!

Atera’s AI-powered IT platform is a game changer for IT management worldwide. Its AI-powered IT Platform with Azure OpenAI Service integration allows end users to troubleshoot and auto-resolve tickets without IT intervention. With this, IT professionals can focus on critical tasks, reducing the first response time to zero and enhancing IT teams’ capacity exponentially.

Atera’s RMM capabilities allow for real-time monitoring and alerts that make it easy for IT professionals to gain complete visibility into device, network, or group behaviors. With advanced helpdesk/PSA tools and a robust set of integrations with tools like Webroot, Acronis, Emsisoft, Malwarebytes, Keeper, AnyDesk, Splashtop, and more, the Atera system offers highly customizable solutions with new-age features.

Performance and reliability

When it comes to choosing the right IT management software, reliability is key — after all, what’s the point of next-generation capabilities if they’re not working properly? ConnectWise and Atera are both recognized for reliability and limited downtime, with users commenting that Atera’s system is easy to use and easy to troubleshoot should something go wrong.

ConnectWise offers a resource center with materials like infographics, checklists, and guides to provide asynchronous support for users. At Atera, however, we take reliability to the next level with a self-service Knowledge Base as well as a robust IT community that can help with troubleshooting and support 24/7.

 

Pricing and value for money

ConnectWise provides personalized pricing for each client, but the company does not share that information publicly, making it challenging to gauge the true price-to-value ratio that the company offers. At Atera, on the other hand, we believe in upfront and transparent pricing for IT departments and MSPs.

Atera plans start at $149 per month for the “Professional tier,” and the pricing model is billed by the technician — rather than the user or endpoint. This makes Atera’s system more affordable and scalable for startups and large organizations alike, as we charge by the IT department professional rather than by the number of employees in the company.

 

Customer support and community

With a wide selection of online resources, including blogs, recorded webinars, and other materials, ConnectWise offers a variety of educational resources. However, some users have commented that it is difficult to get in touch with the support team and that the online resources can be difficult to navigate.

At Atera, we have aimed to solve those problems by offering an extensive Knowledge Base of resources for you to peruse at your own speed, as well as collaborative support like a shared script library and an active online community that can help troubleshoot when the need arises. Many users have applauded this live community, in particular as an excellent source of industry knowledge and support from others in similar roles benefiting from Atera.

 

Security and compliance

Both ConnectWise and Atera offer strong programs for security and compliance. These topics are crucial for modern-day IT departments, as cyberattacks and security breaches have become more and more common. ConnectWise is perhaps best known for its suite of cybersecurity measures, including zero trust architecture and incident response services.

Here at Atera, we aim to go above and beyond regarding security and compliance. We have integrations with numerous highly-regarded cybersecurity platforms. The platform allows IT department professionals to bulletproof their IT cybersecurity strategies with strong endpoint management.

Atera is also SOC II compliant, HIPAA compliant, and more! You can view Atera’s trust page here.

Atera reviews on Getapp

Screenshot from GetApp

Over at Connectwise, they have their own collection of reviews as well, albeit Connectwise has roughly ⅓ as many reviews as Atera does on sites like G2.

 

Atera compared to ConnectWise

In conclusion, choosing the right solution for your IT management needs is a pivotal decision.  It’s clear that both Atera and ConnectWise offer robust, comprehensive solutions for IT departments. But the question remains: which one is best for your company and your growth? Of course, we’re a little biased… but we wholeheartedly believe in the capabilities of Atera to serve emerging and seasoned organizations alike. From cybersecurity to helpdesk to patch management to RMM and more, Atera consistently comes out on top.

With transparent and straightforward pricing, proactive monitoring, and a user-friendly interface, Atera empowers IT professionals to deliver top-notch services without the complexities associated with other platforms. The seamless integration of remote monitoring, management, and customer support makes Atera a clear winner in streamlining IT operations. When it comes to a dynamic and comprehensive solution, Atera proves to be the better fit, enabling businesses to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of IT management with ease. If you are ready to switch from Connectwise to Atera, then read here how to do so.

Want to learn more about what Atera can do for you? Check out Atera’s blog to read about ever-evolving features, conduct some more research through additional platforms, or reach out to the sales team today to talk about your unique needs.

 

FAQs

What is ConnectWise and how does it compare to Atera?

ConnectWise is an IT department management platform that offers features like RMM, helpdesk, cybersecurity, and more. Atera, however, is tailored uniquely for IT departments and managed service providers, which allows us to provide the most specialized solutions for your needs. Atera offers RMM, cybersecurity, patch management, helpdesk capabilities, and so much more.

 

How much does ConnectWise cost compared with Atera?

ConnectWise neglects to share its pricing model publicly. Atera, on the other hand, believes in honest and upfront pricing. We also employ a unique, disruptive pricing model that allows customers to pay by technician, rather than endpoint or user, meaning that it’s easier to grow and scale with Atera’s pricing concept.

 

Is ConnectWise a PSA?

ConnectWise is a PSA, or professional services automation, platform that’s targeted toward technology solutions businesses. Atera’s IT department management product also has PSA capabilities, including helpdesk, ticketing, remote monitoring and management, and more.

 

What are the features of ConnectWise?

ConnectWise has several different features, including RMM, cybersecurity management, business management, and integrated expert services. Likewise, Atera’s services run the gamut, covering everything that an IT department professional could need – including automated ticketing through helpdesk, remote monitoring and management, and more.

 

What operating systems are supported by ConnectWise?

ConnectWise supports MacOS and Mac OS X, Linux, Android, iOS, and Windows. Atera similarly offers a wide range of supported operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Try Atera for free

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Atera
Small and medium IT operators are the heroes behind the scenes supporting companies around the world. They care a lot for their clients (external or internal) and often work virtually 24/7. However, small and medium IT service providers have always been underserved.
Atera was built for exactly that. With the vision to simplify and streamline the work of Managed Service Providers and IT professionals. To create something that saves them time, energy, and money. To free them from needing to constantly put out fires.
That vision created the remote-first IT management software – enabling IT professionals to shift from reactive task takers to proactive problem solvers.
Now operating from our beautiful offices on Rothchild in Tel Aviv, Atera is currently used by thousands and thousands of IT professionals all over the world (105+ countries).
As we rapidly grow, our goal remains the same: to transform the IT industry with revolutionary technology, while creating one of the happiest and healthiest work environments in the world.

Malvertising: Understanding Its Growth, Impact & Prevention Strategies

Among the many new cyber threat to hit the scene, one tactic has surged in prominence and wreaked havoc across digital platforms – malvertising. Imagine innocently browsing a favorite website, only to encounter an ad that seems benign but conceals malicious intent. This devious strategy, termed “malvertising,” has become a pervasive and concerning threat in today’s interconnected world. 

The Rise of Malvertising

The roots of malvertising can be traced back to the early days of online advertising when cybercriminals recognized the potential of exploiting ad networks. Initially, these attacks were rudimentary, often redirecting users to nefarious websites. However, as technology advanced, so did the sophistication of malvertising techniques. Today, these malicious ads can inject malware directly onto a user’s device without any interaction, exploiting vulnerabilities in browsers or plugins. Recent years have seen an alarming surge in malvertising incidents. According to reports, there has been a staggering increase in malvertising attacks, with billions of ad impressions carrying malicious code, highlighting the expansive reach and grave implications of this threat.

Understanding the Scale of the Threat Today

The sheer scale of malvertising’s impact is staggering. Not only does it affect individual users but also enterprises, spanning various industries. High-profile cases continue to make headlines, underscoring the severity of this issue. From ransomware deployments to data breaches, malvertising has become a primary vehicle for cybercrime, infiltrating even the most secure environments. Recent studies reveal a worrisome trend – the diversification of platforms targeted by malvertising. While desktops and laptops remain vulnerable, mobile devices have increasingly become prime targets. The ubiquity of smartphones makes them lucrative for attackers seeking to exploit any security gaps.

How Malvertising Is Utilized Today

The evolution of malvertising tactics is a testament to cybercriminals’ adaptability. These malicious ads now utilize advanced techniques such as “drive-by downloads,” leveraging vulnerabilities in outdated software to execute malware without user interaction. Even reputable websites unknowingly host these malicious ads due to vulnerabilities in ad networks. Moreover, the strategies employed by malvertisers have expanded to target various platforms, including social media, streaming services, and mobile apps. Attackers capitalize on users’ trust in these platforms, leveraging their inherent vulnerabilities to propagate malicious content. Recent incidents highlight the gravity of this threat. One notable case involved malvertising distributing ransomware through popular online platforms, causing widespread panic and financial losses among affected users.

What Makes Malvertising So Effective?

The effectiveness of malvertising lies in its covert nature. Unlike traditional cyber attacks that require user interaction, malvertising can infiltrate systems silently. By leveraging legitimate ad networks, attackers infiltrate trusted websites, bypassing conventional security measures. These ads often mimic genuine advertisements, deceiving users into clicking, thereby initiating the download of malware. Additionally, the psychological manipulation employed in crafting these deceptive ads contributes to their success. Whether it’s exploiting fear, curiosity, or urgency, malvertisers adeptly capitalize on human vulnerabilities to lure unsuspecting victims.

Strategies for Prevention

Combatting malvertising necessitates a multi-layered approach. First and foremost, maintaining up-to-date software and security patches is critical. Vulnerabilities in software often serve as entry points for these types of attacks, and prompt updates significantly reduce these risks. Educating users about recognizing and avoiding malicious ads is equally pivotal. Implementing ad blockers and browser extensions that filter out potentially harmful content can serve as a proactive defense mechanism. Additionally, leveraging advanced threat intelligence and employing robust security solutions can help detect and mitigate these attempts.

The prevalence of these attacks continues to pose a substantial threat to both individuals and organizations. Understanding its evolution, impact, and sophisticated tactics is imperative in safeguarding against these insidious attacks. By staying vigilant, implementing preventive measures, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness, we can collectively fortify our digital defenses against the pervasive menace of malvertising. In a world where every click carries potential risks, empowering oneself with knowledge and proactive measures remains the most potent defense against the lurking dangers of malvertising.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

Crafting a remote work strategy using the GRWI tool

Navigating the landscape of remote work can be a complex task for businesses. A solid plan, grounded in real-world data and insights, is the cornerstone of a successful remote work strategy.

That’s where resources like the Global Remote Work Index (GRWI) come into play. This powerful tool compiles extensive data to provide a comprehensive view of remote work trends around the world. Gathering the insights helps companies craft effective and informed remote work policies.

In this article, we’ll guide you through using the index to develop a remote work policy that is both efficient and employee-friendly, ensuring that your team stays productive, connected, and content, no matter where they are working from. 

Benefits and challenges of remote work—the need for a remote work strategy

Harnessing the benefits

Remote work, a transformative approach to traditional work environments, offers a wealth of benefits. It opens doors to a global talent pool, allowing companies to tap into diverse skills and perspectives. This approach fosters innovation and enhances the company’s adaptability in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Flexibility is another remarkable advantage. It allows employees to create a work schedule that aligns with their most productive hours, improving overall work quality and output. Businesses can also reduce expenses, saving on office space and other associated costs, allowing for redistributing resources towards growth and development initiatives.

Facing the challenges

Despite its numerous benefits, remote work also presents challenges that businesses must navigate diligently. One of the primary concerns is maintaining consistent communication and collaboration among team members. The absence of a physical office can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, potentially impacting team synergy and morale.

Data security is also paramount. Protecting sensitive information becomes more complex when employees work from various locations, requiring robust cybersecurity measures and policies to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

The crucial role of a remote work strategy

Considering these factors, the need for a well-rounded remote work strategy becomes clear. Such a strategy should optimize the benefits while effectively addressing the challenges. Utilizing comprehensive resources like the Global Remote Work Index can be instrumental in this regard, offering critical insights for informed policy-making.

A successful strategy should encompass clear communication guidelines, ensuring that team members can collaborate seamlessly and maintain a sense of community. Implementing reliable tech tools and platforms to facilitate communication and project management is crucial.

Moreover, it’s essential to establish cybersecurity protocols to safeguard company data, including secure access systems and regular employee training on cybersecurity best practices.

By adopting a thoughtful and strategic approach, businesses can create a remote work policy that maximizes productivity and innovation while fostering a supportive and secure virtual work environment.

Setting clear objectives for a remote work strategy with GRWI

The GRWI is an invaluable tool that offers insights to refine and optimize remote work policies. Here’s a look at how leveraging the index can guide businesses in setting clear and impactful objectives.

The full methodology and data sources guide through the layers of the GRWI tool, explicitly showcasing the criteria to consider.

Accessing a broader talent pool

The GRWI presents a nuanced perspective that helps organizations tap into a broader talent pool, which is vital for cultivating innovation and global competitiveness.

  • The index evaluates the prevalence of individuals using the internet. Categorically, it’s placed under the e-infrastructure rank that is part of the digital and physical infrastructure dimension. This data is paramount as it provides insights into digital connectivity and accessibility in society in various regions, a necessity for remote work.

  • Another significant component integrated within the GRWI is English proficiency within the economic safety dimension. English, often called the global business language, is vital for widening the talent acquisition spectrum. Proficiency in English allows organizations to communicate seamlessly, ensuring that language barriers do not restrict collaborative productivity and innovation.

  • The GRWI also includes the e-government ranking from the digital and physical infrastructure dimension. It emphasizes the significance of digital public services in facilitating remote work. This provides insight into the digital advancement of governmental operations, reflecting a region’s overall digital maturity, which is important for foreign business integration.

By analyzing these crucial elements, organizations can strategically expand their workforce, ensuring access to diverse talents and skills essential for driving organizational success in a digitally connected global landscape.

Boosting productivity

In crafting a policy that optimizes productivity in a remote work setting, the GRWI offers essential insights by analyzing various crucial metrics.

  • One key area is the quality of the internet, nestled within the digital and physical infrastructure dimension. A reliable and robust internet connection is the backbone of effective remote work, enabling seamless communication, access to information, and use of productivity tools and applications, ultimately reducing downtime and frustration caused by connectivity issues.

  • GRWI’s focus on cyber incident response, categorized under the cyber safety dimension, helps assess the right country for remote work. A strong stance on cyber safety, reflected by a region’s ability to swiftly and effectively respond to cyber incidents, ensures uninterrupted workflow by safeguarding organizational and employee data.

  • Including the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) adoption index as part of the e-infrastructure score (the digital and physical infrastructure dimension) embraces the technology that bolsters productivity. This metric sheds light on how deeply integrated technology is within a region, pointing to the availability and use of tech tools that facilitate smoother and more efficient remote working experiences.

Blending these elements provides an instrumental viewpoint for organizations aiming to amplify productivity in a remote work environment. Companies can use this data to design policies that mitigate challenges, using technological infrastructure and cybersecurity measures to cultivate a productive, resilient, and secure remote workforce.

Reducing costs

Harnessing the data provided by the GRWI, organizations can strategically navigate towards cost-efficiency in their remote work policies. The index integrates several key elements crucial in this aspect.

  • A prime component is internet affordability, located within the digital and physical infrastructure dimension. This metric is essential because it allows organizations to assess the financial feasibility of remote operations in various regions, ensuring that employees can access stable internet connections without excessive costs, thus maintaining organizational expenditure at reasonable levels.

  • Next in line is the co-working space density per capita rank, also encapsulated within the digital and physical infrastructure dimension. A higher density indicates more options and potentially lower costs for securing suitable, professional working environments for remote employees, especially those lacking a conducive home office setup.

  • The cost of living, placed under the economic safety dimension, is another fundamental component. This data helps organizations gauge the general affordability aspect of different locations, enabling a clearer view for determining compensations and other allowances, ensuring that employees can maintain a decent standard of living without causing organizational costs to skyrocket

With these elements, organizations can compose a pragmatic perspective for shaping remote work policies that are both effective and economically sound. By using the GRWI data, organizations are better equipped to steer their remote work strategies towards enhanced cost-efficiency, making informed decisions that align with both organizational and employee financial well-being.

Improving work-life balance

Using the GRWI can be a game-changer in cultivating a remote work policy that enhances work-life balance. The index combines various indicators that can be instrumental in fostering a more balanced and enriching remote work experience.

  • Consideration of the tourist attractiveness of a location as part of the economic safety dimension provides insights into the livability and allure of different regions. For remote workers, residing in a location with a high tourist attractiveness score can enhance the quality of life outside of work, providing multiple options for leisure, exploration, and relaxation, contributing positively to work-life balance.

  • The healthcare rank, another data point under the economic safety dimension, contributes significantly to determining the suitability of a location for remote work. A robust healthcare system is crucial in ensuring the well-being of remote workers, providing accessibility to quality medical services, and promoting a healthy lifestyle, which is essential for productivity and job satisfaction.

  • Inclusiveness, found in the social safety dimension, focuses on social cohesion and equality within a region. An inclusive environment helps facilitate a sense of belonging and community among remote workers, mitigating feelings of isolation and enhancing overall life satisfaction.

By prioritizing these aspects, organizations can facilitate a remote work experience that is not only productive but also conducive to their workforce’s overall well-being and happiness.

Putting the GRWI tool into action: a how-to guide

The index has a number of layers that can be used to gain reliable insights and develop an effective remote work strategy.

Let’s say a company wants to hire people from another country to help maintain the organization’s low expenses. We established that looking at internet affordability, co-working space availability, and the cost of living is beneficial to keep costs down.

All these elements derive from economic safety and physical and digital safety dimensions, so this is where we need to focus:

Since GRWI incorporates data from 108 countries, consolidating the Top 10 countries of each dimension will reduce the scope:

We get two perfect matches on these lists—the United States and Sweden. To select the final candidate by evaluating its overall score, we need to compare them on all different dimensions:

To make a more detailed decision, you can browse additional criteria to gather in-depth insights, for example, such as the country’s English proficiency or safety rankings:

Now you’re able to create insights from gathered information. The GRWI tool provides users with options to explore data from different perspectives, so take your time using it.

Make GRWI your insights asset

The Global Remote Work Index acts as a compass, guiding businesses in crafting remote work policies that are both efficient and empathetic. By setting clear objectives focused on work-life balance, cost reduction, talent acquisition, and productivity enhancement, organizations can unlock the full potential of remote work for success and sustainability.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About Nord Security
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

ESET recognized as a “Strong Performer” in prestigious Endpoint Security report

  • ESET has been cited as a “Strong Performer” in the renowned “Endpoint Security, Q4 2023” report.
  • ESET’s business endpoint solutions excel in endpoint malware and exploit prevention, offering robust mobile device security, device management, and vulnerability and patch management for all supported endpoints. 

BRATISLAVA — November 08, 2023 — ESET, a global cybersecurity leader, has been acknowledged as a “Strong Performer,” according to The Forrester Wave™: Endpoint Security, Q4 2023 report. Forrester, a respected analyst firm, meticulously researched and analyzed 13 top endpoint security vendors in its 25-criterion evaluation to guide security and risk professionals in selecting the right solution for their needs.

The report underscores the critical role of endpoint security solutions, acting as the first and last line of defense for business users, safeguarding their devices from malware, detecting and responding to malicious actions, and resolving incidents swiftly and efficiently. The report states that “ESET’s differentiator is that it’s able to support organizations that need to maintain an air-gapped infrastructure;” highlighting, in our opinion, the company’s commitment to meeting diverse security needs.

The report also noted that ESET has dominant prevention engines when it comes to malware and exploits target at endpoints — its mobile device security provides mobile device management, and the solution includes vulnerability and patch management for all supported endpoints.

Jakub Debski, Chief Product Officer at ESET, stated, “Safeguarding our users and their businesses against the most sophisticated advanced threats is at the core of our business mission at ESET. In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, it is essential for businesses to have access to robust and state-of-the-art detection and response tools. We are confident that security and risk professionals can make informed decisions for their organizations by choosing ESET’s innovative solutions — allowing the companies to focus on their operations, simplifying their security through ESET’s unified XDR platform.”

ESET believes Forrester’s recognition positions ESET as a competitive player in the endpoint security market, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering advanced and reliable security solutions. ESET remains steadfast in its mission to empower businesses with cutting-edge digital security tools, ensuring robust protection against evolving cyber threats.For more information about ESET and its endpoint security solutions, please read here. The full report can be downloaded here by Forrester clients or through purchase.

For more information about ESET and its endpoint security solutions, please read here.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About ESET
For 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services for businesses and consumers worldwide. With solutions ranging from endpoint security to encryption and two-factor authentication, ESET’s high-performing, easy-to-use products give individuals and businesses the peace of mind to enjoy the full potential of their technology. ESET unobtrusively protects and monitors 24/7, updating defenses in real time to keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. Evolving threats require an evolving IT security company. Backed by R&D facilities worldwide, ESET became the first IT security company to earn 100 Virus Bulletin VB100 awards, identifying every single “in-the-wild” malware without interruption since 2003.

11 essential Black Friday shopping tips

Ready for the biggest shopping spree of the year? Got all the best deals in line? That might actually not be the case. Since everyone is looking for a chance to save money during this sales season, cybercriminals are locked and loaded with a diverse range of scams to cash in on the occasion.

If you’re looking out for the worst and most common Black Friday scams, we’ve got a different guide for you. If you’re aiming to be proactive and avoid scams altogether, you’ve come to the right place. Today you’ll learn how to stay safe, sane, and cautious while scouring for the best Black Friday deals.

1. The one letter that all secure sites have

Take a close look at the URL of the site you’re visiting. If it has HTTPS in the URL field and a tiny green padlock next to it, consider yourself safe – the “S” in HTTPS stands for “secure.” However, if you’ve noticed that the URL only contains HTTP, tread carefully.

To avoid visiting malicious sites, you can configure your browser’s security preferences to block potentially dangerous websites or downloads. Most popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox allow users to customize their security preferences according to their needs. You can configure your security preferences in your browser’s settings.

2. Pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card

These payment methods offer stronger consumer protection than can be provided by debit cards, wire transfers, or cash. For instance, Apple Pay employs security features built into the hardware and software of your device to ensure secure transactions. Google Pay and credit card purchases are covered in Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, which ensures legal protection if a company or seller you are buying from doesn’t deliver what it promised or goes bankrupt. You can also set up a virtual credit card with a spending limit. Even if your details are breached, the card will decline all transactions beyond the set limit.

Be especially wary of any seller that requests wire transfers. Scammers prefer such transactions because there’s virtually no way to reverse them once they are processed. Being smart and cautious about payment methods means you’ll have more success claiming your money if things go haywire.

3. Use a password manager

If you are going to do most of your bargain-hunting online, prepare to create a lot of accounts and remember dozens of passwords. To make things easier for yourself, you’ll probably reuse the same login details on most online stores, if not all of them. However, this convenience can lure you into the danger of breached login credentials – and if one of your accounts is affected, all of them are.

It’s always recommended to have unique and strong passwords for your accounts. However, that doesn’t mean you have to memorize every single one. To make your life much easier and stress-free, use a password manager which will securely store and remember your passwords for you. NordPass is a password manager that lets you store your passwords as well as your credit card details, making it a perfect fit for online shopping. NordPass comes equipped with a password generator, saving you a headache of coming up with unique passwords each time.

4. Update your software

It can be so tempting to check “Remind me later” each time a new update notification pops up. However, whether you’re shopping online or browsing new sites, you need to keep your guard up.

Make sure your apps are up to date and the latest software is installed on your devices. Scammers always look for weak spots in older software to plant their mischief, but regular updates can help you stay secure, as developers issue bug fixes to eliminate security vulnerabilities.

5. Use a VPN app

Black Friday fever can strike you anywhere. Perhaps you’re walking through a mall, spot an item you really want at one of the shops, and check to see if they have it in your size. They don’t? Not a problem – you can just connect to the mall Wi-Fi and quickly check their stock online. And just like that, you’ve opened up your data to bad actors – turns out that Wi-Fi was as accessible as it was insecure.

Instead of connecting to an insecure network directly, you should use a virtual private network (VPN) first. A VPN is a one-click security cloak. It hides your internet traffic from scammers with state-of-the-art encryption that would take hundreds of years to crack.

6. Be cautious with SMS and email offers

It’s not unusual for companies to send their clients text messages or emails with special offers during Black Friday or any other sale period. Some malicious actors like to take advantage of this and send spoofed messages of their own. Usually these messages contain a phishing link designed to look very similar to a real website. But there’s a catch: if you enter your login credentials or card details into this site, you’re inadvertently handing it over to the hackers.

If you’ve received a suspicious offer via a text message or an email, don’t click any links. Check the online store’s website and social media to see if they’ve announced similar deals. You can also get in touch with customer support to cross-check if the offer is real. If it’s not, delete the message and block the contact.

7. Avoid suspicious pop-ups and redirect links

You’re visiting a seemingly innocuous website. Suddenly your scrolling is interrupted by a pop-up window exclaiming a super exciting deal, valid only for the next ten minutes so hurry up! What do you do – click it or close it?

Aside from being annoying and distracting, pop-ups and redirects can also be dangerous. Clicking them can send you to fake sites or even prompt an unwanted malware download. Once that’s done, scammers are free to do almost anything they please with your device. So close the pop-up and back out of the website. If you accidentally clicked anything, run a system scan for viruses for good measure.

8. Watch out for too-good-to-be-true deals

The hype around Black Friday is huge. Scammers know it and try their best to cash in on the opportunity. All too often, the internet gets flooded with impossibly good deals. A brand new smartphone for just $25, no strings attached? A pair of designer sneakers or a shirt from this year’s fall/winter collection for $10? Sounds great, but remember — anything that seems too good to be true probably is.

Be careful not to let your guard down. Ridiculously low prices are a typical bait that scammers use to lure you into their trap. Generally, Black Friday deals fall within the 20-30% off range. Some websites offer price trackers to let you see how the price of the item has changed leading up to Black Friday. Can’t find any prior data for that one shop with cosmic deals? Then it was probably arranged solely to trick unassuming shoppers and rob them of their money and data.

9. Click the site’s trust badges

With so many copycat websites around, how can you be sure you’re buying from a legitimate source? Keep an eye on what trust badges the page has. Trust badges confirm that a security authority has verified the website. VeriSign, Better Business Bureau (BBB), and PayPal-Verified are some of the most easily recognizable ones. You will normally find trust badges at the bottom of most websites.

However, the badges being on the page aren’t proof alone of legitimacy. Trust badges are just images, and scammers can copy and paste them onto their fake websites. If a site is really certified, clicking on the badge should take you to the site of the issuer (for example, to verisign.com). If you’re having doubts, hover over the badge to see if it’s interactive and check what URL it links to. If the link clearly leads to the trust verification provider, you’re safe to proceed.

10. Do your research

Keeping yourself safe during the shopping craze requires some research from your end as well. After all, new scams pop up each year, and you have to be ready for anything. So do your due diligence – research news portals, forums, and Reddit boards to see what new scam tactics are popular.

Always double-check the websites you’re visiting for reviews and negative experiences. Perhaps the site is very new and conveniently only seems to be available during the Black Friday-Cyber Monday season – it could be someone trying to copy a pop-up store model online, but it’s more likely to be a scam. Make sure the URLs of the stores you’re visiting are accurate. Even if you don’t catch every great deal, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

11. Limit sharing personal information

Last but not least, be mindful of what information about yourself you’re sharing online and who might have access to it. When it comes to online shopping, the stakes are high – you need to provide your name, address, and card details.

Be mindful when you create new accounts – don’t reveal more information than necessary. If possible, select an alternative delivery method, like a parcel locker. Always check the data storage and retention policies – is the store compliant, how is your information stored and for how long? Put your privacy first and shop securely.

Conclusion

In the rush of finding a bargain, safety may be the last thing on your mind, but please do stay extra vigilant. These precautions take just a few seconds, but it will take you days to reclaim your money. Worse still, you might have your details spread all over the dark web for years to come. But there’s no need to stress this Black Friday shopping season – you’re all set to notice attempts to scam you and you’ll dodge them with ease.

Before you start your hunt for the best discounts, make sure you’re armed with the right security tools – NordPass is here to make your shopping experience smoother and safer. NordPass generates strong passwords for each new store you sign up for, auto-fills your address and card details once you get to the checkout screen, and ensures your login credentials are kept secure in your encrypted vault.

In the spirit of the season, we’re bringing you some great Black Friday deals. Planning to hit up brick-and-mortar stores first and save online shopping for later? No worries – we’ve got you covered with special offers for Cyber Monday as well. And for now – happy shopping and stay safe!

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday scams: How to detect and avoid them

For some, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the perfect time to check the boxes on their Christmas shopping list. For others – an opportunity to use the shopping frenzy against you and steal your data. Today, we’re learning more about the most common Black Friday and Cyber Monday online scams, how to identify them, and what to do if you fall victim to them.

Common Black Friday and Cyber Monday scams

Over the years, scammers have developed numerous strategies to trick people out of their money and sensitive data. Here’s what you should look out for:

1. Websites requiring you to download an app

Imagine you’re about to make an online purchase on a website with a killer deal. Suddenly, it turns out that the only way to grab this exclusive offer is by making a purchase through the app.

It’s true that some online shops might offer exclusive deals for mobile app users. However, you need to be cautious here. If you are shopping on a website you’re unfamiliar with and the company asks you to download its app to complete the transaction – it’s time to run. You’re most likely being tricked into downloading a fraudulent app designed to steal your payment information.

2. Spoofed websites

Spoofed websites are websites that are designed to look exactly like well-known, legitimate pages. However, what lies beneath them is a system created to steal your passwords, card details, and other personal information.

The good news is that with a few tips and tricks, it’s pretty easy to catch them:

  • Check the URL. Trustworthy websites will always use HTTPS in their URLs, where the “S” stands for “secure.” Most browsers will also have a padlock icon indicating that the website is approved and trustworthy. If you see only HTTP or a broken padlock, the site isn’t safe, and you should avoid supplying your sensitive data.

  • Look out for bad grammar. Glaring spelling mistakes usually mean that the website shouldn’t be trusted. Legitimate websites have dedicated teams who put a lot of time and effort into polishing their content.

  • Check the “Contact Us” page. A registered company will typically provide its place of business and contact details. If the only way to get in touch regarding refunds or delivery problems is via email, you should probably steer clear of such a website.

  • Do your research. Look up online reviews about the company across a variety of sources – but take them with a pinch of salt. If they’re all new, written in the same tone, or sound too good to be true, they might be falsified – and that’s reason enough to become suspicious.

3. A delivery issue with your purchase

Beware of follow-up emails and text messages you receive after you’ve made online purchases. These days, scammers send notifications pretending to be from UPS, FedEx, or even online stores such as Amazon or Shein, claiming that they can’t deliver your parcel for one reason or another.

A fake delivery message might read something like this:

“We’re sorry, but your package couldn’t be shipped. Please click the link to rearrange delivery or update your method of payment.”

Like spoofed websites, scam delivery messages also often contain bad grammar, so keep your eye on that. Don’t click any unfamiliar links. If you’re having goods shipped from abroad, be wary of messages telling you to pay extra customs fees. Pause for a moment and check the delivery status on the website where you placed your order. Also, check whether custom fees were included in the delivery price.

4. Free Black Friday gift cards

Another common scam involves a notification that you won a gift card from a big retailer like Walmart. All you need to do to claim it is text back a random code or click a URL.

In reality, this is how scammers can collect your details and infect your device with malware. The scam might then be sent to all of the contacts in your address book. Simply avoid clicking any suspicious links and don’t interact with the notifications.

5. Phishing scams

In a phishing attack, the victim receives an email or a text message with bait, like a deal that is too tempting to pass up on or information you have to act upon immediately. The purpose of such bait is to lure you into a spoofed website and for you to provide your sensitive data, like your login credentials or payment details.

If you take the phisher’s bait and accidentally reveal your password, the scammers can use this stolen personal information to create fake online profiles, take out loans, ruin your credit score, or even steal your identity.

6. “Money-saving” browser extensions

What’s something people love as much as a good deal? Convenience. Combine the two and you’ll get browser extensions built to find the best deals on numerous e-commerce sites. However, extensions can also be used for more nefarious purposes, like gathering all your browser data.

Before you install a new extension in your browser, do some digging. Check if the developer is reliable – do they have any other extensions, what are the ratings, what do the reviews say? If anything seems suspicious, it’s best not to install the extension. Many browsers and extension catalogs will let you report such extensions as performing illegal activities or actively harming your device.

What to do if you were scammed

If you’ve been scammed, don’t panic. It’s not too late to protect your accounts and money. Here’s what you can do:

  • Check your bank statement. If nothing has happened yet but you think that your details might have been stolen, regularly check your bank statements for any suspicious purchases, no matter how small. Then move to the next step.

  • Notify your bank. Get in touch with your bank immediately if you have seen a suspicious charge or paid for a good or service and realize it’s a scam. Your bank will be able to tell you whether the suspicious transaction was fraudulent (or whether you just forgot about it) and in some cases can stop or revert the transaction.

  • Freeze your card. While you are in contact with your bank, request for your card to be frozen. Some top-up card providers make this solution easy; you can freeze your card in-app. That way, even if someone has acquired your card details, they won’t be able to use it.

  • Notify the seller. It’s a common scamming practice to use well-known brands to lure people into traps. If this happens to you, contact the official seller and inform its customer service that someone is using the brand’s name. The brand can make an official statement, inform its customers directly, and take further security precautions to prevent other people from falling prey.

  • Learn more about cybersecurity. Once all the steps above are completed, all that is left to do is make sure that you don’t fall prey again. The best way to do so is to learn how to recognize and avoid such scams.

Eight easy ways to avoid a scam

Even when you know how to spot a scam, accidents can happen. So to mitigate the risks further, here are some proactive steps you can take to keep your money and data safe:

1. Try alternative payments

Avoid using bank details that are directly tied to your lifelong savings or your wage. Use alternatives such as:

  • Apple Pay or Google Pay. These methods use a combination of biometrics and other digital safeguards, such as 2FA or TOTP, to secure your details.

  • Credit cards offer consumer protection in case you need to claim your money back.

  • Virtual cards can be issued for a one-time purchase or purely for online shopping with a spending limit imposed to prevent scammers from draining your funds.

If you use alternative payment methods and your data ends up in the wrong hands, the damage will be minimal. These payment methods usually don’t create access to huge amounts of money and can be frozen fairly quickly, meaning that your savings will be unaffected.

2. Protect your data with a VPN

If you’re shopping on public Wi-Fi, it’s advisable to do so with a VPN. You never know who’s “reading” the online traffic, and it’s really easy for bad actors to do so over an unprotected Wi-Fi connection. A VPN encrypts and hides the data you transmit over the internet, so cybercriminals can’t steal a thing. NordVPN can help you reinforce your security on all your devices with Meshnet and Double VPN.

3. Create complex passwords

Setting passwords for a number of online shops can seem arduous and often leads to people using the same easy-to-remember passwords everywhere. However, if the passwords are easy for you to remember, they are often just as easy to crack. And since e-commerce sites have access to your name, address, and payment details, they’re a goldmine for hackers.

Make sure you use strong passwords that contain at least 12 characters and include numbers, upper- and lowercase letters, spaces, and special characters, such as .,! @ # ? ];. Don’t worry – you don’t need to do it all on your own. The NordPass Password Generator can help you create complex passwords in a matter of seconds.

4. Keep track of your spending

Keep a close eye on your online accounts and credit card reports, and make sure you see no inconsistencies following the big shopping season. Be on the lookout for suspicious purchases, especially minor ones, because scammers tend to start small before going all in. If you spot any suspicious activity, inform your bank or credit card provider immediately.

5. Choose apps with caution

Inspect the name, description, and icon of an app you are about to download. Fraudulent apps can’t use the same name as the real app they want to disguise themselves as, so they’ll replace o’s with 0’s or change the name very slightly – for example, they can replace SwiftKey with SwiftKeyboard or WhatsApp with Update WhatsApp.

If you see the same icon in the app store more than once, be alarmed. A fraudulent app cares little for copyright laws, and not all app stores vet the catalog thoroughly. Unfortunately, it’s up to you to choose a verified app. Take a look at the developer and the number of downloads – if the numbers seem suspiciously low, steer clear of the app.

6. Stay rational

Most scams are designed to use your emotions against you. Read carefully through the sudden notification or email you’ve received. Is it trying to instill a sense of urgency, greed, or fear? These are indications that the deal or the message you’ve just received is trying to trick you into handing over your sensitive details ASAP.

Refrain from clicking on links, downloading files, or entering personal details. If you’re told that your delivery is suspended, contact the seller or the delivery company directly to confirm its status. Check the social media accounts of the stores and see whether the promotion is public and active. If everything aligns, perfect – take advantage of the deal. If not, it’s better to stay away from it.

7. Check for new scams

Scammers are a creative bunch. As such, the average person may find it difficult to keep track of all the new scams that emerge every season. One way to keep up to date is to simply use Google search.

Try running a search with these keywords:

  • Company name + scam (“Amazon scam”)
  • Product name + scam (“new iPhone scam”)
  • New method + scam (“delivery SMS scam”)

You can also check forums or recent discussions on Reddit to see if anyone’s had experiences with recent scamming attempts.

8. Use a password manager

Password managers are tools that store your complex passwords, help you generate new ones, and protect them from intruders. Additionally, they can also make your online shopping experience a breeze.

Password managers like NordPass can store your payment and delivery details, which you can then fill automatically anytime you shop online. You don’t need to cancel the purchase just because you can’t find your wallet – just log in to your NordPass account, and Autofill will do the rest.

Frequently asked questions

What are some of the red flags to watch out for?

  • Suspicious URLs and website design. Never open URLs that you don’t know and check if the domain is legitimate. Furthermore, while it’s possible the site you’re visiting has rebranded, if anything is giving off uncanny valley vibes – say, the fonts, color schemes, or the layout – it’s probably better to double-check.
  • Too good to be true offers. Always check with the official retailer’s site and social media to see the deals they’re running. If there’s no mention of the offer you received, it might be a scam attempt.
  • Unsolicited emails and messages. If you’re not subscribed to the store’s newsletter, you probably shouldn’t be receiving emails from them. Check for suspicious sender email addresses and don’t click on any links.
  • Poor grammar and spelling. Delivering quality is key to maintaining a good brand image, so online stores don’t want their sites to be riddled with typos.
  • Pressure tactics. Some online shops offer limited-time deals and include countdowns in their promotional emails. However, if you’re being coerced into buying something or dealing with your order delivery immediately, you’re probably being pressured into revealing your personal details.

Is it safe to click on ads promoting Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?

Sometimes, but not always. If you see an ad on social media from a verified account and the information corresponds with the deals on the official website, you can go ahead and shop away. However, if the URLs seem suspicious and the domains are slightly different from the official website, it’s best not to click them.

Are mobile shopping apps safe to use during Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

If you download a shopping app from the official retailer, it’s perfectly fine to use it. However, be cautious with random downloads on the app store. Always cross-check the developer to see if it’s really the official app and check the reviews on the app store and elsewhere on the internet.

Keep a cool head this season

Who doesn’t love a good bargain, especially during the busiest shopping season of the year? It can be easy to be swept away by the maelstrom of discounts and deals. Now you’re fully equipped to identify and avoid the most common Black Friday and Cyber Monday scams.

So, shop until you drop – just remember to always double-check the merchant and what they are offering. Keep a cool head before pressing the “buy” button because, as the old adage goes, if it is too good to be true, it probably is.

If you’re looking for ways to stay safe this Black Friday and Cyber Monday, consider the NordPass password manager. NordPass uses encryption to protect your login credentials, credit card details, home address, and more. Create new secure passwords for all your favorite shopping platforms and keep them safely encrypted with NordPass. Enjoy all the best deals of the shopping season – without compromising your security.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.