Hackers are constantly updating their attacks and looking for new methods to infect victims’ systems and achieve their goal. This time we echo new tricks that take advantage of TLS encryption to sneak malware . A problem that can seriously compromise teams and that we must avoid. We will also give some interesting tips to improve safety when browsing.
They take advantage of TLS encryption to sneak malware
TLS is the acronym for Transport Layer Security , which in Spanish can be translated as transport layer security. It serves to provide secure and encrypted communications on the network. Something basic today to avoid problems when entering a website and not compromise our privacy.
However, this is precisely what cybercriminals are taking advantage of to carry out their attacks . There has been a huge increase in malware that takes advantage of TLS encryption. In the event that we browse an unencrypted page, our data could be seen by a third party. That’s just what TLS prevents. Now, what if hackers use it to hide and not be detected?
Basically what they are doing is taking advantage of TLS encryption to evade detection. They prevent systems from collecting data about what is being sent or received and, in case of being a threat, stopping it.
There has been a huge increase in the last few months. According to Sophos, a year ago 24% of the malware on the network arrived through TLS encryption. However today this has risen to 46%. It is certainly a considerable increase in such a short time. It tells us that hackers are increasingly using this method to attack.
Sophos also indicates that part of this increase is due to the greater use of legitimate web services and cloud storage that are protected by TLS. Hackers sneak their malware here and it can reach victims more likely.
Another point to keep in mind is that today most web pages are HTTPS . We can say that users no longer trust sites that are not encrypted so much. It would be more difficult for them to click on a malicious link or try to sneak some type of software that can infect the computer.
Through TLS they have carried out multiple attacks, but the use of ransomware should be highlighted. An example is the LockBit ransomware. Therefore, it is necessary to be protected at all times and not make mistakes.
How to avoid being victims of attacks while browsing
We must be aware of the importance of having security programs . A good antivirus can help reduce the risk of cyber attacks. It allows us to detect malicious software, block downloads that may be a problem, and perform periodic analyzes on our computer. We have already seen in another article what habits must be changed to improve network security.
It is also essential to have all the devices and systems updated . There are many occasions when vulnerabilities arise that can be exploited by cybercriminals. Hence, we must keep all patches installed and avoid problems.
But without a doubt something really vital is common sense . Whether we are attacked via TLS or any other method, hackers typically need the interaction of the victim. They are going to require us to click on a link, download a program, etc. Therefore, we should not make any kind of mistake.
