Cyber Security Headlines UK retailer update, Microsoft Defender disabler, deepfakes target officials
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May 19, 2025 Hackers from Scattered Spider are targeting UK retailers and are eyeing the U.S. market next. A new tool called DefendNot can disable Microsoft Defender, raising eyebrows among security experts. The FBI is sounding alarms over deepfake technology being used to mislead government officials. The podcast also touches on vulnerabilities affecting U.S. energy infrastructure and recent legal actions against identity fraud. Plus, there's a push for new educational resources in cybersecurity to tackle these growing threats.
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Scattered Spider Retail Hacks Move
- Scattered Spider group hacked UK retailers like Marks& Spencer and Harrods.
- They now target US retailers and use help desk impersonation to gain access.
DefendNot Tool Exploits Windows API
- DefendNot disables Microsoft Defender by registering a fake antivirus.
- Windows disables Defender automatically to avoid conflicts with the fake product.
Beware AI Deepfake Messages
- Government officials should be vigilant regarding deepfake AI-generated messages.
- Check for subtle errors and unnatural speech or visuals to detect fraud.