Risky Business #753 – Congress and vuln researchers maul Microsoft
Jun 19, 2024
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The podcast discusses Microsoft's security troubles, from the Recall feature recall to a Windows kernel wifi code-exec vulnerability. It also covers the arrest of a Scattered Spider bigwig, flawed Pentagon info-op, and the debate around E2E crypto. The show dives into various cybersecurity news, including vulnerabilities, privacy concerns, ransomware attacks, and disinformation campaigns.
Microsoft faced criticism for delaying Windows 11 recall feature, raising security concerns and political attention.
Iran International's doxxing of Iranian hacker groups sparks debates on cybersecurity implications of disclosing individuals' involvement.
Strategic messaging tactics used during the pandemic highlight the impact of language on public perception and geopolitical relations.
Deep dives
Controversy Over Apple Security Measures
Security concerns arise over Apple's iOS release and Mac OS release, particularly regarding screen mirroring between iPhone and MacOS. Questions about security between the devices and potential vulnerabilities are raised, emphasizing the need for clear understanding of Apple's threat model.
Microsoft's Recall Feature Delay
Microsoft's decision to delay the recall feature in Windows 11 due to potential security risks draws criticism and political attention. Concerns are raised about the absence of communication from the US government on the issue, highlighting the complex relationship between technology companies and security measures.
Doxxing of Iranian Hacker Groups
Iran International's doxxing of Iranian hacker groups, such as Darkbit Transamol and Mariwara APT, reveals the individuals involved in cyber activities linked to the MOIS. The impact of revealing specific names associated with these groups sparks debate on the implications of such disclosures in the cybersecurity domain.
Using the term 'China virus' strategically, Trump deflected blame amidst accusations by China regarding COVID's origins, displaying strategic messaging efficacy despite criticism of racism. This reactionary approach paralleled China's disinformation efforts, underpinning the potential collateral damage of undermining vaccine confidence during the pandemic.
Innovative British Military Information Operation in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, the British Military cunningly deployed fake 'long-range gonad reducers' to deter rock-throwing incidents, showcasing a clear goal with minimal collateral damage. This ingenious tactic illustrated the importance of behavioral influence and practical fieldwork in successful information operations, distinct from misconceptions surrounding military roles in similar campaigns.
On this week’s retreat special, the entire Risky Business team is together in a tropical paradise for the first time. The team takes a break from the infinity pool to discuss the week’s security news:
Microsoft recalls Recall, but why did it have to be such a mess
And a Windows kernel wifi code-exec, really?
Passkeys and identity are hard
Scattered Spider bigwig arrested in Spain
The pentagon runs a deeply flawed info-op
Is it time E2E crypto nerds accept their place in the world?
And much, much more.
This week’s show is brought to you by Corelight… Corelight’s CEO Brian Dye will be along in this week’s sponsor interview to make a really compelling case for something that shouldn’t exist… which is NDR in cloud environments.