The IRS has launched its Identity Protection PIN for the filing season, helping to enhance taxpayer security. Meanwhile, CISA reports a notable rise in enrollment for cyber hygiene practices aimed at safeguarding critical infrastructure. In Winston-Salem, a significant cyberattack has disrupted city services, raising concerns about municipal security. Additionally, Watchtower Labs neutralized 4,000 hijacked backdoors, and legal actions are being taken against a foreign group exploiting AI in cyberattacks. Stay alert and informed!
The IRS has relaunched its Identity Protection PIN program to combat identity theft and enhance taxpayer security amidst rising fraud risks.
CISA has observed a surge in enrollment among critical infrastructure sectors for its cyber hygiene services to improve cybersecurity defenses and performance metrics.
Deep dives
IRS Relaunches Identity Protection PIN Program
The IRS has relaunched its Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) program, assigning a unique six-digit number to individual taxpayers for use during tax filing. This initiative aims to thwart identity theft, particularly as the recent data breaches have exposed over 100 million social security numbers. The IP PIN is valid only for the current tax year, with a new number issued annually to enhance security. This year's emphasis on the program comes as the potential for fraud increases, highlighting its critical role in safeguarding personal information.
Surge in Cyber Hygiene Enrollment Among Critical Infrastructure
CISA has reported a significant rise in enrollment for its cyber hygiene service among critical infrastructure organizations, reflecting a proactive approach to mitigating cybersecurity threats. An analysis of nearly 7,800 organizations reveals that sectors like communications, emergency services, and critical manufacturing have embraced this vulnerability scanning service to bolster their defenses. CISA's findings indicate improvements across essential cybersecurity performance metrics, emphasizing strengthened encryption and reduced exposure to known vulnerabilities. This trend illustrates an increasing awareness and commitment to cybersecurity within vital sectors of the economy.
IRS Identity Protection PIN now available for filing season
CISA sees enrollment surge in cyberhygiene for critical infrastructure
City services in Winston-Salem affected by cyberattack
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For the stories behind the headlines, head on over to CISOSeries.com
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