While ransomware has been a threat in the infosecurity community, 2018 saw a steep decline in the overall number of ransomware detections. Here’s why: Whereas attackers would hit several users at a time and extort money from them, not everyone has the capacity to pay the ransom. Now with targeted ransomware, they focus their campaigns on high-profile victims who can pay. These include government agencies, healthcare organizations, billion-dollar entities and even sports and fitness companies. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
