Android Phones Found To Have BackDoor To China

Andrew Orr In the News

Security researchers discovered that some Android phones have a secret backdoor that sends user information back to China. Further Reading New Android Malware Called Dirty Cow Can Root Phones Android Users Get New Security Notifications What Is A BackDoor? A backdoor is a secret method that a hacker uses to enter a computer. These provide remote access (usually unauthorized). As a result, a person can hide it in a program, a separate program or even a piece of hardware. Some backdoors are legitimate, like when a company uses one as …

Microsoft Accidentally Leaks Backdoor In Secure Boot

Andrew Orr In the News

Microsoft has accidentally leaked the so-called “golden key.” This is a universal backdoor it provides for devices running Secure Boot, like phones and tablets. Further Reading 7 Apps to Supervise Your Kids On 6 macOS Tips to Supercharge your Security What Is Secure Boot? Microsoft introduced Secure Boot, or Trusted Boot, in Windows 8. It uses the secure boot functionality built into the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface or UEFI. UEFI replaced the older BIOS firmware or Basic Input/Output System of IBM PC-compatible computers. Secure Boot stops malicious software and unauthorized operating …

New Mac Malware Found Beware of Backdoor.MAC.Eleanor

Andrew Orr In the News

Bitdefender recently discovered a new type of malware that has been infecting Macs. Called Backdoor.MAC.Eleanor,  it can take control of your system completely by installing a backdoor. Once it compromises your Mac, a hacker could steal your files, control your webcam and execute code capable of inflicting damage. Backdoor In computing terminology, a backdoor is classified as “a method of bypassing normal authentication, securing remote access to a computer, obtaining access to plaintext, and so on, while attempting to remain undetected.” It can either be an installed program, a program that …

Apple Fights the Good Fight: Refuses the iPhone Backdoor

Mathew Sayer In the News

FBI requests Apple give them the tools to access the iPhones of the San Bernadino terrorists.  Once again they have come up against their biggest peeve- encrypted devices. In a letter to customers Apple CEO, Tim Co explains that the FBI is proposing to use a piece of law that’s over 200 years old- the All Writs Act of 1789. Forcing them to create an iPhone backdoor to aid in investigations. The FBI want Apple to build a version of iOS that allows passcodes to be entered electronically. This would make it …

Lawmakers Push for Emergency Access to your Smartphone

Helasvuo In the News

Recent bills proposed in New York and California, make the bold move to authorize automatic decryption of end-user devices such as your smartphone or tablet as long as a search warrant is in effect. No need to ask the owner of the encrypted instrument about decryption keys. Currently, there is no legal emergency access permit for local cops to enter your smartphone, unlock it, and decrypt its contents in case of emergency. Should they have one? While devices can be taken into custody, inspected, and used as evidence in the …