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Ghost Ransomware Widespread Attacks on Organizations Internet-Facing Devices

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services on Ghost Ransomware: 

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) have issued a joint advisory on Ghost ransomware (also known as Cring).

The advisory, which is primarily aimed at network defenders, provides critical details on Ghost ransomware activities, including:

  • Indicators of compromise (IOCs)
  • Tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)
  • Detection methods

The data used to compile the advisory comes from FBI investigations into Ghost ransomware incidents. It highlights how Ghost actors are launching widespread attacks by targeting organizations that use outdated software and firmware on internet-facing devices. These threat actors often exploit publicly available code linked to Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) to gain access to vulnerable systems.

The advisory urges network defenders to carefully assess the risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. CISA also recommends reviewing the advisory and implementing its suggested mitigations. For additional guidance on ransomware protection, detection, and response, refer to the #StopRansomware initiative and the associated guide. More information on CISA’s Cross-Sector Cybersecurity Performance Goals (CPGs), including recommended baseline protections, is available on their website.

Source:
Alger, J. (February 21, 2025). CISA and FBI Issue Warning for Ghost Ransomware Activity. Security Magazine.
Hashtags: #protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats

 

Fraud-Detection-with-Video-Surveillance-Analytics.

Ways to Boost Fraud Detection with Video Surveillance & Analytics

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Frank Costa, President of NEXGEN Protections Services on Fraud Detection:

Fraud costs the financial sector billions of dollars each year. It’s a persistent challenge for banks globally, made more complex by increasingly sophisticated fraud tactics and methods.

To stay ahead of fraud, financial institutions must leverage every available tool to protect their customers and assets. One such tool is video surveillance and analytics. By integrating video technology with fraud detection systems, banks can gain real-time insights, spot patterns, and take a proactive approach to security. This not only helps detect fraud but also prevents it from escalating.

  1. Real-Time Fraud Alerts
    Fraud detection systems generate a massive amount of data, but not every alert indicates a genuine threat. Video surveillance adds a critical visual layer, helping differentiate between legitimate fraud and false alarms.
  2. License Plate Recognition
    Drive-up ATMs and tellers face unique security challenges, especially in suburban and rural areas. License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, integrated with video systems, offers a powerful way to identify vehicles linked to fraudulent activities. This information can be used to flag repeat offenders or known fraudsters.
  3. Behavioral Analytics
    ATM skimming is one of the most persistent threats to banks. Video surveillance equipped with behavioral analytics can identify suspicious patterns, such as individuals loitering near ATMs without conducting transactions or using multiple cards in quick succession.
  4. Integrated Surveillance
    ATM jackpotting—where criminals manipulate ATMs to dispense large amounts of cash—is a growing global issue. Combining video surveillance with physical sensors offers an effective defense. Cameras can detect unusual activity, like tampering, suspicious vehicles parked near ATMs, or vehicles with no license plates, and trigger real-time alerts.
  5. Loitering Detection
    Ensuring customer safety, especially at ATMs after hours, is a top priority for banks. Video surveillance with loitering detection analytics can identify individuals lingering near ATMs for extended periods, enabling timely intervention.
  6. Video Storage with Hybrid Solutions
    Storing surveillance footage for extended periods can be expensive. Hybrid storage solutions, which combine on-premises and cloud-based video storage, offer a practical alternative. Banks can securely store critical footage without the need for large-scale on-site infrastructure.
  7. Camera-to-Cloud Solutions for Remote Monitoring
    In some areas, installing on-site recorders can be impractical due to space or connectivity issues. Camera-to-cloud solutions address this by streaming video directly to the cloud. This eliminates the need for on-site hardware while maintaining full surveillance capabilities.
  8. Disaster Preparedness for Video Data
    Natural disasters pose a significant challenge to video surveillance systems. To mitigate this risk, banks should ensure that critical footage is preserved, even when on-site systems are compromised. Centralized evidence archiving allows banks to offload important video data to secure locations before a disaster strikes.

Transforming Fraud Prevention with Video Analytics

Video surveillance and analytics are revolutionizing fraud prevention, equipping banks with powerful tools to detect threats in real-time, enhance customer safety, and streamline security operations. From preventing ATM skimming and jackpotting to addressing loitering and improving evidence management, integrating video technology with existing systems strengthens banks’ ability to combat financial crime.

Source:
Corral, J. (February 5, 2025). 8 Ways to Boost Fraud Detection with Video Surveillance and Analytics. Security Management Magazine.



Loss Prevention Strategies to Fight Shrink in the Retail Space

Loss Prevention Strategies to Fight Shrink in the Retail Space

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

When grocers address loss prevention strategies to combat shrinkage, it is typically framed within the context of preventing theft.

Major Sources of Shrinkage

  • Employee Theft: Surprisingly, one of the biggest contributors to shrinkage is employee theft. This can range from stealing products directly to manipulating cash registers or other financial records.
  • Shoplifting: Another significant source of shrinkage is shoplifting. Despite advances in surveillance and security, shoplifters often find creative ways to steal products.
  • Administrative Errors: Mistakes in recording inventory, pricing errors, and other administrative mishaps can also contribute to shrinkage. While these errors might seem minor individually, they can add up over time.
  • Vendor Fraud: Sometimes, the problem lies with suppliers. Vendor fraud includes issues like short shipments, where the vendor delivers less than what was ordered but charges for the full amount.

Implementing a Comprehensive Loss Prevention Program

While individual strategies can make a difference, a comprehensive loss prevention program that combines multiple approaches is often the most effective. Here’s how retailers can implement such a program:

  1. Conduct a Risk Assessment:
    Start by assessing the specific risks and vulnerabilities in your retail operation. Identify areas where shrinkage is most likely to occur and prioritize them for intervention.
  2. Train Employees:
    Employee education is crucial in preventing shrinkage. Train your staff on loss prevention techniques, including how to spot suspicious behavior, handle inventory accurately, and report discrepancies promptly. Encourage a culture of honesty and accountability among employees.
  3. Implement Security Measures:
    Invest in security measures such as surveillance cameras, electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems, and security tags. These tools can act as deterrents to potential thieves and provide valuable evidence in case of theft.
  4. Monitor and Analyze Data:
    Regularly monitor and analyze inventory data to identify patterns or anomalies that may indicate shrinkage. Use data analytics tools to gain insights into your inventory management and pinpoint areas for improvement.
  5. Collaborate with Vendors:
    Work closely with your vendors to ensure transparency and accuracy in deliveries. Establish clear communication channels and conduct regular audits to verify the accuracy of shipments. Building strong relationships with vendors can help prevent fraud and discrepancies.

Source:
Smirles, J. (2023, July 13). How Supermarkets Can Reduce Fresh Food Shrink. Loss Prevention Magazine.

Hashtags: #protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats