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Showing posts with label Open Source. Show all posts
Privacy Issues
Android data security Data tracking Google Maps iOS Open Source Privacy Privacy Issues

CoMaps: The Open-Source, Privacy-Focused Google Maps Alternative You’ll Actually Want to Use

 

Google Maps may be convenient, but for some users, its constant tracking and battery drain are reason enough to look for an alternative. One such option is CoMaps, an open-source navigation app built for privacy and efficiency. Users frustrated by Google’s monthly location reports or the high battery consumption of Maps may find CoMaps to be a refreshing change. 

CoMaps is a fork of Organic Maps, which itself evolved from the earlier project MapsWithMe, later acquired by the Russian-based Maps.ru group. Like its predecessors, CoMaps uses OpenStreetMap data — a community-driven platform that emphasizes transparency and collaboration. The app, available for both Android and iOS, stands out for its offline usability and no-tracking policy. 

Unlike Google Maps, CoMaps collects no personal information, doesn’t serve ads, and doesn’t require a constant internet connection. It offers offline search, route planning, and voice-guided navigation while consuming far less battery power. Users can download regional maps, mark and save favorite spots, view subway maps, and even access offline Wikipedia articles for added context. Another standout feature is CoMaps’ outdoor mode, designed for hiking and biking. 

This mode highlights trails, campsites, points of interest, and even water sources — making it ideal for travelers and adventurers who prefer staying disconnected from the grid. The built-in map editor also lets users contribute directly to improving OpenStreetMap data, reinforcing the app’s community-driven philosophy. Setting up CoMaps is simple. Users can download only the maps they need, saving space and allowing seamless offline use. Once downloaded, navigation feels intuitive — nearly identical to Google Maps. 

Directions are clear, and the app supports distance measurements in both kilometers and miles, customizable through the settings. Since its release on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in July, CoMaps has quickly gained attention as a reliable Google Maps replacement. Its focus on privacy, performance, and transparency appeals to users who are increasingly wary of data tracking. 

For those who value privacy and want a lighter, more ethical alternative to big tech navigation tools, CoMaps offers a balanced blend of simplicity, functionality, and digital independence. It’s free, open-source, and ready to use — without following you everywhere you go.
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Open Source
Brute-force attack Credential stealing Data Breach data security Data Theft Golang Malicious Bots Open Source

Malicious Go Package Disguised as SSH Tool Steals Credentials via Telegram

 

Researchers have uncovered a malicious Go package disguised as an SSH brute-force tool that secretly collects and transmits stolen credentials to an attacker-controlled Telegram bot. The package, named golang-random-ip-ssh-bruteforce, first appeared on June 24, 2022, and was linked to a developer under the alias IllDieAnyway. Although the GitHub profile tied to this account has since been removed, the package is still accessible through Go’s official registry, raising concerns about supply chain security risks for developers who might unknowingly use it. 

The module is designed to scan random IPv4 addresses in search of SSH services operating on TCP port 22. Once it detects a running service, it attempts brute-force login using only two usernames, “root” and “admin,” combined with a list of weak and commonly used passwords. These include phrases such as “root,” “test,” “password,” “admin,” “12345678,” “1234,” “qwerty,” “webadmin,” “webmaster,” “techsupport,” “letmein,” and “Passw@rd.” If login succeeds, the malware immediately exfiltrates the target server’s IP address, username, and password through Telegram’s API to a bot called @sshZXC_bot, which forwards the stolen information to a user identified as @io_ping. Since Telegram communications are encrypted via HTTPS, the credential theft blends into ordinary web traffic, making detection much more difficult. 

The design of the tool helps it remain stealthy while maximizing efficiency. To bypass host identity checks, the module disables SSH host key verification by setting ssh.InsecureIgnoreHostKey as its callback. It continuously generates IPv4 addresses while attempting concurrent logins in an endless loop, increasing the chances of finding vulnerable servers. Interestingly, once it captures valid credentials for the first time, the malware terminates itself. This tactic minimizes its exposure, helping it avoid detection by defenders monitoring for sustained brute-force activity. 

Archival evidence suggests that the creator of this package has been active in the underground hacking community for years. Records link the developer to the release of multiple offensive tools, including an IP port scanner, an Instagram parser, and Selica-C2, a PHP-based botnet for command-and-control operations. Associated videos show tutorials on exploiting Telegram bots and launching SMS bomber attacks on Russian platforms. Analysts believe the attacker is likely of Russian origin, based on the language, platforms, and content of their activity. 

Security researchers warn that this Trojanized Go module represents a clear supply chain risk. Developers who unknowingly integrate it into their projects could unintentionally expose sensitive credentials to attackers, since the exfiltration traffic is hidden within legitimate encrypted HTTPS connections. This case underscores the growing threat of malicious open-source packages being planted in widely used ecosystems, where unsuspecting developers become conduits for large-scale credential theft.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
API security GitHub Open Source User Privacy Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Open-source Autoswagger Exposes API Authorisation Flaws

 

Autoswagger is a free, open-source tool designed to scan OpenAPI-documented APIs for broken authorization vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities remain common, even among organizations with strong security postures, and pose a significant risk as they can be exploited easily. 

Key features and approach

API Schema Detection: Begins with a list of organization domains and scans for OpenAPI/Swagger documentation across various formats and locations. 

Endpoint Enumeration: Parses the discovered API specs to automatically generate a comprehensive list of endpoints along with their required parameters. 

Authorization Testing: Sends requests to endpoints using valid parameters and flags those that return successful responses instead of the expected HTTP 401/403, highlighting potential improper or missing access control. 

Advanced Scanning: With the --brute flag, the tool can simulate bypassing validation checks, helping to identify endpoints vulnerable to specific data-format-based validation logic. 

Sensitive Data Exposure: Reviews successful responses for exposure of sensitive data—such as PII, credentials, or internal records. Endpoints returning such data without proper authentication are included in the output report. 

Security Insights

Publicly exposing API documentation expands the attack surface. Unless essential for business, it is advised not to reveal API docs. Regular API security scanning should be performed after every development iteration to mitigate risks.

Autoswagger is freely available on GitHub, making it an accessible resource for security teams looking to automate API authorization testing and harden their defenses against common vulnerabilities.
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Shadow AI
AI Deepfakes AI threats Cyber Security cybercriminals Cybersecurity measures IABs Open Source Ransomwares Shadow AI

Emerging Cybersecurity Threats in 2025: Shadow AI, Deepfakes, and Open-Source Risks

 

Cybersecurity continues to be a growing concern as organizations worldwide face an increasing number of sophisticated attacks. In early 2024, businesses encountered an alarming 1,308 cyberattacks per week—a sharp 28% rise from the previous year. This surge highlights the rapid evolution of cyber threats and the pressing need for stronger security strategies. As technology advances, cybercriminals are leveraging artificial intelligence, exploiting open-source vulnerabilities, and using advanced deception techniques to bypass security measures. 

One of the biggest cybersecurity risks in 2025 is ransomware, which remains a persistent and highly disruptive threat. Attackers use this method to encrypt critical data, demanding payment for its release. Many cybercriminals now employ double extortion tactics, where they not only lock an organization’s files but also threaten to leak sensitive information if their demands are not met. These attacks can cripple businesses, leading to financial losses and reputational damage. The growing sophistication of ransomware groups makes it imperative for companies to enhance their defensive measures, implement regular backups, and invest in proactive threat detection systems. 

Another significant concern is the rise of Initial Access Brokers (IABs), cybercriminals who specialize in selling stolen credentials to hackers. By gaining unauthorized access to corporate systems, these brokers enable large-scale cyberattacks, making it easier for threat actors to infiltrate networks. This trend has made stolen login credentials a valuable commodity on the dark web, increasing the risk of data breaches and financial fraud. Organizations must prioritize multi-factor authentication and continuous monitoring to mitigate these risks. 

A new and rapidly growing cybersecurity challenge is the use of unauthorized artificial intelligence tools, often referred to as Shadow AI. Employees frequently adopt AI-driven applications without proper security oversight, leading to potential data leaks and vulnerabilities. In some cases, AI-powered bots have unintentionally exposed sensitive financial information due to default settings that lack robust security measures. 

As AI becomes more integrated into workplaces, businesses must establish clear policies to regulate its use and ensure proper safeguards are in place. Deepfake technology has also emerged as a major cybersecurity threat. Cybercriminals are using AI-generated deepfake videos and audio recordings to impersonate high-ranking officials and deceive employees into transferring funds or sharing confidential data. 

A recent incident involved a Hong Kong-based company losing $25 million after an employee fell victim to a deepfake video call that convincingly mimicked their CFO. This alarming development underscores the need for advanced fraud detection systems and enhanced verification protocols to prevent such scams. Open-source software vulnerabilities are another critical concern. Many businesses and government institutions rely on open-source platforms, but these systems are increasingly being targeted by attackers. Cybercriminals have infiltrated open-source projects, gaining the trust of developers before injecting malicious code. 

A notable case involved a widely used Linux tool where a contributor inserted a backdoor after gradually establishing credibility within the project. If not for a vigilant security expert, the backdoor could have remained undetected, potentially compromising millions of systems. This incident highlights the importance of stricter security audits and increased funding for open-source security initiatives. 

To address these emerging threats, organizations and governments must take proactive measures. Strengthening regulatory frameworks, investing in AI-driven threat detection, and enhancing collaboration between cybersecurity experts and policymakers will be crucial in mitigating risks. The cybersecurity landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and without a proactive approach, businesses and individuals alike will remain vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated attacks.
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Supply Chain
Archive Cyber Security Open Source PyPI Supply Chain

PyPI's New Archival Feature Addresses a Major Security Flaw

 

The Python Package Index (PyPI) has informed users that no modifications are expected with the launch of "Project Archival," a new method that enables publishers to archive their projects. To assist users in making informed decisions regarding their dependencies, users will still be able to download the projects from PyPI, but they will be alerted of the maintenance status. 

The new tool aims to strengthen supply-chain security, as hacking developer accounts and sending malicious updates to widely used but abandoned projects is a typical occurrence in the open-source community. In addition to minimising user risk, it lowers support requests by guaranteeing clear communication of the project's lifecycle state. 

Project archiving modus operandi 

According to a detailed blog post by TrailofBits, the developer of PyPI's new project archival system, the feature includes a maintainer-controlled status that enables project owners to declare their projects as archived, informing users that there will be no more updates, patches, or maintenance. 

Although it is not mandatory, PyPI advises maintainers to publish a final version prior to project archiving in order to provide information and justifications for the decision. If the maintainers decide to pick up where they left off, they can unarchive their project whenever they like. 

Under the hood, the new system employs a LifecycleStatus model, which was initially designed for project quarantine and includes a state machine that allows for modifications between different states. 

When the project owner selects the 'Archive Project' option on the PyPI settings page, the platform automatically updates the metadata to reflect the new state. According to TrailofBits, there are plans to add other project statuses such as 'deprecated,' 'feature-complete,' and 'unmaintained,' giving users a better understanding of the project's status. 

The purpose of the warning banner is to alert developers to the need of identifying actively maintained alternative dependencies rather than sticking with out-of-date and potentially insecure projects. In addition, cybercriminals frequently target abandoned packages, taking over unmaintained projects and injecting malicious code via an update that may arrive many years after the last one. 

When deciding to halt work, maintainers sometimes decide to delete their projects, which might result in situations like "Revival Hijack" attacks. From a security standpoint, it is more preferable to provide those maintainers the option to archive. 

Ultimately, a lot of open-source projects are abruptly discontinued, leaving consumers to wonder if they are still being maintained. The new system eliminates uncertainty and gives a clear indication of a project's state, which should increase transparency in open-source project management.
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Open Source System
Cyber Security Data Encryption data security database enterprise cybersecurity Enterprise security Open Source Open Source System

Why Enterprise Editions of Open Source Databases Are Essential for Large Organizations


With the digital age ushering in massive data flows into organizational systems daily, the real value of this data lies in its ability to generate critical insights and predictions, enhancing productivity and ROI. To harness these benefits, data must be efficiently stored and managed in databases that allow easy access, modification, and organization. 

Open-source databases present an attractive option due to their flexibility, cost savings, and strong community support. They allow users to modify the source code, enabling custom solutions tailored to specific needs. Moreover, their lack of licensing fees makes them accessible to organizations of all sizes. Popular community versions like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB offer zero-cost entry and extensive support. 

However, enterprise editions often provide more comprehensive solutions for businesses with critical needs.  Enterprise editions are generally preferred over community versions for several reasons in an enterprise setting. A significant advantage of enterprise editions is the professional support they offer. Unlike community versions, which rely on forums and public documentation, enterprise editions provide dedicated, around-the-clock technical support. This immediate support is vital for enterprises that need quick resolutions to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity and compliance. 

Security is another critical aspect for enterprises. Enterprise editions of open-source databases typically include advanced security features not available in community versions. These features may encompass advanced authentication methods, data encryption, auditing capabilities, and more granular access controls. As cyber threats evolve, these robust security measures are crucial for protecting sensitive data and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Performance optimization and scalability are also key advantages of enterprise editions. They often come with tools and features designed to handle large-scale operations efficiently, significantly improving database performance through faster query processing and better resource management. 

For businesses experiencing rapid growth or high transaction volumes, seamless scalability is essential. Features such as automated backups, performance monitoring dashboards, and user-friendly management interfaces ensure smooth database operations and prompt issue resolution. Long-term stability and support are crucial for enterprises needing reliable database systems. Community versions often have rapid release cycles, leading to stability issues and outdated versions. 

In contrast, enterprise editions offer long-term support (LTS) versions, ensuring ongoing updates and stability without frequent major upgrades. Vendors offering enterprise editions frequently provide tailored solutions to meet specific client needs. This customization can include optimizing databases for particular workloads, integrating with existing systems, and developing new features on request. Such tailored solutions ensure databases align perfectly with business operations. 

While community versions of open-source databases are great for small to medium-sized businesses or non-critical applications, enterprise editions provide enhanced features and services essential for larger organizations. With superior support, advanced security, performance optimizations, comprehensive management tools, and tailored solutions, enterprise editions ensure that businesses can rely on their databases to support their operations effectively and securely. For enterprises where data integrity, performance, and security are paramount, opting for enterprise editions is a wise decision.
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Python-based Malware
Cyber Attacks Cyber Security Threats data security GitHub Open Source Python-based Malware

GitHub Under Siege: Unraveling the Ongoing Automated Attack on Open-Source Repositories

 

GitHub, a cornerstone for programmers worldwide, faces a severe threat as an unknown attacker deploys an automated assault, cloning and creating malicious code repositories. The attack, involving sophisticated obfuscation and social engineering, poses a significant challenge to GitHub's security infrastructure. 

An assailant employs an automated process to fork and clone existing repositories, concealing malicious code under seven layers of obfuscation. These rogue repositories closely mimic legitimate ones, contributing to the challenge of detection. Developers unknowingly forking affected repos unintentionally amplify the attack. 

Once a developer utilizes a compromised repository, a hidden payload begins unpacking layers of obfuscation, revealing malicious Python code and a binary executable. The code then initiates the collection of confidential data and login details, which are subsequently uploaded to a control server. Security provider Apiiro's research and data teams report a substantial surge in the attack since its inception in May of the previous year. 

While GitHub diligently removes affected repositories, its automation detection system struggles to catch all instances. With millions of uploaded or forked repositories, even a 1% miss-rate translates to potentially thousands of compromised repos still operational. Initially modest in scale, the attack has grown in size and sophistication, presenting challenges for GitHub's security measures. 

Researchers attribute the operation's success to GitHub's vast user base and the increasing complexity of the attack technique. The attack's intrigue lies in the fusion of sophisticated automated methods and exploiting simple human nature. While obfuscation techniques become more intricate, the attackers heavily rely on social engineering to confuse developers, compelling them to select the malicious code. 

This unintentional spread exacerbates the attack's impact and heightens the difficulty of detection. As of now, GitHub has not issued a direct comment on the ongoing attack. However, the platform released a general statement reassuring users of its commitment to security. The platform employs manual reviews, at-scale detection utilizing machine learning, and continuously evolves to counter adversarial attacks. 

GitHub's popularity as a vital resource for developers globally has inadvertently made it a target. The platform's open-source nature and extensive user base create vulnerabilities that attackers exploit. Resolving the issue entirely proves to be an uphill battle, with GitHub still grappling with the effectiveness of the assailant's methods. 

GitHub, a linchpin for the global programming community, faces a formidable challenge as an automated attack exploits its open-source framework and vast user base. The ongoing assault, characterized by sophisticated obfuscation and social engineering, underscores the complexities of securing such a widely used platform. GitHub's response and adaptation will be crucial in mitigating the impact and fortifying defenses against evolving cyber threats.
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Sensitive data
Data Breach DDOS Attacks Digital Age Malicious actor Open Source Sensitive data

Blender's Battle: Triumph Over DDoS Adversity

Open-source projects are now the foundation of innovation in a world where digital infrastructure is becoming more and more important. Even these groups, though, appear to be vulnerable to the constant threat of cyberattacks. The Blender Project was recently the target of Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) assaults, which serve as a sobering reminder of the difficulties facing open-source endeavors in the digital age.

Blender, a versatile and powerful 3D creation suite, found itself in the crosshairs of a major DDoS attack, temporarily knocking its servers offline. The assault disrupted services, leaving users unable to access crucial resources. However, the Blender community, known for its resilience and collaborative spirit, swiftly rallied to address the challenge head-on.

The attack's origins remain shrouded in mystery, but the Blender Foundation acknowledged the incident through an official statement. They detailed the ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact and restore normalcy. Open source projects often operate on limited resources, making them susceptible targets for malicious actors. Despite this vulnerability, Blender's response underscores the dedication and determination of the open-source community to safeguard its assets.

Blender's official website (blender.org) became a focal point for concerned users seeking updates on the situation. The Blender Foundation utilized its communication channels to keep the community informed, ensuring transparency during the crisis. Users were encouraged to stay vigilant and patient as the team worked diligently to resolve the issue.

TechRadar reported on the severity of the attack, emphasizing the temporary unavailability of Blender's servers. The Verge also covered the incident, shedding light on the disruptive nature of DDoS attacks and their potential ramifications for widely-used platforms. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity for digital infrastructure.

Despite the challenges posed by the DDoS onslaught, the Blender community's commitment to open-source principles emerged as a beacon of hope. The Blender Foundation's response exemplifies the resilience ingrained in collaborative endeavors. This incident reinforces the need for continued vigilance and proactive security measures within the open-source ecosystem.

As Blender emerges from this cyber crisis, it stands not only as a symbol of resilience but also as a reminder of the collective strength that open-source projects embody. The challenges posed by DDoS attacks have sparked a renewed commitment to fortifying the digital defenses of open-source initiatives. The Blender community's ability to weather this storm reflects the collaborative spirit that defines the open-source landscape, leaving us hopeful for a future where innovation can thrive securely in the digital realm.

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