How to Protect Yourself From “Fileless Virus” Cyber Attacks

Welcome Hudson Valley! This is Conor Walsh, host of In Touch, Townsquare Media of the Hudson Valley’s Award-Winning Public Affairs and Issues program.   

This week on In Touch, we speak with Paul Hacker, aka The Virtuous Hacker. We discuss recent cyber attacks that have been wreaking havoc on both local Hudson Valley organizations along with international companies. Paul and I discuss the latest cyber threats and how you can best protect your digital information. 

We invite you to listen to a previously recorded conversation between Paul and myself here on In Touch 

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This has been this week’s edition of IN TOUCH, the award-winning public affairs and issues program that runs across Townsquare Media of the Hudson Valley radio stations. We want to give a big thank you to Paul Hacker. To reach out to Paul through email or LinkedIn, visit https://www.axisins.com/member/paul-hacker/ 

Beware of Deepfake Scams

As we talked about on the episode, Deepfake scams are becoming more prevalent. Paul shared this story with us to share with you. This is from KnowBe4 writer Stu Sjouwerman

When Technology blurs the lines between reality and fiction, a recent incident involving U.S. Senator Ben Cardin serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by deepfake scams. This sophisticated attack not only highlights the vulnerabilities faced by high-profile individuals but also underscores the need for security awareness training among all users.

 

Earlier this month, Senator Cardin found himself at the center of an elaborate deepfake operation. The scammers, impersonating Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dymtro Kuleba, managed to set up a Zoom call with the Senator. The impersonation was so convincing that it initially fooled Cardin and his staff, demonstrating the alarming accuracy of modern deepfake Technology.

 

However, the scam unraveled when the impersonator began asking politically charged questions that seemed out of character for Minister Kuleba. This deviation from expected behavior alerted Senator Cardin and his team, prompting them to end the call and alert authorities.

READ MORE: What's The New Frontline of Cyber Attacks?

The 2024 Travelers Risk Index survey reveals an unprecedented level of concern surrounding cyber threats. The survey, in its 11th year, underscores the critical need for Businesses to bolster their cybersecurity risk management measures. Click here to read more.

In Touch Receives 2 Excellence in Broadcasting Awards for 2024  

I am so proud to announce that In Touch has received another two Excellence in Broadcasting Awards from the New York State Broadcasting Association for 2024. In Touch received the award for “Outstanding Public Affairs Program or Series” for the second year in a row. Not just that, but In Touch also received the award for “Outstanding Editorial/Commentary.” This recognition would not be possible without all our phenomenal guests that we learn from and grow with every single week, and of course you, the listener! Whether you’ve been listening for a while, or you just found us, thank you for taking part in the conversation and staying In Touch with what’s going on in the Hudson Valley.   

Townsquare Spotlight 

Because of the awesome success of In Touch over the last year, we are expanding! We are launching a new spin-off series under the In Touch umbrella called Townsquare Spotlights. These Spotlights focus on amazing celebrities and leaders passing through the Hudson Valley who are making an impact in pop culture. You can check out our latest spotlights wherever you listen to In Touch. 

MORE OF IN TOUCH 

Whether you’ve been listening for a while or you have just joined us, thank you! You can find In Touch episodes new and old on your favorite streaming services like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and more! That, and listen On Demand with your Townsquare Radio Station Mobile App. Of course, you can still find all articles and audio under the In Touch Tab on this radio station’s app and website. And don’t forget, we are also on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram @intouch_hv.  

I’ve been your host, Conor Walsh. Until next time, stay curious, keep an open mind, and as always, I’m glad we get to Spend Some Time.