DHS Warning of Potential Cyber Attacks

Feb. 1, 2022
world map with laptop overhead with a lock within

Several news organizations are reporting on a January 23rd Intelligence Brief issued by the Department of Homeland Security. Due to the continued geopolitical tension between Russia and Ukraine and the history of state-sponsored cyber tactics, DHS raised awareness for potential malicious activity focused on SLTT and critical infrastructure, especially for any companies with interests in the Ukraine.

Specifically, CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) highlighted a Microsoft report about destructive malware targeting Ukraine organizations that deleted master boot records on vulnerable Windows systems.

To mitigate possible damage:

  1. Maintain tested and secured backups of critical data and systems
  2. Keep all systems and software updated with the latest security patches
  3. Review and update firewall rules for least external access necessary for university-business purposes

Please report any suspicious activity to https://security.arizona.edu/report.