InfoSec Dot - Issue #81. 🏙️ Abilene Offline | 💣 Digital Shutdown | 🕵️‍♂️ Threat Under Probe

In partnership with

Hello, Cybersecurity Enthusiasts!

The City of Abilene, Texas, experienced a significant cyberattack that disrupted critical IT systems, forcing officials to take them offline as a precaution. The incident has impacted city services, with teams actively working to investigate the breach and restore operations safely. While no details have been released about the attackers or method used, city officials have assured residents that public safety remains a top priority.

This attack adds to the growing trend of ransomware and disruptive cyber threats targeting local governments across the U.S. With services down and investigations underway, the event highlights the ongoing vulnerability of municipal infrastructure and the urgent need for robust cybersecurity preparedness.

Stay ahead with these vital updates to fortify your security posture.

Learn AI in 5 minutes a day

This is the easiest way for a busy person wanting to learn AI in as little time as possible:

1. Sign up for The Rundown AI newsletter

2. They send you 5-minute email updates on the latest AI news and how to use it

3. You learn how to become 2x more productive by leveraging AI

Sign up to start learning.

🗓️ What’s New

Record-Breaking Botnet Fuels Global DDoS Surge

A massive botnet has shattered previous records, driving an unprecedented wave of DDoS attacks across industries. Cybersecurity experts link the surge to automated exploitation of vulnerable IoT devices, urging urgent network hardening and proactive monitoring. Read More (4 min)

European Military & Government Networks Under Siege

A coordinated cyber campaign has reportedly targeted sensitive data networks across European military and government sectors. Analysts suggest the operation is likely state-backed, with espionage and data exfiltration as core objectives. Read More (2 min)

Ripple's xrpl.js NPM Package Backdoored to Steal Crypto

A malicious update to Ripple's xrpl.js NPM package was discovered with a backdoor capable of stealing users' secret crypto keys. The supply chain compromise highlights growing risks in the JavaScript ecosystem and urges developers to verify package integrity.
Read More (3 min)

ASUS Patches Critical Router Flaw Allowing Remote Exploits

ASUS has released fixes for a severe vulnerability affecting multiple router models that could let attackers execute remote code without authentication. Users are strongly urged to update firmware immediately to prevent potential takeovers. Read More (3 min)

Russian Military Hit by Android Spyware Mimicking Kremlin’s Own Tactics

A recent campaign has targeted Russian military personnel with sophisticated Android spyware, ironically employing surveillance tactics similar to those used by Russia itself. The spyware enables remote control and data exfiltration, raising internal security concerns. Read More (9 min)

Fake Mapping App Spies on Russian Military

A trojanized version of the Alpine Quest mapping app is being used to spy on Russian military personnel, reportedly enabling attackers to track movements and gather intelligence. The operation highlights the increasing use of fake apps in modern cyber espionage. Read More (2 min)

Cyberattack Cripples Texas City Systems

A cyberattack has forced the City of Abilene, Texas, to take key systems offline, impacting local services and operations. Authorities are investigating the breach while working to restore normal functionality. Read More (2 min)

🔗 Quick Links

• How I made $64k from deleted files — a bug bounty story

• Miggo Security Banks $17M Series A for ADR Technology

• DPRK Hackers Steal $137M from TRON Users in Single-Day Phishing Attack

• Why CISOs are doubling down on cyber crisis simulations

If you like this issue, I'd really appreciate it if you could forward it to your friends and colleagues! Your support helps us grow and continue providing great content.

If you have specific feedback or anything interesting you’d like to share, please let me know by replying to this email.

Regards,

Dot