Top of the morning, security gang!
This CyberHub Podcast episode delivers a packed lineup of major developments shaping the cybersecurity landscape.
From the UK’s forthcoming regulations on critical infrastructure and the spread of North Korean IT workers in Europe, to important browser updates and AI-driven vulnerability research, this episode dives into the most pressing headlines. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each story covered, followed by an action-oriented checklist to keep your organization and personal digital life secure.
UK’s New Critical Infrastructure Reporting Rules
The UK government is introducing updated legislation that mandates prompt incident reporting—within 24 hours of awareness and followed by a full report within 72 hours—for organizations defined as critical infrastructure. This move aims to improve response times for network intrusions affecting confidentiality, availability, and integrity. Notably, cloud services, MSPs, and data centers are included under these expanded requirements. However, concerns remain that these rules focus on reporting rather than establishing clear security standards like CIS Top 20 or NIST.
North Korean IT Worker Infiltration in Europe
North Korea’s IT “army” has been seen posing as legitimate freelance workers across Europe in countries like Germany, Portugal, and the UK. Under false identities and nationalities, these operatives secure remote IT roles through various online platforms and payment methods, including crypto and other digital services. Their dual objectives are to generate illicit revenue for the regime and create potential backdoors in targeted organizations. The episode emphasizes the importance of enhanced due diligence, especially for remote IT hires.
Chrome 135 and Firefox 137 Critical Patches
Google and Mozilla have both released updated versions—Chrome 135 and Firefox 137—to address nearly two dozen vulnerabilities. These include high-severity memory safety bugs and other security flaws. Rewards have been paid out to researchers who discovered the vulnerabilities, underscoring the importance of patching as soon as possible to mitigate exploitable threats.
Scanning Spikes on Palo Alto GlobalProtect Login Portal
A significant rise in scanning activity targeting Palo Alto Networks’ GlobalProtect login portal has been detected. Over 24,000 unique IP addresses have been involved, with most labeled as suspicious or malicious. Although Palo Alto Networks has yet to confirm an exploitable flaw, security teams are advised to remain vigilant and apply any necessary mitigations once identified.
Google’s End-to-End Encryption for Enterprise Gmail
Google is rolling out an end-to-end encryption solution for enterprise Gmail users, aimed at bolstering data security without the complexities associated with older protocols like S/MIME. This move brings Google in line with competing solutions and simplifies encrypted communications at scale, requiring minimal user intervention.
General Nakasone’s Insights on China’s Cyber Threat
Former NSA and US Cyber Command head, General Paul Nakasone, highlighted China’s continuous focus on infiltrating US critical infrastructure. In a recent interview, he reiterated that Chinese threat actors persistently install backdoors and search for vulnerabilities. While there is recognition of the ongoing digital espionage war, geopolitical complexities often stall stronger deterrent measures like sanctions or trade restrictions.
FIN7’s Python-Based ‘Anubis’ Backdoor
Cybercriminal group FIN7 has been linked to a new Python-based backdoor, dubbed “Anubis,” capable of granting attackers full control over compromised Windows systems. Researchers discovered that FIN7’s malicious toolset includes the ability to terminate security software, such as EDR and MDR, thereby paving the way for stealthy exploitation. Vigilant endpoint security and robust monitoring remain critical.
Microsoft’s AI-Driven Vulnerability Research
Microsoft’s threat intelligence teams have leveraged AI and co-pilot technology to discover over 20 critical security flaws across open-source bootloaders like Grub, U-Boot, and BareBox. By employing static code analysis, fuzzing, and AI-driven prompts, researchers saved weeks of manual work. This cutting-edge approach showcases AI’s growing importance in rapidly identifying and mitigating systemic vulnerabilities.
Updated ‘Hijack Loader’ Malware
Security analysts are tracking a new variant of the Hijack Loader, which now includes enhanced obfuscation features like call stack spoofing. Designed to deliver second-stage payloads and bypass security solutions, the loader underscores the evolving complexity of malware. Implementing sandbox detection strategies and robust EDR solutions is crucial for thwarting these advanced threats.
ReliaQuest Secures $500M in Growth Funding
Security operations platform ReliaQuest has raised half a billion dollars, bringing its total funding to roughly $830 million and pushing its valuation to $3.4 billion. This significant injection will propel the company’s platform enhancements and global expansion, reflecting continued investor confidence in the cybersecurity sector.
Action-Oriented Checklist
Review and Update Incident Reporting Procedures
Ensure compliance with the UK’s new rules by designing incident response and reporting workflows that won’t overburden teams during emergencies.Strengthen Remote Onboarding
Implement stricter identity verification and background checks for freelance IT hires, especially if they’ll be accessing critical systems.Apply Critical Browser Updates
Patch Chrome 135 and Firefox 137 immediately to protect against high-severity vulnerabilities.Monitor GlobalProtect Exposures
Check Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect configurations and monitor network logs for unusual scanning activity.Enable End-to-End Encryption for Email
If your organization uses Google Workspace, consider adopting the new encryption options to enhance confidential communications.Elevate Visibility into Supply Chain
Recognize the persistent threat from nation-state actors, particularly from China. Ensure robust threat intelligence and collaboration across teams.Bolster Endpoint Security
Address the latest malware threats (Anubis and Hijack Loader) by using advanced EDR/MDR solutions and continuous monitoring.Adopt AI-Assisted Security Testing
Leverage AI-based tools to expedite vulnerability discovery and reduce manual overhead in threat hunting and code analysis.Assess Emerging Malware Tactics
Stay informed about new loader variants and keep antivirus/anti-malware tools updated with the latest signatures.Plan for Growth-Focused Security
Follow trends in security funding to anticipate market shifts and maintain a forward-looking cybersecurity strategy.
✅ Story Links:
https://therecord.media/uk-sets-out-cyber-reporting-requirements-critical-infrastructure
https://www.securityweek.com/chrome-135-firefox-137-patch-high-severity-vulnerabilities/
https://www.securityweek.com/gmail-brings-end-to-end-encrypted-emails-to-all-enterprise-users/
https://therecord.media/nakasone-interview-china-ai-deepseek-doge
https://thehackernews.com/2025/04/fin7-deploys-anubis-backdoor-to-hijack.html
https://www.securityweek.com/microsoft-using-ai-to-uncover-critical-bootloader-vulnerabilities/
https://thehackernews.com/2025/04/new-malware-loaders-use-call-stack.html
https://www.securityweek.com/security-operations-firm-reliaquest-raises-500m-at-3-4b-valuation/
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