MindFort, a Y Combinator (YC X25) company, has launched an AI-powered continuous penetration testing platform. It uses autonomous agents to probe systems for vulnerabilities, mimicking real-world attacker behavior and adapting to changing environments. This approach aims to provide more comprehensive and realistic security testing than traditional methods, helping companies identify and fix weaknesses proactively. The platform offers continuous vulnerability discovery and reporting, allowing security teams to stay ahead of potential threats.
This article analyzes the privacy of Monero (XMR), specifically examining potential de-anonymization attacks. It acknowledges Monero's robust privacy features like ring signatures, stealth addresses, and RingCT, which obfuscate transaction details. However, the analysis highlights vulnerabilities, including the possibility of timing analysis, exploiting weaknesses in the transaction mixing process, and leveraging blockchain analysis techniques to link transactions and potentially deanonymize users. The article also discusses how vulnerabilities can arise through user behavior, such as reusing addresses or linking real-world identities to Monero transactions. It concludes that while Monero offers strong privacy, it's not entirely foolproof and users must practice good opsec to maintain their anonymity.
Hacker News users discussed the practicality of Monero's privacy features in light of potential de-anonymization attacks. Some commenters highlighted the importance of distinguishing between theoretical attacks and real-world exploits, arguing that many described attacks are computationally expensive or require unrealistic assumptions. Others emphasized the ongoing "cat and mouse" game between privacy coin developers and researchers, suggesting Monero's privacy is constantly evolving. Several users pointed out the crucial role of user behavior in maintaining privacy, as poor operational security can negate the benefits of Monero's cryptographic features. The discussion also touched upon the trade-offs between privacy and usability, and the different threat models users face. Some commenters expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of any privacy coin achieving perfect anonymity.
This blog post explores the Windows registry as an attack surface, focusing on how registry keys with weak permissions can be exploited for privilege escalation. The author details a systematic method for analyzing registry permissions, using a custom tool to identify writable keys accessible by lower-privileged users. They demonstrate how seemingly innocuous write access can be leveraged to manipulate application behavior, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. Specifically, the post examines vulnerable registry keys related to application autostart locations and DLL hijacking, illustrating how attackers could modify these keys to execute malicious code during system startup or when a legitimate application loads a DLL. Ultimately, the post highlights the significant security risks posed by insecure registry permissions and emphasizes the need for developers and system administrators to carefully manage these permissions to minimize potential attack vectors.
Hacker News users discussed the complexity and attack surface of the Windows Registry, largely agreeing with the article's points. Several highlighted the registry's evolution as a key factor in its vulnerability, noting how legacy components and backwards compatibility requirements create security challenges. Some pointed out specific registry-related attack vectors like hijacking file associations and manipulating COM objects. Others praised the Project Zero researcher for their deep dive, while a few questioned the practicality of exploiting some of the identified weaknesses. A common thread was the acknowledgment of the registry's crucial role in Windows, making securing it a complex and ongoing problem.
This research investigates the real-world risks of targeted physical attacks against cryptocurrency users. By analyzing 122 documented incidents from 2010 to 2023, the study categorizes attack methods (robbery, kidnapping, extortion, assault), quantifies financial losses (ranging from hundreds to millions of dollars), and identifies common attack vectors like SIM swapping, social engineering, and online information exposure. The findings highlight the vulnerability of cryptocurrency users to physical threats, particularly those publicly associated with large holdings, and emphasize the need for improved security practices and law enforcement awareness. The study also analyzes geographical distribution of attacks and correlations between attack characteristics, like the use of violence, and the amount stolen.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and likelihood of the physical attacks described in the paper, with some arguing they are less concerning than remote attacks. Several commenters highlight the importance of robust key management and the use of hardware wallets as strong mitigations against such threats. One commenter notes the paper's exploration of attacks against multi-party computation (MPC) setups and the challenges in physically securing geographically distributed parties. Another points out the paper's focus on "evil maid" style attacks where an attacker gains temporary physical access. The overall sentiment suggests the paper is interesting but focuses on niche attack vectors less likely than software or remote exploits.
The article argues that while "Diffie-Hellman" is often used as a generic term for key exchange, the original finite field Diffie-Hellman (FFDH) is effectively obsolete in practice. Due to its vulnerability to sub-exponential attacks, FFDH requires impractically large key sizes for adequate security. Elliptic Curve Diffie-Hellman (ECDH), leveraging the discrete logarithm problem on elliptic curves, offers significantly stronger security with smaller key sizes, making it the dominant and practically relevant implementation of the Diffie-Hellman key exchange concept. Thus, when discussing real-world applications, "Diffie-Hellman" almost invariably implies ECDH, rendering FFDH a largely theoretical or historical curiosity.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and prevalence of elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) versus traditional Diffie-Hellman. Many agree that ECC is dominant in modern applications due to its efficiency and smaller key sizes. Some commenters point out niche uses for traditional Diffie-Hellman, such as in legacy systems or specific protocols where ECC isn't supported. Others highlight the importance of understanding the underlying mathematics of both methods, regardless of which is used in practice. A few express concern over potential vulnerabilities in ECC implementations, particularly regarding patents and potential backdoors. There's also discussion around the learning curve for ECC and resources available for those wanting to deepen their understanding.
DDoSecrets has published 410 GB of data allegedly hacked from TeleMessage, a company specializing in secure enterprise messaging. The leaked data, described as heap dumps from an archive server, reportedly contains internal TeleMessage emails, attachments, private keys, customer information, and source code. While the exact scope and impact of the breach are unclear, the publication of this data by DDoSecrets suggests a significant compromise of TeleMessage's security. The leak raises concerns about the privacy and security of TeleMessage's clients, who often include law enforcement and government agencies relying on the platform for sensitive communications.
Hacker News commenters discuss the implications of the TeleMessage data leak, with several focusing on the legality and ethics of DDoSecrets' actions. Some argue that regardless of the source's legality, the data is now public and should be analyzed. Others debate the value of the leaked data, some suggesting it's a significant breach revealing sensitive information, while others downplay its importance, calling it a "nothingburger" due to the technical nature of heap dumps. Several users also question the technical details, like why TeleMessage stored sensitive data in memory and the feasibility of extracting usable information from the dumps. Some also express concerns about potential misuse of the data and the lack of clear journalistic purpose behind its release.
Troy Hunt's "Have I Been Pwned" (HIBP) has received a significant update, moving from a static database of breached accounts to a real-time API-based system. This "HIBP 2.0" allows subscribers to receive notifications the moment their data appears in a new breach, offering proactive protection against identity theft and fraud. The change also brings new features like domain search, allowing organizations to monitor employee accounts for breaches. While the free public search for individual accounts remains, the enhanced features are available through a paid subscription, supporting the continued operation and development of this valuable security service. This shift allows HIBP to handle larger and more frequent data breaches while offering users immediate awareness of compromised credentials.
Hacker News users generally praised the "Have I Been Pwned" revamp, highlighting the improved UI, particularly the simplified search and clearer presentation of breach information. Several commenters appreciated the addition of the "Domain Search" and "Paste Account" features, finding them practical for quickly assessing organizational and personal risk. Some discussed the technical aspects of the site, including the use of k-anonymity and the challenges of balancing privacy with usability. A few users raised concerns about the potential for abuse with the "Paste Account" feature, but overall the reception to the update was positive, with many thanking Troy Hunt for his continued work on the valuable service.
A "significant amount" of private data was stolen during a cyberattack on the UK's Legal Aid Agency (LAA). The LAA confirmed the breach, stating it involved data relating to criminal legal aid applications. While the extent of the breach and the specific data compromised is still being investigated, they acknowledged the incident's seriousness and are working with law enforcement and the National Cyber Security Centre. They are also contacting individuals whose data may have been affected.
HN commenters discuss the implications of the Legal Aid Agency hack, expressing concern over the sensitive nature of the stolen data and the potential for its misuse in blackmail, identity theft, or even physical harm. Some question the agency's security practices and wonder why such sensitive information wasn't better protected. Others point out the irony of a government agency tasked with upholding the law being victimized by cybercrime, while a few highlight the increasing frequency and severity of such attacks. Several users call for greater transparency from the agency about the extent of the breach and the steps being taken to mitigate the damage. The lack of technical details about the attack is also noted, leaving many to speculate about the methods used and the vulnerabilities exploited.
Swiss-based privacy-focused company Proton, known for its VPN and encrypted email services, is considering leaving Switzerland due to a new surveillance law. The law grants the Swiss government expanded powers to spy on individuals and companies, requiring service providers like Proton to hand over user data in certain circumstances. Proton argues this compromises their core mission of user privacy and confidentiality, potentially making them "less confidential than Google," and is exploring relocation to a jurisdiction with stronger privacy protections.
Hacker News users discuss Proton's potential departure from Switzerland due to new surveillance laws. Several commenters express skepticism of Proton's claims, suggesting the move is motivated more by marketing than genuine concern for user privacy. Some argue that Switzerland is still more privacy-respecting than many other countries, questioning whether a move would genuinely benefit users. Others point out the complexities of running a secure email service, noting the challenges of balancing user privacy with legal obligations and the potential for abuse. A few commenters mention alternative providers and the increasing difficulty of finding truly private communication platforms. The discussion also touches upon the practicalities of relocating a company of Proton's size and the potential impact on its existing infrastructure and workforce.
Printer manufacturer Procolored distributed malware through its driver packages for months, dismissing security researchers' warnings as false positives. The malicious driver, installed alongside legitimate printer software, collected system information and communicated with a command-and-control server located in China, potentially enabling remote code execution and data exfiltration. While Procolored eventually removed the driver and claimed it was a "statistical module" intended for data collection on printer usage, the company's delayed response and lack of transparency raise significant concerns about their security practices and the potential impact on users.
Several Hacker News commenters expressed skepticism about the "malware" classification, suggesting the included software was more accurately described as bloatware or potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). They pointed out that the drivers bundled third-party software like the Crossrider ad injection platform and Optimizer Pro, known for aggressive advertising and questionable system modifications. While acknowledging the software's undesirable nature, commenters debated whether its behavior warranted the "malware" label, with some arguing for a clearer distinction between malicious intent and aggressive monetization strategies. Others discussed the prevalence of such practices, particularly among printer manufacturers, and lamented the lack of transparency and user control in driver installations. A few commenters also questioned the motives behind the disclosure, speculating about potential conflicts of interest. Overall, the discussion centered on the nuanced definition of malware and the ethical implications of bundling potentially unwanted software with essential drivers.
The European Union is launching its own vulnerability database, the European Vulnerability Database (EU-VD), aiming to bolster cybersecurity within the bloc and reduce reliance on the US National Vulnerability Database (NVD). Concerns over the NVD's perceived declining quality, slow updates, and limited scope have driven the EU's initiative. The EU-VD plans to offer multilingual support, prioritize vulnerabilities affecting EU member states, and incorporate information from various sources, including national CERTs and open-source intelligence, ultimately striving to provide a more comprehensive and timely resource for European users.
Hacker News users discussed the potential effectiveness and challenges of the EU's new vulnerability database. Some expressed skepticism about the database's ability to improve security, citing concerns about bureaucracy, potential for misuse by malicious actors, and the existing vulnerability disclosure ecosystem. Others viewed the EU's effort as a positive step towards standardized vulnerability reporting and potentially a more balanced approach compared to the US system, particularly given perceived issues with the US's vulnerability equity process (VEP). There was also discussion about the practicalities of vulnerability disclosure, the impact on smaller companies, and the difficulties in classifying vulnerability severity. Some commenters highlighted the need for careful consideration regarding responsible disclosure practices and potential unintended consequences. Several commenters compared the EU's database to similar initiatives, and debate arose around mandatory versus voluntary reporting, along with questions of whether the database will cover both hardware and software vulnerabilities.
The author argues that modern personal computing has become "anti-personnel," designed to exploit users rather than empower them. Software and hardware are increasingly complex, opaque, and controlled by centralized entities, fostering dependency and hindering user agency. This shift is exemplified by the dominance of subscription services, planned obsolescence, pervasive surveillance, and the erosion of user ownership and control over data and devices. The essay calls for a return to the original ethos of personal computing, emphasizing user autonomy, open standards, and the right to repair and modify technology. This involves reclaiming agency through practices like self-hosting, using open-source software, and engaging in critical reflection about our relationship with technology.
HN commenters largely agree with the author's premise that much of modern computing is designed to be adversarial toward users, extracting data and attention at the expense of usability and agency. Several point out the parallels with Shoshana Zuboff's "Surveillance Capitalism." Some offer specific examples like CAPTCHAs, cookie banners, and paywalls as prime examples of "anti-personnel" design. Others discuss the inherent tension between free services and monetization through data collection, suggesting that alternative business models are needed. A few counterpoints argue that the article overstates the case, or that users implicitly consent to these tradeoffs in exchange for free services. A compelling exchange centers on whether the described issues are truly "anti-personnel," or simply the result of poorly designed systems.
Alex Shapiro discovered a serious vulnerability in a dating app's API that allowed access to all user data, including private messages and photos. He responsibly disclosed the vulnerability to the company, but their response was dismissive and inadequate, failing to acknowledge the severity of the issue or implement a proper fix. After months of back-and-forth with unresponsive and unhelpful support, Shapiro decided to publicly disclose the vulnerability after the app was acquired, highlighting the importance of taking security researchers seriously and implementing robust vulnerability disclosure programs. The experience underscored the risks of neglecting security and the potential damage to users when vulnerabilities are not addressed promptly and professionally.
Hacker News commenters largely agreed with the author's points about the importance of taking security vulnerabilities seriously and responding professionally to security researchers. Several shared similar experiences of companies dismissing or ignoring their vulnerability reports. Some criticized the author's approach, suggesting they should have waited longer before publicly disclosing the vulnerability, while others argued that the company's dismissive response justified the quicker disclosure. A few debated the ethics of vulnerability disclosure timelines, particularly when dealing with sensitive data like dating app information. Several comments also focused on the technical aspects of the vulnerability and potential mitigation strategies. One commenter offered a practical perspective, noting that many startups, especially early-stage ones, lack dedicated security teams and resources, making prompt and proper vulnerability handling challenging.
A severe vulnerability was discovered in Asus's pre-installed software, Asus DriverHub. This software, designed to update drivers, contains a flaw allowing remote code execution (RCE) with a single click. An attacker could craft a malicious URL that, when opened by a user with DriverHub installed, would automatically download and execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges. This effectively gives the attacker full control of the victim's computer. The vulnerability stems from DriverHub improperly using a hardcoded certificate to validate downloaded updates, allowing attackers to sign malicious updates. The researcher disclosed the issue responsibly to Asus, who have since released a patched version. Users are strongly urged to update their DriverHub software immediately.
Hacker News users discuss the severity and implications of the ASUS driver vulnerability. Several express concern over the preinstalled nature of the software, making it difficult for average users to avoid or mitigate the risk. Some question the technical details of the exploit, particularly around the claimed "one-click" nature and the necessity of physical access. Others discuss the ethics of responsible disclosure and the vendor's response (or lack thereof) to the reported vulnerability. A few commenters offer potential solutions, including using a different driver update utility or manually verifying driver signatures. The discussion also touches upon the broader issue of supply chain security and the challenges of ensuring the integrity of preinstalled software.
Sneakers (1992) follows Martin Bishop, a security expert with a checkered past, who leads a team of specialists testing corporate security systems. They are blackmailed into stealing a powerful decryption device, forcing them to navigate a dangerous world of espionage and corporate intrigue. As they uncover a conspiracy involving the NSA and potentially global surveillance, Bishop and his team must use their unique skills to retrieve the device and expose the truth before it falls into the wrong hands. The 4K Blu-ray release boasts improved picture and sound quality, bringing the classic thriller to life with enhanced detail.
Hacker News users discuss the film Sneakers (1992), praising its realistic portrayal of hacking and social engineering, especially compared to modern depictions. Several commenters highlight the film's prescient themes of privacy and surveillance, noting how relevant they remain today. The cast, particularly Redford, Poitier, and Hackman, receives considerable praise. Some lament the lack of similar "caper" films made recently, with a few suggestions for comparable movies offered. A discussion unfolds around the technical accuracy of the "Setec Astronomy" MacGuffin, with varying perspectives on its plausibility. The overall sentiment is one of strong nostalgia and appreciation for Sneakers as a well-crafted and thought-provoking thriller.
Cybercriminals in 2025 will leverage advanced AI for sophisticated attacks, including creating polymorphic malware, crafting highly personalized phishing campaigns, and automating vulnerability discovery. They will exploit the expanding attack surface of IoT devices and cloud infrastructure, while also targeting the human element through deepfakes and social engineering. Ransomware will remain prevalent, focusing on data exfiltration and extortion. The increasing complexity of systems will make attribution and defense more challenging, while the blurring lines between nation-state actors and criminal groups will further complicate the cybersecurity landscape.
HN users were skeptical of the blog post linked, questioning its credibility and the author's expertise. Several pointed out factual inaccuracies, including the claim about the disappearance of ransomware, which is demonstrably false. The post's predictions were seen as generic and lacking depth, with some commenters suggesting it was AI-generated or simply a regurgitation of common cybersecurity tropes. The most compelling comments highlighted the post's superficiality and failure to engage with the nuances of the evolving cybercrime landscape. One commenter aptly described it as "security fluff," while others questioned the value of such generalized pronouncements. Overall, the reception was highly critical, dismissing the blog post as lacking in substance and insight.
To secure President Obama's BlackBerry, the NSA developed a custom, highly-secured device nicknamed the Sectera Edge. It featured strong encryption, limited functionality (like no camera), and a heavily modified operating system to prevent malware and hacking. Only a small number of pre-screened contacts could communicate with the President through this device, and all communications were routed through secure government servers. Essentially, it was a stripped-down BlackBerry designed solely for secure communication, sacrificing features for unparalleled protection.
Hacker News users discussed the logistical and security challenges of securing a President's mobile device. Several commenters highlighted the inherent conflict between security and usability, questioning the actual functionality of Obama's secured BlackBerry. Some expressed skepticism about the claimed level of security, suggesting that a truly secure device would be severely limited in its capabilities. Others pointed out the irony of securing a device primarily used for communication with people likely using less secure devices, making the overall communication chain vulnerable. The discussion also touched on the use of hardware security modules and the difficulty in verifying the implementation of such security measures. A few users commented on the age of the article and how technology has changed since its publication.
Kraken's security team detected and thwarted an attempted infiltration by a suspected North Korean hacker posing as a security engineer. The individual, believed to be connected to the Lazarus Group, engaged in suspicious behavior, including using a Gmail address despite claiming to be based in China, submitting a portfolio with inconsistent details and low-quality code, and demonstrating a limited understanding of fundamental security concepts during the interview process. Kraken emphasizes their robust security measures and commitment to protecting user funds, highlighting this incident as an example of their vigilance against sophisticated threats.
Hacker News commenters largely questioned the certainty with which Kraken identified the applicant as a North Korean hacker, pointing out the limited evidence presented in the blog post. Several commenters suggested alternative explanations, such as the applicant using a VPN or being framed. The reliance on cryptocurrency transactions and blockchain analysis as primary evidence was also scrutinized, with some arguing it doesn't definitively link the individual to North Korea. Some questioned Kraken's motives for publishing the blog post, speculating about potential ulterior motives beyond simply sharing a security incident. Finally, a few commenters discussed the ethical implications of publicly accusing someone of being a North Korean hacker based on circumstantial evidence.
To identify potential North Korean IT workers disguised as other nationalities and avoid legal issues associated with hiring them, interviewers can ask about their experience with specific, culturally relevant South Korean pop culture phenomena, like popular TV dramas or K-pop groups. Genuine South Koreans (or those with actual South Korean cultural immersion) would likely have some familiarity with these topics, while imposters, even with fabricated backgrounds, are less likely to possess the nuanced knowledge necessary to convincingly discuss them. This cultural touchstone approach offers a more reliable screening method than relying solely on resumes or claimed nationalities.
Hacker News users discuss the practicality and ethics of using the proposed interview question ("What's your favorite brand of instant noodles?") to identify North Korean IT workers posing as South Koreans. Several commenters express skepticism, pointing out that cultural osmosis between the two countries makes this an unreliable filter, with North Koreans likely aware of popular South Korean brands. Others raise concerns about the ethical implications, suggesting it perpetuates stereotypes and potentially discriminates against legitimate workers. Some suggest alternative, more technical questions focusing on specific software or development practices would be more effective, while others dismiss the entire premise as fear-mongering and unlikely to be a widespread issue. A few commenters offer humorous takes, suggesting absurd follow-up questions or pointing out the potential for candidates to easily research the "correct" answer. Overall, the consensus leans towards the question being ineffective and potentially harmful.
The article claims US Secretary of Defense Chris Hegseth avoids using official Department of Defense (DoD) communications equipment due to concerns about security and surveillance. He reportedly prefers using encrypted consumer devices and apps like Signal, WhatsApp, and ProtonMail for sensitive communications, allegedly believing them to be more secure from both foreign and domestic monitoring. This practice raises concerns about compliance with DoD security protocols and the potential for data breaches, despite Hegseth's apparent confidence in his chosen methods.
Hacker News commenters discuss the plausibility and implications of the blog post's scenario, where the US Secretary of Defense uses a personal satellite phone to circumvent official channels. Some express skepticism about the technical feasibility and security implications of such a setup, questioning the ease of intercepting satellite phone communications. Others debate the likelihood of a defense secretary going to such lengths, citing existing secure communication methods available within the DoD. A few commenters highlight the potential legal and procedural ramifications of bypassing official communication protocols, particularly in matters of national security. Several also point out the blog's informal tone and speculative nature, suggesting it shouldn't be taken as definitive reporting. The overall sentiment leans towards cautious skepticism, with many commenters seeking further verification or evidence to support the claims made in the blog post.
The article details a vulnerability discovered in the Linux kernel's vsock implementation, a mechanism for communication between virtual machines and their hosts. Specifically, a use-after-free vulnerability existed due to improper handling of VM shutdown, allowing a malicious guest VM to trigger a double free and gain control of the host kernel. This was achieved by manipulating vsock's connection handling during the shutdown process, causing the kernel to access freed memory. The vulnerability was ultimately patched by ensuring proper cleanup of vsock connections during VM termination, preventing the double free condition and subsequent exploitation.
Hacker News users discussed the potential attack surface introduced by vsock, generally agreeing with the article's premise but questioning the practicality of exploiting it. Some commenters pointed out that the reliance on shared memory makes vsock vulnerable to manipulation by a compromised host, mitigating the isolation benefits it ostensibly provides. Others noted that while interesting, exploiting vsock likely wouldn't be the easiest or most effective attack vector in most scenarios. The discussion also touched on existing mitigations within the hypervisor and the fact that vsock is often disabled by default, further limiting its exploitability. Several users highlighted the obscurity of vsock, suggesting the real security risk lies in poorly understood and implemented features rather than the protocol itself. A few questioned the article's novelty, claiming these vulnerabilities were already well-known within security circles.
Cybersecurity companies, being high-value targets for sophisticated adversaries, face constant and evolving threats. Defending against these attacks requires a multi-layered approach including robust preventative measures like endpoint protection and network segmentation, along with a strong emphasis on detection and response capabilities. This involves continuous security monitoring, threat hunting, and incident response planning. Crucially, a security-first culture is essential, encompassing employee training, secure development practices, and regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. Transparency and information sharing within the cybersecurity community are also vital for collective defense against the ever-changing threat landscape.
HN commenters largely discuss SentinelOne's marketing-heavy approach in the linked article, finding it lacking in technical depth and overly focused on promoting their own product. Several express skepticism towards the "top-tier target" claim, arguing that SentinelOne's prominence doesn't necessarily make them a primary target compared to other critical infrastructure. Some users suggest the complexity of security is glossed over and criticize the lack of actionable advice, while others appreciate the high-level overview of security challenges faced by companies like SentinelOne. A few commenters also debate the effectiveness of AI in security, referencing the article's mention of it.
The author describes using a "zip bomb" detection system to protect their server from denial-of-service attacks. Rather than blocking all zip files, they've implemented a system that checks uploaded zip archives for excessively high compression ratios, a hallmark of zip bombs designed to overwhelm systems by decompressing into massive amounts of data. If a suspicious zip is detected, it's quarantined for manual review, allowing legitimate large zip files to still be processed while preventing malicious ones from disrupting the server. This approach offers a compromise between outright banning zips and leaving the server vulnerable.
Hacker News users discussed various aspects of zip bomb protection. Some questioned the practicality and effectiveness of using zip bombs defensively, suggesting alternative methods like resource limits and input validation are more robust. Others debated the ethics and legality of such a defense, with concerns about potential harm to legitimate users or scanners. Several commenters highlighted the "Streisand effect" – that publicizing this technique might attract unwanted attention and testing. There was also discussion of specific tools and techniques for decompression, emphasizing the importance of security-focused libraries and cautious handling of compressed data. Some users shared anecdotal experiences of encountering zip bombs in the wild, reinforcing the need for appropriate safeguards.
A critical vulnerability (CVE-2025-32433) exists in Erlang/OTP's SSH implementation, affecting versions prior to 26.2.1 and 25.3.2.6. This flaw allows unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server. Specifically, a specially crafted SSH message can trigger the vulnerability during the initial handshake, before authentication occurs, enabling complete system compromise. Users are urged to update their Erlang/OTP installations to the latest patched versions as soon as possible.
Hacker News users discuss the severity and impact of the Erlang/OTP SSH vulnerability. Some highlight the potential for widespread exploitation given Erlang's usage in telecom infrastructure and distributed systems. Several commenters question the assigned CVSS score of 9.8, finding it surprisingly high for a vulnerability that requires non-default configuration (specifically enabling password authentication). The discussion also touches on the practical implications of the vulnerability, acknowledging that while serious, exploitation might be limited by the need for open SSH ports and enabled password logins. Others express concern about the potential for nested exploitation, as vulnerable Erlang systems might host other exploitable services. Finally, some users note the responsible disclosure and patching process.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) failed to renew its contract with MITRE, the non-profit organization responsible for maintaining the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) program, a crucial system for tracking and cataloging software security flaws. This oversight puts the future of the CVE program in jeopardy, potentially disrupting the vital vulnerability management processes relied upon by security researchers, software vendors, and organizations worldwide. While CISA claims a new contract is forthcoming, the delay and lack of transparency raise concerns about the program's stability and long-term viability. The lapse underscores the fragility of critical security infrastructure and the potential for disruption due to bureaucratic processes.
Hacker News commenters express concern over the potential disruption to vulnerability disclosure caused by DHS's failure to renew the MITRE CVE contract. Several highlight the importance of the CVE program for security researchers and software vendors, fearing a negative impact on vulnerability tracking and patching. Some speculate about the reasons behind the non-renewal, suggesting bureaucratic inefficiency or potential conflicts of interest. Others propose alternative solutions, including community-driven or distributed CVE management, and question the long-term viability of the current centralized system. Several users also point out the irony of a government agency responsible for cybersecurity failing to handle its own contracting effectively. A few commenters downplay the impact, suggesting the transition to a new organization might ultimately improve the CVE system.
The blog post details how the author reverse-engineered a cheap, off-brand smart light bulb. Using readily available tools like Wireshark and a basic logic analyzer, they intercepted the unencrypted communication between the bulb and its remote control. By analyzing the captured RF signals, they deciphered the protocol, eventually enabling them to control the bulb directly without the remote using an Arduino and an RF transmitter. This highlighted the insecure nature of many budget smart home devices, demonstrating how easily an attacker could gain unauthorized control due to a lack of encryption and proper authentication.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the blog post for its clear explanation of the hacking process and the vulnerabilities it exposed. Several highlighted the importance of such research in demonstrating the real-world security risks of IoT devices. Some discussed the legal gray area of such research and the responsible disclosure process. A few commenters also offered additional technical insights, such as pointing out potential mitigations for the identified vulnerabilities, and the challenges of securing low-cost, resource-constrained devices. Others questioned the specific device's design choices and wondered about the broader security implications for similar devices. The overall sentiment reflected concern about the state of IoT security and appreciation for the author's work in bringing these issues to light.
"Hacktical C" is a free, online guide to the C programming language aimed at aspiring security researchers and exploit developers. It covers fundamental C concepts like data types, control flow, and memory management, but with a specific focus on how these concepts are relevant to low-level programming and exploitation techniques. The guide emphasizes practical application, featuring numerous code examples and exercises demonstrating buffer overflows, format string vulnerabilities, and other common security flaws. It also delves into topics like interacting with the operating system, working with assembly language, and reverse engineering, all within the context of utilizing C for offensive security purposes.
Hacker News users largely praised "Hacktical C" for its clear writing style and focus on practical application, particularly for those interested in systems programming and security. Several commenters appreciated the author's approach of explaining concepts through real-world examples, like crafting shellcode and exploiting vulnerabilities. Some highlighted the book's coverage of lesser-known C features and quirks, making it valuable even for experienced programmers. A few pointed out potential improvements, such as adding more exercises or expanding on certain topics. Overall, the sentiment was positive, with many recommending the book for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of C and its use in low-level programming.
A new vulnerability affects GitHub Copilot and Cursor, allowing attackers to inject malicious code suggestions into these AI-powered coding assistants. By crafting prompts that exploit predictable code generation patterns, attackers can trick the tools into producing vulnerable code snippets, which unsuspecting developers might then integrate into their projects. This "prompt injection" attack doesn't rely on exploiting the tools themselves but rather manipulates the AI models into becoming unwitting accomplices, generating exploitable code like insecure command executions or hardcoded credentials. This poses a serious security risk, highlighting the potential dangers of relying solely on AI-generated code without careful review and validation.
HN commenters discuss the potential for malicious prompt injection in AI coding assistants like Copilot and Cursor. Several express skepticism about the "vulnerability" framing, arguing that it's more of a predictable consequence of how these tools work, similar to SQL injection. Some point out that the responsibility for secure code ultimately lies with the developer, not the tool, and that relying on AI to generate security-sensitive code is inherently risky. The practicality of the attack is debated, with some suggesting it would be difficult to execute in real-world scenarios, while others note the potential for targeted attacks against less experienced developers. The discussion also touches on the broader implications for AI safety and the need for better safeguards against these types of attacks as AI tools become more prevalent. Several users highlight the irony of GitHub, a security-focused company, having a product susceptible to this type of attack.
Osprey is a browser extension designed to protect users from malicious websites. It leverages a regularly updated local blacklist to block known phishing, malware, and scam sites before they even load. This proactive approach eliminates the need for constant server communication, ensuring faster browsing and enhanced privacy. Osprey also offers customizable whitelisting and an optional "report" feature that sends anonymized telemetry data to improve its database, helping to protect the wider community.
Hacker News users discussed Osprey's efficacy and approach. Some questioned the extension's reliance on VirusTotal, expressing concerns about privacy and potential false positives. Others debated the merits of blocking entire sites versus specific resources, with some arguing for more granular control. The reliance on browser extensions as a security solution was also questioned, with some preferring network-level blocking. A few users praised the project's open-source nature and suggested improvements like local blacklists and the ability to whitelist specific elements. Overall, the comments reflected a cautious optimism tempered by practical concerns about the extension's implementation and the broader challenges of online security.
Researchers discovered a vulnerability chain in SAP systems allowing for privilege escalation. Initially, a missing authorization check in a specific diagnostic tool allowed an attacker with low privileges to execute operating system commands as the sapadm user. This wasn't sufficient for full control, so they then exploited a setuid binary, sapstartsrv, designed to switch users. By manipulating the binary's expected environment, they were able to execute commands as root, achieving complete system compromise. This highlights the danger of accumulated vulnerabilities, especially within complex systems employing setuid binaries, and underscores the need for thorough security assessments within SAP environments.
Hacker News users discuss the complexity and potential security risks of SAP's extensive setuid landscape, highlighted by the blog post's detailed vulnerability chain. Several commenters express concern over the sheer number of setuid binaries, suggesting it represents a significant attack surface. Some doubt the practicality of the exploit due to required conditions, while others emphasize the importance of minimizing setuid usage in general. The discussion also touches on the challenges of managing such complex systems and the trade-offs between security and functionality in enterprise software. A few users question the blog post's disclosure timeline, suggesting a shorter timeframe would have been preferable.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44117465
Hacker News users discussed MindFort's approach to continuous penetration testing, expressing both interest and skepticism. Some questioned the efficacy of AI-driven pentesting, highlighting the importance of human intuition and creativity in finding vulnerabilities. Others were concerned about the potential for false positives and the difficulty of interpreting results generated by AI. Conversely, several commenters saw the value in automating repetitive tasks and increasing the frequency of testing, allowing human pentesters to focus on more complex issues. The discussion also touched upon the ethical implications and potential for misuse of such a tool, and the need for responsible disclosure practices. Some users inquired about pricing and specific capabilities, demonstrating a practical interest in the product. Finally, a few comments suggested alternative approaches and open-source tools for penetration testing.
The Hacker News post for Launch HN: MindFort (YC X25) – AI agents for continuous pentesting has generated several comments, offering a mix of skepticism, curiosity, and practical considerations about the application of AI in penetration testing.
A recurring theme is the questioning of how "AI agents" are practically employed in pentesting beyond simply automating existing tools. Commenters express doubt that current AI capabilities can genuinely discover novel vulnerabilities or navigate complex attack scenarios requiring human intuition and adaptability. Some suggest the AI's role is likely limited to handling repetitive tasks like vulnerability scanning or fuzzing, which are already automated by existing tools. They are eager to see concrete examples of the AI agent finding vulnerabilities that traditional methods would miss.
Several commenters raise concerns about the potential for misuse of such a tool. They point out the risk of malicious actors leveraging similar AI agents for offensive purposes, making the overall security landscape more precarious. The discussion touches on the ethical implications and the need for responsible development and deployment of AI-powered pentesting tools.
Some comments delve into the technical aspects, questioning the ability of AI agents to handle the dynamic nature of modern web applications, especially those incorporating complex JavaScript frameworks and anti-automation measures. The challenge of mimicking real-world user behavior and understanding the nuances of different application contexts is highlighted.
There's also a thread discussing the legal gray areas surrounding automated pentesting, particularly regarding the potential for unintentional damage or unauthorized access. Commenters raise the need for clear guidelines and regulations to govern the use of AI-driven pentesting tools.
A few comments express interest in specific features, such as integrations with existing security workflows, reporting capabilities, and the ability to customize the AI agent's behavior.
Finally, some users share their personal experiences with other automated pentesting tools, offering comparisons and highlighting the limitations they've encountered. They emphasize the importance of human oversight and the need for AI agents to augment, rather than replace, human expertise in penetration testing. Overall, the comments reflect a cautious optimism tempered by realistic concerns about the current capabilities and potential implications of AI in the field of cybersecurity.