This Week in Cyber: Hackers Are Using Fake Chrome Extensions to Steal Your Accounts

Cybersecurity threats are becoming more sophisticated and more cunning. Imagine logging into your work account only to discover that a hacker has taken over, all thanks to a fake Chrome extension that you thought was a productivity tool. This week, security experts uncovered a slew of malicious extensions that could leave your business vulnerable.

The Week in Review

As we dive into this week’s security updates, it’s clear that the cyber threat landscape is evolving at lightning speed. From fake Chrome extensions masquerading as work tools to AI-related cyber risks surpassing ransomware, it’s a wake-up call for all of us. You might think you're protected, but attackers are getting more creative, and our defenses need to keep pace.

In a surprising twist, Microsoft took major strides this week by dismantling a cybercrime service that facilitated fraud on a massive scale. But just when you think the tide is turning, reports reveal that hackers are still exploiting vulnerabilities in crucial infrastructure. It’s a classic game of cat and mouse, and your organization must stay on its toes.

The Big Stories

  • Five Fake Chrome Extensions Steal Work Accounts - Researchers found five malicious Google Chrome extensions pretending to be popular work tools. These can hijack accounts and give attackers complete control over your business. Read more.

  • China-Linked Hackers Target North America’s Critical Infrastructure - A hacker group linked to China is exploiting a security hole to infiltrate vital infrastructure. This activity has serious implications for power and utilities. Read more.

  • Microsoft Shuts Down Cybercrime Service Fueling Millions in Fraud - Microsoft dismantled RedVDS, a criminal service enabling widespread online fraud. This move is crucial for reducing risks to businesses and customers. Read more.

  • Over 110 Microsoft Flaws Patched, Including One Being Actively Exploited - Microsoft patched 114 security issues this week, with one being actively exploited already. Don't delay patching; timely updates are critical. Read more.

  • New AI Chatbot Flaw Lets Hackers Impersonate Users - A flaw in ServiceNow’s AI platform allowed attackers to impersonate users without logging in. This vulnerability could let criminals act as trusted employees. Read more.

Quick Hits by Category

Security Watch

  • Your Digital Footprint Could Lead Hackers Right to Your Door - Personal information online increases physical security risks. Read more.

  • AI Now Tops Ransomware as Fastest-Growing Cyber Threat - AI-related cyber risks are surging, outpacing ransomware threats. Read more.

  • Supply Chain Attack Exposes Developer Credentials - A popular tool was exploited to steal OAuth tokens, enabling hackers to access sensitive data. Read more.

Privacy Pulse

  • Retail and Services Hit Hard by Cyberattacks in Oceania - Small businesses in Australia and New Zealand face rampant cyberattacks, highlighting vulnerabilities. Read more.

  • Researchers Take Down Botnet Command Servers - Security teams shut down over 550 command servers controlling large botnets. Read more.

Compliance Corner

  • PCI Security Standards Council Rolls Out Version 2.0 of Secure Software Standard - A significant update to software security in payments is now live. Read more.

  • Amazon Launches European Sovereign Cloud (ESC) — What It Means for You - AWS's new cloud meets Europe's strict data rules. Read more.

  • 2026 Fraud Outlook & Risk Barometer Reports Highlight Top Cyber and Compliance Threats - These reports serve as your early warning system for rising fraud risks. Read more.

The Bottom Line

Cyber threats are everywhere, and they’re evolving. If you do one thing this week, review your cybersecurity policies and ensure your team is aware of the risks associated with third-party tools. Staying informed is your best defense.

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