Cybersecurity Brief: Quantum Computer Breaks RSA Encryption, GoldenJackal Attacks Air Gapped Systems
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Quantum Computer Breaks RSA Encryption
In a groundbreaking development for global cybersecurity, Chinese researchers have used D-Wave’s quantum annealing systems to break RSA encryption, accelerating concerns about the potential of quantum computers to compromise widely used cryptographic systems. The research, led by Wang Chao from Shanghai University and published in the Chinese Journal of Computers, demonstrated how D-Wave’s technology could factor a 22-bit RSA integer, transforming cryptographic attacks into solvable optimization problems. Beyond RSA, the researchers also successfully attacked algorithms crucial to Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) systems, raising alarms about the future of encryption security. As quantum computing advances, experts are urging organizations to adopt quantum-safe encryption methods to protect sensitive information, as data encrypted today may be at risk of future decryption when quantum technology evolves. This study signals a much shorter timeline for quantum threats than previously anticipated, underscoring the urgent need for robust post-quantum cryptography solutions.
More reading: https://www.csoonline.com/article/356...
NIST releases Post Quantum Encryption Standards: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news...
GoldenJackal Steps Up Attacks on Air Gapped Systems
A new breach targeting air-gapped systems in European government organizations has been uncovered, involving a sophisticated malware campaign by the hacking group GoldenJackal. These systems, which are isolated from external networks to protect critical data, were breached using custom malware delivered via infected USB drives. The attack chain began by compromising internet-connected systems, then using the malware "GoldenDealer" to spread onto USB devices. Once those USBs were plugged into the air-gapped systems, malware like "GoldenHowl" and "GoldenRobo" was installed, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, including encryption keys and confidential documents. The stolen data was then covertly exfiltrated once the USBs were reconnected to the original systems.
GoldenJackal's tactics highlight the ongoing threat to air-gapped systems, often considered highly secure. This breach emphasizes the importance of monitoring USB devices and securing data transfer between air-gapped and networked systems. The group has been active since at least 2019, and their techniques continue to evolve with more modular and efficient malware
More reading: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news...