VPN and security of your home workstation

by Nexlogica Team | Jun 21, 2023 | Security

Working from home has become more common than ever, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. But how can you ensure that your home workstation is secure and that your data is protected when you access your office network remotely? One key technology that is crucial to enabling secure remote access to your organization’s internal network is a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

What is a VPN and how does it work?

A VPN allows you to create a secure virtual tunnel to your office network through the public network such as the internet. It protects confidentiality (data remains secret via encapsulation) and integrity (data remains unaltered via encryption) of data as it travels over the public internet. A VPN also provides authentication (data comes from a trusted source) and authorization (data can only be accessed by authorized users) of data by using certificates, passwords, tokens or other methods.

When you use a VPN, your device connects to a VPN server operated by your organization or a third-party provider. The VPN server assigns you an IP address from the office network and routes all your traffic to and from the office network. This way, you can access all the resources and services on the office network as if you were physically there, such as files, printers, databases, intranet websites, etc.

Why do you need a VPN at home?

Using a VPN at home has several benefits for both you and your organization. Here are some of them:

Privacy: A VPN prevents your internet service provider (ISP) from spying on your online activities and selling anonymized data about you to third parties. It also prevents advertisers and snoops from gathering data about you using advanced techniques like browser fingerprinting.

Security: A VPN protects you from hackers and cybercriminals who may try to intercept your data or infect your device with malware when you use public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. It also protects you from phishing, spoofing, man-in-the-middle attacks and other threats that may compromise your data or identity.

Access: A VPN allows you to access geo-restricted or censored content on the internet by changing your IP address and location. For example, you can stream video from other markets or access websites that are blocked in your country.

Productivity: A VPN enables you to work from anywhere without compromising your performance or efficiency. You can access all the tools and applications that you need on the office network without any delays or interruptions.

How to set up a VPN at home?

In order to set up a VPN at home, you need two things: a VPN client on your device and a VPN server on your office network.

VPN client
A VPN client is a software application that you install on your device (such as a laptop, smartphone or tablet) that allows you to connect to a VPN server. There are different types of VPN clients depending on the protocol they use, such as IPsec, SSL/TLS, OpenVPN, WireGuard, etc. Some VPN clients are built-in to your operating system (such as Windows 10 or macOS), while others are provided by third-party vendors (such as NordVPN or Surfshark).

To use a VPN client, you need to configure it with the settings provided by your organization or VPN provider, such as the server address, username, password, certificate, etc. You may also need to adjust some settings on your device’s firewall or antivirus software to allow the VPN connection. Once configured, you can launch the VPN client and connect to the VPN server with a click of a button.

VPN server
A VPN server is a hardware device or software application that runs on your office network and accepts incoming VPN connections from remote devices. It acts as a gateway between the public internet and the private office network. It assigns IP addresses to remote devices and routes their traffic securely through the VPN tunnel.

In order to set up an office VPN (IPsec or SSL VPN) to support working from home, you’ll need to purchase, install and configure a hardware device known as VPN Gateway in your office location. This device connects to your office router or firewall and provides VPN functionality for multiple users simultaneously. You’ll also need to configure your office network to allow VPN traffic and assign VPN policies and permissions to your users.

Alternatively, you can use a software application known as VPN Server that runs on a computer or server on your office network and provides VPN functionality for a limited number of users. This option may be cheaper and easier to set up, but it may not offer the same level of performance, security and scalability as a VPN Gateway.

Conclusion

A VPN is a vital technology for working from home securely and productively. It allows you to create a secure virtual tunnel to your office network and access all the resources and services that you need remotely. It also protects your privacy and security from online threats and censorship. To set up a VPN at home, you need a VPN client on your device and a VPN server on your office network. You can choose between different types of VPN clients and servers depending on your needs and preferences.

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Google’s Chrome Gets a Major Security Boost with Data Loss Prevention Features

by Nexlogica Team | Apr 28, 2023 | Security

Google has recently announced six new features for its Chrome browser that aim to enhance the security and privacy of enterprise users. These features include data loss prevention (DLP), protections against malware and phishing, and the ability to enable zero-trust access to the search engine.

Data loss prevention (DLP)

DLP is a set of policies and tools that help prevent unauthorized access, use, or transfer of sensitive data. Google has added three new DLP features for Chrome that extend beyond its existing DLP capabilities:

• Context-aware DLP: This feature allows administrators to customize their DLP rules based on the security posture of the device being used. For example, admins can allow users to download sensitive documents if they are accessing them from a corporate device that is up to date on security patches or has endpoint protection software installed. However, the feature will block users from downloading sensitive documents on personal devices or devices that do not meet the security criteria.
  
• URL filtering: This feature allows administrators to block or warn users about visiting websites, or categories of websites, that breach the organization’s acceptable use policies. For example, admins can restrict access to popular file sharing websites, while still allowing file sharing via the corporate file-sharing site.
  
• DLP for print: This feature allows administrators to stop users from printing files that contain confidential data.
  

Extension security

Extensions are small programs that add functionality to the browser. However, some extensions may pose risks to users or request permissions that are not aligned with the organization’s policies. Google has added two new features for Chrome that help assess and manage extension security:

• Extension risk assessment platforms: Google has integrated two browser extension risk assessment platforms, CRXcavator and Spin.AI Risk Assessment, into Chrome Browser Cloud Management. These platforms provide risk scores for extensions based on various factors such as permissions, code quality, privacy practices, and more. Administrators can view the risk scores of the extensions being used in their browser environment and take appropriate actions.
  
• Browser security event notifications: Google has added two new browser security event notifications for Chrome that alert IT and security teams when an extension is installed or when a browser crashes. These notifications can help jumpstart investigations and identify potential threats or vulnerabilities.
  

Zero-trust access

Zero-trust access is a security model that assumes no trust between users and resources, and requires verification for every request. Google has enabled zero-trust access for Chrome through BeyondCorp Enterprise, its zero-trust solution. BeyondCorp Enterprise provides continuous authentication and authorization for users and devices accessing web applications and services. It also offers protection against malware and phishing attacks by isolating risky web sessions in a secure sandbox.

Google’s new features for Chrome are designed to help enterprise users work securely and productively on the web. By implementing advanced DLP and gaining more visibility into extension security and critical security events, organizations can reduce the risk of data loss and take a more proactive approach to cybersecurity.

You can read more about Secure Enterprise Browsing here.

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VPN Importance: Why You Need a VPN in 2023

by Nexlogica Team | Apr 13, 2023 | Security

If you are an internet user, you probably care about your online privacy and security. You may also want to access content that is not available in your region, or bypass censorship and geo-restrictions. Or you may simply want to enjoy a faster and smoother browsing experience. If any of these scenarios apply to you, then you need a VPN.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that provides online security, privacy, and other benefits by encrypting your data traffic and hiding your IP address. A VPN can prevent websites, apps, ISPs, and others from tracking your online activity and accessing your personal information. A VPN can also help you access geo-restricted content and make safe digital payments. A VPN is especially useful when you use public or shared Wi-Fi, which can expose your data to hackers and malicious parties.

Here are some of the benefits of using a VPN that you might not know about:

• Protect your identity: A VPN works by hiding your IP address, rerouting your connection on a different server. In this way, your online activities will be virtually untraceable and anonymous.
• Secure your data: A VPN encrypts your data with military-grade 256-bit encryption, making it unreadable for anyone who intercepts it. This protects your sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and personal messages.
• Access geo-restricted content: A VPN allows you to change your virtual location by connecting to a server in another country. This way, you can access content that is not available in your region, such as streaming services, websites, games, and apps.
• Bypass censorship and firewalls: A VPN can help you overcome internet restrictions imposed by governments, ISPs, schools, or workplaces. You can access any website or app without being blocked or monitored.
• Save money online: A VPN can help you find better deals online by changing your IP address. You can compare prices for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more across different regions and countries.
• Improve your gaming experience: A VPN can improve your gaming performance by reducing lag and latency. You can also access games that are not available in your region or join servers that are closer to your location.
• Enhance your streaming experience: A VPN can improve your streaming quality by avoiding bandwidth throttling by your ISP. You can also access more content libraries from different streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
• Download torrents safely: A VPN can protect your anonymity and security when downloading torrents and other files from the internet. A VPN can also improve your downloading speed and avoid ISP interference.
• Make secure digital payments: A VPN can protect your financial transactions online by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address. You can also avoid currency conversion fees and fraud risks by using a VPN.

As you can see, a VPN is not only a tool for online privacy and security, but also a tool for online freedom and convenience. With a VPN, you can enjoy the internet without limits or worries.

If you want to get a VPN for yourself, you need to choose the one that suits your needs and preferences. There are many factors to consider when choosing a VPN, such as speed, security features, server locations, compatibility, customer support, price, and more.

According to various sources, some of the best VPNs in 2023 are:

• ExpressVPN: This is often considered the best overall VPN, with great performance in speed, security, and price123. It has over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, supports up to 5 devices simultaneously, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee1. It can also unblock many streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+2.
  
• NordVPN: This is a popular and reliable VPN that offers a lot of features and add-ons124. It has over 5,400 servers in 59 countries, supports up to 6 devices simultaneously, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee1. It also has strong security and privacy features, such as AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, a no-logs policy, and a Double VPN option that routes your traffic through two servers for extra protection2.
  
• Surfshark: This is a budget-friendly VPN that does not compromise on quality or performance123. It has over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, supports unlimited devices simultaneously, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee1. It also has some unique features, such as CleanWeb that blocks ads and malware, Whitelister that allows you to bypass the VPN for certain apps or websites, and MultiHop that lets you connect to two servers at once for more security2.
  
• Private Internet Access: This is a highly customizable VPN that gives you a lot of control over your settings and preferences13. It has over 30,000 servers in 77 countries, supports up to 10 devices simultaneously, and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee1. It also has a dedicated IP address option that can improve your online security and access to certain websites1.
  
• CyberGhost: This is a user-friendly VPN that is ideal for international server locations13. It has over 6,800 servers in 89 countries, supports up to 7 devices simultaneously, and offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee1. It also has a streaming mode that automatically connects you to the best server for your chosen streaming service1.

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Discover How AI is Shaping the Future of Cybersecurity at Microsoft Secure.

by Nexlogica Team | Feb 27, 2023 | Security

Mark your calendar for March 28, 2023, and be part of Microsoft Secure, the empowering annual security event tailored for the Microsoft community.

By launching the inaugural edition of Microsoft Secure, company aims to establish an annual tradition that celebrates the innovative spirit of Microsoft community. Microsoft specialists will showcase latest product updates across security, compliance, identity, management, and privacy in Microsoft Secure innovation sessions. Later, you can attend breakout sessions, hands-on workshops, and product deep dives centered around four key themes:

1. Explore cutting-edge technology such as cloud security, security information and event management, extended detection and response, and threat intelligence, powered by AI.
2. Enable smarter, real-time access decisions for all identities and cloud-managed endpoints.
3. Minimize insider risk and protect sensitive information across platforms, applications, and clouds.
4. Safeguard against threats like ransomware with Zero Trust architecture and built-in security.

For a more interactive learning experience, you’ll be able to participate in live open discussions and engagement opportunities, including: Ask the Experts, Table Topics, and Connection Zone forums. Furthermore, Microsoft team will be available to provide real-time insights and answer your questions in the event chat throughout the day.

Joining inaugural Microsoft Secure event means six hours of fresh announcements, innovations, and comprehensive security strategies. By participating, you will:

• Get a first look at how AI is shaping the future of cybersecurity, empowering you to protect more effectively with fewer resources.
• Gain valuable insights from industry experts to help you defend against current threats and shape the security landscape of the future.
• Explore technical content in-depth during breakout sessions, featuring topics such as extended detection and response, multicloud security, cloud-managed endpoints, Zero Trust, built-in security configurations, and more.
• Connect with fellow attendees in live question-and-answer sessions and receive expert guidance from Microsoft security professionals on your most pressing security concerns.

Our experts will be there too!

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What is Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

by Nexlogica Team | Feb 13, 2023 | Security

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that affects web applications. XSS allows attackers to inject malicious code into a web page viewed by other users, allowing them to steal sensitive information such as user credentials, manipulate the appearance of the web page, or perform other malicious actions.

There are two main types of XSS: stored XSS and reflected XSS. Stored XSS occurs when an attacker injects malicious code into a web page that is then stored on the server and served to all users who visit the page. Reflected XSS occurs when an attacker injects malicious code into a web page by sending it as a request to the server, which then reflects the code back to the user’s browser.

How does an XSS attack work

An XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attack works by exploiting vulnerabilities in a web application to inject malicious code into a web page viewed by other users. The attacker’s goal is to steal sensitive information such as user credentials, manipulate the appearance of the web page, or perform other malicious actions.

Here is a general overview of how an XSS attack works:

1. The attacker identifies a vulnerable web application and a web page that is vulnerable to XSS.
2. The attacker crafts a malicious script that takes advantage of the vulnerability in the web page. The script is designed to execute when the web page is loaded by a user’s browser.
3. The attacker injects the malicious script into the web page, either by sending a specially crafted URL to the web page that contains the malicious script, or by finding a way to store the malicious script on the web server so that it is served to all users who visit the page.
4. When a user visits the infected web page, the malicious script is executed by the user’s browser. The script can steal sensitive information such as user credentials, manipulate the appearance of the web page, or perform other malicious actions.
5. The attacker can then use the stolen information or perform other malicious actions as desired.

The consequences of an XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attack can be serious for both the web application and its users. Some of the most common consequences of an XSS attack include:

1. Stealing sensitive information: XSS attacks can be used to steal sensitive information such as login credentials, payment information, and other personal information from users.
2. Manipulating web pages: Attackers can use XSS to manipulate the appearance of a web page, adding false information, or altering the functionality of the page.
3. Spreading malware: Attackers can use XSS to spread malware, such as viruses and Trojans, to the users of a web application.
4. Damaging reputation: XSS attacks can damage the reputation of a web application, leading to a loss of trust among users.
5. Legal consequences: In some cases, XSS attacks can result in legal consequences, such as lawsuits or government fines.
6. Loss of data privacy: XSS attacks can result in the loss of data privacy for users, as attackers can steal sensitive information and use it for malicious purposes.

How to prevent XSS attacks

It’s important for web developers to be aware of the potential consequences of XSS attacks and to take the necessary steps to prevent them, such as validating and sanitizing user input, avoiding using unsanitized data in web pages, and encoding user input properly when displaying it in web pages. Additionally, users can take steps to protect themselves from XSS attacks by keeping their web browsers up-to-date and being cautious when visiting unfamiliar websites.

By following these best practices and taking steps to prevent XSS attacks, web developers and users can help ensure the security of their web applications and protect against the potential consequences of an attack.

Where do XSS attacks most often occur

XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attacks can occur in any web application that allows user input, but they are most commonly found in web applications that do not properly validate or sanitize user input. XSS attacks are especially prevalent in web applications that allow users to post or share content, such as forums, blogs, and social media platforms.

Other common places where XSS attacks occur include:

• Search engines: Attackers can inject malicious scripts into search results pages, allowing them to steal sensitive information from users who click on the infected results.
• Online shopping sites: Attackers can inject malicious scripts into product descriptions or reviews, allowing them to steal sensitive information from users who view the infected pages.
• Online banking and financial services: Attackers can inject malicious scripts into web pages that process financial transactions, allowing them to steal sensitive information such as login credentials and payment information.
• Web-based email services: Attackers can inject malicious scripts into emails, allowing them to steal sensitive information from users who view the infected messages.

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