firmware

TP-Link WR-841n

Everybody reboot! VPNFilter Malware infects 500k Routers

Newly discovered malicious software dubbed VPNFilter has infected hundreds of thousands of routers and network attached storage (NAS) devices globally and could be used to steal sensitive data or wipe out (“brick”) the devices, the company said. 

Foscam Indoor IP camera

Cisco Talos finds More Flaws in Foscam Cameras

Cisco Systems is warning the public about a range of new vulnerabilities it has discovered in IP cameras from the firm Foscam, a popular maker of commercial and consumer surveillance cameras, the second trove of software security holes uncovered since June. 

BLU smart phone

Experts Propose Standard for IoT Firmware Updates

Bleeping Computer reported that a new proposal submitted to the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) defines a secure framework for delivering firmware updates to Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Insecure software updates for embedded devices (aka ‘firmware’) have been a frequent source of security lapses on mobile and embedded devices like Internet connected webcams. Filed on October 30, the “IoT Firmware Update Architecture,” establishes security requirements for device makers to implement when designing firmware update mechanisms for connected devices. A familiar list of features The proposed rules include features that have long been recommended by security experts to permit safe handling of software updates. Among them the use of cryptographically signed updates and public key cryptography to provide end-to-end security and verify firmware images, as well as the ability to work with low-power and resource constrained IoT devices. Firmware has been the source of widespread security issues. For example, low-cost […]

ROCA Crypto Flaw could have big Impact on Internet of Things

With no simple way to patch affected systems, the security vulnerability in Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chipsets made by the firm Infineon may be with us for years to come, security experts warn.

Massachusetts on Front Lines (Again) in Battle for Right to Repair

In-brief: After legislation in five states stalled in the Spring, states like Massachusetts will be on the front line of renewed efforts to pass pro-consumer laws that create a “right to repair” for cell phones, medical devices and other software-driven products. At stake could be the right of consumers to control Internet of Things devices they purchase for use in their home, on their person or in their business.