News
NCC uncovers Cyber Threats to Windows Platforms, Routers
Nasiru Yusuf
The Computer Security Incidents Response Team (CSIRT) set up by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for the telecoms sector, has discovered two new separate cyber threats targeting Windows Platforms and a particular kind of routers respectively.
KANO FOCUS reports that the discoveries were made known in two separate advisories released by the cyber-space protection team earlier this week.
The first cyber threat is a ransomeware known as ‘Lokilocker’, which is capable of wiping data from all version of Windows systems or platforms. It causes data loss, and denial of service (DoS), which reduces user’s productivity.
“Lokilocker”, is a relatively new ransomware that has been discovered by security researchers and belonging to the ransomware family. Lokilocker operates by encrypting user files and renders the compromised system useless if the victim does not pay the demanded ransom in time.
To hide the malicious activity, the ransomware displays a fake window update screen, cancel specific processes and services, and completely disables the task manager, windows error reporting, machine firewall and windows defender of the compromised system.
Sadly, it also has in-built processes that prevent data recovery as it deletes backup files, shadow copies, and removes system restore points. It also overwrites the user login note and modifies original equipment manufacturer (OEM) information in the registry of the compromised system.
Thus, the NCC CSIRT states: “To protect against infections by LokiLocker and similar ransomware, the best rule is to always have a backup copy of your data, which should be stored offline,” the advisory stated.
Additionally, according to CSIRT, “all downloads and email attachments should be opened with caution, even if they are from trusted sites or senders. Users should also ensure they attachments are scanned with an up-to-date antimalware solution, before opening.”
The second cyber threat discovered by the NCC CSIRT is a Botnet that targets the Microtik version of Routers. As CSIRT revealed, thousands of routers from Microtik which have been found to be vulnerable are being used to constitute what has been named one of the largest botnets in history
This botnet exploits an already-known vulnerability, which allows unauthenticated remote attackers to read arbitrary files and authenticated remote attackers to write arbitrary files, due to a directory traversal vulnerability in the WinBox interface. The vulnerability which was previously fixed allowed the perpetrators to enslave all the routers and then rent them out as a service.
In accordance with new research published by Avast, a cryptocurrency mining campaign taking advantage of the newly disrupted Glupteba botnet as well as the famed Trickbot malicious software were found to have been disseminated by the very same command-and-control (C2) server. The C2 server functions as botnet-as-a-service, which controls nearly 230,000 vulnerable MicroTik routers. The Botnet, however, has been linked to what is now called the Meris Botnet.
The threat types emanating from the botnet include bypass authentication, data loss, denial of service, remote code execution, sniff password and unauthorized access. These situations result in dangers to victims of this cyber threat including malware distribution, mining cryptocurrency, thereby increasing the use system resources, remote code execution and data theft.
To be protected against this botnet, NCC CISRT asdvised users to update or apply the latest patches to their routers early, set strong router passwords, disable the administration interface of the routers from the public, stay away from illegitimate or cracked software versions of legitimate applications, and use decent antivirus software with in-built web-filtering, and apply the latest patches as soon as they arrive.
SIGNED
Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde
Director, Public Affairs
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Government has introduced waste disposal bins in the state’s public transport system to ensure a cleaner environment.
KANO FOCUS reports that the initiative targets placing waste bins in Tricycles, buses, and at strategic points in the state, such as markets, bus stops, and motor parks.
Kano Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Dahir Muhammad Hashim, unveiled the initiative on Monday in a ceremony titled
“Kano State Waste Management and Refuse Disposal Initiative.”
Dahir while speaking at the event stressed the importance of a clean and healthy environment in the state.
Dr Dahiru Muhammad Hashim flagging off the campaign
He stressed that the bins were put in place by the Kano State government for proper trashing of waste for a healthy society.
“These bins are designed to help commuters dispose of trash responsibly while on the move,” he said.
Street Sweepers on duty
“The government is taking a firm stance against littering and we are working closely with the Ministries of Transportation and Commerce to tackle waste management challenges across the state effectively.”
He called on transport workers, traders, and residents to ensure their environment is clean as the government has provided the waste bins for proper disposal.
Female Street Sweepers on duty
“While the government is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure, we need the cooperation of all stakeholders, including community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious institutions to raise awareness and foster a culture of cleanliness,” he said.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf is set to flag-off the distribution of school uniforms for Primary 1 pupils across the state on Monday 13th January 2025 as part of the administration’s commitment to addressing the problem of out-of-school children in the state.
KANO FOCUS reports that an estimated number of over 789,000 male and female pupils in 7,092 public schools across the 44 Local Government Areas in the state are to receive sets of uniforms under the program.
A statement sent to KANO FOCUS on Sunday by commissioner of information Comrade Ibrahim Waiya said the initiative is aimed at promoting school enrollment and ensuring that every child of school age is given the opportunity to access quality education, thereby reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.
The statement added that in addition, the gesture will support indigent parents who may face financial challenges in meeting the educational needs of their children and further demonstrates that education remains the cornerstone of the Abba Kabir Yusuf administration’s agenda for even development across the state.
“By prioritizing the needs of young learners, the government seeks to empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed and contribute positively to society.
“The official launch event will take place by 1:00 pm at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf personally overseeing the distribution process,” the statement concluded.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano state governent has urged all relevant individuals and bodies within and outside Nigeria, to abide with the recent ruling of the Federal Court of Appeal in respect of the ongoing litigation which the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi, as the 16th Emir of Kano.
KANO FOCUS reports that the position of the Governor Abba Yusuf led administration on the recent ruling was made known Saturday, by Isa Dederi, Kano commissioner for justice, and attorney ‘General, held at a world press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre, in Kano.
The commissioner said: “On behalf of the Kano State Government, we express our profound satisfaction with the Judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, regarding the Emirate Council matter involving His Highness Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II and other parties.
“The verdict overturns earlier decisions by the Federal High Court and validates the government’s lawful actions regarding the chieftaincy appointments and reforms in the state’s traditional institutions.
“This ruling reaffirms the government’s commitment to justice, fairness, and adherence to due process in our efforts to modernize traditional structures while preserving the cultural heritage of Kano State. The judgment further clarifies the rightful jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, underscoring the constitutional boundaries of the courts in such affairs.
“The decision by the appellate court to void previous Judgments that questioned the state’s lawful appointments underscores the correctness of our actions and strengthens our resolve to continue reforms for equitable representation and inclusive governance.
“For the avoidance of doubt, all decisions, pronouncements, and orders made by the Federal High Court Kano have been quashed and set aside by the Court of Appeal. Furthermore, the law enacted by the Kano state House of Assembly relating to Emirates and all actions taken by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State pursuant to that law have been fully upheld and legalized by the Court of Appeal. Therefore, in strict adherence to the rule of law and in defense of democracy, all public and private institutions, as well as individuals, are required to comply with the Court of Appeal decision and act accordingly to give full effect to the Judgment.
“We extend our appreciation to the Judiciary for upholding the principles of Justice and fairness. The Kano State Government remains committed to working with traditional institutions, ensuring harmony, and fostering development across all emirates.
“We urge all parties to respect the court’s Judgment and join hands with the government to promote peace, unity, and progress in our beloved state. Let us continue to prioritize the collective good of Kano State above all individual interests.”
Kano govt reintroduces waste bins in public transport
Why Does Nigeria’s Economy Slow Down in Q1?
Gov Yusuf to distribute free uniform to primary school pupils
A Cry for Help: Saving the Life of Nura Zakaria Gwarzo
Emirate tussle: Kano Govt urges security, others to obey Court of Appeal ruling
Transfers Gone Missing: Nigeria’s frustrating digital bank transactions
Gov. Yusuf send additional commissioner-nominee Nura Iro Ma’aji to Assembly
A Billion for Ruin: Faith Misplaced, Society Destroyed
Counting the gains of President Tinubu’s economic renewal
