Security flaw from the ‘90s is still a problem today

Security flaw from the '90s is still a problem today

The flaw leaves Apple and Android users vulnerable

According to reports, a security flaw from the ‘90s has recently been discovered that leaves users vulnerable to cyberattacks today. A team of cryptographers has named the weakness “Factoring attack on RSA-EXPORT Key” or FREAK for short. It leaves everyone who uses Safari on Mac and iOS devices as well as Android’s stock browser vulnerable to hacking when they visit secure websites, such as those of the U.S. government.

This stems from a decision made in the ‘90s when the government required weaker encryption on websites for those who were attempting to access them from outside the U.S., thus allowing the NSA to access those communications more easily.

Eventually the government got rid of this requirement, but the encryption was already built from the ground-up into many different software applications which are still used today.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins have proved that this weakness can be used to steal a visitor’s personal information, as well as hack into the website itself. They can’t say whether anyone has already exploited the flaw, but Apple and Google are currently working on a patch regardless.

About the Author

Matt Holden is an Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media, Inc. He received his MFA and BA in journalism from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He currently writes and edits for Occupational Health & Safety magazine, and Security Today.

Featured

New Products

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.