MoneyGram Cyberattack Delays Mexico Remittances: CyberSec Week

MoneyGram suffered a cyberattack that disrupted its systems, raising concerns over delays in remittances to Mexico, a critical lifeline for many users. Meanwhile, ESET reported that Mexico ranks second in Latin America for cyber threats, with over 351,000 incidents detected in the first half of 2024. 

In international news, Alaska Airlines experienced significant flight delays due to an IT outage at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and the Biden Administration proposed a ban on Chinese vehicle technologies, citing national security risks.

This week in Cybersecurity:

Mexico

Cyberattack on MoneyGram Disrupts Remittances to Mexico

MoneyGram reported that a cyberattack has disrupted its systems, threatening to delay remittances to Mexico, a key market for the company. The disruption has generated concern among users, who depend on these transfers for essential needs, according to Publimetro.

Mexico Ranks Second in Cyber Threats in Latin America, ESET Reports

As cyber threats escalate across Latin America, Mexico finds itself in a precarious position, ranking second for the highest number of cyber incidents reported in the first half of 2024, with over 351,000 threats detected, according to ESET. With Windows identified as the most exploited operating system, experts stress the importance of proactive security policies and continuous employee training to combat these persistent vulnerabilities.

International

Alaska Airlines IT Outage Causes Major Flight Delays in Seattle

Alaska Airlines experienced a significant operational disruption due to an IT outage on Sunday, which caused delays at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). This outage resulted in a ground stop for all Alaska Airlines flights in Seattle, halting arrivals for approximately two hours.

Biden Administration Seeks Ban on Chinese Vehicle Technology

The US Commerce Department has proposed regulations to ban key Chinese software and hardware in connected vehicles, citing national security concerns. The initiative aims to prevent Chinese technology from infiltrating the US automotive sector, which poses potential risks to national infrastructure and driver privacy.

Expert Insights

Key Lessons From CrowdStrike’s Digital Outage

On July 19, 2024, a faulty update from CrowdStrike caused a global digital blackout on Microsoft Azure, affecting millions and highlighting the vulnerabilities in interconnected systems. Erick Moreno, Director of Cybersecurity at Minsalt highlights that this incident prompted businesses to reevaluate their crisis response strategies, emphasizing the need for regular recovery drills, diversified suppliers, and effective communication during crises. 

Securing Critical Identities With Advanced Management Solutions

In an exclusive MBN interview with Agustín Robles, CyberArk's Mexico Country Manager, emphasized the company's strategic growth in the Mexican market over the past four years, which he attributes to a tailored approach to key accounts and the development of a robust partner ecosystem. Looking ahead, Robles outlined CyberArk’s ambition to expand its presence and capitalize on opportunities in the machine identities market.