No one wants to receive a data breach notification letter. It’s a document that informs you that your information is at risk, and will likely require you to take action to protect yourself from cyber scams and other headaches.

But receiving a timely data breach notification letter is better than not receiving one at all, or finally hearing the news months after the incident took place. Organizations will take a hit if they are slow to respond, and while you don’t want to hear that they were breached in the first place, it’s good to see a prompt response. It’s one sign they are taking the breach seriously.

In this installment of the BlackCloak Thursday Threat Update, we’ll cover a data breach disclosed by Ferrari, and a series of security updates Apple issued to patch vulnerabilities across a slate of their devices.

Ferrari discloses data breach exposing customer information

What we know: Ferrari recently disclosed it experienced a data breach following a ransom demand. Customer information exposed in the incident included customers’ names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers, while Ferrari hasn’t found any evidence financial information, or any other sensitive data points, were affected. Anyone who was impacted by the breach will have received a data breach notification from Ferrari.

Recommendations: If you receive a data breach notification letter from Ferrari, or you are a customer and just want to be cautious, be on the lookout for any suspicious messages you may receive. Cybercriminals may leverage your contact information for phishing scams. You may receive a message from someone posing as a representative from a legitimate organization, including Ferrari, claiming there’s an issue that can only be resolved by sending over login credentials, personal information, or even money. Remember: No legitimate entity will ever ask you for any of these details or funds. If you receive such a message, do not engage any further.

 

Apple issues security updates to patch vulnerabilities

What we know: Apple has released a series of security updates to patch vulnerabilities across a slate of its devices. Apple issued the updates for its newer slate of iPhones and iPads, as well as for older ones as well. The tech company said some of the vulnerabilities have been actively exploited, particularly those found in their older device models. Additionally, Apple deployed security updates for Macs, Apple Watches and Apple TVs.

Recommendations: If you have an Apple device, download these updates as soon as possible. You do not want to run the risk of a malicious actor exploiting one of these flaws and compromising your device. You should also periodically check to see if any of your devices has a security update, not just the ones in the Apple ecosystem. Some companies even have pages dedicated to explaining these updates, including Apple, which may be worth looking into on a consistent basis.

 

Threats can come from anywhere

The digital ecosystem gives cybercriminals plenty of avenues to try and launch their scams and compromise your privacy and security. Luckily, you can take the steps necessary to protect yourself and address any area where you may be at risk.Learn how to spot phishing scams sent through SMS text messages, which is commonly known as “smishing” and why cybercriminals target the home cameras or executives and other high net worth individuals.