A response from Namogoo's CEO regarding the recent V-tech cyber attack

“The recent V-tech attack underlines the vulnerability of users online whatever connected device they are using, and is just another reminder of the magnitude of threats out there and the struggle that all companies face to keep up with cyber-security as malware is mutating and changing all the time.  In this case, it’s especially concerning because the cyber threat is effectively targeting children who may be more susceptible than most when it comes to a sophisticated online attack.  The hack demonstrates a clear shift in the unscrupulous online tricks now employed to steal personal data, access user information and pull traffic to websites where illegal activity may be the end result.

Big companies know that security systems they might have put in place last week may already be out of date; it’s an ongoing struggle to win against the cyber attackers on a daily basis.  What’s more, hackers are now coming through the ‘front door’ of businesses websites - via client-side infection where customers download malware without even knowing it - 15 to 30 per cent of all online users are infected with invisible malware they’ve unwittingly downloaded, which could seriously compromise their online security.

Companies can’t protect themselves from client-side attacks through traditional server-side protection, they need to be constantly aware and on top of new threats as they arise.  The V-tech attack just goes to show that no company is immune from cyber attacks. Although I wouldn’t expect a toy company to be security experts, it is nevertheless the responsibility of every company with an online presence to provide protection for their users and to stay one step ahead of the cyber-attackers.

Namogoo is one of the first cyber security companies to develop a clear deterrent, taking the onus away from the the user to put a solution in place and making it the responsibility of the brand owner to use a robust security shield to protect its users and customers when they are online.  These new threats are based around a complex and invisible mis-use of technology known as Client Side Infected Malware (CSIM), which has become another 'front door’ that effectively bypasses any server-side protection an online brand may have in place.  Namogoo’s approach is to protect people online from the ‘outside in”. 

With CSIM, users become unknowing infected by downloading different kinds of software and browser extensions​, on both desktop and mobile,​ that may seem legit, but include hidden malware and spyware. ​Namogoo estimates that 15 - 30 per cent of all online users are infected by CSIM and there are currently over 50,000 malware injectors and plug-ins which are mutating autonomously on an hourly basis.  This threat is not going away, it’s only going to increase dramatically according to our estimations, and we are making brands aware of the need to put solid protection in place.”

Chemi Katz, CEO Namogoo www.namogoo.com