Wednesday, Mar 12, 2025 // (IG): BB // GITHUB // SN R&D
China’s "Community of Shared Future in Cyberspace" – A Digital Silk Road Trap to Undermine U.S. Cyber Dominance
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): China's "Community of Shared Future in Cyberspace" (网络空间命运共同体), introduced by Xi Jinping in 2015, is a state-controlled internet governance model disguised as international cooperation. Much like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) locked developing nations into debt-laden infrastructure deals, China’s Digital Silk Road (DSR) aims to dominate global cyberspace by selling surveillance-driven technology under the pretense of connectivity. This strategy directly challenges U.S. leadership in the cyber world, where Washington champions an open, free, and secure internet under democratic oversight.
Analyst Comments: The battle for global cyber dominance is unfolding between the U.S. and China, with Beijing using deceptive tactics to expand its influence. The BRI lured countries into long-term economic dependency, and now, the DSR is doing the same in cyberspace—offering "affordable" digital infrastructure loaded with hidden backdoors, surveillance tools, and Chinese regulatory controls. While the U.S. promotes an internet based on freedom, innovation, and multi-stakeholder governance, China is quietly exporting digital authoritarianism, making nations reliant on its state-controlled tech ecosystem. The U.S. must counteract this creeping cyber hegemony by expanding secure, open internet initiatives and strengthening alliances in the tech space.
FROM THE MEDIA: China’s Digital Silk Road, much like the Belt and Road Initiative, creates debt-like digital dependencies, locking countries into Chinese-made networks, digital payment systems, and cybersecurity frameworks. Through agreements with Iran, Uganda, Brazil, and ASEAN nations, China is exporting its "cyber sovereignty" model, allowing governments to control online spaces, suppress dissent, and expand surveillance. Meanwhile, the U.S. remains the world leader in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and internet freedom, ensuring that democratic values shape the future of the internet. As China manipulates developing nations into its cyber ecosystem, Washington must counter this digital imperialism by strengthening cyber alliances, investing in secure global internet access, and exposing Beijing’s hidden agenda.
READ THE STORY: China is asshole
U.S. Companies Face High Risks in Russian Market
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Despite discussions about potential U.S. business opportunities in Russia, economic stagnation, political risks, and persistent sanctions make investment in the country highly uncertain. State takeovers, investor rights violations, and a volatile geopolitical landscape have already cost U.S. firms over $45 billion, deterring future engagement.
Analyst Comments: Russia’s economy, apart from war-related industries, remains largely stagnant, with significant barriers to foreign investment. Even if U.S.-Russia relations improve, long-term risks such as asset seizures and sanctions reinstatement will continue to weigh on corporate decisions. Compliance and legal concerns will discourage financial institutions from re-engaging in the Russian market. The limited role of even China in direct investment suggests that Russia remains a high-risk, low-reward environment for foreign businesses.
FROM THE MEDIA: Elina Ribakova, writing for the Financial Times, highlights that past investment booms in Russia, driven by high oil prices, are unlikely to return. Since 2022, international businesses have collectively lost $170 billion due to economic instability and sanctions. Key cases such as the Yukos expropriation and Magnitsky affair illustrate the dangers faced by foreign investors. China, Russia’s main trading partner, has hesitated on large-scale investments, citing a lack of legal protections. Given these factors, the likelihood of a major U.S. business return to Russia remains low, with any engagement limited to niche sectors like oil and gas.
READ THE STORY: FT
Tails 6.13 Released with Improved Wi-Fi Detection and Security Fixes
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): The Tails Project has launched Tails 6.13, introducing enhanced Wi-Fi hardware detection, Tor software updates, and critical bug fixes for persistent storage and installation workflows. This release strengthens security for users relying on anonymous and private computing while addressing common hardware compatibility issues.
Analyst Comments: Tails remains a critical tool for individuals seeking privacy-focused computing, including journalists, activists, and security researchers. The improved Wi-Fi diagnostics help users resolve connectivity challenges, a frequent issue in previous versions. Updates to Tor Browser and Tor client ensure compatibility with the latest anonymity protocols, reinforcing Tails’ role as a secure OS. However, limitations with Broadcom Wi-Fi adapters and proprietary drivers highlight the ongoing challenges of strict free software policies. Users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to maintain security.
FROM THE MEDIA: Tails 6.13 enhances Wi-Fi hardware detection by warning users when no compatible adapter is found, improving troubleshooting. Specific fixes address issues with Marvell Avastar, RTL8723BE, and Broadcom 43602 chipsets, which often cause unstable connections. Users can upgrade automatically if running Tails 6.0+ or perform a manual installation for fresh setups. Due to Tails’ strict open-source policy, some proprietary Wi-Fi drivers remain unsupported, requiring workarounds for specific hardware.
READ THE STORY: GBhackers
Ontario Reverses Power Export Surcharge Amid U.S. Tariff Dispute
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Ontario suspended a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the U.S. after President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. The decision followed a conversation between Ontario Premier Doug Ford and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The trade tensions have triggered market volatility, with U.S. aluminum prices surging and the S&P 500 experiencing losses.
Analyst Comments: This latest tariff escalation signals growing instability in North American trade relations, with retaliatory economic measures from both sides. Ontario’s swift reversal suggests Canada is prioritizing negotiation over confrontation, but Trump’s additional threats—including potential auto industry tariffs—raise the stakes. The impact on markets, industrial production, and diplomatic relations will be closely watched, especially given the U.S. administration’s willingness to leverage trade disputes for broader political goals.
FROM THE MEDIA: Ontario Premier Doug Ford suspended a newly imposed 25% power export surcharge after discussions with U.S. officials, reversing a policy that had been in place for only a day. The move followed Trump’s announcement that U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would double to 50%, citing Canada’s “long-time” tariffs on American goods. Trump further warned that if Canada did not back down, he would impose auto tariffs that could “permanently shut down” the industry. Markets reacted negatively, with the S&P 500 falling 0.8% and aluminum futures rising 18%. Canada’s incoming Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the U.S. tariffs, calling them an attack on Canadian workers and vowing a measured but impactful response.
READ THE STORY: FT
Apple Patches WebKit Zero-Day (CVE-2025-24201) Exploited in Targeted Attacks
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Apple has released an urgent security update to patch CVE-2025-24201, a WebKit zero-day vulnerability that has been actively exploited in highly sophisticated attacks. The flaw, an out-of-bounds write issue, could allow attackers to execute malicious code by crafting harmful web content. Affected users should update their iOS, macOS, Safari, and visionOS devices immediately to mitigate the risk.
Analyst Comments: This latest zero-day highlights the ongoing targeting of Apple devices by advanced threat actors, possibly state-sponsored. The vulnerability affects WebKit, the core engine used in Safari and many iOS/macOS applications, making it a critical security risk. While Apple has provided a fix, the lack of disclosure about the attackers, duration of exploitation, and affected entities raises concerns about potential nation-state cyber-espionage activities. Users, especially those handling sensitive data, should update their devices promptly and remain vigilant against phishing or malicious web-based attacks.
FROM THE MEDIA: Apple confirmed that CVE-2025-24201, an actively exploited WebKit zero-day, could allow attackers to escape the Web Content sandbox and execute malicious code. The vulnerability affects multiple Apple devices, including iPhones (XS and later), iPads (Pro, Air, mini, and 7th gen+), Macs running macOS Sequoia, and Apple Vision Pro. Additionally, Safari 18.3.1 on macOS Ventura and Sonoma is impacted. Apple addressed the issue by implementing enhanced security checks, marking this as the third zero-day patched in 2025, following CVE-2025-24085 and CVE-2025-24200. Users are strongly advised to update their devices immediately to mitigate potential risks.
READ THE STORY: THN
CISA Red Team Axed Following DOGE Contract Cancellation
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): A 100-member red team at CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) was abruptly dismissed after DOGE, a cost-cutting advisory unit led by Elon Musk and endorsed by the Trump administration, canceled key cybersecurity contracts. The move also led to the shutdown of the Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC), raising concerns about the security of U.S. election systems. Additional cybersecurity programs, including the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), may also be at risk.
Analyst Comments: The elimination of CISA’s red team and election security advisory programs represents a major shift in U.S. cybersecurity priorities, particularly in protecting critical infrastructure. The loss of real-time threat intelligence sharing leaves local and state governments vulnerable to nation-state cyberattacks, especially during a politically volatile period. The dismantling of these programs aligns with broader federal cost-cutting measures but could severely impact national security. Organizations that relied on EI-ISAC and MS-ISAC should seek alternative cybersecurity partnerships to compensate for the loss of federal support.
FROM THE MEDIA: Christopher Chenoweth, a former senior penetration tester at CISA, disclosed on LinkedIn that his contract was terminated on February 28, 2025, as DOGE cut funding for CISA’s red team operations. Days later, a second CISA red team was also dismantled. The EI-ISAC program, which advised election officials on cybersecurity threats, was shut down due to funding cuts from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The MS-ISAC, which has provided cyber threat intelligence to state and local governments for over 20 years, is also reportedly at risk of losing funding. Cybersecurity experts warn that this will leave municipal governments, schools, and emergency services more exposed to cyber threats. The Center for Internet Security (CIS), which managed EI-ISAC, has not commented on the shutdown, and CISA has yet to issue an official statement.
READ THE STORY: The Register
Starlink Partners with Bharti Airtel to Enter Indian Market
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Elon Musk’s SpaceX has partnered with Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Airtel to introduce Starlink satellite internet in India, positioning itself against Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio in the growing market. The deal marks Musk’s latest attempt to enter India, a country where his businesses have faced tariff and regulatory challenges. While the partnership gives Starlink a strong local ally, regulatory approvals are still pending before operations can begin.
Analyst Comments: Starlink’s entry into India could disrupt the country’s telecom landscape, particularly in rural and remote areas where satellite internet has a strategic advantage over traditional broadband. The partnership with Airtel gives Starlink a local foothold, helping navigate India's complex regulatory framework. However, high costs compared to rapidly expanding 5G networks could limit demand. Moreover, Reliance Jio is expected to push back against the new competition, making this a fierce battle for satellite internet dominance in India.
FROM THE MEDIA: The partnership between SpaceX and Bharti Airtel was announced on March 12, 2025, as Musk and Mittal joined forces to compete with Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio in India’s telecom market. Previously, Ambani and Mittal had pushed for a spectrum auction, while Musk argued for direct spectrum allocation to satellite internet providers. The deal follows Musk’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington, signaling a warming of ties. Airtel’s regulatory approvals through Eutelsat OneWeb may help fast-track Starlink’s licensing process, but SpaceX still requires its own authorizations to operate. Industry experts predict growing competition in India’s satellite internet space, with Amazon’s Kuiper Systems also set to enter the market. While satellite broadband could expand connectivity in remote regions, its higher costs compared to 5G remain a challenge in India’s price-sensitive market. Bharti Airtel’s CEO Gopal Vittal emphasized that the partnership with Starlink will enhance broadband access to India's underserved areas, positioning the service as a premium connectivity option.
READ THE STORY: FT
Musk Claims X Outages Caused by ‘Massive’ Cyberattack
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Elon Musk has attributed global outages of social media platform X to a "massive cyberattack" involving either a well-resourced group or a nation-state. Internet monitoring service NetBlocks reported that the disruptions, lasting several hours, were consistent with a large-scale Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack. A hacking group called Dark Storm Team has claimed responsibility, but no direct evidence has been provided.
Analyst Comments: If the attack was indeed a DDoS operation, it highlights the continued vulnerability of major platforms to such disruptions, despite efforts to mitigate them. While Musk has previously blamed cyberattacks for X’s technical issues without evidence, this incident aligns with broader trends in cybercriminal and politically motivated attacks on high-profile services. The rise of DDoS-for-hire groups like Dark Storm Team underscores the persistent threat these services pose. Given recent law enforcement crackdowns on DDoS providers, future attacks may lead to increased scrutiny from international cybersecurity agencies.
FROM THE MEDIA: Elon Musk stated that a large-scale cyberattack was responsible for intermittent outages of X, formerly known as Twitter. Musk suggested that the attack involved either a well-organized criminal group or a nation-state but did not provide further details. Internet watchdog NetBlocks confirmed a significant disruption to X’s services, noting that the outage pattern was consistent with a large-scale DDoS attack. A hacker group known as Dark Storm Team later claimed responsibility for the incident via Telegram, where it also boasted about attacking a UAE government website. However, the group did not provide conclusive proof of its involvement. Law enforcement agencies globally have been actively shutting down DDoS-for-hire services, with recent operations in Germany, the U.S., and Europe targeting such groups.
READ THE STORY: The Record
Critical Authentication Bypass Vulnerability in Moxa PT Switches (CVE-2024-12297)
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Moxa has released a security update addressing a critical authentication bypass vulnerability (CVE-2024-12297) in its PT series switches. The flaw, rated 9.2 (CVSS v4), could allow attackers to bypass authentication, execute brute-force attacks, or forge authentication hashes. Organizations using affected firmware versions should apply patches immediately and enhance network security measures.
Analyst Comments: Authentication bypass vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous as they allow unauthorized access to critical network infrastructure, potentially leading to data breaches or operational disruptions. Given Moxa’s widespread use in industrial and critical infrastructure environments, this flaw could be exploited to disrupt energy, transportation, or manufacturing networks. Organizations should act quickly by applying patches, restricting network exposure, and implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to mitigate risks.
FROM THE MEDIA: Moxa, a Taiwan-based industrial networking company, disclosed the vulnerability last week, acknowledging that multiple PT switch models are affected due to flaws in their authorization mechanisms. Attackers could exploit these weaknesses through brute-force credential guessing or MD5 collision attacks to forge authentication hashes. Affected products include PT-508, PT-510, PT-7528, PT-7728, PT-7828, PT-G503, PT-G510, PT-G7728, and PT-G7828 series switches running older firmware versions. Moxa has released fixes, which can be obtained through its Technical Support team. The company also advises implementing firewalls, network segmentation, access controls, and logging to detect unauthorized activities.
READ THE STORY: THN
Ebyte Ransomware Targets Windows Users with Advanced Encryption Techniques
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): A new ransomware variant, Ebyte Ransomware, has been identified as a major threat to Windows users. Written in Go, it utilizes ChaCha20 and Elliptic Curve Integrated Encryption Scheme (ECIES) for encryption, making file recovery difficult. The malware modifies system wallpapers and adds the “.EByteLocker” extension to encrypted files. Its command-and-control (C2) infrastructure allows attackers to manage infections remotely.
Analyst Comments: Ebyte Ransomware's use of strong encryption algorithms and a web-based C2 panel makes it a formidable threat. Its design excludes critical system files from encryption, ensuring operational stability—suggesting a strategic approach to maximize ransom demands. The malware’s availability on GitHub raises concerns about potential misuse by less sophisticated cybercriminals. Organizations should prioritize Zero Trust security, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and application whitelisting to mitigate the risk of infection.
FROM THE MEDIA: According to a report by Cyfirma, Ebyte Ransomware encrypts all user files except essential system files to prevent system crashes. It leverages a web-based control panel to generate payloads and communicate with its C2 infrastructure, enabling remote execution of malicious commands. The malware assigns a unique locker ID and timestamp to each infected system and transmits them to an external server for tracking. Encryption is carried out recursively across all drives using the ChaCha20 stream cipher, while the encryption key and nonce are secured via ECIES. Victims receive a ransom note titled "Decryption Instructions.txt," directing them to pay in cryptocurrency for file restoration. Given its public availability on GitHub, Ebyte Ransomware presents a growing risk to individuals and organizations.
READ THE STORY: GBhackers
Microsoft to Retire Remote Desktop App in Favor of Windows App
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Microsoft will officially end support for its Remote Desktop app on May 27, 2025, requiring users to switch to the Windows App for accessing Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. The transition introduces new features but also compatibility issues, including lack of support for some authentication methods and network configurations.
Analyst Comments: The forced migration to the Windows App aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy of centralizing remote access services while pushing cloud-based solutions like Windows 365. However, the transition introduces challenges for enterprises that rely on Remote Desktop Services (RDS) in legacy environments. The lack of support for Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) and proxy authentication could disrupt workflows for businesses that depend on these technologies. Organizations should assess compatibility before the deadline and explore alternatives to avoid service disruptions.
FROM THE MEDIA: Microsoft’s Windows App, introduced in 2024, consolidates access to multiple cloud-based Windows services under a single interface. While it offers features like multi-monitor support, dynamic resolution scaling, and Teams optimization, it lacks Private Link support for Azure Virtual Desktop and local Start Menu integration. Additionally, personal Microsoft accounts are not supported, limiting access to users with work or school accounts. After May 27, 2025, the Remote Desktop app will be removed from the Microsoft Store, and connections through the old app will be blocked. Microsoft acknowledges potential network authentication issues, particularly in environments using proxy servers or requiring single sign-on (SSO) with AD FS.
READ THE STORY: The Register
Items of interest
CISA Red Team Axed Following DOGE Contract Cancellation
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): A 100-member red team at CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) was abruptly dismissed after DOGE, a cost-cutting advisory unit led by Elon Musk and endorsed by the Trump administration, canceled key cybersecurity contracts. The move also led to the shutdown of the Election Infrastructure Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EI-ISAC), raising concerns about the security of U.S. election systems. Additional cybersecurity programs, including the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), may also be at risk.
Analyst Comments: The elimination of CISA’s red team and election security advisory programs represents a major shift in U.S. cybersecurity priorities, particularly in protecting critical infrastructure. The loss of real-time threat intelligence sharing leaves local and state governments vulnerable to nation-state cyberattacks, especially during a politically volatile period. The dismantling of these programs aligns with broader federal cost-cutting measures but could severely impact national security. Organizations that relied on EI-ISAC and MS-ISAC should seek alternative cybersecurity partnerships to compensate for the loss of federal support.
FROM THE MEDIA: Christopher Chenoweth, a former senior penetration tester at CISA, disclosed on LinkedIn that his contract was terminated on February 28, 2025, as DOGE cut funding for CISA’s red team operations. Days later, a second CISA red team was also dismantled. The EI-ISAC program, which advised election officials on cybersecurity threats, was shut down due to funding cuts from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The MS-ISAC, which has provided cyber threat intelligence to state and local governments for over 20 years, is also reportedly at risk of losing funding. Cybersecurity experts warn that this will leave municipal governments, schools, and emergency services more exposed to cyber threats. The Center for Internet Security (CIS), which managed EI-ISAC, has not commented on the shutdown, and CISA has yet to issue an official statement.
READ THE STORY: The Register
Why CISA is Important For The World (Video)
FROM THE MEDIA: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is a U.S. federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure from cyber threats, physical attacks, and other security risks.
DOGE Drama, CISA Controversies, and Apple's Encryption Stand (Video)
FROM THE MEDIA: Kevin and Tom discuss current events including the latest developments with DOGE and the significant changes happening at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). They also touch on Apple's decision to refuse creating backdoors for encryption, setting a new precedent in digital security. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the implications for both government and corporate security.
The selected stories cover a broad array of cyber threats and are intended to aid readers in framing key publicly discussed threats and overall situational awareness. InfoDom Securities does not endorse any third-party claims made in its original material or related links on its sites; the opinions expressed by third parties are theirs alone. For further questions, please contact InfoDom Securities at dominanceinformation@gmail.com.