Latest news with #GavinReid
Digital Trends
08-06-2025
- Digital Trends
Check your gadgets: FBI warns millions of streaming devices infected by malware
The FBI issued a public warning last week about a massive cybercrime operation exploiting everyday internet-connected devices. The botnet, dubbed BADBOX 2.0, has quietly infiltrated millions of TV streaming boxes, digital projectors, tablets, car infotainment systems, and other smart gadgets commonly found in homes across the U.S. What BADBOX 2.0 actually does Once compromised, these devices don't just underperform or crash, they secretly enlist your home internet connection into a residential proxy network. That means cybercriminals can hide behind your IP address to commit crimes like ad fraud, data scraping, and more. All of it happens behind the scenes, without the victim's knowledge. Recommended Videos 'This is all completely unbeknownst to the poor users that have bought this device just to watch Netflix or whatever,' said Gavin Reid, chief information security officer at cybersecurity firm Human Security, in an interview with Wired. What devices are affected? According to the FBI, BADBOX 2.0 has infected: TV streaming boxes Digital projectors Aftermarket vehicle infotainment systems Digital picture frames Most of these devices are manufactured in China and marketed under generic or unrecognizable brand names. Security researchers estimate at least 1 million active infections globally, with the botnet potentially encompassing several million devices overall. The worst offenders belong to the 'TV98' and 'X96' families of Android-based devices, both of which are currently available for purchase on Amazon. In the example below, one of the potentially problematic devices is advertised as 'Amazon's Choice.' How the infections happens There are two primary sources for infection: Pre-installed malware: Some devices arrive already compromised, having been tampered with before reaching store shelves. Malicious app installs: During setup, users are often prompted to install apps from unofficial marketplaces, where malware-laced software opens backdoors. This marks an evolution from the original BADBOX campaign, which relied primarily on firmware-level infections. The new version is more nimble, using software tricks and fake apps to broaden its reach. How to tell is your device is infected Here are the red flags to watch for: The device asks you to disable Google Play Protect It comes from an unfamiliar or no-name brand It's advertised as 'unlocked' or able to stream free content It directs you to download apps from unofficial app stores You notice unexplained internet traffic on your home network How to protect your home network To stay safe, the FBI recommends the following precautions: Avoid unofficial app stores . Stick to the Google Play Store or Apple's App Store. . Stick to the Google Play Store or Apple's App Store. Don't chase suspicious bargains . Extremely inexpensive, unbranded gadgets are often too good to be true. . Extremely inexpensive, unbranded gadgets are often too good to be true. Monitor your network . Keep an eye on unusual internet usage patterns or devices that you don't recognize. . Keep an eye on unusual internet usage patterns or devices that you don't recognize. Stay updated. Regularly update your devices and router with the latest firmware and security patches. If you suspect a device on your network may be infected, disconnect it immediately and consider filing a report with the FBI at Be skeptical of bargain gadgets If seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fyodor Yarochkin, a senior threat research at Trend Micro said it best, 'There is no free cheese unless the cheese is in a mousetrap.'
Business News Wales
19-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Care Group takes on Ownership of Seventh New Home with Development Bank Support
Neil Reid-Chesworth, Operations Director; BP Khanal, Owner; and Gavin Reid, Development Bank of Wales. An Ebbw Vale care home has been taken on by a new owner, supported by a £2.97 million loan from the Development Bank of Wales. Bankhouse Care Home in Beaufort provides residential, nursing and dementia care for 54 residents. After a period on the market, the care home has been bought by Abergavenny-based Oxford Care Group supported by £2.97 million from the Wales Flexible Investment Fund. Oxford Care Group is owned by BP Khanal and Rama Khanal Guragain. This is the third time that the company has been supported by the Development Bank, having previously had funding to purchase Sketty House Care Home in Swansea, and Cefn Lodge Nursing Home in Neath. The addition of Bankhouse Care brings the total number of homes owned by BP and Rama across England and Wales to seven. They said: 'The investment we had from the Development Bank has allowed us to safeguard the future of this home. Without the Development Bank's support, there is a real risk that Bankhouse Care Home could have been permanently closed – not just resulting in the need for current residents to be moved elsewhere and the loss of about 90 members of staff, but also impacting on suppliers and traders locally. 'We have always been very impressed by the Development Bank's ethos of committing to investments which are about more than just returns. The support they've given us with expansion and purchases in the hugely important care sector has been fantastic.' Gavin Reid, Senior Portfolio Executive at the Development Bank, said: 'Care homes such as Bankhouse provide a vital, much-needed service in communities across Wales. We're therefore very pleased to have supported the Oxford Care Group with the purchase of Bankhouse Care Home, safeguarding care and jobs in the local community.' The loan for Oxford Care Group came from the Wales Flexible Investment Fund . It offers loans, mezzanine finance and equity investment for deals between £25,000 and £10 million, with terms of up to 15 years available.
