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Government of Canada's Plan To Improve Cybersecurity? Be Less Attractive (eweek.com)

Posted by msmash on from the find-someone-better dept.

darthcamaro writes: Though Justin Trudeau is the envy of many world leaders for his likeability, the head of of the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security at the Canadian Security Establishment (CSE), which helps to protect federal government networks says that his agency is trying to make Canada less attractive -- to hackers.

Speaking at the SecTor conference in Toronto Scott Jones said:
"By doing the basics, you're making the adversaries that come after you deploy more advanced tools and techniques, and you just might not be worth the expense," Jones said. "My ultimate goal is to make Canada unattractive to cyber-criminals and data hackers, because our community is vigilant and engaged so much so that threat actors aren't enticed to even attack us."

112 comments

  1. Um, it won't work by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 1

    Trust me, I've been turning in Russian bot nets for years, and they are actually more prevalent on Canadian social media than on American social media.

    Best practice is convert to renewables faster, and crush them by destroying their export markets.

    --
    -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    1. Re: Um, it won't work by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Who are we trying to crush and why? The Russians and the Americans?

    2. Re:Um, it won't work by alvinrod · · Score: 4, Insightful

      That would probably have the opposite effect. No one in Russia would be part of troll farm companies that are designed to influence opinions if they had better alternatives for earning an income. Part of the reason that's an issue is because even though Russia cast off the Soviet-era central planning, the oligarchy that replaced it has no interest in embracing free market ideals when it might challenge their control, but another issue is that the rest of the world has sanctioned Russia to the extent that it makes it difficult for legitimate commerce to occur. Naturally, this means an expanse in shady (or outright illegal) enterprise.

      If you think that trying to punish them economically will crush them, remember that Russians managed the longest run of any Communist country and the self-inflicted economic misery it brings. They're too proud to capitulate to western demands and they've been through worse economically and within recent memory for many of their citizens. Open up markets to them and create better economic opportunity and many of them are likely to act on that. It won't eliminate the troll farms, but it will make them more expensive, or subject them to outsourcing.

    3. Re:Um, it won't work by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 1

      Interesting arguments.

      I don't know, I did my time under Reagan, and we were all about the economic crushing of Russia. It worked pretty darned well, too. We still have them running around in circles thinking we have death rays in the sky, the suckers.

      --
      -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    4. Re: Um, it won't work by dunkelfalke · · Score: 1, Informative

      Nationalist uprisings have killed the USSR, not Reagan. He just took the credit.

      --
      "It's such a fine line between stupid and clever" -- David St. Hubbins, Spinal Tap
    5. Re: Um, it won't work by postbigbang · · Score: 2

      Until petro-exports started to make money, the USSR was trading potatoes. Reagan, for all of his crap, outspent the USSR and sucked up its resources in military spending.

      The uprisings were the result of not being able to feed people, crappy bureaucracy, and horrific infrastructure. There was no money, the common denominator towards the equivalent of a $2.50/hr wage. Great masses of people were just fed up with it.

      Party members were elevated to a pseudo-status of wealth. They weren't really rich, but they fared much better than the masses.

      This said, I think the Canadians are fooling themselves. Hackers like a challenge. They may be making a big mistake, thinking themselves clever and thumping their chests. It almost sounds like an invitation, to some of the people I know.

      --
      ---- Teach Peace. It's Cheaper Than War.
    6. Re:Um, it won't work by rtb61 · · Score: 1

      Kind of makes no sense as most attacks still come out of the US, so how will they help any one else. If they wanted security, they would establish treaties so as to source the attack to the actual perpetrator, rather than just another link on the route but one they can not see beyond.

      Reality is most attacks are now automated, unless there is a particular interest in a particular location. Banks have been pretty secure for decades, they spend the money, governments have not been secure, they go for the lowest tender and the lowest tender is more interested in profit than security.

      Governments can talk big on securing their network but they have to spend the money and create real network and computer security. How can Canada claim security, if they are not making the bits and piece of their network, have no control over them and do not actively audit components and suppliers. Speech in reality, waffle, waffle, blib blob, my political party is the greatest.

      If you are importing the hardware and or software, than you are by nature insecure and exposed to the source countries government espionage services which inherently are criminal. If you commit your security to the lowest for profit tender, than you are guaranteed to be insecure, even if you attempt to apply penalties, you just end up bankrupting single contract subsidiaries.

      So empty PR to justify the spend https://www.fifthdomain.com/in..., keep in mind the gap to US spending and they have problems with security.

      Now what would be fun, is for https://cse-cst.gc.ca/en/homep... to set up a page, detailing every single failure when they occur, every leak, every hole, to see how well they are really doing ;D.

      --
      Chaos - everything, everywhere, everywhen
    7. Re: Um, it won't work by ClickOnThis · · Score: 1

      Until petro-exports started to make money, the USSR was trading potatoes. Reagan, for all of his crap, outspent the USSR and sucked up its resources in military spending.

      The uprisings were the result of not being able to feed people, crappy bureaucracy, and horrific infrastructure. There was no money, the common denominator towards the equivalent of a $2.50/hr wage. Great masses of people were just fed up with it.

      This. The USSR fell because it was broke. Of course, so was the USA, but it had better credit standing.

      Reagan may not deserve the credit, but one must give a nod to him and Gorbachev for shaking hands and ending the Cold War. I think that helped.

      I think the Canadians are fooling themselves. Hackers like a challenge.

      White-hat hackers perhaps. But black-hat hackers (aka crackers) are thieves, and generally thieves are lazy.

      --
      If it weren't for deadlines, nothing would be late.
    8. Re:Um, it won't work by Tom · · Score: 1

      If you think that trying to punish them economically will crush them, remember that Russians managed the longest run of any Communist country and the self-inflicted economic misery it brings. They're too proud to capitulate to western demands and they've been through worse economically and within recent memory for many of their citizens. Open up markets to them and create better economic opportunity and many of them are likely to act on that. It won't eliminate the troll farms, but it will make them more expensive, or subject them to outsourcing.

      Also remember that the West does not utterly dominate world trade anymore.

      When European products disappeared from the shelves in Russia, there were empty shelves for a few weeks. Then they filled back up with asian products. A new trade deal was made with China. The rubel which had fallen to almost 1:100 to the Euro recovered back to 1:60 (the best course I remember is 1:45, so 1:60 is almost pre-sanction levels).

      The sanctions harm Europe more than Russia. A lot of Greece farmers saw their exports disappear, a lot of German tech companies the same.

      --
      Assorted stuff I do sometimes: Lemuria.org
    9. Re: Um, it won't work by dunkelfalke · · Score: 1

      Until petro-exports started to make money, the USSR was trading potatoes.

      Nope. More like wheat, steel, lumber and tanks. It was not a very export oriented country, most of its production was for internal consumption only.

      Reagan, for all of his crap, outspent the USSR and sucked up its resources in military spending.

      Again, nope. What sucked up its resources in the late 1980s was Chernobyl, a devastating earthquake in Armenia and what amounted to two civil wars. One of them, in fact, still sort of goes on in the present day despite the ceasefire.

      The uprisings were the result of not being able to feed people, crappy bureaucracy, and horrific infrastructure.

      The uprisings were purely racist in nature, like Azeris telling the Armenians to GTFO out of their state. Before Gorbachev this kind of crap used to be violently suppressed. The crappy bureaucracy, and horrific infrastructure still exist in the most successor states of the USSR, matter of fact both is often far worse now than it used to be, yet people manage. And as for the inability to feed people, for fuck's sake, we are talking about the 1980s here, not 1950s. Where do you get your history lessons from? Comand & Conquer Red Alert?

      Party members were elevated to a pseudo-status of wealth. They weren't really rich, but they fared much better than the masses.

      No shit Sherlock. Now name me one single country on earth where higher ranked members of the ruling party don't fare better than the average citizen. If you had said that without party membership certain career advancements weren't possible, your argument would have more standing, but it is also quite common elsewhere - often, career advancements are more about the people one knows and less about one's skills.

      --
      "It's such a fine line between stupid and clever" -- David St. Hubbins, Spinal Tap
  2. Canadians are already less attractive by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    thatâ(TM)s why they have to resort to fucking seals, eh

  3. What can't touch u (or u it) can't hurt u by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    See subject: Via APK Hosts File Engine 2.0++ 64-bit for Linux/BSD h t t p : / / a p k . i t - m a t e . c o . u k / A P K H o s t s F i l e E n g i n e F o r L i n u x . z i p

    Yields more security/speed/reliability/anonymity vs. any 1 solution (99% of threats use hostnames vs. IP address most firewalls use) more efficiently/FASTER + NATIVELY 4 less!

    Vs. "Bolt on 'MoAr' illogic-logic" slowing you hosts speed u up 2 ways: Adblocks + Hardcode fav. sites u spend most time @ vs. competition loaded w/ security bugs (DNS/AntiVir) + overheads slowing u (messagepass 'souled-out' to advertisers easily detected & blocked addons + firewall filtering drivers) & their complexity leads to exploitation!

    * ONLY 1 of its kind in GUI 4 Linux/BSD!

    (Better vs. Windows model in speed/efficiency/merge)

    APK

    P.S.=> Protects vs. script trackers/ads/DNS request tracking + redirect poisoned or downed DNS/botnets/malware downloads/malcript/email malicious payloads... apk

  4. Justin Trudeau is a pretty boy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    neoliberal, empty suit. The perfect postmodern world leader - devoid of all substance.

    1. Re:Justin Trudeau is a pretty boy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      A libtard's tard.

  5. Registered /.ers disagree w/ you #1/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    Your software is just fine - well written, functional... I'm going to continue using the Host File Engine by mmell February 17, 2017

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    that APK guy, I use his host file by rogoshen1 Tuesday March 03, 2015

    I personally use a HOSTS file blocker produced from a genius called APK by 110010001000 October 27 2017

    * Linux model = faster/more efficient

    APK

    P.S.=> APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit for Windows https://www.google.com/search?...

  6. Registered /.ers disagree w/ you #2/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

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    APK your posts on this and the hosts file posts, and more, have never been in error and/or bad advice by BlueStrat (756137) on Wednesday June 21, 2017

    I support APK's stand on the hosts file and can't see why it's not used more than it is. My hosts file is 144247 lines long (4,332 Kb) it & a firewall serves me very well - by Trax3001BBS (2368736)

    ABP is insufficient as a solid hosts file does everything APK reminds us about fast turtle September 17 2013

    You need APK's hosts file - by Teun (17872) on Wednesday August 06, 2014

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming like those... apk

  7. Envy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    Though Justin Trudeau is the envy of many world leaders for his likeability

    Was there a poll or something?

    1. Re:Envy by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 2

      Was there a poll or something?

      Yeah, it was an election where we sent Harper off to live with the Saudis.

      --
      -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    2. Re: Envy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

      ..... and replaced him with a fruitcake.

    3. Re:Envy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Who's "we?" You didn't vote in the Canadian election.

    4. Re: Envy by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 3, Funny

      ..... and replaced him with a fruitcake.

      No, that was America.

      --
      -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    5. Re:Envy by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 1

      Who's "we?" You didn't vote in the Canadian election.

      How do you know? I am a dual citizen. And a graduate of both a Canadian high school and a Canadian university, as well as a former Canadian Army Sergeant.

      --
      -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    6. Re: Envy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      ..... and replaced him with a fruitcake.

      No, that was America.

      I'll take your word for it, I'm not American.
      They deserve a Justin of their own. Fairies all around!

    7. Re:Envy by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Who's "we?" You didn't vote in the Canadian election.

      How do you know? I am a dual citizen. And a graduate of both a Canadian high school and a Canadian university, as well as a former Canadian Army Sergeant.

      Ah, a "turncoat"?

    8. Re: Envy by cold+fjord · · Score: 1

      ..... and replaced him with a fruitcake.

      No, that was America.

      The selection of PM Zoolander is all on Canada. He's your "sweetmeat," and you're stuck with him, no regifting allowed.

      --
      much of left-wing thought is a kind of playing with fire by people who don't even know that fire is hot - George Orwell
  8. Registered /.ers disagree w/ you #3/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    APK solution STILL relevant Thud457 June 11 2015

    Actually, APK is totally right on this count. Adblock Plus on Firefox mobile is a dog on older, or lower end, phones. A hostfile based adblocker makes for a much better experience in this context. Of course, your phone has to be rooted, which isn't the case with Firefox + adblock." - by chihowa on Saturday May 16, 2015

    In a footnote, I would like to note that I find your hosts file admirable - by vel-ex-tech (4337079) on Tuesday November 24, 2015

    APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment - by Culture20 on Thursday November 17

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    APK

    P.S.=> Still MORE coming like those good reviews... apk

  9. Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    Legalize marijuana. Do this, and everyone in your country will become a bunch of lazy, freeloading, French-speaking frogs. Oh, and bring in tons of dark-skinned immigrants from Africa, so everyone is more concerned about getting murdered and raped instead of hacking. And then, and this is the icing on the cake, print shitloads of money, causing massive inflation, and nobody will be able to afford to hack anything.

    As for hackers outside of Canada, I has no ideas. Maybe try isolating the super secret stuff on your computers from the outside interweb. Like maek two networks, one for public shit, and one for your super secret shit, and make it unpossible to connect the super secret network to the public network. Hay you guyz, I'm a rele fucking geneyus.

    1. Re:Here's another idea: by fluffernutter · · Score: 2, Informative

      MJ is legal nation-wide in 15 days.

      --
      Laws are rules for the court, but merely a bottom bar to hit for life. Think beyond laws in your actions always.
    2. Re:Here's another idea: by Narcocide · · Score: 1

      I'm going to hold you to that promise.

    3. Re:Here's another idea: by b0s0z0ku · · Score: 4, Insightful

      He's talking about Canada, which is run by rationals, not the US, where irrational, anti-pleasure, religious drug warriors still hold power.

    4. Re: Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

      Great, like we don't have enough drug addicts in canada.
      We should just execute them.

    5. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      People in Canada think poutine is a good thing. You cannot say Canadians are rational if they do not immediately lock up people who prepare and eat that vomit.

    6. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You are obviously talking about "fake" poutine.

      And yes, the makers' of fake poutine should not be locked up -- they should be taken behind the woodshed and shot out of hand.

    7. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Canada is far more bonkers.. I can only think of ONE good thing about Canada and that is quickly changing. Socialism is ruining everything as usual. Our healthcare is terrible, you must wait 6+- months for diagnostics that are the next day in the US. It's far from 'free'. Those with money travel internationally for prompt and proper healthcare. Loss of free speech, regulated to death any job/business you might want to run, and hellishly high taxes.. I might wager the highest in the world once you factor in all the 'hidden taxes'. From dairy, wheat, poultry, etc boards that double and triple the price of common foods, fuel taxes and so many more.

      Alberta separatism movement
      Quebec's not leaving because of 'socalism/theft from other provinces to the tune of 11 billion a year for 'being quebec')
      Nova Scotia voted not to join Canada but the British forced them anyway.

    8. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I assume you're referring (or reefering?) to cannabis and not Micheal Jackson.

      Technically speaking possession is not decriminalized in Canada. The possession of illegally sourced cannabis will remain illegal as will its production and transportation.

      Please research the legalize vs. decriminalize debate.

    9. Re:Here's another idea: by b0s0z0ku · · Score: 2

      1. At least Canada has public healthcare for those without "fuck you money." Outcomes are better, life expectancies are longer than in the US. Who cares if you need to wait 6 months for cosmetic/orthopedic stuff if important surgery and procedures are nearly free?

      2. Free speech? I'm not planning to deny the Holocaust, so why do reasonable restrictions on promoting Fascism and ethnic hatred matter to me?

      3. Taxes - at least they pay for healthcare and infrastructure, not US military scumbaggery.

      4. Groceries are cheaper in major Canadian cities (Montreal) than in major US cities (NYC, DC, LA). US ag-commodity (wheat, corn, etc) markets are also regulated and propped up to appease the flyoverian farmer lobby.

      5. I see many more small business thriving in Quebec than in US states. Regulations are outweighed by cheaper rents and fewer levels of bureaucracy micromanaging things.

    10. Re: Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      That! I was totally against poutine as itâ(TM)s usually done with disgusting powdered âgravyâ(TM), bad fries and what they call âoecheeseâ curds.

      Go to a proper smokehouse or someone that actually cooks their own proper meals. Use real gravy made from real meat throw in proper fries and actual cheese curds and itâ(TM)s actually pretty effing delicious.

    11. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      1. At least Canada has public healthcare for those without "fuck you money." Outcomes are better, life expectancies are longer than in the US. Who cares if you need to wait 6 months for cosmetic/orthopedic stuff if important surgery and procedures are nearly free?

      GP is almost entirely wrong on this point so it doesn't make much sense to argue with them. For example they argue "people with money go elsewhere for healthcare": perhaps partially true in a very narrow set of cases but there is no lack of private healthcare in Canada. If you want to get non-urgent work done without waiting in line you can always pay for it yourself.

      The price however more accurately reflects the true cost of any specific procedure as different procedures are independent from one-another unlike where for example a restaurant may serve under priced food and provide free bread while making a majority of their income on sales of liquor. The unnatural forces on supply & demand are not at play in the Canadian market unlike the United States market where the prices for basic procedures are exaggerated in extremely complex contracts with insurers.

      Canada is a shining example of the free market in fair play.

    12. Re: Here's another idea: by Mark+of+the+North · · Score: 1

      We would then be executing a great many people that became addicted to opiates due to an injury and following the advice of their doctor. My buddy is a psychologist and 9 out of 10 of his clinic's clients are addicts, three-quarters of whom became addicted under the care of a doctor for treatment of an injury or chronic pain.

      I'm a Canadian that has never used recreational drugs (excepting alcohol) and has no plans to change. I'm pretty enthused about the upcoming change in legality for marijuana. It's not like it will make it any easier to obtain the stuff as it is already pervasive. Even in the small town where I live, one can have pretty much any recreational drug, and definitely marijuana, delivered to one's door quicker, and less expensively, than a couple of pizza.

      If legalization goes well for Canada, and I expect it will, the rest of the world will follow.

    13. Re:Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Hey now!

      I get what you're trying to say partner... if you wanna fair game of baseball there isn't much sense allowing the home team to have snipers operate out of the stands and take out the opposing team. ... but that just ain't entertaining enough.

      Down here we play American baseball.

    14. Re: Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Is "effing" a gay term?

    15. Re: Here's another idea: by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No, but people do call others "effin gay"

  10. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #4/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    I say the following as a caring human being who agrees with how useful HOSTS files are: Your zeal is to be respected - by dave420 (699308) on Monday September 08, 2014

    But I love APK!The power of the hostfile compels you! by ratboy666 (104074) on Friday January 29, 2016

    APK was right all along! C:\WINDOWS\HOSTS is the solution ;) - by sabri (584428) on Friday October 21, 2016

    No complaints from me, I like APK's spam. Reminds me to use a host file. Also, his stuff is free. - by aaaaaaargh! (1150173) on Tuesday November 17, 2015

    I'm a fan of apk. Yes he trolls, but he only trolls where it's contextually appropriate. I respect that - by Noah Haders (3621429) on Wednesday July 29, 2015

    APK

    P.S.=> ... & still MORE good reviews like all the above ones are coming... apk

  11. Trump grabbed this PUSSY already by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Hey Justin, last year youre gonna be PM!

  12. Data haxx0rz dun caer if ur ugly by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Dey b gettin ur datas anyhows.

  13. I have the best Security of all by Oswald+McWeany · · Score: 3, Funny

    If being unattractive is the key to better cybersecurity no one has better cyber security than me.

    --
    "That's the way to do it" - Punch
    1. Re:I have the best Security of all by im_thatoneguy · · Score: 1

      "You don't have to outrun the bear, just the other guy."

    2. Re:I have the best Security of all by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      As a result of this initiative, Justin Trudeau's picture is banned from Government web sites!

      No more pretty men!!

  14. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #5/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    APK is kinda right... I've given up on JS based adblocking and gone to blackholing in /etc/hosts, just like it was back in the 90s. The computational load has gotten intolerable for any ad-blocking using JS. I've tried his hosts file generating software. It works. - by bmo (77928) on Thursday October 15, 2015

    get around to 'installing' a hosts file list, not sure which one, likely the one from someonewhocares.org. If it works as well as what I used for a while about ten years ago, I'll be happy. And grateful to APK for the lesson and the reminder. - by kermidge (2221646) on Wednesday March 27

    I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster. - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17

    dammit MS, you proved APK right about something by lgw

    APK

    P.S.=> ... & YES, still MORE good reviews are coming... apk

  15. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #6/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    the Host File Engine performs exactly as promised - by mmell (832646) on Thursday February 16, 2017

    (APK) is still right a hosts file really does work. It even blocked a some of the video ads that were inserted into a stream OrangeTide February 10 2016

    I do use APK's host file on all my systems at home by OrangeTide December 01 2017

    I've never tried to belittle (APK's work), I've flat out said it's good - by BronsCon (927697) on Thursday February 11, 2016 @06:48PM (#51491263)

    APK

    P.S.=> Now comes SECURITY PROS thoughts on hosts files' efficacy for speed & security... apk

  16. Security pros QUOTED on hosts by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "classic Windows hosts trick to block the Coinhive or Crypto-Loot domains" - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/a-new-player-joins-coinhive-on-the-browser-cryptojacking-scene/ - BLEEPING COMPUTER

    ZD NET http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-use-a-hosts-file-to-improve-your-internet-experience/ "Hosts files really shine by letting you block ads, spyware sites, malware sites, & tracking sites"

    SANS ("A related approach to the DNS issue is to create a hosts file on each system that sends requests for spyware to some place else. Both Ramu and an anonymous reader have suggested this" hosts by myself & RAMU right @ START of "malware explosion" mid 2005 on) https://isc.sans.edu/forums/di...

    Aryeh Goretsky/ESET/NOD32: hosts = good security http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=7442373&cid=49747129/

    Oliver Day (SYMANTEC/SECURITYFOCUS) http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491/

    APK

    P.S.=> See subject: For BOTH added SPEED & SECURITY... apk

  17. Hosts efficacy recently (partial only) alone by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "It's working: Neville... it's working!" See subject & results from THIS past month alone https://it.slashdot.org/commen... & https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... https://it.slashdot.org/commen... that's only recently while I've been on Linux (few months now only) & 100's of times vs. MANY other botnets/malwares etc. in the past circa 2006-early 2018 while I was on Windows: CONCRETE VISIBLE UNDENIABLE REALITY (see those links as proof).

    P.S.=> ... & that's ONLY what /. reported on (there are FAR more)... apk

  18. Better title: by Sebby · · Score: 2

    "Government of Canada's Plan To Improve Cybersecurity? Be More Proactive"

    There, FTFY

    --

    AC comments get piped to /dev/null
  19. What can't touch u (or u it) can't hurt u by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    See subject: Via APK Hosts File Engine 2.0++ 64-bit for Linux/BSD h t t p : / / a p k . i t - m a t e . c o . u k / A P K H o s t s F i l e E n g i n e F o r L i n u x . z i p

    Yields more security/speed/reliability/anonymity vs. any 1 solution (99% of threats use hostnames vs. IP address most firewalls use) more efficiently/FASTER + NATIVELY 4 less.

    Vs. "Bolt on 'MoAr' illogic-logic" slowing you hosts speed u up 2 ways: Adblocks + Hardcode fav. sites u spend most time @ vs. competition loaded w/ security bugs (DNS/AntiVir) + overheads slowing u (messagepass 'souled-out' to advertisers easily detected & blocked addons + firewall filtering drivers) & their complexity leads to exploitation!

    * ONLY 1 of its kind in GUI 4 Linux/BSD!

    (Better vs. Windows model in speed/efficiency/merge)

    APK

    P.S.=> Protects vs. script trackers/ads/DNS request tracking + redirect poisoned or downed DNS/botnets/malware downloads/malcript/email malicious payloads... apk

  20. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #1/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1

    Your software is just fine - well written, functional... I'm going to continue using the Host File Engine by mmell February 17, 2017

    Your premise that hostfiles are a good way to deal with advertising and malvertising is quite valid - by JazzLad April 20, 2016

    his hosts program is actually pretty good by xenotransplant August 10 2015

    his hosts tool is actually useful for those cases in which one does indeed want to locally block stuff outright while consuming minimum system resources by alexgieg September 25 2015

    I like your host file system by Karmashock September 09 2015

    that APK guy, I use his host file by rogoshen1 Tuesday March 03, 2015

    I personally use a HOSTS file blocker produced from a genius called APK by 110010001000 October 27 2017

    * Linux model = faster/more efficient!

    APK

    P.S.=> APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit for Windows https://www.google.com/search?...

  21. One man's poison... by zarmanto · · Score: 1

    I'll ignore the feasibility discussion for the moment, as I have another commentary in mind:

    The idiom I'm referencing in the Subject is actually, "One man's meat is another man's poison," but I would like to suggest that perhaps sometimes it goes the other way around. If the government of Canada were to actually succeed in making their online infrastructure more difficult to attack, then there are people of a certain type of personality who will take that as a personal challenge, and as such, they will put that much more effort into cracking those defenses. (By way of example, I refer you to Apple's similar longstanding claims that Mac OS is less vulnerable to hacks than Windows.)

    In fact, what Trudeau has accomplished herein is to invoke the Streisand Effect, by crowing about his plans to harden their infrastructure; though it might seem somewhat incongruent on the surface, he has now cast out what amounts to an open invitation to those who might be inclined to accept that challenge, to perform the very attacks which he claims that he is seeking to discourage.

    To wit: I think maybe he just made a strategic oopsie.

    1. Re:One man's poison... by Dixie_Flatline · · Score: 1

      But they're not really talking about doing anything special or interesting. They're talking about doing the boring stuff, that everyone should do. At least as it's talked about in the summary and article, they're doing the security equivalent of brushing their teeth—it's not very flashy, but it prevents a lot of problems before they start. It's just a necessary, boring step to protect the network. Take sites off the internet that don't need to be on the internet is a boring-ass solution to a problem, but it certainly makes it harder to infiltrate. Don't let the network be scanned by anyone that just wanders by. Boring solution, but it makes reconnaissance harder.

      So I don't think they've really made any errors here. They're not making claims that Canada's infrastructure is impregnable, they're just saying they're trying to run a disciplined operation where unsecured, accessible servers aren't commonplace sitting ducks.

    2. Re:One man's poison... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      These are not the 1980s/1990s. The days of the lone wolf hacker are pretty much gone. Instead, you have organizations and countries doing the intrusions.

      They are not in it for the challenge. They want the low hanging fruit. This is why Windows gets hammered all the time, compared to Macs and Linux machines, and even then, why spear phishing and social engineering attacks are on the rise because even Microsoft has upped their security game. Even malvertising which was the main vulnerability in operating systems has been replaced by phishing.

      If Canada did active firewalling and security enforcing at their physical border firewalls, similar to a Great Firewall of Canada, Canadian businesses would benefit, because they would not need to pay as much or worry as much about security. Same reason why border security on a physical level is there.

    3. Re:One man's poison... by zarmanto · · Score: 1

      Sadly, you're probably right. I say sadly, because what you describe should be the norm. It obviously isn't... but it should be.

  22. Envy? Misplaced priorities.... by fatwilbur · · Score: 0

    I have this debate with my friends all the time.. a great example of our superficial and soundbite-based society. If world leaders are enviable of Justin Trudeau, perhaps that's a sign we need more Trumps and not less. He has nice hair but lacks substance; the amount of foreign investment in Canada has dove to levels not seen since the depths of the worst recession in decades since Trudeau was elected. Meanwhile, the business-friendly administration of Trump is eating our lunch and resulting in real-life improvements to quality of life for US citizens.

    While "world leaders" are focused on Trudeau's hair and nice sounding platitudes of diversity and at the same time apoplectic at whatever Trump's latest tweet is, he's running circles around us in advancing their interests. I'd trade Trudeau for Trump any day of the week, perhaps it's because I don't case so much for his personal views or the daily rage of mainstream media misinterpreting his comments.

    1. Re:Envy? Misplaced priorities.... by WillAffleckUW · · Score: 4, Insightful

      While "world leaders" are focused on Trudeau's hair and nice sounding platitudes of diversity and at the same time apoplectic at whatever Trump's latest tweet is, he's running circles around us in advancing their interests. I'd trade Trudeau for Trump any day of the week, perhaps it's because I don't case so much for his personal views or the daily rage of mainstream media misinterpreting his comments.

      Um, dude, Trudeau tricked Trump into signing a NAFTA plus TPP deal with some TPIP thrown in.

      It's called "winning". Yes, I know, Orange Jesus has you believing Losing Badly is "winning", but in Canada, winning is "winning".

      --
      -- Tigger warning: This post may contain tiggers! --
    2. Re:Envy? Misplaced priorities.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If world leaders are enviable of Justin Trudeau, perhaps that's a sign we need more Trumps and not less.

      You probably mean envious, ratdick.

    3. Re:Envy? Misplaced priorities.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You are a fucking idiot. Go suck off Big Daddy Trump before he goes to jail

    4. Re:Envy? Misplaced priorities.... by fatwilbur · · Score: 1

      Tricked? Do you even know what you're talking about? Any trade agreement, but *especially* one with IP provisions (which the TPP and the new USMCA is heavy in) will massively favor the US. This isn't even slightly a surprise - while most manufacturing has moved from the US, they still own a majority of IP. It almost seems to be the sole driver and main focus of any trade deal they do nowadays. Tricked by Trudeau, LOL! Here's some more reading from Michael Geist in support: Canada capitulates on copyright in new USMCA deal. Just one of the many areas Canada was forced to give up ground in, and those far outnumber any slight areas Canada gained ground in.

  23. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #2/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Apk has the answer for that - really... kill automatic updates by adding a hosts file entry setting updates.steam.com or whatever to 127.0.0.1. You have to find the right hostname for each software you want to block updates on by raymorris (2726007) on Friday July 06, 2018

    APK your posts on this and the hosts file posts, and more, have never been in error and/or bad advice by BlueStrat (756137) on Wednesday June 21, 2017

    I support APK's stand on the hosts file and can't see why it's not used more than it is. My hosts file is 144247 lines long (4,332 Kb) it & a firewall serves me very well - by Trax3001BBS (2368736)

    ABP is insufficient as a solid hosts file does everything APK reminds us about fast turtle September 17 2013

    You need APK's hosts file - by Teun (17872) on Wednesday August 06, 2014

    APK

    P.S.=> More GOOD reviews coming... apk

  24. Legitimate Way to Reduce Risk by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Making yourself a less attractive target is certainly a legitimate way to reduce risk. I don't think it's a sufficient reduction for a rich nation like Canada, however. That said, this is an admonishment to get the basics right, which, is absolutely needed. Many companies are missing the basics of computer security. Today, I would imagine there are enough super weak systems to cause real havoc on a national level.

  25. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #3/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    APK solution STILL relevant Thud457 June 11 2015

    Actually, APK is totally right on this count. Adblock Plus on Firefox mobile is a dog on older, or lower end, phones. A hostfile based adblocker makes for a much better experience in this context. Of course, your phone has to be rooted, which isn't the case with Firefox + adblock." - by chihowa on Saturday May 16, 2015

    In a footnote, I would like to note that I find your hosts file admirable - by vel-ex-tech (4337079) on Tuesday November 24, 2015

    APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment - by Culture20 on Thursday November 17

    you're right about hosts files - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26

    APK, I know people give you a lot of shit regarding hosts, but please don't ever stop - by nasredin (958927) on Friday June 12, 2015 @03:34PM

    APK

    P.S.=> Even MORE good reviews coming... apk

  26. Less attractive? by Bert64 · · Score: 1

    because our community is vigilant and engaged so much so that threat actors aren't enticed to even attack us."

    Real hackers will see a vigilant and engaged target as more of a challenge...

    Criminals won't care so long as there's still some kind of payoff. If you want to be less attractive to criminals, turn canada into a poor third world country. Criminals won't bother to attack someone who hasn't got any money, bandwidth or processing power.

    --
    http://spamdecoy.net - free throwaway anonymous email - avoid spam!
  27. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #4/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I say the following as a caring human being who agrees with how useful HOSTS files are: Your zeal is to be respected - by dave420 (699308) on Monday September 08, 2014

    But I love APK!The power of the hostfile compels you! by ratboy666 (104074) on Friday January 29, 2016

    APK was right all along! C:\WINDOWS\HOSTS is the solution ;) - by sabri (584428) on Friday October 21, 2016

    No complaints from me, I like APK's spam. Reminds me to use a host file. Also, his stuff is free. - by aaaaaaargh! (1150173) on Tuesday November 17, 2015

    I'm a fan of apk. Yes he trolls, but he only trolls where it's contextually appropriate. I respect that - by Noah Haders (3621429) on Wednesday July 29, 2015

    APK

    P.S.=> Still yet MORE good reviews coming... apk

  28. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #5/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    APK is kinda right... I've given up on JS based adblocking and gone to blackholing in /etc/hosts, just like it was back in the 90s. The computational load has gotten intolerable for any ad-blocking using JS. I've tried his hosts file generating software. It works. - by bmo (77928) on Thursday October 15, 2015

    get around to 'installing' a hosts file list, not sure which one, likely the one from someonewhocares.org. If it works as well as what I used for a while about ten years ago, I'll be happy. And grateful to APK for the lesson and the reminder. - by kermidge (2221646) on Wednesday March 27

    I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster. - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17

    dammit MS, you proved APK right about something by lgw

    APK

    P.S.=> Yes, even MORE good reviews STILL coming... apk

  29. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #6/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    the Host File Engine performs exactly as promised - by mmell (832646) on Thursday February 16, 2017

    (APK) is still right a hosts file really does work. It even blocked a some of the video ads that were inserted into a stream OrangeTide February 10 2016

    I do use APK's host file on all my systems at home by OrangeTide December 01 2017

    I've never tried to belittle (APK's work), I've flat out said it's good - by BronsCon (927697) on Thursday February 11, 2016 @06:48PM (#51491263)

    APK

    P.S.=> Next are SECURITY PROS on hosts' efficacy for both SPEED & SECURITY... apk

  30. Security pros QUOTED on hosts by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "classic Windows hosts trick to block the Coinhive or Crypto-Loot domains" - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/a-new-player-joins-coinhive-on-the-browser-cryptojacking-scene/ - BLEEPING COMPUTER

    ZD NET http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-use-a-hosts-file-to-improve-your-internet-experience/ "Hosts files really shine by letting you block ads, spyware sites, malware sites, & tracking sites"

    SANS ("A related approach to the DNS issue is to create a hosts file on each system that sends requests for spyware to some place else. Both Ramu and an anonymous reader have suggested this" hosts by myself & RAMU right @ START of "malware explosion" mid 2005 on) https://isc.sans.edu/forums/di...

    Aryeh Goretsky/ESET/NOD32: hosts = good security http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=7442373&cid=49747129/

    Oliver Day (SYMANTEC/SECURITYFOCUS) http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491/

    APK

    P.S.=> See subject: For BOTH added SPEED & SECURITY... apk

  31. Hosts efficacy recently (partial only) by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "It's working: Neville... it's working!" See subject & results from THIS past month alone https://it.slashdot.org/commen... & https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... https://it.slashdot.org/commen... that's only recently while I've been on Linux (few months now only) & 100's of times vs. MANY other botnets/malwares etc. in the past circa 2006-early 2018 while I was on Windows: CONCRETE VISIBLE UNDENIABLE REALITY (see those links as proof).

    P.S.=> ... & that's ONLY what /. reported on (there are FAR more)... apk

  32. Empty words by commodore64_love · · Score: 2

    "be more vigilant" doesn't actually mean anything. What will you actually DO Mister Trudeau? - (insert sounds of giant Horse Flies biting your legs)

    --
    "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." - historian Evelyn Beatrice Hall
    1. Re:Empty words by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Trudeau wont do anything and that is exactly his function, much like the President of the galaxy. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/...

      It seems to be working well enough as more Canadians are concerned with what he is doing instead of what their own government is doing.

  33. What can't touch u (or u it) can't hurt u by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    See subject: Via APK Hosts File Engine 2.0++ 64-bit for Linux/BSD h t t p : / / a p k . i t - m a t e . c o . u k / A P K H o s t s F i l e E n g i n e F o r L i n u x . z i p

    Yields more security/speed/reliability/anonymity vs. any 1 solution (99% of threats use hostnames vs. IP address most firewalls use) more efficiently/FASTER + NATIVELY 4 less...

    Vs. "Bolt on 'MoAr' illogic-logic" slowing you hosts speed u up 2 ways: Adblocks + Hardcode fav. sites u spend most time @ vs. competition loaded w/ security bugs (DNS/AntiVir) + overheads slowing u (messagepass 'souled-out' to advertisers easily detected & blocked addons + firewall filtering drivers) & their complexity leads to exploitation!

    * ONLY 1 of its kind in GUI 4 Linux/BSD!

    (Better vs. Windows model in speed/efficiency/merge)

    APK

    P.S.=> Protects vs. script trackers/ads/DNS request tracking + redirect poisoned or downed DNS/botnets/malware downloads/malcript/email malicious payloads... apk

  34. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #1/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Your software is just fine - well written, functional... I'm going to continue using the Host File Engine by mmell February 17, 2017

    Your premise that hostfiles are a good way to deal with advertising and malvertising is quite valid - by JazzLad April 20, 2016

    his hosts program is actually pretty good by xenotransplant August 10 2015

    his hosts tool is actually useful for those cases in which one does indeed want to locally block stuff outright while consuming minimum system resources by alexgieg September 25 2015

    I like your host file system by Karmashock September 09 2015

    that APK guy, I use his host file by rogoshen1 Tuesday March 03, 2015

    I personally use a HOSTS file blocker produced from a genius called APK by 110010001000 October 27 2017

    * Linux model = faster/more efficient.

    APK

    P.S.=> APK Hosts File Engine 9.0++ SR-1 32/64-bit for Windows https://www.google.com/search?...

  35. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #2/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Apk has the answer for that - really... kill automatic updates by adding a hosts file entry setting updates.steam.com or whatever to 127.0.0.1. You have to find the right hostname for each software you want to block updates on by raymorris (2726007) on Friday July 06, 2018

    APK your posts on this and the hosts file posts, and more, have never been in error and/or bad advice by BlueStrat (756137) on Wednesday June 21, 2017

    I support APK's stand on the hosts file and can't see why it's not used more than it is. My hosts file is 144247 lines long (4,332 Kb) it & a firewall serves me very well - by Trax3001BBS (2368736)

    ABP is insufficient as a solid hosts file does everything APK reminds us about fast turtle September 17 2013

    You need APK's hosts file - by Teun (17872) on Wednesday August 06, 2014

    APK

    P.S.=> More GOOD reviews coming!... apk

  36. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #3/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    APK solution STILL relevant Thud457 June 11 2015

    Actually, APK is totally right on this count. Adblock Plus on Firefox mobile is a dog on older, or lower end, phones. A hostfile based adblocker makes for a much better experience in this context. Of course, your phone has to be rooted, which isn't the case with Firefox + adblock." - by chihowa on Saturday May 16, 2015

    In a footnote, I would like to note that I find your hosts file admirable - by vel-ex-tech (4337079) on Tuesday November 24, 2015

    APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment - by Culture20 on Thursday November 17

    you're right about hosts files - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26

    APK, I know people give you a lot of shit regarding hosts, but please don't ever stop - by nasredin (958927) on Friday June 12, 2015 @03:34PM

    APK

    P.S.=> Even MORE good reviews coming!... apk

  37. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #4/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I say the following as a caring human being who agrees with how useful HOSTS files are: Your zeal is to be respected - by dave420 (699308) on Monday September 08, 2014

    But I love APK!The power of the hostfile compels you! by ratboy666 (104074) on Friday January 29, 2016

    APK was right all along! C:\WINDOWS\HOSTS is the solution ;) - by sabri (584428) on Friday October 21, 2016

    No complaints from me, I like APK's spam. Reminds me to use a host file. Also, his stuff is free. - by aaaaaaargh! (1150173) on Tuesday November 17, 2015

    I'm a fan of apk. Yes he trolls, but he only trolls where it's contextually appropriate. I respect that - by Noah Haders (3621429) on Wednesday July 29, 2015

    APK

    P.S.=> Still yet MORE good reviews coming ... apk

  38. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #5/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    APK is kinda right... I've given up on JS based adblocking and gone to blackholing in /etc/hosts, just like it was back in the 90s. The computational load has gotten intolerable for any ad-blocking using JS. I've tried his hosts file generating software. It works. - by bmo (77928) on Thursday October 15, 2015

    get around to 'installing' a hosts file list, not sure which one, likely the one from someonewhocares.org. If it works as well as what I used for a while about ten years ago, I'll be happy. And grateful to APK for the lesson and the reminder. - by kermidge (2221646) on Wednesday March 27

    I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster. - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17

    dammit MS, you proved APK right about something by lgw

    APK

    P.S.=> Yes, even MORE good reviews STILL coming ... apk

  39. Trudeau is not well liked by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Apparently you guys missed the memo where Trudeau is a moron with a corrupt hand up his ass. Wave good bye to pretty boy because he will be gone in 2019.

  40. Registered /.ers GOOD reviews #6/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    the Host File Engine performs exactly as promised - by mmell (832646) on Thursday February 16, 2017

    (APK) is still right a hosts file really does work. It even blocked a some of the video ads that were inserted into a stream OrangeTide February 10 2016

    I do use APK's host file on all my systems at home by OrangeTide December 01 2017

    I've never tried to belittle (APK's work), I've flat out said it's good - by BronsCon (927697) on Thursday February 11, 2016 @06:48PM (#51491263)

    APK

    P.S.=> Next are SECURITY PROS on hosts' efficacy for both SPEED & SECURITY ... apk

  41. Security pros QUOTED on hosts by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "classic Windows hosts trick to block the Coinhive or Crypto-Loot domains" - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/a-new-player-joins-coinhive-on-the-browser-cryptojacking-scene/ - BLEEPING COMPUTER

    ZD NET http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-use-a-hosts-file-to-improve-your-internet-experience/ "Hosts files really shine by letting you block ads, spyware sites, malware sites, & tracking sites"

    SANS ("A related approach to the DNS issue is to create a hosts file on each system that sends requests for spyware to some place else. Both Ramu and an anonymous reader have suggested this" hosts by myself & RAMU right @ START of "malware explosion" mid 2005 on) https://isc.sans.edu/forums/di...

    Aryeh Goretsky/ESET/NOD32: hosts = good security http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=7442373&cid=49747129/

    Oliver Day (SYMANTEC/SECURITYFOCUS) http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491/

    APK

    P.S.=> See subject: For BOTH added SPEED & SECURITY ... apk

  42. Hosts efficacy recently (partial only) by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "It's working: Neville... it's working!" See subject & results from THIS past month alone https://it.slashdot.org/commen... & https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... https://it.slashdot.org/commen... that's only recently while I've been on Linux (few months now only) & 100's of times vs. MANY other botnets/malwares etc. in the past circa 2006-early 2018 while I was on Windows: CONCRETE VISIBLE UNDENIABLE REALITY (see those links as proof).

    P.S.=> See Subject line above - & that's ONLY what /. reported on (there are FAR more)... apk

  43. IoB - Internet of Beavers by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    There are more internet connected beavers in Canada than people!

  44. I've been doing this for years by rsilvergun · · Score: 1

    I put naked pictures of myself in folders labeled "Bank Details". It's easy to track down the hackers because of the screams, white hair and babbling about "Shub Niggurath".

    --
    Hi! I make Firefox Plug-ins. Check 'em out @ https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/youtube-mp3-podcaster/
  45. A Plethora Of Conflicting Statements by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    First of all, who is "we", and who is "they"?
    Second of all, is Canada in a good place by your definition, or is the US?
    Thirdly, do you support Trudeau, Trump, neither, both?

    Your comment is a case study in confusion, misstatements and a failure to communicate properly.

  46. I wonder.... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I wonder just how many hackers and hacking collectives heard that announcement, and thought "Challenge Accepted"

  47. How to secure your nation by AHuxley · · Score: 1

    1. Stop allowing 2009 consumer operating systems to store unencrypted data.
    2. Ensure any AV software approved is still working and gets needed updates in 2019.
    3. Use tested and trusted encryption on networks so any data accessed is useless.
    4. Hire staff on merit so they have the computer skills to look after the networks they are responsible for.

    --
    Domestic spying is now "Benign Information Gathering"
  48. Security through obscurity... by ewhenn · · Score: 1

    Security through obscurity... never a good plan.

  49. huh?! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The op said: Though Justin Trudeau is the envy of many world leaders for his likeability

    I must not be Canadian because most of us see him as a clown. In less than a year he messed up relations with two countries and now will be signing one of the worst economic treaty possible and bend over backwards to the US instead of negotiating. likeability my ass.

  50. Slashdot proves otherwise by raymorris · · Score: 1

    > No one in Russia would be part of troll farm companies that are designed to influence opinions they had better alternatives for earning an income.

    I note that Americans have better alternatives for earning and income, yet they are part of troll farms designed to influence opinions. See the trolling posted with every Slashdot story. :D

    On a more serious note, you're right they HAVE been through really tough economic times hastened by the United States, in relatively recent memory. It that economic isolation caused the country to fail, the Soviet Union to dissolve. One would hope that some Russian leaders would learn from that and not seek to repeat it.

    1. Re:Slashdot proves otherwise by rtb61 · · Score: 1

      The reason of course why influence trolls are so recognisable on slashdot is of course low IQ compared to the slashdot norm. So troll farms will exist where ever there are lazy low IQ trolls to employ on minimum wage. As for hacking out of Russia, it is the logical move in the west to rent a server in Russia to attack any western target because of the idiocy at the top, no treaty and as long as you are not hacking Russian companies, Russian security services wont give much of a fuck, so it makes sense to route attacks through Russia, as it is a dead end for western security organisations. Which is exactly why cybersecurity treaties are required but US politicians are playing blame the Russians for everything game, making logical sound decisions impossible.

      --
      Chaos - everything, everywhere, everywhen
  51. If you can get past the poorly worded headline... by MiniMike · · Score: 1

    Doing "the basics" should be among the first steps taken in any security plan. This will probably put their systems out of each of most casual hackers. Won't be sufficient for any directed attacks, hopefully they continue to do more than "basics". Proper security requires continuous action, not just one pass.

  52. The Trudeau Government by themusicgod1 · · Score: 1

    ...can start by not making e2e/crypto illegal.

    --
    GENERATION 26: The first time you see this, copy it into your sig on any forum and add 1 to the generation.
  53. What can't touch u (or u it) can't hurt u by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    See subject: Via APK Hosts File Engine 2.0++ 64-bit for Linux/BSD h t t p : / / a p k . i t - m a t e . c o . u k / A P K H o s t s F i l e E n g i n e F o r L i n u x . z i p

    Yields more security/speed/reliability/anonymity vs. any 1 solution (99% of threats use hostnames vs. IP address most firewalls use) more efficiently/FASTER + NATIVELY 4 less.

    Vs. "Bolt on 'MoAr' illogic-logic" slowing you hosts speed u up 2 ways: Adblocks + Hardcode fav. sites u spend most time @ vs. competition loaded w/ security bugs (DNS/AntiVir) + overheads slowing u (messagepass 'souled-out' to advertisers easily detected & blocked addons + firewall filtering drivers) & their complexity leads to exploitation!

    * ONLY 1 of its kind in GUI 4 Linux/BSD.

    (Better vs. Windows model in speed/efficiency/merge)

    APK

    P.S.=> Protects vs. script trackers/ads/DNS request tracking + redirect poisoned or downed DNS/botnets/malware downloads/malcript/email malicious payloads... apk

  54. Security pros QUOTED on hosts by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "classic Windows hosts trick to block the Coinhive or Crypto-Loot domains" - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/a-new-player-joins-coinhive-on-the-browser-cryptojacking-scene/ - BLEEPING COMPUTER

    ZD NET http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-use-a-hosts-file-to-improve-your-internet-experience/ "Hosts files really shine by letting you block ads, spyware sites, malware sites, & tracking sites"

    SANS ("A related approach to the DNS issue is to create a hosts file on each system that sends requests for spyware to some place else" hosts by myself & RAMU right @ START of "malware explosion" mid 2005 on) https://isc.sans.edu/forums/di...

    Aryeh Goretsky/ESET/NOD32: hosts = good security http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=7442373&cid=49747129/

    Oliver Day (SYMANTEC/SECURITYFOCUS) http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491/

    Spybot S&D uses hosts.

    APK

    P.S.=> Malwarebytes' hpHosts hosts & RECOMMENDS my program http://forum.hosts-file.net/vi...

  55. Hosts efficacy recently by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "It's working: Neville... it's working!" See subject & results from THIS past month alone https://it.slashdot.org/commen... & https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... https://it.slashdot.org/commen... that's only recently while I've been on Linux (few months now only) & 100's of times vs. MANY other botnets/malwares etc. in the past circa 2006-early 2018 while I was on Windows: CONCRETE VISIBLE UNDENIABLE REALITY (see those links as proof).

    P.S.=> ... & that's ONLY what /. reported on (there are FAR more)... apk

  56. Registered /.ers reviews #1/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Your software is just fine - well written, functional... I'm going to continue using the Host File Engine by mmell February 17, 2017

    Your premise that hostfiles are a good way to deal with advertising and malvertising is quite valid - by JazzLad April 20, 2016

    his hosts program is actually pretty good by xenotransplant August 10 2015

    his hosts tool is actually useful for those cases in which one does indeed want to locally block stuff outright while consuming minimum system resources by alexgieg September 25 2015

    I like your host file system by Karmashock September 09 2015

    that APK guy, I use his host file by rogoshen1 Tuesday March 03, 2015

    I personally use a HOSTS file blocker produced from a genius called APK by 110010001000 October 27 2017

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming... apk

  57. Registered /.ers reviews #2/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Apk has the answer for that - really... kill automatic updates by adding a hosts file entry setting updates.steam.com or whatever to 127.0.0.1. You have to find the right hostname for each software you want to block updates on by raymorris (2726007) on Friday July 06, 2018

    APK your posts on this and the hosts file posts, and more, have never been in error and/or bad advice by BlueStrat (756137) on Wednesday June 21, 2017

    I support APK's stand on the hosts file and can't see why it's not used more than it is. My hosts file is 144247 lines long (4,332 Kb) it & a firewall serves me very well - by Trax3001BBS (2368736)

    ABP is insufficient as a solid hosts file does everything APK reminds us about fast turtle September 17 2013

    You need APK's hosts file - by Teun (17872) on Wednesday August 06, 2014

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming... apk

  58. Registered /.ers reviews #3/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Actually, APK is totally right on this count. Adblock Plus on Firefox mobile is a dog on older, or lower end, phones. A hostfile based adblocker makes for a much better experience in this context. Of course, your phone has to be rooted, which isn't the case with Firefox + adblock." - by chihowa on Saturday May 16, 2015

    APK solution STILL relevant Thud457 June 11 2015

    In a footnote, I would like to note that I find your hosts file admirable - by vel-ex-tech (4337079) on Tuesday November 24, 2015

    APK's monolithic hosts file is looking pretty good at the moment - by Culture20 on Thursday November 17

    you're right about hosts files - by drinkypoo (153816) on Thursday May 26

    APK, I know people give you a lot of shit regarding hosts, but please don't ever stop - by nasredin (958927) on Friday June 12, 2015 @03:34PM

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming... apk

  59. Registered /.ers reviews #4/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    APK is kinda right... I've given up on JS based adblocking and gone to blackholing in /etc/hosts, just like it was back in the 90s. The computational load has gotten intolerable for any ad-blocking using JS. I've tried his hosts file generating software. It works. - by bmo (77928) on Thursday October 15, 2015

    get around to 'installing' a hosts file list, not sure which one, likely the one from someonewhocares.org. If it works as well as what I used for a while about ten years ago, I'll be happy. And grateful to APK for the lesson and the reminder. - by kermidge (2221646) on Wednesday March 27

    I actually went and downloaded a 16k line hosts file and started using that after seeing that post, you know just for trying it out. some sites load up faster. - by gl4ss (559668) on Thursday November 17

    dammit MS, you proved APK right about something by lgw

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming... apk

  60. Registered /.ers reviews #5/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    (APK) is still right a hosts file really does work. It even blocked a some of the video ads that were inserted into a stream OrangeTide February 10 2016

    the Host File Engine performs exactly as promised - by mmell (832646) on Thursday February 16, 2017

    I do use APK's host file on all my systems at home by OrangeTide December 01 2017

    I've never tried to belittle (APK's work), I've flat out said it's good - by BronsCon (927697) on Thursday February 11, 2016 @06:48PM (#51491263)

    APK

    P.S.=> More coming... apk

  61. Registered /.ers reviews #6/6 by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I say the following as a caring human being who agrees with how useful HOSTS files are: Your zeal is to be respected - by dave420 (699308) on Monday September 08, 2014

    But I love APK!The power of the hostfile compels you! by ratboy666 (104074) on Friday January 29, 2016

    APK was right all along! C:\WINDOWS\HOSTS is the solution ;) - by sabri (584428) on Friday October 21, 2016

    No complaints from me, I like APK's spam. Reminds me to use a host file. Also, his stuff is free. - by aaaaaaargh! (1150173) on Tuesday November 17, 2015

    I'm a fan of apk. Yes he trolls, but he only trolls where it's contextually appropriate. I respect that - by Noah Haders (3621429) on Wednesday July 29, 2015

    APK

    P.S.=> Toss on 100,000++ users worldwide too... apk

  62. Never trust the failure APK and his lies by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Alexander Peter Kowalski just can't stop with the failure and lies
    Like how he claims the Chinese copied him but can't produce any evidence.
    How about when he states that hosts does port filtering but again can't backup his statement which was shown to be false.
    There is also his list of "experts" who support him but it turns out they don't say what he is claiming.
    This also ignores his out of context quotes he uses to lie by omission.
    The problem with APK is that his entire reputation is built upon the lie he told years ago that hosts is an effective security solution. It has been exposed numerous times as being a lie and when exposed APK fails to argue logically and instead will try to deflect criticism, change the subject, move the goal posts, return to a previously disproved statement, demand you prove you did better than his file concatenator, or just call people names. He will continue to lie by stating that he won or "dusted" you while failing to refute anything you said, will never provide real evidence, and generally try to dodge the issue.

    Face it APK is one of the most detested individuals here for good reason. When ever his poor behavior, awful logic, over statements, and horrendous writing are called out he has a fit and has done so for years across the internet. He is a spammer, and is an abusive insecure little man who is washed up and never amounted to anything. Until he produces actual verifiable facts supporting his case, which he can't, nothing he says should be taken seriously. Because he is such a failure expect that he will repeat his previously disproved lies because he wants to show everyone that he is a loser.

  63. 3 questions & China... apk by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    See subject & 3 questions you won't answer: 1.) Do hosts stop threats served by hostname (the way threats are done most) by blocking them? Yes. 2.) Do hosts speed you up 2 ways in adblocking (preventing more infection/tracking/slowdown) & via hardcoded favorite sites resolving faster + protecting vs. dns down or redirect poisoned? Yes.

    My hosts program's the only 1 that does the latter @ TOP of hosts cached in RAM (for best performance) & only 1 of its kind on Linux/BSD in easy to use flexible configuration GUI form.

    (I also did that latter part LONG before the Chinese & 1st http://theregister.co.uk/2017/... )

    APK

    P.S.-> Lastly: 3.) Have you done work that's that effective doing more for less faster in kernelmode speed w/ less complexity for exploit + excess overheads vs. solutions KNOWN to be security-issue riddled (like addons (souled-out to NOT work by default OR easily detected & blocked that are BYPASSABLE & EXPLOITABLE), DNS & Antivirus)? No... apk

  64. Security pros QUOTED on hosts by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "classic Windows hosts trick to block the Coinhive or Crypto-Loot domains" - https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/a-new-player-joins-coinhive-on-the-browser-cryptojacking-scene/ - BLEEPING COMPUTER

    ZD NET http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-use-a-hosts-file-to-improve-your-internet-experience/ "Hosts files really shine by letting you block ads, spyware sites, malware sites, & tracking sites"

    SANS ("A related approach to the DNS issue is to create a hosts file on each system that sends requests for spyware to some place else" hosts by myself & RAMU right @ START of "malware explosion" mid 2005 on) https://isc.sans.edu/forums/di...

    Aryeh Goretsky/ESET/NOD32: hosts = good security http://it.slashdot.org/comments.pl?sid=7442373&cid=49747129/

    Oliver Day (SYMANTEC/SECURITYFOCUS) http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/491/

    Spybot S&D uses hosts.

    APK

    P.S.=> Malwarebytes' hpHosts hosts & RECOMMENDS my program http://forum.hosts-file.net/vi...

  65. Hosts efficacy recently vs. threats by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "It's working: Neville... it's working!" See subject & results from the past month https://it.slashdot.org/commen... & https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... + https://it.slashdot.org/commen... https://it.slashdot.org/commen... that's only recently while I've been on Linux (few months now only) & 100's of times vs. MANY other botnets/malwares etc. in the past circa 2006-early 2018 while I was on Windows: CONCRETE VISIBLE UNDENIABLE REALITY (see those links as proof).

    P.S.=> ... & that's ONLY what /. reported on (there are FAR more)... apk

  66. On ArseHOLETechnica by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Arstechnica = losers who stalked me (as you do now anonymously unidentifiably) to NTCompatible.com & Windows IT Pro magazine forums to their public dismay in Jeremy Reimer & Jay Little + Jarrett DeAngelis (who posts here on /. until I drove his ass off too) when their websites were REMOVED by their hosting providers in Shaw Canada & CrystalTech (for both email harassing me caught on a tracking ticket + stalking me & posting lies about me on them).

    Right AFTER I destroyed them both PUBLICLY @ Windows IT Pro on Exchange Servers memory being freed UNHALTING them (which tells you Exchange is HEAVILY POINTER ORIENTED linked list driven, which leads to memory fragmentation that CAN halt a serverware).

    Jay Little the "self-proclaimed 'EXCHANGE EXPERT'" HAD TO CONCEDE IT from MICROSOFT'S OWN DOCUMENTATION proving it FOR me there (where they as usual stalked me AS YOU ARE NOW)

    Peter Bright/Dr. Pizza (alias GOITERMAN, lol) can tell you what happened to his IRC server after that (lol).

    "The great arseHOLEtechnica" (not) RUN OUT of their own server chatrooms hahaha (by "yours truly").

    In effete retaliation they edited my posts & impersonated me on their little private playpen of UNDERACHIEVER losers.

    APK

    P.S.=> ABOVE ALL ELSE: Thanks for outing yourself as 1 of the "few, the defeated" from arseHOLEtechnica - always a pleasure exposing your lame asses (that are nothing more than do-NOTHING "ne'er-do-wells" THAT CAN'T STAND THEMSELVES for it (lol, no shit) & that you are REDUCED to STALKING ME by UNIDENTIFIABLE anonymous too... lmao!)... apk

  67. On Thor SCHMUCK by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Ask him WHY his false accusation of an old ware of mine was 1st taken down to NO threat & CA sold off the SHITTY antivir he sold (as a paid pawn of theirs) & they are GONE, done. dead... lol!

    Lookup "CA Accounting Scandal" on Google - scumbags & THEIR BIRDS OF A FEATHER just go down vs. me everytime!

    APK

    P.S.=> He's a FAT lying LOSER from podunk idaho... apk

  68. "Likeability" by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    > Though Justin Trudeau is the envy of many world leaders for his likeability,

    As a Canadian, either the word has a new meaning I'm not familiar with, or that's news to me.