🎮 Gamification in Security Awareness Training

Gamification in security awareness transforms cybersecurity training from a routine task into a dynamic, engaging experience. By weaving game mechanics — such as quizzes, challenges, and recognition programs — into training content, organizations can motivate participation, reinforce key concepts, and cultivate a culture of continuous vigilance.

⚡Insider Threats in a Hybrid Workforce: What to Watch for in 2025

Thanks to the rise of hybrid work, security and compliance must transcend office walls. By understanding how insider threats manifest and putting culture at the forefront, security leaders can protect their people, their data, and their reputations for the long haul.

🌎 Global Geopolitics and Espionage Campaigns

Recent state-aligned cyberattacks confirm that geopolitics increasingly plays out through covert network operations — exposing the telecom, government, and media sectors worldwide. These real-world examples, sourced from confirmed advisories and incident reports, illustrate the urgent need for heightened vigilance and international cooperation in cyber defense.

⚠️ Threat Updates

🔴 FBI Warns Russian Hackers Targeting U.S. Critical Infrastructure with Old Cisco Vulnerability (8/20/25)

Russian espionage units exploited a seven-year-old Cisco IOS flaw to infiltrate thousands of critical infrastructure network devices. Networks supporting energy, communications, and manufacturing sectors were affected, with configuration files stolen for long-term access and industrial control system reconnaissance. » More Info

🔴 High-Severity Authentication Bypass in Passwordstate Exposes Admin Access (8/28/25)

Passwordstate — a password manager trusted by 29,000 organizations — has released an urgent patched update after discovering a major authentication bypass flaw. Threat actors could exploit this by crafting a malicious URL targeting the Emergency Access page, letting them gain unauthorized entry to the administration section. There is currently no CVE ID for this vulnerability. Rapid patching is strongly advised. » More Info

🗨️ Parting Words

"If GM had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25 cars that got 1000 MPG." — Bill Gates

Are you a vCISO or MSP looking to operationalize security programs? Let’s discuss how Blacksmith Infosec proves that compliance is an opportunity, not a struggle that has to be packaged in FUD!