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Amazon and Microsoft Team Up Against Tech Support Fraud

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to advance a proposal to reinstate net neutrality rules and regain regulatory oversight of broadband internet. The rules, adopted in 2015 and repealed under former President Donald Trump, aim to prevent internet service providers from blocking or throttling traffic and offering paid fast lanes. The FCC will seek public comments before finalizing the plan, which is expected to face legal challenges. The vote comes after Democrats gained majority control of the FCC, and President Biden encouraged reinstating net neutrality rules.

Amazon, Microsoft, and India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have collaborated to crack down on tech support fraud. Scammers impersonated customer support agents for Amazon and Microsoft, tricking users into calling a toll-free number, taking control of their computers remotely, and charging them for unnecessary services. The illegal call centers affected over 2,000 customers in multiple countries. This partnership between Amazon and Microsoft aims to create a safer online ecosystem and protect more individuals from fraud.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is revising its security controls and introducing a new security control as part of a patch release to strengthen U.S. cybersecurity. The enhancements focus on identity management, server authorization, and safeguarding cryptographic keys. NIST will also be making minor grammatical adjustments and edits. The updates will be available for download in NIST’s Cybersecurity and Privacy Reference Tool in early November.

Why do we care?

Any who deliver technical support will be overjoyed to hear there might be a decrease in fake tech support scams.      Here’s a public-private partnership to applaud.

New NIST controls, everyone – this is your warning it’s coming.    Preparing for new controls is not just about compliance; it’s about strengthening cybersecurity postures. MSPs should plan to update their practices and inform clients of these upcoming changes, adding value as advisors on regulatory compliance.