Cyber Brief: Exploited vulnerabilities and phishing

Today’s cyber reporting reflects a sharp return to attacker activity as organisations resume normal operations. Exploited vulnerabilities, renewed phishing campaigns and continued pressure on public sector systems are shaping the early January threat landscape.

Exploited vulnerabilities targeted as patching resumes

Security authorities confirmed today that attackers are actively exploiting vulnerabilities disclosed over the holiday period. Organisations that delayed patching due to year-end change freezes are now racing to remediate exposed systems.
Threat actors are scanning aggressively for unpatched assets and prioritising initial access over immediate disruption. In several cases, attackers focused on establishing persistence and harvesting credentials to maintain long-term access.
The reporting highlights the compressed patching window many organisations face in early January, increasing the risk of exploitation during catch-up periods.

Why it matters
Delayed patching creates opportunity. Organisations should prioritise remediation for exposed systems and ensure emergency change processes are effective.

Source
CISA

Phishing campaigns surge as staff return to work

Threat intelligence published today highlights a resurgence in phishing activity targeting users returning from extended leave. Attackers are exploiting increased email volume and reduced vigilance to deliver credential-harvesting campaigns and session token theft attempts.
These campaigns are often low-volume and highly targeted, designed to bypass automated filtering. Once credentials are obtained, attackers delay follow-on activity to blend into normal working patterns.
The reporting reinforces that phishing remains one of the most reliable initial access methods.

Why it matters
Phishing exploits human behaviour. Phishing-resistant authentication and monitoring for anomalous access reduce exposure.

Source
The Register

Public sector systems remain under sustained pressure

UK reporting today highlights continued cyber and operational pressure across public sector organisations. Limited budgets, ageing infrastructure and reliance on third-party providers are increasing exposure during periods of heightened demand.
Several organisations detected issues quickly but struggled with recovery due to unclear ownership and under-tested continuity plans.
The findings reinforce the need for preparation rather than reactive response.

Why it matters
Public sector resilience depends on readiness. Clear escalation routes and tested recovery plans reduce disruption.

Source
BBC News

Today’s Key Actions

1. Prioritise patching of vulnerabilities disclosed during the holiday period.
2. Reinforce phishing awareness and authentication controls.
3. Validate public sector recovery and continuity plans.
4. Review supplier and infrastructure dependencies.
5. Update risk registers for early-year threat activity.

Secarma Insight

Today’s stories underline a consistent message. Early January brings renewed attacker momentum. Organisations that combine rapid patching, strong identity controls and tested resilience plans are better positioned to manage risk as the year begins.

Get in touch with us to prioritise your next steps and strengthen your security posture.