Assume Cell phones, Software programs, and Apps are Monitored
Wherever you are in the world, and especially if you are engaged in Christian work in hostile nations, assume you are watched and listened to.
Here's a notice that recently came to my attention via email this morning:
"There is a tax software required by banks in China for paying taxes that has been found to contains remote access malware most likely intended for economic espionage. However, with the present climate in China remote access can lead to other exploits including exposing national affiliates and other nefarious exploits."
The article is here: Chinese Tax Software
Alarmingly relayed within this article is this:
"The malware was embedded in software that foreign companies are required to use in order to do business in China. The software is produced by the Golden Tax Department of Aisino Corporation.
Upon detection, the malware quietly tried to uninstall itself without drawing further attention.[2] The purpose of the malware is most probably economic espionage, as it enables hackers to gain access to a computer and operate safely undetected by anyone save a skilled cybersecurity investigator."
Christian NGO's are generally far behind where they need to be in the areas of Cyber Security. Because technology has now evolved to where malware can be installed and quietly removed at the whim of the malware actor, great care should be taken when being required to install 3rd party software in order to conduct business in a foreign country.
(One idea is to have a designated computer that runs just that program and is not near any room where the computer can eavesdrop on significant conversations.)
However, so that a malware actor is not alarmed, allow a certain amount of video recording and eavesdropping to occur - just what YOU allow. Control as much as possible what "they" know about your activities.
And in general, know when you should have predictable routines and when you need to "mix it up." There are times when we detect we are being surveilled we must be diligent and avoid being predictable. However, sometimes it is to our advantage to be predictable.
Discern the difference.
Trustwave strongly recommends following best software practices when comes to 3rd party software installations. No matter where an organization operates, extra vigilance needs to be taken when adopting mandatory software (or any 3rd party software) in order to conduct business. GoldenSpy and what we have seen in terms of its continuous activities is a prime example. (Goldenspy)
One of the significant areas Christ followers are not being “shrewd” is in the use of cell phones. WhatsApp is a common communication app, but pretty much any government and even low-level hostile entity can eavesdrop on WhatsApp communications.
Please switch to Signal!
This app has continued to be secure, and is a free civilian app.
For even more robust communication, and if you can afford it, switch to Threema, an app based out of Switzerland.
It's incumbent on us to stay alert and as wise as serpents even as we pursue Peace in high risk areas. Jesus taught us:
"Look, I'm sending you as sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as wise as snakes and innocent as doves."
