Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.These days it takes a lot more than a simple CB2 haul to impress a guest. For your apartment to be dialed in by contemporary standards you need a mix of thingsmaterials, colors, scales, and most definitely, periods. But how to go about collecting antiques if you are new to the field, or new to design as a whole? Here at ELLE DECOR weve been obsessed with all things beautiful, antiques included, for eons, profiling up-and-coming antique dealers, and always highlighting how designers of today infuse their clients homes with personality via a clever dose of vintage. But just because something is old (take your grandmothers glass vase), doesnt mean its special. And just because its finely made, doesnt mean its of the moment. Paradoxically perhaps, antiques have their peaks and their troughs like any other fluctuation in the world of interior design. Below, weve gathered the top antique and vintage trends that will pick up speed in 2025, according to dealers and experts. 19th-Century American Quilts Courtesy of Ry Fillman and Marin KirkseyAmish Diamond-in-the-Square quilt, mid-20th century. During the social upheaval of 2020 all many antiques insiders were hearing about were Gees Bend quiltsthe narrative patchworks made by a society of Black women in Gees Bend, Alabama. Gees Bend quilts are very collectiblecolorful, bold, and graphic textiles made by African American women in Gees Bend, Alabama, says Marin Kirksey, one-half of the popular Instagram @catsonquilt. Like many movements, this rich and expressive body of work was flattened and funneled into a bid for diversity in the design world. But the beauty of the material is unarguable, and the popularity of these quilts has spawned a reinvestigation of American quilts from the early 1800s to the early 1900sand that trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025.David MitchellAntique quilts used in a Nina Farmer project.While quilts are designed to serve a straightforward function, a good antique quilt can serve as unexpected abstract art. (Antique dealer Paula Rubenstein tells us she hangs her quilts backwardfavoring the interesting details that reflect how quilters worked.) Whats more, theyre a unique slice of American craft: Quilts are a strong part of American textile history throughout the 19th century with a renaissance in the 1930s as a result of post depression thriftiness, says Kirksey, adding that quilting is also a huge part of womens work and women's history. While authentic Gees Bend works will set you back well over several thousand dollars, there are also more affordablebut no less beautiful or historicalternatives. The geometric patterns seen on Amish and Mennonite quilts from Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana are increasingly sought after, according to Kirksey, likely for their quality but also for their ability to blend in with more contemporary surroundings. Early 19th-century American quilts using chintz imported from England are also a consistent favorite among collectors, as well as Hawaiian quilts with their detailed appliqud surfaces. Amish quilts were much more expensive 20 to 30 years ago then they are now, though they have retained their popularity, according to Rubenstein. (For further reading, we recommend this Stella Rubin book for beginner quilt collectors.)Victorian Wicker Courtesy of Charlap Hyman and Herrero.Victorian wicker in Adam Charlap Hymans former apartment.Another word we never thought we would hear again is wickerspecifically the Victorian wicker chairs and tables exploding with curlicues and decorative elements that weve started to see spotted through our favorite interiors.ELLE DECOR A-List interior designer Adam Charlap Hyman, of the ELLE DECOR A-List firm Charlap Hyman Herrero, works wicker in wherever he can. Two brands in particular have a hold on Charlap Hyman: the American brand Heywood Wakefield and the French brand Perret and Vibert. For furniture that is over 100 years old, the wicker pieces by these brands look like something out of the future. What draws me to Heywood Wakefield is that the forms are very abstract and kind of odd, says Charlap Hyman. They almost connote sea creatures or aliens. Sometimes you see them in these 1920s and 1930s houses alongside surrealist art.Maura McEvoyA vintage Wakefield Brothers wicker chair in a Maine vacation home designed by Angie Hranowsky. The Victorians, in particular, stretched the material to its limits, bending wicker into rocking chairs, side chairs, chaises, tables, and lamps. There are varying levels of quality available, like any other antique, with prices ranging from the low hundreds to high thousands. 1stDibs is always well stocked with great examples, but many designers, including Charlap Hyman, have found their favorites at Paris flea markets. When you find the Victorian wicker thats right for you, remember context: There is something refreshing about having something made out of a grass in your New York City living room, says Charlap Hyman. The coolest thing is when it doesnt belong.Surrealist Paintings Frank FrancesAn Earl Swanigan painting in Sheila Bridgess Hudson Valley home.Weve already told you about the jolie laide, or pretty ugly, trend thats swept our social feeds in which designers are embracing objects and accessories that surprise or disgust. Fortunately, the antique world is way ahead of the curve here, with bizarre surrealist and nave artworks poised to pop up everywhere in the year ahead. And while most of us cant afford a Leonora Carrington, Max Ernst, or Salvador Dal painting, no one can deny the impact of a dreamscape in a home that is decidedly rooted in real life. For those of us with midmarket budgets, an entre into the dreamworld can come via a few lesser-known artists. Less expensive than the leaders of surrealism but still a reach for most are the works of Gertrude Abercrombie. The bohemian artist was an engaged member of Chicagos music scene in the 1920s but fell into obscurity during the middle of the 20th century. Her psychologically tense yet playful landscapes and interiors started selling like hotcakes after a wildly successful solo show at Karma Gallery in New York City in 2018. Her work is still available through the gallery and at auction, with newly available paintings listed frequently on Artsy, generally upward of $10,000. More recent, and more humbly priced, are the paintings of Earl Swanigana self-taught artist working in Hudson, New York, until 2019. His portraits embody the at once disturbing and playful energy of early 20th-century surrealists, usually picturing famous historical figures as cats, dogs, or birds. Before his death he became a favorite among Black contemporary artists and designers on the East Coast. ELLE DECOR A-List Titan Sheila Bridges often uses Swanigans paintings in projects and owns several, which she hung in her Hudson Valley home. Swanigan has been something of a secret, so getting your hands on a painting can take a little while. If you are lucky enough to visit downtown Hudson on a weekend, try White Whale Limited. If you arent a local, set up alerts for online auctions. The plus side to his relative obscurity is that his prices are still extremely accessible, with paintings almost always going for under $1,000.Winsdor Chairs Courtesy of Olde Hope Antiques.An 18th-century Windsor chair.In a Netflix era when seating is designed mostly for watching TV or working at your laptop, it follows that weve grown used to the upholstered, cushioned, and swiveling. But for those who like to look at their chairs as much as sit in them, the classic 18th-century Windsor chair holds as much interest as it did when it became a staple in American Colonial homes. To the contemporary eye the form of these chairs is graphic and simplea wooden seat carved out of one piece of hardwood, with spindles threaded into the seats back, held together by a softly rounded piece of wood at the top, and balanced on four simple feet, sometimes with a stretcher connecting them. These chairs can range vastly in price, depending on age, condition, maker, material, whether they are painted or not, and who might have owned them. The least expensive, still functional examples can be had for as little as a few hundred dollarsusually lucky finds at a coastal antique dealers shop. The best examples range from the low to very high thousands. Battle Brown in Hudson always has a few on offer, generally from the 18th or 19th century. Olde Hope Antiques always has several in stock, of the highest quality, usually in the mid-thousands. 1stDibs has a wide range of styles and sometimes even matching pairs (which generally hold their value more than single chairs). Courtesy of Historic New EnglandHenry Davis Sleepers seaside dining room at the Beauport-Sleeper McCann House with mismatched Windsor chairs. For decorators and collectors these chairs are a clean, simple way to communicate a sense of place and time. They are one of the purest 18th-century furniture forms that are still useful (and reproduced) today. Their simplicity can also lend themselves well to more eclectic interiors. We have all been sort of drawn to these kinds of pure and puritanical furniture forms lately, says Charlap Hyman. But my personal favorite example of these are the mismatched sets of Windsor chairs in Beauports dining room that are all painted uniformly in teal. Knole SofasCourtesy of Klismos GalleryWilliam IV Knole sofa, open.No one is unfamiliar with the fold-out couchthat scourge of 1990s hospitality. Few know of the earlier and altogether more stylish predecessorthe Knole sette (no, not that Knoll!), which functioned as the sleeper sofa of yesteryear. They originated in Kent, England, in the 1600s for monarchs to receive guests (sessions that could last for hours and hours) and are typified by a straight, long back, seating for at least two, and foldable arms that can be positioned to create something closer to a chaise longue. In a contemporary context, they are the perfect sofa for an overnight guest. Finding period or stylistically appropriate upholstered sofas is challenging. And finding ones that you can comfortably sink into for a long conversation or a drink or two is extremely rare, says antiques dealer Collier Calandruccio of Klismos Gallery. Knole sofas, at least by the 19th century, had achieved that level of comfort. They roamed scores of drawing rooms in historicist mansions of the Gilded Age and their simple geometry and versatility make them an easy fit for modern life. I see a clear through-line from Knole to the long sofas of Le Corbusier.Early examples are extremely hard to find, with many designers opting for reproductions over the real thing. On the accessible end of the price bucket are Victorian and Edwardian versions, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 usually. Knole sofas can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands. Really good examples, and pairs particularly, are scarce, but well worth the search and investment, says Calandruccio. The fun thing about this type of antique is that old and valuable though it may be, you still have a degree of control about how it looksreupholstery is a perfectly acceptable way to keep the old form fresh. And like everything weve listed above, these sofas offer a direct link to the past while remaining functional for contemporary life, a feature thatif handled wellcan launch you into a stylish future.

While a ceiling is a fundamental component of any building, most are modest and rather forgettable. However, an architecturally interesting ceiling design, like a vaulted ceiling, can significantly enhance a room's design, contributing to an airy and luxurious atmosphere. Vaulted ceilings are among the most debated design features: some interior designers celebrate their grand, lofty aesthetics, while critics call them outdated and inefficient, citing their potential for higher energy costs and difficulty in heating during colder months. Despite these criticisms, vaulted ceilings have endured throughout history, suggesting their continued relevance in architecture. If you've ever wondered, What is a vaulted ceiling? our guide is here to explain all. We tapped three interior designers to break down the essential details of these dramatic home features, including their pros and cons. Here's everything you need to know about vaulted ceilings.Related StoriesWhat Are Vaulted Ceilings?Zach DeSartIn architectural terms, a vaulted ceiling is a self-supporting arch above walls and beneath a roof. Different styles of vaults include barrel, groin, rib, and fan.Some of the first vaulted ceilings can be traced back to a Neolithic village in Crete, built roughly seven thousand years ago. Since then, they've been found around the world across ages, perhaps most notably in Gothic cathedrals and domed spaces like the Pantheon in Rome. Today, vaulted ceilings are commonly found in contemporary homes. A vaulted ceiling extends upward from the walls to a center, creating a volume of space overhead, says Jade Joyner, cofounder and principal designer of studio Metal + Petal in Athens, Georgia. They extend a typical flat ceiling to take advantage of unused roof structure space. Not all vaulted ceilings are archedsome may follow the roofline in a more triangular form. This style of vaulted ceiling is known as a cathedral ceiling. Cathedral ceilings normally mirror the roof structure and have sides that slope and meet at a ridge in the center, says Maggie Cruz of Miami-based Maggie Cruz Design + Home. Today most people use the terms cathedral and vaulted interchangeably.Related StoryWhat Spaces Are Vaulted Ceilings Best For?Brian BiederVaults can be styled in a number of ways to match the look of your home, whether thats modern, rustic, or industrial. The softness of an arched ceiling can add the perfect touch for a modern structure, says Maggie Griffin, who runs her eponymous firm in Atlanta and Gainesville, Florida. A vaulted ceiling is a wonderful excuse to incorporate reclaimed beams or industrial cable supports to round out your look, too.As for specific rooms, they can really be used anywhere your home structurally allows, from bedrooms to bathroomsbut you'll most commonly find them in great rooms and in the living-dining rooms of open-concept homes.Related StoryPros of Vaulted CeilingsThey offer a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. Opening up a ceiling often creates a sense of airinessyou are, after all, providing a lot more overhead space in a room!They allow for bright, natural light. With all that extra height comes extra space for tall windows or skylights, both of which contribute to a rooms brightness.They occupy otherwise wasted attic space. If you have a ceiling that can be opened up, you can make practical design use of dead space through a vaulted ceiling. Theyre a dramatic design feature. Theyre certainly something to look at in a room, and they can be customized to fit your houses aesthetic. Vaulted ceilings are particularly popular in both rustic-style spaces as well as midcentury-modern ones.Related StoryCons of Vaulted Ceilings They waste a lot of energy. Homeowners should consider the fact that higher ceilings do lead to higher energy bills, as theres more space to heat or cool, says Ashley Moore, founder and principal designer at Moore House Interiors in Tomball, Texas.Theyre harder to maintain than normal ceilings. Need to change a lightbulb in your vaulted ceilings recessed lighting or dust an exposed beam? Better get an extra-tall ladder.Its difficult to retrofit a space to include them. From an engineering standpoint, youll need to make sure your roof structure supports a vault, says Cruz. Special trusses that come engineered for a vaulted space are required. If you dont have the right roof or ceiling structure, youll either have to pay up to install it, or youll have to forgo the vaulted ceiling entirely. Its much, much easier to install a vaulted ceiling in a new build when you can plan for it from the get-go.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Sometimes it really is what's inside that counts. Because while there's no doubt the seventh annual Whole Homenestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, between artsy Asheville and picturesque Hendersonvillehas curb appeal, it's the interior that truly impresses.Open any of the 4,000-square-foot contemporary's many closets and you'll find an organizational masterpiece just as stunning as the mountain views on any of the vacation home's three outdoor patios. In the primary bedroom, for example, custom built-ins from The Container Store's exclusive Preston collection elevate the functionality and the feel in the primary bedroom's spacious walk-in closet, while the brand's newly launched Decor+ by Elfa line transforms the home's other closets into true works of art.And this is not all just aspirational. You, too, can bring that aesthetically delightful organization home. With a plethora of storage solutions, The Container Store has the right offerings to transform any space from the pantry to the playroom, plus free design services in your home or at your local store and professional installers to bring your vision to lifewithout the stress that comes with going the DIY route. Read on for the details.Primary ClosetTo ensure guests to the house always remain in vacation mode, ID.ology designer Jill Jones equipped the massive walk-in closet in the Whole Home's primary bedroom with plenty of hanging space for easy packing and unpackinggiving it the feeling of a hotel retreat. The custom built-ins from The Container Store's Preston collection feature two champagne-hued, fawn wardrobe units with aluminum framed glass doors in a matte gold finish that put favorite pieces on display.Dimmable European LED lighting lends the space a chic, boutique feel that's enhanced by the five-piece Shaker-style cabinetry with clear-glass panels in a refined fawn finish, ideal for highlighting handbags and other accessories. Artisan Rattan Cane Bins bring style and concealed storage for accessories not used everyday. And while the Harmony wall organizerfinished in matte gold with winter-white man-made leatherhas enough hooks to show off all manner of jewelry and scarves, a tilt-out hamper with built-in laundry bags ensures that particular chore stays out of both sight and mind.Bedrooms & HallwaysThe Whole Home designers put The Container Store's new Dcor+ by Elfa custom-space line to work in the guest bedrooms and hallway closets. In both the game closet and rooms that invite visitors to stay a while, the delight is in the details. These include dimmable LED lighting, solid birch veneers and trim in a variety of finishes, 20-inch deep drawers that open fully and close softly, plus sophisticated hardware in shades of brass and brushed silver. GarageGarages generally get a bad rap as cluttered landing spots for everything from seasonal decor to outdoor gear. But with the help of the new Garage+ by Elfa system from The Container Store, Iron House Design team Jim and Tanya Ryno dreamed up a space that prioritizes both form and function. Crafted with powder-coated steel in a platinum finish, the open shelving, full-extension drawers, and locking metal cabinets (on easy-to-pull-out casters) combine with pegboards for aesthetically pleasing storage that keeps gardening tools, outdoor equipment, and other essentials both close at hand and out of the way. A heavy-duty work surface and LED lighting make it easy to tackle almost any project at any time.

The passwordless future is rapidly becoming a reality as more than 200 companies have now added passkey support to their websites and apps. This significant milestone, revealed by the company behind 1Password, signals a growing shift towards more secure and convenient authentication methods.The list of companies implementing passkeys has doubled since last year, now including names such as Walmart, Amazon, Target, Playstation, Discord, and Canva. For 1Password, this range of adopters shows the versatility and appeal of passkey technology across various segments.For those unfamiliar, passkeys were introduced two years ago, and they replace traditional passwords with more secure authentication using a security key or biometrics. The technology was developed by FIDO Alliance in partnership with companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft.1Password is also a member of the FIDO Alliance, and the company has also revealed some interesting data on the adoption of passkeys among its users.For instance, more than 4.2 million passkeys have already been saved in 1Password, and there are an average of 2.1 million passkey authentications per month. 1 in 3.4 1Password customers have at least one passkey stored, and 73% of users with passkeys are consumer accounts.These adoption metrics arent just a major milestone for 1Password because were at the forefront of passwordless advocacy. Its a testament to the trust our customers place in 1Password to provide secure and reliable passkey support.As members of the FIDO Alliance, were committed to help even more individuals and businesses move away from passwords and embrace a safer and simpler future without them.Earlier this year, 1Password introduced a new Passkey Ready tool that helps web developers easily check whether their users are able to upgrade from conventional passwords to a passkey.The FIDO Alliance recently announced new specifications for passkeys that include support for easy import and export of keys between different password managers. When it comes to iOS, the feature has been available in Safari since iOS 16 and was expanded to third-party apps with iOS 17.You can find more details about the adoption of passkeys on the 1Password website.Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is availableon iTunes and Apples Podcasts app,Stitcher,TuneIn,Google Play, or through ourdedicated RSS feedfor Overcast and other podcast players.Sponsored by CardPointers: The best way to maximize your credit card rewards. 9to5Mac Daily listeners can exclusively save 50%.New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as theyre available.Stories discussed in this episode:Listen & Subscribe:Subscribe to support Chance directly with 9to5Mac Daily Plus and unlock:Ad-free versions of every episodeBonus contentCatch up on 9to5Mac Daily episodes!Dont miss out on our other daily podcasts:Share your thoughts!Drop us a line at happyhour@9to5mac.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show.Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Image by Getty / FuturismDevelopmentsAn unusual cosmetic surgery procedure that involves permanently changing the color of your eyes using tattoos soaring in popularity.As the Wall Street Journal reports, experts are warning that the procedure called keratopigmentation, or corneal tattooing could leave lasting damage.The procedure involves cutting a donut-like tunnel into the cornea of the eye. The surgeon then widens this tunnel and fills it with a special dye that immediately and permanently changes the color of the eye.Conventionally, the procedure has been used to correct a cosmetic disfigurement from an injury or disease, as The Guardian reports.For some patients, the procedure can reduce glare following corneal damage.But as the WSJ reports, European doctors began injecting dyes for solely cosmetic reasons in the 2010s."I see it as an enhancement," New Jersey resident Jason Jimenez, who underwent the procedure, told the newspaper. "People get their teeth done, they get implants and Botox. If its something that could make you happier, make you look better then why not?"The US Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve keratopgimentation as a procedure in the US. But that hasn't stopped surgeons from finding workarounds: some are using lasers designed for vision correction off-label and buying dyes from companies overseas where they're certified, the WSJ reports.Earlier this year, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) issued a public warning on the risks of eye color-changing surgeries, including "damage to the cornea that can lead to cloudiness" and "leakage of the dye into the eye."Other patients have reported an increased sensitivity to light, according to the WSJ."No surgery is free of risk," AAO clinical spokesperson JoAnn Giaconi in a statement at the time. "With purely cosmetic surgeries on the eye, its just not worth the risk when it comes to your good vision."Instead, patients seeking to change the color of their eyes should resort to far less invasive options, such as colored contact lenses, the AAO advises.More on cosmetic procedures: Expert Warns of Grim Consequences of New Cosmetic Surgery TrendShare This Article

"The only other figure with whom the president-elect is so submissive is Vladimir Putin."Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, MuskA body language expert assessed Elon Musk and Donald Trump's behavior around each other and concluded that the future president is acting uncharacteristically deferential around his star-crossed friend.Former police officer Darren Stanton analyzed a video of the pair at Musk's latest flatlined SpaceX rocket launch establishing that "only other figure with whom the president-elect is so submissive is Vladimir Putin.""Trump was very uneasy," Stanton said. "Usually, he comes over as this alpha male, the most empowered, most powerful person in the room." But on that blustery November day in Texas, Trump was "out of his depth his hands were just by his side like a mannequin."Big Dog on Capitol HillTo be clear, body language isn't exactly a reliable science. In fact, it hardly even exists; in 2023, a group of nonverbal communication researchers that "outside of gestures like OK signs and extended third fingers, there aren't the kinds of precise meanings [in nonverbal communication that] we see in language."That said, the vibes are unmistakable: Trump does appear uncharacteristically timid around Musk, a dynamic that might fuel his team's growing exasperation with Musk's overbearing presence.A member of Trump's inner circle reportedly complained recently that Musk has been "behaving as if he's a co-president," trying to "make President Trump feel indebted to him."And of course, Musk did unload around $200 million to get Trump into office so maybe it's no wonder that Trump would pause his usual hand flapping to act unusually docile in his presence."He was playing with his pockets, but he didn't put his hands in his pockets," Stanton told The Telegraph about the video of Musk and Trump. "Its the anxiety of not knowing what to do with [his] hands." Or, possibly, his presidency.Share This Article

Nov 20, 2024Ravie LakshmananPayment Security / CybercrimeThreat actors are increasingly banking on a new technique that leverages near-field communication (NFC) to cash out victim's funds at scale.The technique, codenamed Ghost Tap by ThreatFabric, enables cybercriminals to cash-out money from stolen credit cards linked to mobile payment services such as Google Pay or Apple Pay and relaying NFC traffic."Criminals can now misuse Google Pay and Apple Pay to transmit your tap-to-pay information globally within seconds," the Dutch security company told The Hacker News in a statement. "This means that even without your physical card or phone, they can make payments from your account anywhere in the world."These attacks typically work by tricking victims into downloading mobile banking malware that can capture their banking credentials and one-time passwords using an overlay attack or a keylogger. Alternatively, it can involve a voice phishing component.Once in possession of the card details, the threat actors move to link the card to Google Pay or Apple Pay. But in an attempt to avoid getting the cards blocked by the issuer, the tap-to-pay information is relayed to a mule, who is responsible for making fraudulent purchases at a store.This is accomplished by means of a legitimate research tool called NFCGate, which can capture, analyze, or modify NFC traffic. It can also be used to pass the NFC traffic between two devices using a server."One device operates as a 'reader' reading an NFC tag, the other device emulates an NFC tag using the Host Card Emulation (HCE)," according to researchers from the Secure Mobile Networking Lab at TU Darmstadt.While NFCGate has been previously put to use by bad actors to transmit the NFC information from victim's devices to the attacker, as documented by ESET back in August 2024 with NGate malware, the latest development marks the first time the tool is being misused to relay the data."Cybercriminals can establish a relay between a device with stolen card and PoS [point-of-sale] terminal at a retailer, staying anonymous and performing cash-outs on a larger scale," ThreatFabric noted."The cybercriminal with the stolen card can be far away from the location (even different country) where the card will be used as well as use the same card in multiple locations within a short period of time."The tactic offers more advantages in that it can be used to purchase gift cards at offline retailers without the cybercriminals having to be physically present. Even worse, it can be used to scale the fraudulent scheme by enlisting the help of several mules at different locations within a short span of time.Complicating the detection of Ghost Tap attacks is the fact that the transactions appear as if they are originating from the same device, thereby bypassing anti-fraud mechanisms. The device with the linked card can also be in airplane mode, which can complicate efforts to detect their actual location and that it was not actually used to make the transaction at the PoS terminal."We suspect that the evolution of networks with increasing speed of communication together with a lack of proper time-based detection on ATM/POS terminals made these attacks possible, where the actual devices with cards are physically located far away from the place where transaction is performed (device is not present at PoS or ATM)," ThreatFabric noted."With the ability to scale rapidly and operate under a cloak of anonymity, this cash-out method presents significant challenges for financial institutions and retail establishments alike."Found this article interesting? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.SHARE

Nov 20, 2024The Hacker NewsIdentity Security / Cyber DefenseThe frequency and sophistication of modern cyberattacks are surging, making it increasingly challenging for organizations to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure. When attackers compromise a non-human identity (NHI), they can swiftly exploit it to move laterally across systems, identifying vulnerabilities and compromising additional NHIs in minutes. While organizations often take months to detect and contain such breaches, rapid detection and response can stop an attack in its tracks.The Rise of Non-Human Identities in Cybersecurity By 2025, non-human identities will rise to be the primary attack vector in cybersecurity. As businesses increasingly automate processes and adopt AI and IoT technologies, the number of NHIs grows exponentially. While these systems drive efficiency, they also create an expanded attack surface for cybercriminals. NHIs differ fundamentally from human users, making traditional security tools like multi-factor authentication and user behavior analytics less effective. Attackers can impersonate NHIs, gaining unauthorized access to systems and bypassing conventional defenses. Moreover, AI models themselves are becoming targets for manipulation, enabling attackers to deceive detection mechanisms. With their scalability and efficiency, NHIs allow malicious actors to orchestrate large-scale breaches, exploit APIs, and launch sophisticated supply chain attacks.Introducing NHIDRRecognizing the unique challenges posed by NHIs, Entro developed Non-Human Identity Detection and Response (NHIDR) to address this critical security gap. NHIDR empowers organizations to proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with non-human identities by analyzing their behavior and detecting anomalies in real-time.At the heart of NHIDR is its ability to establish baseline behavioral models for each NHI using historical data. This eliminates the need for "soak time" or extended observation periods, accessing the data it needs immediately. Once these baselines are established, NHIDR continuously monitors NHIs, identifying deviations that indicate misuse, abuse, or compromise. Unlike static inventory-based methods, NHIDR ensures constant vigilance with dynamic, real-time analysis.Real-Time Detection and Automated Response Imagine this scenario: a cybercriminal in another country attempts to access sensitive secrets stored in your system. NHIDR detects the unauthorized activity instantly, flagging the anomaly and initiating an automated response. This could involve revoking access tokens, rotating credentials, or isolating the compromised identity. Simultaneously, NHIDR alerts your security team, enabling them to take swift, informed action. This proactive capability is vital for addressing day 0 threatsattacks that emerge before security teams have time to react. By automating the response process, NHIDR not only contains threats faster but also reduces the manual workload on security teams, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives rather than firefighting.Proactive Security for a New Era NHIDR represents a paradigm shift from reactive to proactive security. By continuously monitoring and analyzing NHIs and secrets, it ensures organizations can prevent breaches before they occur. Automated remediation processes, such as revoking compromised tokens, minimize downtime and enhance overall security posture.Conclusion NHIDR technology is revolutionizing cybersecurity by providing real-time detection, automated responses, and a proactive approach to securing non-human identities. With NHIDR, organizations can safeguard their assets, maintain compliance, and stay ahead of the threat landscape because when it comes to protecting critical systems, proactive defense is essential. Found this article interesting? This article is a contributed piece from one of our valued partners. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.SHARE

Lisa Morgan, Freelance WriterNovember 20, 20248 Min ReadEgor Kotenko via Alamy Stock Digital transformation changed the nature of the IT/business partnership. Specifically, IT has become a driving force in reducing operating costs, making the workforce more productive and improving value streams. These shifts are also reflected in the way IT is structured."When it comes to recruiting and attracting IT talent, it is time for IT leadership to shine. Their involvement in the process needs to be much more active to find the resources that teams need right now. And more than anything, its not the shiny new roles we are struggling to hire for. Its [the] on-prem network engineer and cloud architect you need to drive business outcomes right now. Its the cybersecurity analyst, says Brittany Lutes, research director at Info-Tech Research Group in an email interview.Most organizations arent sunsetting roles, she says. Instead, theyre more focused on retaining talent and ensuring that talent has the right skills and degree of competency in those skills.It takes time to hire new resources, ensure the institutional knowledge is understood, and then get those people to continue learning new skills or applications of the skills they were hired for, says Lutes. We are better off to retain people, explore opportunities to bring in new levels or job titles with HR to satisfy development desires, and understand what the new foundational and technical skills exist that we need to grow in our organization. We have opportunities to use technology in exciting new ways to make every role from CIO to the service desk analyst more efficient and more engaging. This year I think many organizations will work to embrace that.Related:Brittany Lutes, Info-Tech Research GroupBusiness and Technology Shifts Mean IT Changes?Julia Stalnaya, CEO and founder of B2B hiring platform Unbench, believes IT hiring in 2025 is poised for significant transformation, shaped by technological advancements, evolving workforce expectations and changing business needs.The 2024 layoffs across tech industries have introduced new dynamics into the hiring process for 2025. Companies [are] adapting to leaner staffing models increasingly turn to subcontracting and flexible hiring solutions, says Stalnaya.There are several drivers behind these changes. They include technological advancements such as data-driven recruitment, AI and automation.As a result of the pandemic, remote work expanded the talent pool beyond geographical boundaries, allowing companies to hire top talent from diverse locations. This trend necessitates more flexible work arrangements and a shift in how companies handle employee engagement and collaboration.Related:Skills-based hiring will focus more on specific skills and less on traditional qualifications. This reflects the need for targeted competencies aligned with business objectives, says Stalnaya. This trend is significant for roles in rapidly evolving fields like AI, cloud engineering and cybersecurity.Some traditional IT roles will continue to decline as AI takes on more routine tasks while other roles grow. She anticipates the following:AI specialists who work across departments to deploy intelligent systems that enhance productivity and innovationCybersecurity experts, including ethical hackers, cybersecurity analysts and cloud security specialists. In addition to protecting data, they will also help ensure compliance with security standards and develop strategies to safeguard against emerging threats.Data analysts and scientists who help the business leverage insights for strategic decision-makingBlockchain developers able to build decentralized solutionsHowever, organizations must invest in training and development and embrace flexible work options if they want to attract and keep talent, which may conflict with mandatory return to office (RTO) policies.Related:The 2024 layoffs have had a profound impact on the IT hiring landscape. With increased competition for fewer roles, companies now have access to a larger talent pool. Still, they must adapt their recruitment strategies to attract top candidates who are selective about company culture, flexibility and growth opportunities, says Stalnaya. This environment also highlights the importance of subcontracting.Julia Stalnaya, UnbenchGreg Goodin, managing director of talent solutions company EXOS TALENT expects companies to start hiring to get new R&D projects off the ground and to become more competitive.Dont expect it to bounce back to pandemic or necessarily pre-pandemic levels, says Goodin. IT as a career and industry has reached a maturation point where hypergrowth will be more of an outlier and more consistent 3% to 5% year-over-year growth [the norm]. Fiscal responsibility will become the expectation. Hiring trends will most likely run in parallel with this new cycle with compensation leveling out.Whats Changing, Why and How?Interest rates are higher than they have been in recent history, which has directly influenced companies' hiring practices. Not surprisingly, AI has also had an impact, making workforces more productive and reducing costs.Meanwhile, hiring has become more data-driven, enabling organizations to better understand what full-time and contingent labor they need.During the pandemic, companies continued to hire, even if they didnt have a plan for what the new talent would be doing, according to Goodin.This led to a hoarding of employees and spending countless unnecessary dollars to have people essentially doing nothing, says Goodin. This was one of many reasons companies started to reset their workforce with mass layoffs. Expect more thoughtful, data-driven hiring practices to make sure an ROI is being realized for each employee [hired].The IT talent shortage persists, so universities and bootcamps have been attempting to churn out talent thats aligned with market needs. Companies have also had more options, such as hiring internationally, including H-1B visas.Technology moves at a rapid pace, so it is important to maintain an open mind to new ways of solving problems, while not jumping the gun on a passing fad, says Goodin. Continue to invest in your existing workforce and upskill them, when possible. This will lead to better employee engagement [and] decreased costs associated with hiring and training up new talent into your organization.Soft-skills such as communication, character, and emotional quotient will all be that much more coveted in a world utilizing AI and automation to supplement human-beings, he says.IT and the Business IT has always supported the business, but its role is now more of a partnership and a thought leader when it comes to succeeding in an increasingly tech-fueled business environment.By 2025, I believe IT hiring will reflect a new paradigm as the line between IT and other business functions continues to blur, driven by AIs growing role in daily operations. Instead of being confined to back office support, IT will become a foundational aspect of strategic business operations, blending into departments like marketing, finance, and HR. This blur will likely accelerate next year, with roles and responsibilities traditionally managed by IT -- like data security, process automation and analytics -- becoming collaborative efforts with other departments, says Etoulia Salas-Burnett, director of the Center for Digital Business at Howard University. In an email interview This shift demands IT professionals who can bridge technical expertise with business strategy, making the boundary between IT and other business functions increasingly indistinct.In 2025, she believes several newer roles will become more common, including AI integration specialists, AI ethics and compliance officer, digital transformation strategist and automation success managers. Waning titles include help desk technician and network administrator, she says.Stephen Thompson, former VP of Talent at Docusign says the expansion of cloud services and serverless architectures has driven costs up, absorbing a growing portion of IT budgets. In some cases, server expenses rival the total cost of all employees at certain companies.Enterprise organizations are actively seeking integrations with platforms like Salesforce, ServiceNow, and SAP. The serverless shift and the continuous need for integration engineers have required IT departments to evolve, becoming stronger engineering partners and application developers for critical in-house systems in sales, marketing, and HR, says Thompson in an email interview. As a result, 2025 may resemble the 2012 to 2015 period, with new technologies promising growth, and a high demand for scalable engineering expertise. Companies will seek software engineers who not only maintain but also optimize system performance, ensuring a significant return on investment. These professionals turn the seemingly impossible into reality, saving IT departments millions in the process.Green Tech Will Become More PopularFrom smaller AI models to biodegradable and recycled packaging, tech is necessarily becoming greener.We are already seeing many companies review their carbon footprint and prioritize sustainability projects, in response to climate change [and] customer and client demand. CIOs and other tech leaders will likely face more pressure to prove their sustainability and green plans within their IT projects, says Matt Collingwood, founder & managing director at VIQU IT Recruitment. This may include legacy systems needing to be phased out, tracking energy consumption across the business and supply chain, and more. In turn, this will create an increasing demand for IT roles within infrastructure, systems engineering and development.In the meantime, organizations should be mindful about algorithmic and human bias in hiring.Organizations need to make sure that they are hiring inclusively, says Collingwood. This means anonymizing CVs to reduce chances of unconscious bias, as well as putting job adverts through a gender decoder to ensure the business is not inadvertently putting off great female tech professionals.About the AuthorLisa MorganFreelance WriterLisa Morgan is a freelance writer who covers business and IT strategy and emergingtechnology for InformationWeek. She has contributed articles, reports, and other types of content to many technology, business, and mainstream publications and sites including tech pubs, The Washington Post and The Economist Intelligence Unit. Frequent areas of coverage include AI, analytics, cloud, cybersecurity, mobility, software development, and emerging cultural issues affecting the C-suite.See more from Lisa MorganNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also LikeReportsMore Reports