References

1. Ubuntu Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Ubuntu Documentation
2. Red Hat Enterprise Linux Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Red Hat Enterprise Linux Documentation
3. SUSE Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from SUSE Documentation
4. KVM Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from KVM Documentation
5. Xen Project Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Xen Project Documentation
6. Proxmox VE Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Proxmox VE Documentation
7. Microsoft Hyper-V Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Microsoft Hyper-V Documentation
8. Rear Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Rear Documentation
9. Veeam Documentation. (n.d.). Retrieved from Veeam Documentation

Introduction

In the world of cloud computing, automation is key. Cloud-init is one of the critical tools in Ubuntu that facilitates this automation. It plays a vital role in the initial configuration of cloud instances, enabling seamless and efficient setup processes. This article will explore cloud-init, its purpose, and how you can disable it to suppress unwanted console messages.

What is Cloud-Init?

Cloud-init is an open-source tool designed to initialize and configure cloud instances. It is used to automate the process of bootstrapping and configuring cloud instances when they are first launched. Cloud-init supports a variety of cloud platforms, including AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and OpenStack.

Key Features:
– Automated Initialization: Cloud-init automatically handles the initial setup of cloud instances, such as setting hostnames, configuring network interfaces, and managing SSH keys.
– Script Execution: It can execute user-provided scripts, allowing for customized instance configuration.
– Package Installation: Cloud-init can install and configure software packages during the boot process.
– Configuration Management: It supports various configuration formats, including YAML, JSON, and cloud-config.

Purpose of Cloud-Init

The primary purpose of cloud-init is to streamline the process of provisioning and configuring cloud instances. By automating initial setup tasks, cloud-init saves time and reduces the potential for human error. Here are some specific purposes:

1. Initial Configuration:
Cloud-init performs essential setup tasks like setting the hostname, creating user accounts, and configuring network settings.

2. Software Installation:
It can install and configure necessary software packages, ensuring that the instance is ready to use immediately after launch.

3. Security Setup:
Cloud-init manages SSH keys, allowing secure and automated access to instances.

4. Custom Scripting:
Users can provide custom scripts to execute specific tasks, enabling tailored configurations for different environments.

Disabling Cloud-Init to Suppress Unwanted Console Messages

While cloud-init is highly useful, there may be scenarios where you want to disable it. For instance, you might experience unwanted console messages that clutter your logs or interfere with other processes. Disabling cloud-init can help in these situations.

For safety, ensure you have a reliable backup/snapshot of the instance, whether bare metal or virtualised, before proceeding.

Steps to Disable Cloud-Init:

1. Check Cloud-Init Status:
Before disabling cloud-init, it’s a good idea to check its status to understand the stages running.

sudo cloud-init status

2. Create a Cloud-Init Disable Configuration File:
Create a file named cloud-init.disabled in the /etc/cloud directory. This file will signal cloud-init to disable itself.

sudo touch /etc/cloud/cloud-init.disabled

3. Mask Cloud-Init Services:
Masking the cloud-init services will prevent them from running at startup.

sudo systemctl mask cloud-init
sudo systemctl mask cloud-init-local
sudo systemctl mask cloud-config
sudo systemctl mask cloud-final

4. Remove Cloud-Init Package (Optional):
If you prefer to completely remove cloud-init, you can uninstall the package. This step is optional and should be done with caution.

sudo apt-get purge cloud-init

5. Clean Up Cloud-Init Artifacts:
Remove any cloud-init related directories and files to clean up the system.

sudo rm -rf /etc/cloud /var/lib/cloud

6. Reboot the Instance:
Finally, reboot the instance to apply the changes.

sudo reboot

Conclusion

Cloud-init is a powerful tool that simplifies the initial configuration of cloud instances in Ubuntu. Its automation capabilities make it indispensable in cloud environments. However, there may be times when you need to disable it to prevent unwanted console messages or for other reasons. Following the abovementioned steps, you can effectively disable cloud-init and suppress these messages.

Understanding and managing tools like cloud-init can significantly enhance your efficiency and control in cloud computing environments. Whether you choose to use or disable cloud-init, this knowledge ensures you can tailor your cloud instances to meet your specific needs.

References

• Cloud-init. (n.d.). Retrieved from cloudinit.readthedocs.io
• Ubuntu. (n.d.). Cloud-Init. Retrieved from ubuntu.com
• Red Hat Customer Portal. (n.d.). Introduction to cloud-init. Retrieved from access.redhat.com
• DigitalOcean. (2020, May 12). How To Use Cloud-Init to Automate Initial Server Setup on Ubuntu 20.04. Retrieved from digitalocean.com
• Canonical. (n.d.). Cloud-init at Canonical. Retrieved from ubuntu.com

OpenSSH (Open Secure Shell) is an integral part of securing communications over untrusted networks. It provides a suite of secure networking utilities based on the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol. One of its primary components is the SSH server, or `sshd`, which allows remote users to connect securely to a host machine. Despite its robustness and widespread use, like any software, OpenSSH is not immune to vulnerabilities. One such critical vulnerability is the Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in the `sshd` component. This article delves into the nature of this vulnerability, its potential impact, and the measures to mitigate such security risks.

The Nature of the RCE Vulnerability

An RCE vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a remote system. In the context of OpenSSH’s `sshd`, this means that an attacker can potentially run malicious code on the server hosting the SSH service, gaining unauthorized access and control.

The specific RCE vulnerability in `sshd` typically arises from a flaw in the software’s handling of certain data inputs. This flaw can be exploited by sending specially crafted packets to the `sshd` server, which then processes them in a way that allows the attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code. The consequences of such an exploit are severe, ranging from data breaches to the complete compromise of the affected system.

Impact of the Vulnerability

1. Unauthorized Access: Attackers can gain unauthorized access to the server, bypassing authentication mechanisms. This can lead to the exposure of sensitive information stored on the server.

2. Privilege Escalation: Once access is gained, attackers can escalate their privileges, potentially gaining root access and full control over the system.

3. Data Theft and Loss: Compromised systems can lead to data breaches, where sensitive data is stolen or maliciously altered.

4. System Disruption: Attackers can disrupt normal operations, causing downtime and impacting the availability of services provided by the server.

5. Propagation of Malware: Compromised servers can be used to propagate malware, spreading infections to other systems connected to the network.

Mitigation Strategies

1. Timely Updates and Patching: The primary defense against such vulnerabilities is to keep OpenSSH and all other software up-to-date. Vendors regularly release patches that fix known vulnerabilities. Administrators should apply these patches promptly.

2. Configuration Hardening: Properly configuring `sshd` to minimize exposure to potential attacks is crucial. This includes disabling unused features, using strong authentication mechanisms, and restricting access to the SSH service using firewall rules and access control lists.

3. Network Segmentation: By segmenting the network, administrators can limit the potential impact of a compromised server. Critical systems should be isolated to prevent lateral movement by attackers.

4. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implementing IDS can help detect suspicious activities related to the exploitation of vulnerabilities. Alerts from these systems enable administrators to respond quickly to potential threats.

5. Regular Security Audits: Conducting regular security audits and vulnerability assessments helps in identifying and mitigating potential security issues before they can be exploited by attackers.

6. Use of Security Tools: Utilizing tools like Fail2Ban can help in preventing brute-force attacks on the `sshd` service by temporarily banning IP addresses that exhibit malicious behavior.


The RCE vulnerability in OpenSSH’s `sshd` underscores the importance of vigilance in cybersecurity practices. While OpenSSH remains a cornerstone of secure network communications, its widespread use makes it a prime target for attackers. By understanding the nature of such vulnerabilities and implementing robust mitigation strategies, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation and maintain the integrity and security of their systems. Regular updates, proper configuration, and continuous monitoring are essential components of an effective security posture in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Recall recedes into the shroud of insider previews…for now.

Are there merits or specific use cases? Does the benefit outweigh the risk to sensitive data?

Amidst the concerns and feedback from our home, small business, and enterprise users, Microsoft has decided to make a significant shift. Previously, a preview experience was broadly available for Copilot+ PCs, but Recall will now be available first in the Windows Insider Program (WIP). The change, set to take effect in the coming weeks, ushers in a new phase in our product development process. We value your input and are making this change based on your needs, promising a more tailored and user-centric experience for you, our valued users.

Microsoft plans to collect feedback from Windows Insiders to make Recall more secure before releasing it more broadly. However, because of Recall’s hardware requirements, Windows Insiders will still need a Copilot+ PC to test drive the feature, so that at least presents a small barrier to entry.

Like any CMS, Comedian’s with various vices or humans with a disposition for distrust,

The more elements in play, the more potential security issues/attack vectors, more moving parts.We can’t fix everything, all the time, but we get pretty close. If you can stop your kids naturally selecting themselves before their 30’s, anything else should be a cakewalk.

https://thehackernews.com/2023/05/new-vulnerability-in-popular-wordpress.html

https://ithemes.com/blog/wordpress-vulnerability-report-may-31-2023/

Users of Advanced Custom Fields plugin for WordPress are being urged to update version 6.1.6 following the discovery of a security flaw.

The issue, assigned the identifier CVE-2023-30777, relates to a case of reflected cross-site scripting (XSS) that could be abused to inject arbitrary executable scripts into otherwise benign websites.

CCNA vs CISSP vs CEH vs OSCP.

CCNA is a pretty good stepping stone, and so is multi-vendor exposure.
Over the last two decades, it’s either been a case of attaining the CCNA or progress up the Cisco food chain.

CISSP, if you feel the need, honestly lots of pros and cons if it fits your aspirations.

CEH entry-level view from the top, or so the legend goes

OSCP; Some of the best security practitioners with an ability to disseminate knowledge and inspire generations, young and old.

https://www.simplilearn.com/oscp-vs-ceh-article

Highly recommended read.

Where ever you are in the world right now, what ever the circumstances, We hope you are ok. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43352954-this-is-how-you-lose-the-time-war

Great concept, execution, maybe not so much. 

https://seeken.org/how-to-deal-with-idiots-and-jerks-5-simple-tricks/#:~:text=Don’t%20hyper%20yourself%20by,they%20and%20their%20words%20don

Knowledge is power, be cautious always.

https://www.hotspotvpn.co/post/social-engineering-playing-with-mind-games

https://www.tecmint.com/mysql-mariadb-security-best-practices-for-linux/

https://mariadb.com/docs/deploy/best-practices/

Feeling at odds dedicating resources to MariaDB certification, when there’s other platforms with Exam options on Pearson Vue.

https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/10734-database-certifications.html

Depending on the demand, this may vary. MariaDB is quite prolific in the web hosting space at time of writing.

Redhat have a clean, comprehensive guide to MariaDB deployment.  

https://access.redhat.com/documentation/zh-cn/red_hat_enterprise_linux/8/html/deploying_different_types_of_servers/using-databases

We highly recommend Threatpost, below is a ranking of 45 of the best sites for IT security news.

Microsoft Zero-Days, Wormable Bugs Spark Concern

https://blog.feedspot.com/cyber_security_news_websites/

There a myriad of various news sites and forums and honestly the more you read, the better the overall scope and clarity in perspective.