NEWS
HP Security Report: AI-driven malware pressure intensifies
HP’s March 2026 Threat Insights Report has revealed how cybercriminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence and modular malware to scale attacks, with many prioritising speed and low cost over sophistication, yet still managing to bypass traditional security defences. According to the report, threat actors are assembling campaigns using ‘flat pack’ malware components purchased from hacker forums. These modular tools allow attackers to rapidly build, customise and deploy malware campaigns using reusable scripts and installers. Multiple threat groups are using similar building blocks, enabling them to launch attacks with minimal effort. The report identifies the growing use of AI-generated infection scripts, referred to as “vibe-hacking”. In one example, attackers used a fake invoice PDF containing a malicious link that silently
downloaded malware before redirecting the victim to a legitimate site, helping disguise the attack. In another campaign, attackers used malicious advertisements and search engine poisoning to direct victims to spoofed Teams websites. When users install the software, hidden Oyster Loader malware piggybacks on the installation process, infecting the device while the legitimate application appears to install normally. Alex Holland, Principal Threat Research, HP Security Lab, said: “It’s the classic project management triangle – speed, quality and cost. You often sacrifice one of them. What we’re seeing is many attackers are optimising for speed and cost, not quality. They are not using AI to raise the bar; they’re using it to move faster and reduce effort. The campaigns themselves are basic but the uncomfortable reality is they still work.” n
HP Wolf Security Threat Insights Report March 2026
TD SYNNEX appointed platinum partner for VIAVI Solutions
TD SYNNEX has been appointed as Platinum Partner/Distributor for VIAVI Solutions in the UK & Ireland, giving partners the opportunity to offer the company’s network performance and threat exposure monitoring and forensics services to their enterprise customers. Partners will also have access to VIAVI Solutions’ verifiable auditing tools for compliance regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, NIS2 and SOX. VIAVI Solutions will benefit from TD SYNNEX’s reach into the UK and Ireland marketplace and its established relationships with partners active in key industries, such as finance, utilities, transportation, healthcare and oil and gas exploration, in which forensic monitoring of critical infrastructure, deep packet analysis and strong regulatory compliance are essential. As a VIAVI Platinum Partner/Distributor, TD SYNNEX
can deliver the higher levels of technical understanding and support required in these complex markets. “To compete effectively, enterprises need all elements of their infrastructure – both on-premises and cloud – to be running smoothly and be certain that they are fully compliant with key industry regulations,” said Jon Sawdon, business unit director, enterprise networking, Advanced Solutions, UK and Ireland, TD SYNNEX. “VIAVI Solutions gives partners a superior capability to manage the entire network and cloud environment. With full visibility of any current or pending issues that could impact speed, responsiveness, or security, they can ensure fast, safe and uninterrupted performance. At a time when attacks on networks are increasing in volume and sophistication, this can be a key differentiator for partners.” n
Jon Sawdon
uk.tdsynnex.com
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