Podcast Summary: Cyber Security Headlines

Host: Steve Prentiss, CISO Series
Episode: Asahi ransomware details, California browser law, Windows Teams accelerated
Date: December 1, 2025

Overview

This episode of Cyber Security Headlines delivers a rapid update on key information security developments as of December 1, 2025. The episode covers the specifics of the high-profile Asahi ransomware attack, a significant new California privacy law affecting web browsers nationwide, Microsoft Teams enhancements, and other news such as a French Soccer Federation data breach and the notable role of data centers in a Virginia legislative campaign. Each story is concisely examined with broader context and potential impacts discussed.

Key Stories and Discussion Points

1. Actively Exploited XSS Bug Added to CISA's KEV Catalog

[00:07 – 01:05]

• What happened:
  CISA has identified a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in OpenPLC SCADA BR and added it to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, following evidence of active exploitation by a pro-Russian hacktivist group (“twonet”).
• Potential impact:
  The flaw affects both Windows and Linux systems through the SystemsSetting.shtm file and has a CVSS score of 5.4.
  The attack was notable for hackers mistaking a security honeypot for a water treatment facility.

2. Asahi Ransomware Attack Details

[01:05 – 01:46]

• Incident summary:
  Japanese brewer Asahi revealed that an October ransomware attack may have exposed the personal information (PII) of 1.5 million customers, plus thousands of employees, their families, and contacts — but not credit card data.
• Operational impact:
  The attack disrupted production, delayed product launches, and interfered with order processing and shipping across Japan.
• Containment:
  No evidence yet of data being published online, and the company notes the breach seems confined to systems in Japan.
• Memorable quote:
  “The impact appears limited to systems managed in Japan.”
  — Steve Prentiss [01:30]

3. Groundbreaking California Browser Law Could Have National Impact

[01:46 – 02:31]

• Law details:
  California’s Consumer Privacy Act now requires all web browsers to provide a one-click, turnkey option for users to opt out of data sharing and sales, effective January 1, 2027.
• National ramifications:
  While California-specific, the browser update is expected to reach all American users, potentially providing tens of millions with an easier path to protect their privacy when browsing.
• Memorable quote:
  “Tens of millions of consumers, including those outside of California, may benefit.”
  — Steve Prentiss [02:25]

4. Windows 11 Password Icon Issue

[02:31 – 03:04]

• Issue:
  Since August updates, Windows 11 users may notice the password sign-in option is missing from the lock screen, although the functionality is still present.
• Workaround:
  The password icon is revealed by hovering over the expected area, but no fix timeline from Microsoft yet.
• Quote:
  “Microsoft has yet to provide a timeline for the fix.”
  — Steve Prentiss [03:03]

5. Microsoft Teams Desktop Client Acceleration

[03:42 – 04:22]

• Update:
  A new Teams call handler (ms.teamsmodulehost.exe) will be rolled out in January, designed to speed up launch times and improve call quality on Windows.
• Admin action:
  IT administrators are advised to allow list the new process to avoid false positives in security systems.
• Benefits:
  “Enhance meeting experiences without requiring additional end user training.”
  — Steve Prentiss [04:13]

6. French Soccer Federation Data Breach

[04:23 – 04:51]

• Incident:
  Attackers stole personal data (PII) from members via a compromised administrative management software account.
• Scope:
  The number of impacted individuals was not disclosed.

7. Virginia Legislative Race Focuses on Data Centers

[04:52 – 05:50]

• Political outcome:
  John McAuliffe won a seat in Virginia’s legislature, with voter concerns over data centers and associated electricity costs as a key campaign issue.
• Broader implications:
  Loudoun County hosts the world’s densest cluster of data centers, central to U.S. internet infrastructure, but imposing costs and disturbances on local communities.
• Notable quote:
  “[This is] an artificial tax on everyday Virginians to benefit Amazon, Google, and some of the companies with the biggest market caps in human history…we need to do a much, much better job of extracting those benefits because the companies can afford them.”
  — Steve Prentiss, quoting McAuliffe [05:37]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 5.4 and it's a cross site scripting flaw that affects Windows and Linux versions…”
  — Steve Prentiss [00:16]
• “The attack forced production shutdowns, delayed product launches and disrupted order processing and shipping nationwide.”
  — Steve Prentiss [01:41]
• “California law regulating Web browsers might impact national data privacy…”
  — Steve Prentiss [01:46]
• “IT admins are advised to prepare for the change by allow listing the new process…”
  — Steve Prentiss [04:17]
• McAuliffe on data centers: “...an artificial tax on everyday Virginians to benefit Amazon, Google, and some of the companies with the biggest market caps in human history.”
  — Quoted by Steve Prentiss [05:36]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Active XSS bug (OpenPLC): [00:07 – 01:05]
• Asahi ransomware: [01:05 – 01:46]
• California privacy law: [01:46 – 02:31]
• Windows 11 password issue: [02:31 – 03:04]
• Microsoft Teams sped up: [03:42 – 04:22]
• French Soccer Federation breach: [04:23 – 04:51]
• Virginia data centers and election: [04:52 – 05:50]

Overall Tone and Style

The episode stays crisp, factual, and focused, delivering technical and policy updates for business and security professionals. Steve Prentiss maintains a professional and direct tone, emphasizing actionable facts and the broader context behind each headline.

For full details and to explore any of these stories further, visit CISOseries.com.