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.
