Google Drive Vulnerability

I just learned of a malware exploit that can permanently destroy files saved in a sync folder attached to Google Drive -- encrypting the files on the cloud with no backup.

Details:
A relative received a spear fishing email that induced him to open an attachment. The malware proceeded to encrypt files on his local drive, most of which were in his Google Drive sync folder. He soon realized the problem and shut down the computer, but not before it had encrypted many files. 

On logging into his Google Drive from a browser on another computer, we found that many files in the cloud were encrypted. When inspecting them for versions (within 24-36 hours of the attack) – there were no previous versions. There were no copies of the files in Trash on the Google Drive. We contacted Google, whose technician reported that there had been no files permanently deleted from Trash in the last 25 Days! Thus, the malware attacking the local sync folder had succeeded in not merely encrypting the local copy, but reached into the cloud and removed the cloud version of the unencrypted file in a way that did not allow its recovery. (Alternative interpretation might be that Google has a way of recognizing when you encrypt a file and removes the unencrypted version as a security feature – but does not log this event.)

The bigger issue is that Google has no way to restore the drive to a previous time point. Had these files been on an old fashioned network file server that was backed up to tape each night, an archived time point could have been restored. Apparently, this is not possible with the cloud as offered via Google. The problem has been escalated at Google to a second level and we hope to hear back in a couple of days. I’m not expecting much.

What can you do to avoid getting the flu?

Here I am talking with Ray Suarez on HITN listing the basic stuff -- we don't know how flu is transmitted, so if you want to reduce your chances 1) wash your hands frequently (and don't touch your face), 2) stay as far away from sick people as possible, and c) wear a respirator if you have to get near sick people. Also, keep the windows open or otherwise get as much dilution ventilation as possible (either outside air or HEPA filtered air unless you have very special UV lights).

Why EVERYONE who can should get the swine flu vaccine

Here are my thoughts, as expressed to Ray Suarez on Destination Casa Blanca, back in December. What you don't see here is that I was responding to comments by another panelist who argued that it is really just an individual decision -- I should take the shot only if it is good for ME. Good old American Me Me Me. No though of my children, my grandparents, much less my neighbor.

House Overwhelmingly Rejects Goldstone Report On Gaza War Crimes | Media Matters Action Network

House Overwhelmingly Rejects Goldstone Report On Gaza War Crimes | Media Matters Action Network

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The Starr, Reich, Kuttner Debate on Health Care Reform

If these three cannot agree ... how can we expect Democrats in congress to sing from one score?

I tend to agree with Kuttner. The public option gets weaker with each day, increasingly more complex (and hard to understand or sell), and easier for insurance companies to game. We need to get some single payer skin in the game -- that could keep the public option honest.

I'm having to choose new insurance plans for Diane and myself in Maryland. I note they all have a "lifetime cap" -- so if either of us gets AML and needs a bone marrow transplant -- tough cookies. I'm not happy with my medical insurance options. I doubt any survey that says most people are.

Preventing AIDS in Iran is a crime

Besides the terrible news of recent HSPH grads being given years in prison, accused of being US agents because they are using proven public health measures to prevent the spread of HIV, this article is interesting for its note that WHO claims that Iran has the highest rate of heroin addiction in the world. I suppose living in a theocracy is tough -- many need an escape.

Swine flu -- What to do?

The CDC recommendations are very good. I have only a few things to add -- open the windows and if you are infected or could be infected, wear a surgical mask to protect your friends and family. Our research shows that surgical masks partially limit the shedding of virus into respiratory droplets. There is a lot of debate in the scientific community about whether influenza A viruses are transmitted by fine particle aerosols or just by large droplets and touching. It is time to be prudent -- consider aerosol transmission likely and take steps to limit it.

1. Open the windows at home.
2. Maximize dilution ventilation in mechanically ventilated buildings
3. Hold classes and religious services outdoors when possible.
4. If you have contacted someone with the flu, wear a surgical mask to limit spreading it to your family and friends.

Good sources of reliable information
For parents: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/parents.htm
In general on pandemic flu: http://www.pandemicflu.gov/