CYBERSECURITY BRIEF — 11 February 2026
INTRODUCTION
This daily cybersecurity report provides an overview of the latest threats, vulnerabilities, notable attacks, prevailing cybersecurity trends, and updates specific to Africa. By analyzing articles from reputable sources such as The Hacker News, KrebsOnSecurity, Security Week, NVD, and regional cybersecurity outlets including MyBroadband, ITWeb, and IT News Africa, this report aims to keep readers informed and vigilant in an evolving threat landscape.
LATEST VULNERABILITIES AND THREATS
CVE-2026–21510: Windows Shell Security Flaw
Microsoft disclosed a critical zero-day vulnerability affecting Windows Shell (CVE-2026–21510). This security feature bypass allows attackers to exploit a malicious link, running unauthorized content without user consent. The flaw impacts all supported versions of Windows and has been exploited in real-world scenarios.
[Read more: See Footnote 1]
Over 60 Security Vulnerabilities Addressed on Patch Tuesday
Microsoft released patches for 59 vulnerabilities, including six zero-days. Critical flaws include privilege escalation in Windows components and code injection bugs in third-party software like SAP CRM and SAP S/4HANA. Adobe, Intel, AMD, and other tech giants also rolled out security updates for multiple severe vulnerabilities.
[Read more: See Footnote 2]
Fortinet Patches High-Severity Bugs
Fortinet addressed multiple high-severity vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to execute malicious commands and bypass authentication without user intervention. [Read more: See Footnote 3]
NOTABLE ATTACKS
Warlock Ransomware Breach at SmarterTools
A Warlock ransomware group breached SmarterTools by exploiting an unpatched SmarterMail server. The attack affected multiple servers, exposing vulnerabilities in unupdated systems. The breach is a reminder of the critical importance of applying security patches promptly.
[Read more: See Footnote 4]
Scattered Lapsus ShinyHunters Continue Harassment Tactics
This notorious ransomware group employs a mix of extortion methods, including harassing executives, issuing threats to families, and swatting. Victims are urged not to pay ransoms to these unreliable hackers, known for escalating psychological attacks despite payment.
[Read more: See Footnote 5]
CYBERSECURITY TRENDS
The Rise of Long-Term Threats
Recent reports suggest attackers are pivoting from disruptive attacks like ransomware to subtler, long-term access techniques aimed at quietly exploiting credentials and trusted infrastructure. Dubbed "Digital Parasites," these attackers focus on persistence and exploitation rather than immediate visibility.
[Read more: See Footnote 6]
Increasing Scrutiny on AI in Cybersecurity
New AI-enabled threats and defensive strategies are reshaping the role of CISOs. A recent ITWeb report highlights how South Africa's cybersecurity leaders are adjusting budgets and strategies to tackle the challenges of AI-related cyber risks.
[Read more: See Footnote 7]
CYBERSECURITY NEWS FOR AFRICA
Open Access Data Centre Expansion in South Africa
Open Access Data Centres has expanded significantly with a strategic acquisition of seven NTT data centers across South Africa. This indicates an increasing demand for advanced and localized IT infrastructure on the continent.
[Read more: See Footnote 8]
South Africa Braces for Electricity Price Impact on Cybersecurity Budgets
South African enterprises face mounting energy costs, likely to impact their ability to allocate resources for cybersecurity investments. Long-term financial planning is crucial for maintaining robust cyber defenses amidst this challenge.
[Read more: See Footnote 9]
INDUSTRY NEWS
ZAST.AI Raises $6M to Enhance AI-Powered Code Security
ZAST.AI, a leader in AI-driven code security, raised $6 million in funding to expand its "zero false positive" security solutions, signaling continued industry investment in artificial intelligence to combat software vulnerability threats.
[Read more: See Footnote 10]
GitGuardian Secures $50 Million for Security Investments
GitGuardian raised another $50 million to advance its efforts in secrets detection and non-human identity security. The funding highlights a growing focus on mitigating risks posed by automation and cloud services.
[Read more: See Footnote 11]
CLOSING STATEMENT
Staying informed about emerging threats, notable attacks, and advancements in cybersecurity is critical in this ever-evolving digital age. Vigilance, strategic investment, and adaptive strategies are key to navigating today’s complex cybersecurity landscape.
FOOTNOTES
1. [CVE-2026–21510 — The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2026/02/apt36-and-sidecopy-launch-cross.html) 2. [Microsoft Patches — KrebsOnSecurity](https://krebsonsecurity.com/2026/02/patch-tuesday-february-2026-edition/#more-73188) 3. [Vulnerabilities Fixed by Fortinet — Security Week](https://www.securityweek.com/fortinet-patches-high-severity-vulnerabilities/) 4. [Warlock Ransomware Breach — The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2026/02/warlock-ransomware-breaches.html) 5. [Scattered Lapsus Harassment — KrebsOnSecurity](https://krebsonsecurity.com/2026/02/patch-tuesday-february-2026-edition/#more-73188) 6. [Trend: Digital Parasites — The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2026/02/from-ransomware-to-residency-inside.html) 7. [AI Evolution Threats — ITWeb](https://www.itweb.co.za/categories/pXnWJadMba7bjO1e) 8. [Expansion by Open Access Data Centers — MyBroadband](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/industrynews/628783-open-access-data-centres-expands-footprint-with-strategic-acquisition-of-seven-ntt-data-centres-across-south-africa.html) 9. [Energy Crisis in Cybersecurity Resourcing — MyBroadband](https://mybroadband.co.za/news/industrynews/628529-special-electricity-price-discounts-under-fire-in-south-africa.html) 10. [ZAST.AI Secures Pre-A Funding — The Hacker News](https://thehackernews.com/2026/02/zastai-raises-6m-pre-to-scale-zero.html) 11. [GitGuardian Raises $50M — Security Week](https://www.securityweek.com/gitguardian-raises-50-million-for-secrets-and-non-human-identity-security/)