Russia targeting your messaging apps

From sophisticated Russian intelligence campaigns targeting your everyday messaging apps to the rise of AI-driven "prompt poaching," the message this week is clear: vigilance is no longer optional. In this edition, we dive into the FBI and CISA’s latest warnings, explore the shifting frontlines of vehicle cybersecurity, and look at how the humble phone call has officially become the new phishing frontier. Whether you’re securing your home router or navigating the new reality of AI-generated scams, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Don't let the noise dull your instincts—stay alert, stay skeptical, and stay secure.

AuthorAuthorAuthor

Daniel Masterson, Ai Courtrie Buson & Bard Gee
March 27, 2026

HX Weekly
by Hexagon Center

for the week of March 22, 2026, 114th edition

Your quick weekend update and reminder.
☝️ TWA

Regardless of the messaging applications you utilize—and it is probable that you use multiple—it is imperative to exercise caution not only when logging into these platforms but also in scrutinizing the messages you receive.

🤷‍♀️ What now?: In the next couple of sections, you will learn the various ways to protect yourself.

Echos: Remember last week’s DUAL Story – Cybercrime up 245% since Iran conflict – CISA official: no uptick in cyber threats amid Iran war

about this edition and Inside Hexagon

Looks like 2026 is in full swing with a lot going on in the news. Attackers seem to know this is a good time to pounce. Make it a challenge for them to do so. Always be on the alert. Be careful of being too gullible.

Are you following on Tech Term Tuesday on our YouTube channel? We are developing T3 for the next few weeks to bring you something that’s appealing and consistent. Let us know what you want to see and if you have any suggestions on how we can make it better. Visit the home of T3 at youtube.com/@hexagoncenter

HOUSEKEEPING

Glossary/Legend:

  • Zero Trust - a strategic cybersecurity framework based on the principle of "never trust, always verify," requiring strict identity authentication and authorization for every user and device, whether inside or outside the network perimeter. It assumes breach, removes implicit trust, and employs granular, least-privilege access controls to protect resources. 

  • Holistic security - a comprehensive strategy that integrates various protection layers—physical, digital, psycho-social, and organizational—to safeguard individuals, communities, or systems, recognizing that true security involves overall well-being, not just isolated technical defenses.

  1. Personal Identifier - A unique word or phrase shared exclusively with an individual or a group, serving as a means of identification and affirmation within the established relationship. It is recommended that 2 or more Personal Identifiers be established per person.

  2. Malware (short for malicious software) - refers to any intrusive software developed by cybercriminals (often called hackers) to steal data and damage or destroy computers and computer systems.

  3. Ransomware - A type of malware that locks or encrypts a victim's files and demands a ransom payment to unlock and decrypt them. Ransomware can infect a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, printers, and more.

Privacy Notice: HX Weekly and the Hexagon Center are committed to your digital security. We do not collect, track, or store any personal information from our subscribers beyond the email address provided for delivery.

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Even though we aim to provide you the most current and critical information to keep you safe, threat actors work 24/7 and this newsletter publishes only once a week. Even though we are available via a hotline, it is crucial that you stay up to date via other sources as well to be informed on how you may be at risk.

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DISCLAIMER

Cybersecurity is an ever-changing field, and threats may evolve. While Hexagon Center strives to provide accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee absolute security. Users are responsible for implementing their security measures and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity developments. Hexagon Center is not responsible for any cyber or scam attacks by our readers. HX Weekly tips are advice are not official positions of Hexagon Center nor is Hexagon Center responsible for its content.

Content of this newsletter is not an official representation of Hexagon Center.

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