21Mar

Why VPN Usage Should Be Limited and Replaced with ZTNA

March 21, 2025 Admin 41

Introduction

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have long been used for secure remote access, but they are no longer the best solution in today’s evolving cybersecurity landscape. While VPNs create encrypted tunnels, they also introduce significant security risks, performance issues, and management complexities. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) offers a more secure and scalable alternative, ensuring least-privilege access while minimizing attack surfaces. VPN vs ZTNA Security

The Limitations of VPNs

Despite their widespread use, VPNs have several critical drawbacks that make them an outdated solution for modern cybersecurity needs.

1. Broad Access and Security Risks

VPNs grant users access to an entire network, creating security vulnerabilities if credentials are compromised. Attackers can move laterally and exploit network weaknesses once inside.

2. Poor User Experience and Performance

VPN connections often cause latency and reduced speed, negatively affecting productivity. High traffic loads can lead to congestion, making remote work inefficient.

3. Lack of Granular Access Control

Traditional VPNs do not provide fine-grained access control. Employees, third-party vendors, and contractors often receive excessive network privileges, increasing security risks.

4. Difficult to Scale and Manage

Managing VPN configurations, certificates, and user permissions across multiple locations is complex. As organizations expand, maintaining a VPN infrastructure becomes increasingly challenging and costly.

5. No Protection Against Compromised Devices

VPNs do not assess the security posture of connected devices. If an infected or compromised device gains access, malware can easily spread within the network.

Why ZTNA is the Better Alternative

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) addresses the limitations of VPNs by implementing a zero-trust security model, where access is granted based on identity, device security, and contextual factors.

1. Least-Privilege Access

ZTNA provides access only to specific applications and resources, rather than the entire network. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access and lateral movement by attackers.

2. Stronger Security Posture

ZTNA verifies user identity and device health continuously before granting access. This prevents threats from compromised devices or malicious actors.

3. Improved Performance and Scalability

Unlike VPNs, which route all traffic through centralized gateways, ZTNA enables direct and secure access to applications, reducing latency and improving efficiency.

4. Simplified Management

With cloud-based ZTNA solutions, IT teams can enforce policies, monitor access logs, and manage user permissions from a centralized console, reducing administrative burdens.

5. Adaptive and Context-Aware Access

ZTNA dynamically adjusts access based on user behavior, location, and device posture, providing real-time security adaptations. VPN vs ZTNA Security

Conclusion

Organizations must transition from traditional VPNs to ZTNA for enhanced security, better performance, and simplified network management. Hyper ICT’s Hyper Private Access (HPA) offers a robust ZTNA solution, ensuring secure and seamless access without the risks associated with VPNs. VPN vs ZTNA Security

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04Sep

Exploring Free VPN

September 4, 2024 Admin 43

Exploring Free VPNs: Pros, Cons, and the Hidden Costs

In today’s interconnected world, the demand for online privacy has skyrocketed. One of the tools that people often turn to for safeguarding their online activities is a free VPN. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows users to encrypt their internet connection, making it difficult for anyone, including hackers, internet service providers, or governments, to snoop on their activities. However, while free VPNs sound appealing, they come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s dive deeper into this subject and explore whether free VPNs are the right choice for securing your online presence. Exploring Free VPN.

What is a Free VPN?

A free VPN is a service that offers users the ability to connect to a virtual private network without charging them. These services claim to provide privacy and security by encrypting your internet connection, masking your IP address, and allowing access to geo-blocked content. While the promise of anonymity and secure browsing sounds enticing, it’s essential to understand the potential caveats associated with using a free VPN service.

How Does a Free VPN Work?

Free VPNs work in the same fundamental way as paid VPNs. They create an encrypted “tunnel” between your device and a remote server, typically located in another country. Your internet traffic passes through this tunnel, preventing others from tracking your activities or identifying your true IP address. This makes it harder for websites and online services to pinpoint your location, thus providing a layer of anonymity.

Benefits of Free VPNs

1. Cost-Effective

The most obvious benefit of a free VPN is that it doesn’t cost you anything—at least not upfront. This makes it an attractive option for users who are unwilling or unable to pay for a premium VPN service. For someone who only occasionally needs to hide their IP address or access geo-blocked content, a free VPN can seem like a practical solution.

2. Basic Privacy

Although free VPNs have limitations, they still offer some level of privacy. If you’re simply looking to bypass censorship in certain countries or unlock content on streaming services that aren’t available in your region, free VPNs can be somewhat effective.

3. Access to Geo-Blocked Content

One of the most common uses of free VPNs is to access websites or streaming services that are not available in certain locations. A free VPN can provide users with an opportunity to connect to servers in different countries, making it possible to watch shows on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer, which might be restricted in their home country.

Downsides of Free VPNs

While the benefits of a free VPN are evident, there are several significant drawbacks that users need to be aware of. Understanding these potential risks will allow users to make informed decisions before opting for these services.

1. Limited Features

Free VPN services often come with limited features when compared to their paid counterparts. For instance, free VPNs may restrict the number of servers available, throttle your internet speed, or impose data limits. Consequently, you may not be able to stream content in HD or download large files without experiencing a reduction in performance.

2. Poor Security Protocols

Security is the primary reason most users turn to VPNs. However, free VPNs often provide outdated and weaker encryption protocols. This can leave your data exposed to hackers, especially if you’re using the VPN on an unsecured network such as public Wi-Fi. Additionally, some free VPNs may not have a strict no-logs policy, which means that they might still collect and sell your data to third parties. Exploring Free VPN.

3. Hidden Costs: Selling Data

A free VPN may not cost money, but it certainly has a price. Many free VPN services generate revenue by selling user data to advertisers and other third parties. In this sense, users become the product, and their privacy—ironically, the very thing they sought to protect—can be compromised.

4. Invasive Ads

Free VPNs often rely on advertisements as their primary source of income. This can result in an overwhelming number of intrusive ads while you are browsing. Not only do these ads slow down your browsing experience, but they can also pose security risks, especially if they are laden with malware.

5. No Customer Support

Customer support is often non-existent for free VPN users. While paid services typically offer round-the-clock support via live chat or email, free services rarely provide this. If you encounter a technical issue, you may find yourself stuck with no easy way to resolve the problem.

Free VPNs and Security Risks

Although the idea of a free VPN might seem appealing, it’s important to understand the potential security risks involved.

1. Malware Injection

Studies have shown that many free VPNs are riddled with malware. Some services even go as far as injecting malicious code into your device, which can expose you to phishing attacks or identity theft. Moreover, since free VPNs do not have the same level of security as premium services, they may also be more vulnerable to DNS leaks and other forms of data breaches.

2. Tracking and Data Collection

Contrary to the privacy promises that VPNs typically make, some free VPN services have been caught tracking users’ data and selling it to third parties. These services often collect information such as browsing history, IP addresses, and even personal details like names and email addresses, all of which can be sold to marketers or worse, hackers.

3. Lack of Transparency

One of the most significant issues with free VPN services is the lack of transparency. Most free VPNs do not openly disclose how they make money or what their privacy policies entail. As a result, users can never be entirely sure whether their information is truly secure or if it is being sold to the highest bidder. Exploring Free VPN.

Popular Free VPNs and Their Limitations

Here’s a look at some of the most popular free VPNs and what they offer—or rather, what they lack:

1. ProtonVPN Free

ProtonVPN is one of the few free VPNs that offers unlimited data. However, the free version limits you to servers in only three countries, and the connection speeds are significantly slower than the paid versions. Additionally, while it boasts strong encryption, ProtonVPN Free does not support streaming services, making it less ideal for users who want to watch geo-blocked content.

2. Windscribe Free

Windscribe offers 10 GB of data per month with its free version, which is relatively generous compared to other free VPNs. It also includes access to servers in 10 countries. However, like most free VPNs, Windscribe imposes restrictions on speed and server locations, and users must upgrade to the premium version for unrestricted access to streaming services.

3. TunnelBear Free

TunnelBear offers 500 MB of free data per month, which is enough for basic browsing but insufficient for streaming or downloading large files. While it provides a user-friendly experience and decent encryption, the data limits make it a less attractive option for anyone who needs a VPN for more than occasional use. Exploring Free VPN.

The Hidden Dangers of Free VPNs

Even though free VPNs might seem appealing, they often come with hidden dangers that users should be aware of before deciding to use them.

1. Compromised Privacy

Many free VPNs fail to deliver on their promises of privacy and anonymity. In reality, they may collect and store your personal data, which they could later sell to third parties. This compromises the very privacy you sought to protect.

2. Unstable Connections

Free VPNs are often overloaded with users, leading to unstable and slow connections. This not only affects your browsing experience but also increases the likelihood of your connection being dropped, which could leave you exposed while you’re connected to the internet.

3. Unreliable Encryption

While premium VPNs offer robust encryption methods, free VPNs often cut corners when it comes to security. This means that your data might not be as secure as you think it is, leaving you vulnerable to potential breaches and data leaks.

The Case for Paid VPNs

Given the potential drawbacks of free VPNs, investing in a paid VPN service may be the more sensible choice for users who are serious about online privacy and security.

1. Better Security

Paid VPNs generally offer stronger encryption and adhere to strict no-logs policies. This ensures that your data remains private and secure while you browse the web.

2. Faster Speeds

With a paid VPN, you’ll have access to a broader range of servers across different countries, ensuring faster connection speeds. This is especially beneficial for streaming, downloading, or gaming.

3. No Ads

Unlike free VPNs that rely on ads to generate revenue, paid VPNs offer an ad-free browsing experience, allowing you to surf the web without being bombarded by intrusive and potentially harmful advertisements. Exploring Free VPN.

4. Access to Streaming Services

Paid VPNs are more likely to work with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, giving you access to geo-restricted content that might be unavailable in your region.

5. Customer Support

Most paid VPN services offer reliable customer support, ensuring that any technical issues you encounter are resolved quickly and efficiently. This can be a game-changer, especially for less tech-savvy users who might need assistance setting up their VPN.

Conclusion

In summary, while a free VPN might seem like an appealing option for users who are looking to secure their online activities without spending money, they come with a significant set of drawbacks and potential risks. From limited features and slow speeds to compromised privacy and security, the dangers of using a free VPN can outweigh the benefits. Paid VPNs, on the other hand, offer superior security, faster speeds, and reliable customer support. Exploring Free VPN.

Accordingly, if you are serious about protecting your online privacy and accessing geo-blocked content without compromising your security, investing in a paid VPN service is the better choice. Although this may be true, each user’s needs and circumstances differ. Therefore, evaluating both free and paid options will help you make an informed decision.

For more information on selecting the best VPN for your needs, contact Hyper ICT Oy in Finland. They specialize in network and security solutions and can provide expert guidance tailored to your specific requirements.

Contact Hyper ICT

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09Apr

Zero Trust Network Access in Nordic

April 9, 2024 Admin 89

Introduction

For businesses in the Nordics, from the fjords of Norway to the historic cities of Denmark, cybersecurity is paramount. With a growing number of remote workers and a reliance on cloud-based applications, traditional security solutions like business VPNs are showing their limitations. This is where Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) emerges as a powerful and future-proof solution. This blog post from Hyper ICT, your trusted IT security partner based in Finland, explores the advantages of ZTNA for businesses across the Nordic region, including Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. (Zero Trust Network Access Nordic business vpn)

The Evolving Threat Landscape in the Nordics

The Nordic countries are known for their innovation and digital adoption. However, this digital landscape also presents unique cybersecurity challenges. Businesses in the Nordics grapple with:

Increased reliance on cloud applications: The move towards cloud-based solutions necessitates securing access beyond the traditional network perimeter.
Remote workforces: A geographically dispersed workforce demands secure access from various locations and devices.
Sophisticated cyberattacks: Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, making it crucial to have robust security measures in place.

Business VPNs: Falling Short in the Modern Era

Business VPNs have long been the go-to solution for secure remote access. However, they come with limitations:

Complexity: Managing and maintaining VPNs can be cumbersome and resource-intensive, especially for geographically distributed teams.
Limited scalability: Scaling VPNs to accommodate growth can be challenging and expensive.
Poor user experience: VPN connections can be slow and unreliable, hindering user productivity. (Zero Trust Network Access Nordic business vpn)

ZTNA: A Secure and Agile Solution for the Nordics

ZTNA offers a paradigm shift in secure access. Here’s how it empowers businesses in the Nordics:

Revolutionizing Secure Access with ZTNA

Continuous Verification: ZTNA enforces a “never trust, always verify” approach. Every user and device is continuously authenticated before granting access to specific resources, regardless of location.
Reduced Attack Surface: By eliminating the concept of implicit trust within the network, ZTNA significantly reduces the attack surface, making it harder for cybercriminals to gain a foothold.
Improved User Experience: ZTNA allows secure and low-latency access to applications from any location or device, enhancing user experience for geographically dispersed teams.
Simplified Management: ZTNA centralizes access control and eliminates the need for complex VPN configurations.

The Nordic Advantage with ZTNA

ZTNA is particularly well-suited for the Nordic business landscape due to:

Cloud-first mentality: ZTNA seamlessly integrates with cloud-based applications prevalent in the Nordics.
Remote work culture: ZTNA empowers secure access for geographically dispersed workforces common in the Nordic region.
Focus on innovation: ZTNA aligns with the Nordic countries’ innovative spirit, providing a future-proof security solution.

Conclusion: Embrace ZTNA for a Secure Nordic Future

As the Nordic business landscape continues to evolve, ZTNA presents a compelling solution for robust and agile cybersecurity. Hyper ICT, with its expertise in ZTNA and a deep understanding of the Nordic security landscape, can help your business implement a secure access strategy tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to explore how ZTNA can empower your business across Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. join our LinkdIn.

06Apr

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

April 6, 2024 Admin 79

Introduction

The way we work has undergone a dramatic shift. Cloud applications, remote workforces, and the proliferation of mobile devices all demand a new approach to network security. Enter Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), a revolutionary framework that converges networking and security functionalities into a single, cloud-delivered service. This blog post from Hyper ICT, your trusted IT security advisor, dives deep into SASE, exploring its features, strengths, and potential drawbacks. (SASE Secure Access ZTNA)

Understanding SASE: A Modern Approach to Security

Traditional network security models often struggle to adapt to the dynamic nature of today’s IT landscape. Business VPNs, while familiar, can be cumbersome to manage and leave blind spots when it comes to securing access to cloud applications. SASE offers a compelling alternative, providing a more agile and comprehensive security solution.

Features of SASE: A Unified Security Umbrella

SASE (Secure Access ZTNA) combines a range of essential security functions under one roof, delivering a holistic approach to secure access. Key features include:

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): SASE leverages ZTNA principles, constantly verifying user and device identity before granting access to resources. This eliminates the concept of implicit trust within the network, significantly reducing the attack surface.
Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): With the rise of cloud applications, CASB functionality becomes crucial. SASE integrates CASB, enabling granular control over access to cloud resources, data security, and compliance.
Secure Web Gateway (SWG): SASE incorporates SWG capabilities, filtering web traffic for malware and malicious content, protecting users from online threats.
Firewall as a Service (FWaaS): Traditional firewalls can be complex to manage. SASE offers FWaaS, providing a cloud-based firewall solution for consistent network protection.

These features, combined into a single platform, offer businesses significant advantages:

Simplified Management: SASE centralizes security policies and simplifies administration, reducing IT overhead.
Enhanced Security: ZTNA, CASB, and other integrated functions deliver a more robust security posture.
Improved User Experience: SASE facilitates secure and low-latency access to applications from any location or device.
Scalability and Agility: Cloud-based SASE architecture easily scales to accommodate growth and changing business needs.

Strengths and Weaknesses: Weighing the Pros and Cons of SASE

While SASE offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of its potential limitations:

Vendor Lock-In: Choosing a SASE vendor locks you into their platform, potentially limiting flexibility in the future.
Maturity and Integration: SASE is a relatively new technology, and some solutions might lack full maturity or seamless integration with existing security infrastructure.

Conclusion: Is SASE Right for Your Business?

SASE offers a powerful and future-proof approach to network security. For businesses seeking a simplified, scalable, and robust security solution, SASE is a compelling option. However, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your specific needs and ensure compatibility with your existing infrastructure.

Hyper ICT’s security experts can help you navigate the world of SASE and determine if it’s the right fit for your organization. Contact us today for a security consultation and explore how SASE can empower your business with secure and seamless access in today’s dynamic world.

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05Apr

Why Healthcare Needs Business VPNs and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) to Prevent Data Breaches

April 5, 2024 Admin 76

Introduction

The healthcare industry faces a unique challenge in the cybersecurity landscape. Data breaches are a constant threat, with patient information being a goldmine for cybercriminals. Traditional security measures often fall short, leaving sensitive data vulnerable. This is where Business VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) come into play, offering robust solutions to fortify healthcare cybersecurity and prevent data breaches.

The Growing Threat of Data Breaches in Healthcare

Healthcare organizations manage a vast amount of sensitive data, including patient names, addresses, Social Security numbers, medical records, and financial information. A successful data breach can have devastating consequences, leading to:

Identity theft: Stolen patient information can be used for fraudulent medical claims, identity theft, and financial crimes.
Reputational damage: A data breach can severely damage a healthcare provider’s reputation, leading to lost patient trust and revenue.
Regulatory fines: Healthcare organizations face hefty fines for non-compliance with data security regulations like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

The prevalence of data breaches in healthcare is alarming. According to a recent study by HIPAA Journal, the healthcare industry witnessed the highest number of data breaches in 2022 compared to other sectors.

Why Traditional Security Measures Aren’t Enough

Many healthcare organizations rely on traditional security measures like firewalls and perimeter security. While these can be helpful, they have limitations in today’s dynamic threat landscape. Here’s why traditional methods might not be sufficient:

Remote Access Challenges: The rise of remote work and telemedicine has increased the need for secure remote access to patient data. Firewalls struggle to accommodate this shift effectively.
Limited Visibility: Traditional security measures often lack the granular visibility needed to monitor and control access to sensitive data within the network.
Legacy Infrastructure: Many healthcare organizations still rely on legacy IT infrastructure that might have vulnerabilities unknown to them.

How Business VPNs and ZTNA Can Help

Business VPNs and ZTNA offer a more robust approach to securing healthcare data and preventing data breaches. Here’s how these technologies work together:

Business VPNs: Create secure encrypted tunnels between authorized users and the healthcare organization’s network, regardless of their physical location. This ensures that all data traveling over the public internet remains confidential.
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): Implements a “zero trust” security model, where no user or device is inherently trusted. Every access attempt is authenticated and authorized before granting access to specific resources. This eliminates the risk of unauthorized access even if a device within the network is compromised.

By combining Business VPNs with ZTNA, healthcare organizations can achieve a layered security approach. Business VPNs provide secure remote access, while ZTNA enforces granular access controls within the network.

Here are some of the key benefits of using Business VPNs and ZTNA in healthcare:

Enhanced Security: Business VPNs encrypt data in transit, while ZTNA verifies and authorizes every access request, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches.
Improved Remote Access: Business VPNs facilitate secure remote access for authorized personnel, supporting telemedicine and remote work initiatives.
Granular Access Control: ZTNA allows healthcare organizations to implement granular access controls, ensuring that only authorized users can access specific resources based on their role.
Simplified Management: ZTNA centralizes access management, making it easier to control access and enforce security policies.

Conclusion

Data breaches pose a significant threat to the healthcare industry. By implementing Business VPNs and ZTNA, healthcare organizations can significantly strengthen their cybersecurity posture and protect sensitive patient data. Business VPNs ensure secure remote access, while ZTNA enforces strict access controls, creating a layered defense against cyberattacks. By prioritizing Business VPNs and ZTNA alongside other security measures, healthcare institutions can build a more robust security environment and safeguard patient information.

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19Feb

Exploring the Impact of Business VPNs in the Modern Corporate Environment

February 19, 2024 manager 72

Introduction

Step into the digital age where global connectivity and a mobile workforce define the business landscape. Dive into the world of Business VPNs, a vital tool for securing online presence and enabling seamless operations. This blog explores the intricate significance of Business VPNs in safeguarding sensitive information, facilitating remote work, and enhancing cybersecurity. Join us on a journey through the dynamic realms of IP security, IDS integration, AWS utilization, and dynamic IP switching, uncovering how businesses worldwide navigate the digital era securely and effortlessly. (Business VPN cybersecurity)

Section 1: Understanding the Basics of Business VPNs

1.1 What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a technology that establishes a secure and encrypted connection over the internet. It enables users to access a private network remotely, ensuring data confidentiality and protection from cyber threats.

1.2 The Role of IPs in Business VPNs

IP addresses are the unique identifiers assigned to devices connected to a network. In the context of Business VPNs (Virtual Private Network), the use of dedicated IPs enhances security by providing a distinctive digital signature, making it more challenging for cybercriminals to infiltrate sensitive company data.

Section 2: Enhancing Cybersecurity with Business VPNs

2.1 Cybersecurity Challenges in the Modern Business Landscape

The digital landscape is fraught with cyber threats, ranging from phishing attacks to data breaches. Business VPNs play a pivotal role in fortifying cybersecurity defenses by encrypting data transmitted over the internet, thwarting potential threats in the process.

2.2 Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) in Business VPNs

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) act as the vigilant guardians of a company’s network, identifying and responding to suspicious activities. Business VPNs, when integrated with advanced IDS, create an impenetrable shield against malicious attempts, safeguarding critical business information.

Section 3: Unlocking the Power of Business VPNs for Remote Jobs

3.1 The Rise of Remote Work: A Paradigm Shift in the Corporate World

The concept of remote jobs has gained prominence, especially after the global events that accelerated the adoption of flexible work arrangements. Business VPNs empower employees to securely connect to their corporate networks from anywhere in the world, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.

3.2 Company Connectivity in the Cloud: Leveraging AWS

As businesses increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud, the use of services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) becomes prevalent. Business VPNs integrated with AWS offer a secure and scalable solution for companies looking to harness the power of cloud computing without compromising on data security.

Section 4: The Geographical Aspect: Case Study – Finland

4.1 Global Connectivity: Breaking Barriers with Business VPNs

In a world where businesses operate on a global scale, the geographical location becomes irrelevant. Business VPNs enable companies to establish secure connections with offices and employees worldwide, fostering a collaborative and interconnected global workspace.

4.2 Finland: A Business VPN Success Story

Examining the impact of Business VPNs in Finland, we uncover how companies in this tech-savvy nation leverage VPN technology to overcome geographical constraints, enabling them to seamlessly connect with clients, partners, and employees around the world.

Section 5: Dynamic IP Switching for Added Security

5.1 Adapting to Dynamic Threats: The Need for IP Switching

In the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity, businesses must stay one step ahead of potential threats. Business VPNs that offer the capability of IP switching provide an additional layer of security, making it challenging for cyber adversaries to track and target specific IPs.

Section 6: Conclusion

In conclusion, Business VPNs have become indispensable tools for modern enterprises looking to navigate the digital landscape securely. From bolstering cybersecurity defenses and facilitating remote work to ensuring global connectivity, the role of Business VPNs extends far beyond traditional networking solutions. As businesses continue to evolve, the adoption of innovative technologies like Business VPNs will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of corporate connectivity and data security.

You can learn more in Hyper ICT Business VPN.

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