Top 6 Blockchain Books to Read in 2025

December 23, 2024December 23, 2024

Mastering Blockchain: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Blockchain Technology

In today’s digital age, understanding blockchain technology is more crucial than ever. The book Mastering Blockchain by Imran Bashir offers an in-depth exploration of the inner workings of blockchain, covering everything from cryptography to decentralized finance (DeFi). The fourth edition not only delves into popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum but also provides insights into emerging technologies such as NFTs and Web3. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, this book serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in mastering blockchain.

What You Will Learn from Mastering Blockchain

Mastering Blockchain is designed for a wide audience, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of blockchain technology. Here are some key topics covered in the book:

Cryptography Fundamentals: Explore how cryptography secures transactions and identities within a blockchain.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Gain insights into the principles and practices of DeFi, including its potential to disrupt traditional financial systems.
Smart Contracts: Understand how smart contracts automate processes and enhance trust in transactions.
Blockchain Consensus Mechanisms: Learn about various consensus algorithms that enable secure and reliable blockchain operations.

Why Choose the Fourth Edition?

The fourth edition of Mastering Blockchain has been updated to reflect the latest advancements in blockchain technology. Key enhancements include:

New chapters on DeFi, highlighting current trends and strategies.
In-depth discussions on privacy, identity, and security challenges in the blockchain space.
Comprehensive explanations of various blockchain platforms, including Ethereum and Bitcoin.

Additional Resources for Blockchain Enthusiasts

For those looking to expand their knowledge, this article is part of the larger piece titled "Blockchain for Businesses: The Ultimate Enterprise Guide." This guide also includes:

Top 10 Benefits of Blockchain for Business: Discover how blockchain can transform various industries.
What Are the 4 Different Types of Blockchain Technology?: Understand the distinctions between public, private, consortium, and hybrid blockchains.
7 Must-Have Blockchain Developer Skills: Equip yourself with the essential skills needed in the blockchain job market.

Get Your Free Guide Today!

Interested readers can download the entire Blockchain for Businesses guide for free. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your understanding of blockchain technology.

For more insights on blockchain and related technologies, consider checking out CoinDesk for the latest news and trends in the cryptocurrency world.

Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on blockchain technology? Have you read Mastering Blockchain? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below and explore more related articles on our site. Your insights could help others in their journey to mastering blockchain!

RedDelta Targets Mongolia and Taiwan with PlugX Malware

January 10, 2025January 10, 2025

The China-linked RedDelta threat actor has intensified cyberattacks in Southeast Asia, targeting Mongolia, Taiwan, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia with a customized version of the PlugX backdoor. Active since 2012, RedDelta employs spear-phishing tactics tied to significant political events to breach organizations, including the Mongolian Ministry of Defense and the Communist Party of Vietnam. Their methods have evolved, utilizing Visual Studio Code tunnels for espionage and employing various file types to initiate infections. The group’s activities align with Chinese strategic interests, emphasizing the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in the region amid rising threats.

Why Automated Security Validation Tools Matter

December 1, 2024December 1, 2024

Automated Security Validation (ASV) tools are crucial for organizations aiming to enhance their cybersecurity defenses in a complex threat landscape. Unlike traditional vulnerability scanners, ASVs provide continuous, real-time assessments and mimic exploitation techniques to validate the effectiveness of security measures like Endpoint Detection and Response and Web Application Firewalls. They help identify hidden vulnerabilities and ensure that remediation efforts work effectively. By continuously monitoring and assessing defenses, ASVs prevent complacency and reduce the risk of cyber attacks. Overall, adopting ASV tools is essential for robust cybersecurity practices and to mitigate potential breaches.

Boost Cybersecurity with AI to Combat Online Threats

December 11, 2024December 11, 2024

As the holiday season nears, cyber criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their attacks, making them more sophisticated and harder to detect. AI facilitates targeted social engineering and phishing, creating personalized scams by analyzing social media data. It also powers advanced malware and ransomware that adapt to security measures, and deceptive AI chatbots designed to extract sensitive information from users. To combat these threats, organizations should invest in employee training, implement robust security protocols, and conduct regular vulnerability assessments. Understanding AI’s role in cyber attacks is crucial for strengthening defenses during this heightened risk period.

Efforts to Revise UK’s Hacking Law Hit a Roadblock

December 19, 2024December 19, 2024

UK parliamentarians are urging urgent reform of the outdated Computer Misuse Act (CMA) amid rising cyber threats. During a recent Westminster hearing, figures like Lord Clement-Jones emphasized the need for a legislative overhaul to better protect cyber security professionals from potential prosecution for legitimate activities. Baroness Margaret Jones acknowledged the complexity of reforming the 30-year-old law, highlighting the lack of consensus within the industry as a barrier to progress. The call for reform has gained momentum, with stakeholders advocating for legal protections that reflect modern technological challenges, essential for strengthening the UK’s cyber defenses and global competitiveness.

FNBO Partners with Pindrop to Combat Voice Fraud and Deepfakes

January 10, 2025January 10, 2025

FNBO is reinventing its approach to fraud prevention by prioritizing customer experience alongside security. Chief Risk Officer Furlong acknowledges that traditional methods, which often required extensive personal information, frustrated legitimate customers and hindered their loyalty. The bank is now adopting a partner-centric model and streamlining verification processes to improve efficiency and reduce customer dissatisfaction. This shift aims to balance effective fraud prevention with a seamless customer journey, moving away from cumbersome data requests and lengthy verification that previously necessitated in-branch visits. FNBO’s evolving strategy highlights the importance of not compromising customer experience in the pursuit of security.

New Regional Skills Plan to Strengthen UK Cyber Defenses

January 8, 2025January 8, 2025

The UK government has launched the second round of the Cyber Explorers Cup, a competition for youth aged 11 to 14 aimed at fostering interest in cybersecurity careers. Following last year’s success, the initiative, supported by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), encourages essential digital skills through engaging challenges. Participants will complete missions on a free interactive platform, earning certificates and access to exclusive career events. This effort addresses the cybersecurity skills gap, with a global summit planned to highlight the need for an additional 4.8 million cybersecurity professionals. The competition provides a pathway for young individuals to enter this critical field.