This connection highlights the increasing involvement of state-backed actors in sophisticated cybercrime campaigns targeting both public and private sector organizations worldwide.
Recent analysis by AhnLab sheds light on how Play ransomware gains access to its victims’ networks. The attackers exploit vulnerabilities in widely used software systems or misuse valid user accounts.
Known flaws in Microsoft Exchange Server’s ProxyNotShell vulnerabilities (CVE-2022-41040 and CVE-2022-41082) and Fortinet’s FortiOS (CVE-2020-12812 and CVE-2018-13379) have been frequently abused by these attackers. After infiltrating a network, they use port scanning techniques to gather information about active systems and services, collect Active Directory data, and identify paths for privilege escalation. These escalated privileges allow the attackers to obtain administrator-level access, steal credentials, and ultimately gain control over the domain environment.
One of the key challenges in detecting Play ransomware lies in its ability to blend malicious activities with legitimate operations. The attackers often use tools like Process Hacker to disable security products. Many of these tools are not inherently malicious and are commonly used for legitimate purposes, making it difficult for security systems to distinguish between normal and nefarious activities. This ability to evade detection underscores the sophistication of Play ransomware and its operators.
The impact of a Play ransomware attack goes beyond encryption. Like many modern ransomware variants, Play uses double-extortion tactics, exfiltrating sensitive data before locking systems. This exfiltrated data is then leveraged to pressure victims into paying ransoms by threatening to leak the information on dark web forums. The combination of system disruption and the risk of public data exposure makes Play ransomware particularly damaging to its targets.
To mitigate the risks posed by Play ransomware, cybersecurity experts and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recommend implementing proactive defenses.
Organizations should ensure that software, operating systems, and firmware are regularly updated to address vulnerabilities. Phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) is crucial to reduce the risk of unauthorized access, while employee training on recognizing phishing attempts remains essential. Additionally, network segmentation can limit the attackers’ ability to move laterally, reducing the overall impact of an attack.
Play ransomware illustrates the evolving complexity of cyber threats, particularly those linked to state-sponsored groups. Its reliance on exploiting known vulnerabilities, combined with its use of legitimate tools, highlights the critical need for organizations to adopt comprehensive cybersecurity measures. By prioritizing vulnerability management, user education, and proactive defenses, organizations can better protect themselves against the ongoing threat posed by Play ransomware and similar cyber campaigns.
