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TOX
Cyber Attacks CyberCrime CyberThreat DDoS DradonForce Meta's dominance RAMP RansomHub Ransomware Nerwork Rasnowmare attacks TOX

DragonForce Asserts Dominance Over RansomHub Ransomware Network

 


A series of targeted attacks involving DragonForce, a ransomware group that has reportedly been operating in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) are reported to have been launched against companies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) amidst the escalating cyber threats throughout the region. A significant incident involving a real estate and construction company based in Riyadh, which underscored the group's commitment to targeting high-value targets within critical sectors, was one of the most significant incidents involving the group. 

In the recent past, there has been an increase in the sophistication of cyberattacks targeting major companies and vital infrastructure around the region, resulting in this recent development. In addition to demonstrating the increasing capabilities of threat actors such as DragonForce, this breach also emphasizes the need to maintain enhanced vigilance and preparedness among cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement agencies within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its surrounding countries. 

Experts are anticipating that as the group's tactics continue to be effective, they will expand beyond MENA in terms of geographic scale. This incident has wider implications than just the immediate victims. As a cautionary marker of the rapidly evolving threat landscape, this incident serves as a warning of the threats that may threaten global digital security systems in the future. 

Cyble, a cybersecurity firm, has confirmed that a threat actor known as DragonForce recently posted a message on the RAMP cybercrime forum announcing a new “project.” This announcement was later mirrored on DragonForce's onion-based data leak site (DLS), marking the beginning of a new operational infrastructure for DragonForce. A part of this initiative was the introduction of two new onion domains that DragonForce launched, both protected by CAPTCHA verification, which aligned with the group's traditional Tor-based deployment practices. 

Interestingly, both of these sites are prominently branded and emblazoned with RansomHub, a group that specializes in ransomware. While it is still unclear whether DragonForce has seized control of RansomHub in the past or has just infiltrated its systems, Cyble has observed that RansomHub's onion site has been unavailable since March 31. As a result of this prolonged downtime, there has been considerable speculation within the cyber security community as to whether DragonForce may be planning to acquire or hostilely take over the RansomHub infrastructure. 

In addition to this development, DragonForce recently formally announced its plans to expand its ransomware-as-a-service operations, which are aligned with DragonForce's broader strategy of expanding the company's ransomware-as-a-service operations. As part of this initiative, the group introduced an affiliate-based model in which third-party actors—or “franchisees”—can operate under DragonForce brand names. 

As part of the new model, affiliates will reportedly be provided with comprehensive backend support, which includes anti-DDoS defences, advanced encryption protocols, and specialized toolkits that allow them to manage infections across a range of environments, including ESXi, NAS, BSD, and Windows. A significant investment is being made into infrastructure to attract and empower partners, thereby enhancing the group's reach and impact as a whole. This is a deliberate attempt by the group to streamline operations and present a more organized and business-like ransomware platform to victims by including features like encryption status monitoring and persistent communication mechanisms. 

Despite the uncertainty that surrounds RansomHub's future, it is currently possible that it will become fully absorbed under the DragonForce brand or continue to operate independently, but current indicators suggest that a possible consolidation within the ransomware ecosystem may result in increased sophistication and coordination among cybercriminals. 

Despite the increased competition in the ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) market, DragonForce is positioning itself as a prominent player by offering its affiliates one of the most attractive commission structures on the dark web. This aggressive profit-sharing model aims to attract skilled cybercriminals in an attempt to build an affiliate network that is loyal, results-driven and enables partners to keep up to 80% of ransom payments successfully extorted from victims. A key component of DragonForce's communication strategy is TOX, a Tor-based instant messaging platform that serves as the main channel for communicating with both victims and affiliates as well as serving as a secure, secure means of communicating. 

In addition to providing the public key to the group, RAMP, an underground forum used by ransomware operators and access brokers, is also available to anyone interested in further securing these exchanges. This persistent presence on the platform, especially a forum visit traced back to February 24, 2025, indicates a sustained effort by them to maintain visibility and engagement within the key cybercriminal community. In addition to serving as a recruitment hub, the DragonForce affiliate network is also highlighted in advertisements displayed on RAMP as one of the most reliable networks within the dark web. With support for multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and ESXi, the ransomware framework is marketed as a robust system that can deliver consistent payouts while offering extensive back-end support. 

As of January 20th, 2025, the most recent affiliate-related announcements have been posted, but the associated PGP encryption key has been generated since September 2024, further demonstrating the organization's systematic approach to security. A prior operational leak involved sensitive affiliate-facing URLs that were used for extortion from victims. DragonForce underwent significant internal reforms after this. Among these reforms was the implementation of a new vetting process that requires prospective affiliates to provide verifiable evidence of victim access, such as data volume metrics and file trees, to justify their eligibility. 

Essentially, this shift was meant to ensure that only committed and capable individuals could be onboarded, which would lead to improved operational security and integrity for the organization. Furthermore, DragonForce offers a variety of premium services to vetted affiliates, including call services, which allow direct pressure to be applied to victims, as well as advanced decryption capabilities that can be used on NTLM and Kerberos hashes. A lot of these services are especially useful when access brokers are trying to navigate post-compromise stages in environments like Active Directory that are complex. 

It is important to remember that DragonForce ransomware is an independent entity and should not be confused with the Malaysian hacktivist group that operates under the same name. This group has been known for defacing websites and launching DDoS attacks, among other things. While the two organizations share a name, they are completely different in their motivations, structures, and methods, and they are not known to be affiliated with each other. 

As ongoing speculation continues regarding the nature of a potential alliance between RansomHub and DragonForce continues to surface, Cyble reports that this latest development closely follows DragonForce's announcement of a significant expansion of its ransomware service (RaaS) operations on March 18. The DragonForce Ransomware Cartel, as part of this strategic shift, introduced the franchise-style affiliate program, whereby partners can operate and launch their own ransomware campaigns under the umbrella of DragonForce Ransomware Cartel. 

Affiliates can take advantage of this model because it allows them to maintain a high degree of operational independence while still being overseen by a central management team. Backend support is provided in a comprehensive way to all participants, including dedicated admin and client panels as well as secure data hosting environments and a resilient, always-on infrastructure that is secured with anti-DDoS mechanisms that keep the system running smoothly. This structure is designed to maintain the group's overarching operational standards as well as balance affiliate autonomy with consistency and control. 

It is worth noting that DragonForce has also introduced a series of advanced technical upgrades to its ransomware payloads targeted at ESXi, NAS, BSD, and Windows platforms along with its structural expansion. In addition, several sophisticated features have been added to the security system, including real-time encryption tracking, detached execution processes, persistent user interface messages to reinforce ransom demands, and better recovery protocols to reduce disruption. In addition, the group developed the two-pass header protection technology to enhance the cryptographic robustness of the encryption engine by using external entropy sources. This technique is also integrated with the BearSSL AES-CTR encryption protocol to enhance its cryptography. 

In addition to the technological and infrastructure advances made by DragonForce, Cyble points out that DragonForce's commitment to scale its operations at a very high level of professionalism will be reflected in these advancements. By creating a more refined and affiliate-focused ransomware ecosystem, the company hopes to attract experienced cybercriminals to collaborate with them. During the past year, DragonForce has continued to grow as a more structured and formidable player within the ransomware-as-a-service ecosystem. 

However, its recent activities indicate a broader shift in cybercriminal activity, characterized by a shift towards increasing sophistication, strategic alliances, and operational maturity in the cybercriminal underground. The apparent takeover or alignment of RansomHub with the company and the dramatic advancements in infrastructure and technology, along with the emergence of a series of threats, highlight the urgent need for the cybersecurity stakeholders to reevaluate threat models and strengthen their defensive positions. 

The most effective way for organizations, particularly those in critical sectors and high-risk regions, is to implement proactive threat intelligence strategies, enforce stringent access controls, and seriously prioritize incident response preparedness in order to counter evolving threats. With a digital landscape in which adversaries adopt business-like approaches to cause greater impact, only a cohesive and anticipatory security approach can prove robust in the face of the rising tide of cyber-extortion, which is becoming more organized and sophisticated by the day.
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Sensitive Information
Data Breach Data Leak data security DDoS Hackers Personal Data Police Sensitive Information

Hackers Leak 8,500 Files from Lexipol, Exposing U.S. Police Training Manuals

 

An anonymous hacker group called the “puppygirl hacker polycule” recently made headlines by leaking over 8,500 files from Lexipol, a private company that provides training materials and policy manuals for police departments across the United States. 

As first reported by The Daily Dot, the data breach exposed internal documents, including thousands of police policies, emails, phone numbers, addresses, and other sensitive information about Lexipol employees. The hackers published the stolen data on Distributed Denial of Secrets (DDoS), a nonprofit platform for leaked information. In a statement, the group said they targeted Lexipol because, in their view, there aren’t “enough hacks against the police,” so they took action themselves.  

Founded in 2003, Texas-based Lexipol LLC, also known for its online training platform PoliceOne, has become a significant force in police privatization. The company supplies policy manuals and training content to more than 20% of U.S. police departments, according to a 2022 Indiana Law Journal analysis. This widespread adoption has effectively shaped public policy, despite Lexipol being a private company. 

Critics have long raised concerns about Lexipol’s focus on minimizing legal liability for police departments rather than addressing issues like excessive force or racial profiling. The Intercept reported in 2020 that Lexipol’s training materials, used by the NYPD after the George Floyd protests, prioritized protecting departments from lawsuits rather than promoting accountability or reform. 

Additionally, Lexipol has actively opposed proposed changes to police use-of-force standards, favoring a more lenient “objectively reasonable” standard. The leaked documents revealed striking similarities in policy language across different police departments, with matching sections on use-of-force protocols and even identical “Code of Ethics” pages — some ending with a religious oath dedicating officers to their profession before God. 

Despite Lexipol’s intent to reduce legal risks for its clients, some police departments using its policies have faced legal consequences. In 2017, Culver City, CA, adopted a Lexipol manual that suggested detaining suspected undocumented immigrants based on “lack of English proficiency,” contradicting the city’s sanctuary status. Similarly, Spokane, WA, paid a $49,000 settlement in 2018 after police violated local immigration laws using Lexipol’s guidance. 

Although the puppygirl hacker polycule isn’t linked to previous major breaches, their tactics echo those of SiegedSec, a group known for hacking government sites and playfully demanding research into “IRL catgirls.” As political tensions rise, the hackers predict more “hacktivist” attacks, aiming to expose injustices and empower public awareness. The Lexipol breach serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in privatized law enforcement systems and the growing influence of cyberactivism.
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MirrorFace
Cyber Defence Cyber Security DDoS Hacker attack Hacker group Japan Japan Cyber Security MirrorFace

Japan’s New Active Cyber Defence Strategy to Counter Growing Threats

 

Japan is taking decisive steps to enhance its cybersecurity through a new strategy of “active cyber defence.” This approach enables authorized hackers working for the police or Self-Defence Forces (SDF) to infiltrate servers and neutralize cyber-attack sources before they cause significant damage. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, plans to introduce relevant legislation during the current parliamentary session. The urgency for stronger cybersecurity measures has escalated due to recent attacks. 

The National Police Agency (NPA) revealed that the Chinese state-linked hacking group MirrorFace was responsible for over 200 cyberattacks targeting Japan’s foreign ministries and semiconductor industry between 2019 and 2024. Additionally, cyber incursions since late December 2024 disrupted financial services, delayed flights, and exposed vulnerabilities in Japan’s critical infrastructure. Japan’s revised 2022 National Security Strategy identifies cyberattacks as a growing threat, likening cross-border hacks of civilian infrastructure to intimidation tactics that stop short of war. 

This has prompted Japan to expand its SDF cyber unit from 620 members in March 2024 to about 2,400 today, with plans to reach 4,000 personnel by 2028. However, this remains small compared to China’s estimated 30,000-member cyber-attack force. The proposed active defence strategy aims to bolster cooperation between public and private sectors, focusing on safeguarding critical infrastructure, such as energy, transportation, finance, and telecommunications. Japan also plans to establish a National Cyber Security Office in 2025 to coordinate cybersecurity policy, identify vulnerabilities, and advise private sector organizations. 

To prevent misuse, strict safeguards will accompany the strategy. Hackers will need prior approval to break into servers unless immediate action is required during active attacks. Penalties will address excessive monitoring or personal data leaks, ensuring transparency and public trust. Trend Micro’s recent findings underscore the importance of these measures. The security firm attributed recent cyberattacks to distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) campaigns launched by botnets. These attacks overwhelmed network servers with data, causing widespread disruptions to services like Japan Airlines and major banks. 

While Japan’s proactive approach is a significant step forward, experts like Professor Kazuto Suzuki caution that it may not deter all attackers. He notes that cyber deterrence is challenging due to the unpredictability of attackers’ methods. However, this strategy is expected to instill some fear of retaliation among hackers and strengthen Japan’s cybersecurity posture. As cyber threats evolve, Japan’s active defence initiative represents a critical effort to protect its infrastructure, economy, and national security from escalating digital risks.
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Proxy Service
Cyber Security DDoS DDOS Attacks Free VPN IP Address Network Security Privacy Risks Proxy Service

Free VPN Big Mama Raises Security Concerns Amid Cybercrime Links

 

Big Mama VPN, a free virtual private network app, is drawing scrutiny for its involvement in both legitimate and questionable online activities. The app, popular among Android users with over a million downloads, provides a free VPN service while also enabling users to sell access to their home internet connections. This service is marketed as a residential proxy, allowing buyers to use real IP addresses for activities ranging from ad verification to scraping pricing data. However, cybersecurity experts warn of significant risks tied to this dual functionality. 

Teenagers have recently gained attention for using Big Mama VPN to cheat in the virtual reality game Gorilla Tag. By side-loading the app onto Meta’s Oculus headsets, players exploit location delays to gain an unfair advantage. While this usage might seem relatively harmless, the real issue lies in how Big Mama’s residential proxy network operates. Researchers have linked the app to cybercrime forums where it is heavily promoted for use in activities such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, phishing campaigns, and botnets. Cybersecurity firm Trend Micro discovered that Meta VR headsets are among the most popular devices using Big Mama VPN, alongside Samsung and Xiaomi devices. 

They also identified a vulnerability in the VPN’s system, which could have allowed proxy users to access local networks. Big Mama reportedly addressed and fixed this flaw within a week of it being flagged. However, the larger problem persists: using Big Mama exposes users to significant privacy risks. When users download the VPN, they implicitly consent to having their internet connection routed for other users. This is outlined in the app’s terms and conditions, but many users fail to fully understand the implications. Through its proxy marketplace, Big Mama sells access to tens of thousands of IP addresses worldwide, accepting payments exclusively in cryptocurrency. 

Cybersecurity researchers at firms like Orange Cyberdefense and Kela have linked this marketplace to illicit activities, with over 1,000 posts about Big Mama appearing on cybercrime forums. Big Mama’s ambiguous ownership further complicates matters. While the company is registered in Romania, it previously listed an address in Wyoming. Its representative, using the alias Alex A, claims the company does not advertise on forums and logs user activity to cooperate with law enforcement. Despite these assurances, the app has been repeatedly flagged for its potential role in cyberattacks, including an incident reported by Cisco Talos. 

Free VPNs like Big Mama often come with hidden costs, sacrificing user privacy and security for financial viability. By selling access to residential proxies, Big Mama has opened doors for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting users’ internet connections. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of free services in the digital age. Users are advised to exercise extreme caution when downloading apps, especially from unofficial sources, and to consider the potential trade-offs involved in using free VPN services.
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phishing
Botnet Cyber Attacks Cyber Threats DDoS phishing

Cybersecurity Beyond Phishing: Six Underrated Threats


Cybercriminals are continually developing new methods to exploit vulnerabilities, and even the most tech-savvy individuals and organizations can find themselves at risk. While some cyberattacks like phishing and malware are well-known, several lesser-known but equally dangerous threats require attention. This blog post explores six types of cyberattacks you might not have considered but should be on your radar.

1. Botnet Attacks

A botnet attack involves a network of compromised computers, or "bots," which are controlled by a single entity, often referred to as a "botmaster." These botnets can be used to launch large-scale cyberattacks such as Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, which overwhelm a target’s resources, rendering it inaccessible. 

In 2016, hackers used the Mirai botnet to take control of millions of devices and launched a huge DDoS attack on Dyn, a major domain name server provider.

Some hackers also take over IoT devices to "brick" them, which means they damage the device’s firmware so it becomes useless. They do this for fun or to teach people about cybersecurity.

2. LLMjacking

As language models become integral in various applications, they present new cyberattack vectors. LLMjacking, or Large Language Model hijacking, involves manipulating language models to generate harmful or misleading information. 

Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these models to spread misinformation, influence public opinion, or even automate phishing attacks. The rise of AI-powered tools necessitates the implementation of stringent security measures to safeguard against such manipulations.

Companies that utilize cloud-hosted Large Language Models (LLMs) are at risk of LLM jacking because they possess the necessary server resources to operate generative AI programs. Hackers might exploit these resources for personal purposes, such as creating their own images, or for more malicious activities like generating harmful code, contaminating the models, or stealing sensitive information.

While an individual hijacking a cloud-based LLM for personal use might not cause significant damage, the costs associated with resource usage can be substantial. A severe attack could result in charges ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 per day for the owner.

3. Ransomware

Unlike traditional malware that aims to steal information, ransomware directly extorts victims. Attackers encrypt valuable data and demand payment, often in cryptocurrency, for the decryption key. Organizations of all sizes are potential targets, and the financial and reputational damage can be severe. Preventative measures, including regular data backups and cybersecurity training, are crucial in mitigating the risks of ransomware attacks.

4. Insider Threats

An insider threat comes from within the organization, typically from employees, contractors, or business partners who have inside information concerning the organization’s security practices. These threats can be malicious or unintentional but are dangerous due to the privileged access insiders have. 

They may misuse their access to steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, or introduce vulnerabilities. Organizations need to implement strict access controls, regular monitoring, and education to reduce the risk of insider threats.

5. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks

Man-in-the-middle attacks occur when an attacker intercepts communication between two parties without their knowledge. The attacker can then eavesdrop, manipulate, or steal sensitive information being exchanged. 

MitM attacks are particularly concerning for financial transactions and other confidential communications. Encrypted communication channels, strong authentication methods, and educating users about potential risks are effective strategies to prevent such attacks.

6. Phishing Schemes

Phishing remains one of the most prevalent cyber threats, evolving in sophistication and technique. Attackers use deceptive emails, messages, or websites to trick individuals into divulging personal information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details. 

Spear phishing, a targeted form of phishing, involves personalized attacks on specific individuals or organizations, making them harder to detect. Continuous cybersecurity awareness training and employing advanced email filtering solutions can help protect against phishing schemes.

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Ukraine-Russia Conflict
Bank Hacking Cyber Attacks data security DDoS DDOS Attacks Russian Cyber Security Ukraine-Russia Conflict

DDoS Attacks Disrupt Major Russian Banks: Ukraine Claims Responsibility

 

Several major Russian banks experienced distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, disrupting their online services and mobile apps. On Wednesday, local media reported that state-owned VTB Bank was among those affected. The bank informed the state news agency TASS that an attack “planned from abroad” caused disruptions for its clients trying to access online services. 

The Russian Agricultural Bank also reported being targeted by a DDoS attack on Tuesday. However, the bank noted that the impact was minimal due to their implementation of an enhanced system to combat such attacks. Gazprombank, the third-largest private bank in Russia, faced difficulties with its app’s transaction services due to the attack, though the issue was quickly resolved. Other banks, including Alfa Bank, Rosbank, and Post Bank, were also reportedly affected. 

On Wednesday, Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) claimed responsibility for the DDoS campaign targeting the Russian banking sector. An anonymous source within HUR, speaking to Ukrainian media, mentioned that the attacks also affected several Russian payment systems and large telecom operators such as Beeline, Megafon, Tele2, and Rostelecom. While this claim has not been independently verified, the HUR official stated that the attack “is still ongoing and far from over.” 

This incident is part of a series of cyberattacks by Ukrainian entities against Russian targets. In October, pro-Ukrainian hackers and Ukraine’s security service (SBU) claimed to have breached Russia’s largest private bank, Alfa-Bank. In January, data allegedly belonging to 30 million Alfa-Bank customers was released by attackers involved in the breach. Earlier this year, the hacker group Blackjack, in cooperation with the SBU, breached a Moscow internet provider in retaliation for a Russian cyberattack on Ukraine’s largest telecom company, Kyivstar. 

While not all reports from Ukrainian hackers or intelligence officials can be independently verified, the recent DDoS attacks on Russian banks had noticeable consequences, despite Russian claims of minimal impact. DDoS attacks are generally easier to mitigate, but this campaign stands out for its broad impact on multiple financial institutions and service providers. The ongoing cyber warfare between Ukraine and Russia underscores the escalating digital conflict between the two nations. Both sides have been leveraging cyber capabilities to disrupt each other’s critical infrastructure. 

The recent attacks highlight the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures and swift response strategies to minimize the impact on essential services and ensure the security of digital transactions. As cyber threats evolve, both nations will likely continue to enhance their defenses to protect against such incursions.
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Ransomware
AI Black Basta Cyber Security Cyber Threats DDoS Ransomware

Are We Ready for the Next Wave of Cyber Threats?



In our increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is a growing concern for everyone— from businesses and governments to everyday individuals. As technology advances, it opens up exciting possibilities and creates new, sophisticated cyber threats. Recent high-profile attacks, like those on Ascension and the French government, show just how damaging these threats can be.

Cybercriminals are always finding new ways to exploit weaknesses. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime damages could hit $10.5 trillion a year by 2025. This huge number highlights why strong cybersecurity measures are so important.

One major evolution in cyber threats is seen in ransomware attacks. These attacks used to be about locking up data and demanding a ransom to unlock it. Cybercriminals also steal data and threaten to release it publicly, which can disrupt businesses and ruin reputations. For example, in May, the Black Basta group attacked Ascension, the largest non-profit Catholic health system in the U.S., disrupting operations in its 140 hospitals and affecting patient care.

Supply chain attacks are another big concern. These attacks target vulnerabilities in the network of suppliers and partners that businesses rely on. This makes securing the entire supply chain crucial.

Cybercriminals are also using artificial intelligence (AI) to make their attacks more powerful. Examples include DeepLocker, a type of AI-powered malware that stays hidden until it reaches its target, and deepfake scams, where AI creates fake videos or audio to trick people into transferring money. AI-driven malware can change its behaviour to avoid detection, making it even more dangerous.

Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are another serious threat. These attacks flood a website or network with so much traffic that it can’t function. In March 2024, a massive DDoS attack targeted over 300 web domains and 177,000 IP addresses linked to the French government, causing major disruptions.

Building a Strong Cybersecurity Defense

To fight these evolving threats, businesses need to build strong cybersecurity defenses. One effective approach is the zero-trust model, which means every access request is verified, no matter where it comes from. Key parts of this model include multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires more than one form of verification to access systems, and least privilege access, which ensures users only have access to what they need to do their job.

Advanced monitoring tools are also essential. Security information and event management (SIEM) systems, combined with AI-driven analytics, help detect and respond to threats in real time by providing a comprehensive view of network activities.

Human error is a major vulnerability in cybersecurity, so employee training and awareness are crucial. Regular training programs can help employees recognise and respond to threats like phishing attacks, creating a culture of security awareness.

The Role of AI in Cybersecurity

While AI helps cybercriminals, it also offers powerful tools for defending against cyber threats. AI can analyse vast amounts of data to spot patterns and anomalies that might indicate an attack. It can detect unusual behaviour in networks and help security analysts respond more quickly and efficiently to threats.

AI can also identify and mitigate insider threats by analysing user behaviour and spotting deviations from typical activity patterns. This helps strengthen overall security.

The future of cybersecurity will involve constant innovation and adaptation to new challenges. AI will play a central role in both defence and predictive analytics, helping foresee and prevent potential threats. Ethical considerations and developing frameworks for responsible AI use will be important.

Businesses need to stay ahead by adopting new technologies and continuously improving their cybersecurity practices. Collaboration between industries and with government agencies will be crucial in creating comprehensive strategies.

Looking to the future, we need to keep an eye on potential threats and innovations. Quantum computing promises new breakthroughs but also poses a threat to current encryption methods. Advances in cryptography will lead to more secure ways to protect data against emerging threats.

As cyber threats evolve, staying informed and adopting best practices are essential. Continuous innovation and strategic planning are key to staying ahead of cybercriminals and protecting critical assets.


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Internet Archive
Botnet Cyber Attacks data security DDoS Internet Archive

History Meets Hackers: Internet Archive Battles Ongoing DDoS Attacks

Under Siege: Internet Archive Battles Ongoing DDoS Attacks

The Internet Archive is allegedly subject to continuing DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks. The attacks began over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, according to the California-based charity, and some users reported being unable to access the digital archive site for several hours on Monday.

Why target the Internet Archive?

The motives behind DDoS attacks can vary. In the case of the Internet Archive, it seems:

  • Ideological Vendetta: Some believe that the attackers oppose the archive’s mission of open access to information. Perhaps they resent the democratization of knowledge or harbor a grudge against the organization.
  • Collateral Damage: The Internet Archive hosts controversial content, including political websites, historical documents, and even old Geocities pages. An attack on the archive could inadvertently affect unrelated sites.

"Archive.org is under DDoS attack," the nonprofit's X account announced Monday morning. "The data is not affected, but most services are unavailable."

The Internet Archive’s response

The nonprofit swiftly responded to the attacks. While details about the perpetrators have not surfaced, the organization changed its infrastructure to enhance resilience. It’s a delicate balancing act: maintaining accessibility while safeguarding against future attacks.

A few hours later, the organization reported that there was some "back and forth with the attackers." The business says it made certain improvements to its service but has not yet revealed further data on the attackers' identity or any likely motive for the attack.

Multiple X users reported that the site was still down Monday afternoon, despite Internet Archive's announcement that its services had been restored. On Monday, the organization verified that the DDoS attacks have resumed.

The archive site also reported network traffic difficulties on Sunday. Brewster Kahle, the founder and board chair of the Internet Archive, stated that the troubles on Sunday could have been caused by an "over-aggressive crawling group" or a DDoS attack and that the site typically experiences more technical issues on weekends.

The Anatomy of a DDoS Attack

DDoS attacks are like digital traffic jams. They flood a target server with an overwhelming volume of requests, causing it to slow down or crash. Here’s how they work:

  • Botnet Deployment: Attackers assemble a botnet—a network of compromised computers or devices—by infecting them with malware. These bots become unwitting foot soldiers in the attack.
  • Coordination: The attacker orchestrates the botnet to send a barrage of requests to the target server. The sheer volume overwhelms the server’s capacity to respond.
  • Impact: The target server becomes sluggish or unresponsive, affecting legitimate users who rely on its services.

The bigger picture

While additional digital archive sites exist, many of them use domain extensions headquartered outside of the United States. Internet Archive was started in San Francisco, California, in 1996. Kahle has been advocating for "universal access to all knowledge" through books, websites, and other forms of media for decades.

In addition to hacks, the archive group has faced several lawsuits in recent years. In 2020, major US book publishers sued the nonprofit over the Internet Archive's digital book lending scheme, alleging copyright infringement. Last year, a judge decided that the program breached the publishers' copyright. However, the foundation continues to contend that "controlled digital lending" is fair usage.

In 2023, Sony and Universal Music sued Internet Archive over their music archives, claiming copyright violation.

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