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Prison Security
Dark Web Data Breach Data Leak England and Wales Prison Security

Jailbreak Worries as Prison Maps Exposed on the Dark Web

 

The Ministry of Justice has taken immediate action to guarantee the security of prisons in England and Wales, following the discovery that jail blueprints had been leaked online. The government official claimed it was aware of a data leak following a Times report that detailed prison blueprints had been shared on the dark web in the last two weeks. 

Prison officials believe that organised crime groups are behind the leak in order to help them deliver drugs into prison yards and cells via drones, or even to facilitate an escape. 

The locations of cameras and sensors are reportedly included in the plans, and security officials are currently attempting to determine the source of the leak and the potential beneficiaries of the information. However, the Ministry of Justice did not specify which jails were engaged in the breach. 

A Ministry of Justice spokesman stated: "We are not going to comment on the specific detail of security matters of this kind, but we are aware of a breach of data to the prison estate and, like with all potential breaches, have taken immediate action to ensure prisons remain secure.” 

Prevention tips

Employ strong passwords: The most common cause of data breaches continues to be weak passwords, which enable attackers to steal user credentials and give them access to corporate networks. Furthermore, people often reuse or recycle passwords across multiple accounts, which means attackers can launch brute-force attacks to hack into additional accounts. As such, use strong passwords that make it harder for cyber criminals to steal credentials. Also, consider using a password manager. 

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA): Due to the inherent vulnerability of passwords, users and organizations should never rely on passwords alone. MFA forces users to prove their identity in addition to entering their username and password. This increases the likelihood that they are who they say they are, which can prevent a hacker from gaining unauthorized access to accounts and corporate systems even if they manage to steal the user’s password.

Educate and train employees: Organizations must educate employees on the risks they face online and advise them on the common types of cyberattacks and how to detect a potential threat. They also should provide regular training courses and top-up sessions to ensure employees always have cybersecurity at the top of their minds and that they are aware of the latest threats.
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ransomware builder
BreachForums Cyber Security Cybersecurity Dark Web Ethical Hacking good hacker hacking back honeypot strategy Penetration Testing Ransomware ransomware builder

Security Researcher Outsmarts Hackers with Fake Ransomware Tool

 

The debate surrounding the ethics and practicality of "hacking back" remains a heated topic within the cybersecurity community. When organizations face cyberattacks, is retaliating against the attacker a viable option? While opinions differ, one fact remains clear: breaking the law is breaking the law, regardless of intent.

However, in a fascinating case of strategic ingenuity rather than retaliation, a security researcher and penetration tester successfully infiltrated a notorious dark web criminal marketplace. This was less an act of hacking back and more a bold example of preemptive defense.

Quoting American philosopher Robert Maynard Pirsig, Cristian Cornea, the researcher at the heart of this operation, opened his riveting Medium post with, “Boredom always precedes a period of great creativity.” Inspired by these words, Cornea devised a clever honeypot strategy to target potential ransomware hackers frequenting the BreachForums marketplace on the dark web.

His plan revolved around creating a fake ransomware tool called the "Jinn Ransomware Builder," designed to lure cybercriminals. This supposed tool offered features to help bad actors deploy ransomware attacks. In reality, it was a honeypot—an elaborate trap with some real functionalities but embedded with hardcoded and backdoored command-and-control callbacks.

“Jinn Ransomware Builder is actually a honeypot,” Cornea explained, “but some of the features presented above are real.” For instance, the tool could initiate a remote connection and open a process with a server-hosted “CmD.eXE” executable. Other features, such as multi-language support and AES encryption, were merely designed to make the tool appear more authentic and appealing to malicious actors.

Cornea emphasized that his actions were performed within a controlled and simulated environment, ensuring no laws were broken. “I strictly discourage anyone else from executing such actions themselves,” he warned. He stressed the importance of staying on the ethical side of hacking, noting that the line between good and bad hacking is dangerously thin.

This operation highlights the creativity and strategic thinking ethical hackers use to combat cybercrime, reinforcing that innovation and legality must go hand in hand.
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SMTP servers
Authentication Cyber Security Cyber Threats Cybersecurity Dark Web Data Privacy email encryption email security Malware Distribution Phishing Attacks SMTP servers

New SMTP Cracking Tool for 2024 Sold on Dark Web Sparks Email Security Alarm

 

A new method targeting SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) servers, specifically updated for 2024, has surfaced for sale on the dark web, sparking significant concerns about email security and data privacy.

This cracking technique is engineered to bypass protective measures, enabling unauthorized access to email servers. Such breaches risk compromising personal, business, and government communications.

The availability of this tool showcases the growing sophistication of cybercriminals and their ability to exploit weaknesses in email defenses. Unauthorized access to SMTP servers not only exposes private correspondence but also facilitates phishing, spam campaigns, and cyber-espionage.

Experts caution that widespread use of this method could result in increased phishing attacks, credential theft, and malware distribution. "Organizations and individuals must prioritize strengthening email security protocols, implementing strong authentication, and closely monitoring for unusual server activity," they advise.

Mitigating these risks requires consistent updates to security patches, enforcing multi-factor authentication, and using email encryption. The emergence of this dark web listing highlights the ongoing threats cybercriminals pose to critical communication systems.

As attackers continue to innovate, the cybersecurity community emphasizes vigilance and proactive defense strategies to safeguard sensitive information. This development underscores the urgent need for robust email security measures in the face of evolving cyber threats.
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Ransomware attack
8Base 8Base Ransomware corporate cyber attacks Cyber Attacks Dark Web Data Leak data security Ransomware attack

Nidec Corporation Ransomware Attack: Data Leak on Dark Web

 

In a recent disclosure, Nidec Corporation, a global leader in precision motors and automotive components, confirmed a significant data breach from a ransomware attack that occurred earlier this year. Hackers, after failing to extort the company, leaked stolen data on the dark web. This breach did not involve file encryption, but the stolen information has raised concerns for employees, contractors, and associates regarding potential phishing attacks. Nidec operates in over 40 countries and has an annual revenue exceeding $11 billion. 

The affected division, Nidec Precision, is based in Vietnam and specializes in manufacturing optical, electronic, and mechanical equipment for the photography industry. An internal investigation revealed that hackers accessed a server using stolen VPN credentials of a Nidec employee. This server contained sensitive documents, including business letters, purchase orders, invoices, health policies, and contracts. Over 50,000 files were compromised in the breach. The company responded by closing the entry point and implementing additional security measures as advised by cybersecurity experts. 

Employees are undergoing further training to reduce future risks, with Nidec notifying business partners who may have been affected. The attack was initially claimed by the 8BASE ransomware group in June, who alleged they stole personal data and a large volume of confidential information from Nidec’s systems. In July, the Everest ransomware group also published stolen data on the dark web, suggesting a connection to 8BASE and initiating a secondary extortion attempt. While Nidec has confirmed the authenticity of the stolen data, it downplayed the potential for direct financial damage to the company or its contractors. 

However, the company remains vigilant and continues to monitor for any unauthorized use of the information. This attack underlines the vulnerability of even the largest corporations to cybercriminals and the importance of robust security measures. As ransomware groups continue to evolve their tactics, companies like Nidec must ensure they are prepared to mitigate threats and protect their sensitive data. 

The Nidec breach is a stark reminder of the ongoing risks in today’s interconnected business environment. In response to this breach, Nidec has implemented stronger security protocols and is actively educating its workforce on how to mitigate cybersecurity risks moving forward.
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Penetration Testing
Automotive Industry connected technology Customer Data Cybersecurity Dark Web Data Breach Hyundai IoT. IPO Penetration Testing

Hyundai's IPO Documents Reveal Cybersecurity Measures Amid Rising Data Breach Concerns

 

Hyundai’s recent IPO filing sheds light on its cybersecurity stance, offering a detailed look at the obstacles the company has encountered while safeguarding customer data. The red herring prospectus of Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) not only assesses its financial standing but also exposes past cybersecurity breaches, outlining the company’s risk management strategies.

The IPO launch comes at a time when cybersecurity is a top priority for global businesses, especially in the automotive sector, which increasingly depends on connected technologies. Hyundai's documents disclose two significant data breaches—one in December 2022 and another in February 2023. In both cases, hackers exposed customer information on the dark web.

Hyundai IPO: Key Cybersecurity Disclosures

The first breach, in December 2022, resulted in customer data being leaked online. Following the attack, Hyundai implemented extensive penetration tests to detect vulnerabilities and managed to remove the stolen information from the dark web, according to Autocar Professional. After a second breach in February 2023, the company quickly disabled the vulnerable APIs hackers had used to exploit the system. Hyundai’s prospectus notes the persistent challenge of securing data against cyberattacks, emphasizing that while efforts have been made, the risk of future breaches remains. Hackers may still seek unauthorized access, potentially impacting vehicle operations and customer data, the document warns.

Recognizing these vulnerabilities is vital for investors, especially considering the legal risks the company could face if customer data is compromised. Hyundai has actively outlined its cybersecurity efforts, stressing that protecting customer information is a top priority for the company.

Hyundai’s Next Steps in Cybersecurity

Hyundai’s cybersecurity efforts include assembling a specialized team to manage vulnerabilities and monitor potential cyber threats continuously. This proactive approach is increasingly necessary as cyberattacks become more advanced, particularly with the rise of connected vehicles and IoT technologies.

The automaker adheres to both national and international cybersecurity standards, consistently updating its protocols to align with the evolving threat landscape. This commitment is not just about data protection; it reflects the company’s awareness that consumer trust is key to maintaining its brand reputation as it moves forward with its IPO.

With these cybersecurity incidents in mind, it’s clear that the automotive industry must stay alert in protecting sensitive data. For companies like Hyundai, which handle vast amounts of customer information, the threat of cyber exploitation remains a major concern.
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North Korea
Andariel APT45 Cyber Attacks Dark Web North Korea

Inside the Dark Web: How Andariel Targets U.S. Organizations

Inside the Dark Web: How Andariel Targets U.S. Organizations

The Andariel hacking group, a notorious entity linked to North Korea, has recently shifted its focus towards financially motivated attacks on U.S. organizations. This pivot, observed in August 2024, marks a significant change in the group's operational strategy, raising concerns among cybersecurity experts and organizations alike.

Background of Andariel

Andariel, considered a sub-cluster of the notorious Lazarus Group, is also known as APT45, DarkSeoul, Nickel Hyatt, Onyx Sleet (previously Plutonium), Operation Troy, Silent Chollima, and Stonefly. They’ve been active since at least 2009. 

Operating under North Korea's Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB), Andariel is notorious for deploying ransomware strains like SHATTEREDGLASS and Maui, and developing custom backdoors such as Dtrack (aka Valefor and Preft), TigerRAT, Black RAT (aka ValidAlpha), Dora RAT, and LightHand.

They also use lesser-known tools like a data wiper called Jokra and an advanced implant named Prioxer for exchanging commands and data with a command-and-control (C2) server. 

In July 2024, a North Korean military intelligence operative from Andariel was indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) for ransomware attacks on healthcare facilities, using the proceeds to conduct further intrusions into defense, technology, and government sectors worldwide.

The Shift in Focus

Symantec, a leading cybersecurity firm, reported that Andariel's recent campaigns have targeted U.S. organizations across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and retail. 

The group's tactics have evolved to include sophisticated phishing attacks, ransomware deployments, and exploitation of known vulnerabilities in widely used software. This shift is indicative of a broader trend where state-sponsored groups diversify their objectives to include financial motivations alongside traditional espionage.

Techniques and Tactics

Andariel's attack involves a combination of advanced persistent threats (APTs) and financially motivated cybercrime techniques. Some of the key tactics observed include:

1. Phishing Campaigns: Andariel has been leveraging highly targeted phishing emails to gain initial access to corporate networks. These emails often mimic legitimate communications and contain malicious attachments or links that deploy malware upon interaction.

2. Ransomware Attacks: The group has increasingly used ransomware to encrypt critical data and demand hefty ransoms in cryptocurrency. This tactic not only disrupts business operations but also provides a lucrative revenue stream.

3. Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Andariel has been quick to exploit known vulnerabilities in popular software and systems. By targeting unpatched systems, they can gain unauthorized access and move laterally within networks to exfiltrate sensitive data.

4. Supply Chain Attacks: Another concerning tactic is the compromise of third-party vendors and suppliers to infiltrate larger organizations. This method allows Andariel to bypass direct defenses and gain access through trusted connections.

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Stolen Data
ALPHV/BlackCat Automotive Industry Cyber Attacks Dark Web Data Leak Ramsomware RansomHub RansomHub ransomware Stolen Data

Kawasaki Motors Europe Targeted by RansomHub Ransomware Attack

 

Kawasaki Motors Europe has been targeted by a ransomware attack orchestrated by the RansomHub gang, causing significant disruption to its services. The company, responsible for distributing and selling Kawasaki’s motorcycles across Europe, swiftly responded by isolating its servers to contain the threat. IT teams collaborated with external cybersecurity experts to analyze and cleanse systems of any lingering malware. Kawasaki aims to have 90% of its server infrastructure back online shortly, ensuring that business operations, including dealerships and supply chains, remain unaffected. 

The RansomHub group, a rising cybercriminal organization, claimed responsibility for the attack and added Kawasaki to its extortion portal on the dark web. According to the threat group, 487 GB of data was stolen, and they threatened to leak this information if their demands weren’t met. The data theft’s scope, particularly whether it includes sensitive customer details, remains unclear. Despite these developments, Kawasaki has not commented on the situation or responded to inquiries from cybersecurity analysts and reporters. 

RansomHub has gained significant traction in recent months, filling the void left by the now-defunct BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware operation. This has resulted in a surge of attacks against high-profile organizations, with RansomHub’s affiliates targeting critical sectors such as healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. The group’s growing notoriety was highlighted in a joint advisory issued by the FBI, CISA, and the Department of Health and Human Services, which reported over 200 victims of the ransomware group in the U.S. alone since February. The attack on Kawasaki emphasizes the evolving threat posed by ransomware groups and the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures. 

For businesses like Kawasaki, robust security protocols, regular updates, and swift incident response are critical in mitigating the risk of data breaches. The company’s efforts to cleanse infected servers highlight the importance of collaboration between internal IT teams and external cybersecurity experts in recovering from attacks. To protect against future breaches, organizations must invest in advanced threat detection technologies, ensure comprehensive patch management, and prioritize employee cybersecurity training. 

With cybercriminal groups like RansomHub becoming increasingly organized and opportunistic, adopting a layered defense strategy is vital for reducing exposure to such attacks. Kawasaki’s situation serves as a reminder of the growing challenges organizations face in safeguarding sensitive data from evolving cyber threats and the need for constant vigilance in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
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User Priavcy
Cyber Security Dark Web dark web threats data security Tor Browser US Goverment User Priavcy

Dark Web Revealed: The Hidden Internet’s Role in Cybercrime and Digital Privacy

 

The dark web, often shrouded in mystery and fear, is portrayed as a breeding ground for illicit activities and cybercrime. While this image is not entirely unfounded, the dark web’s origins and uses are more nuanced, with surprising ties to the United States government. The dark web represents a portion of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines, accessible only through specialized software such as the Tor Browser, short for The Onion Router. Unlike familiar domains ending in .com or .org, dark web addresses end in .onion, reflecting the layered encryption process that protects user anonymity. 

Tor, which was released to the public as an open-source project in October 2002, routes internet traffic through a series of volunteer-operated servers. This “onion” layering ensures that each relay only knows the previous and next step in the chain, but not the entire route, thus preserving the privacy of users. Interestingly, the dark web’s creation is linked to the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in the mid-1990s. It was initially designed to secure online communications for U.S. intelligence agencies and military personnel, enabling them to transmit confidential information without revealing their identities or locations. 

Despite its government origins, the dark web has since evolved into a diverse ecosystem. While it is true that it harbors illegal marketplaces for drugs, stolen data, and other contraband, it also serves as a crucial tool for privacy advocates and journalists. Platforms like WikiLeaks and other whistleblowing sites use the dark web to share sensitive information without risking exposure. The U.S. government’s presence on the dark web remains strong, often employing the very technology it helped create to monitor criminal activities. Law enforcement agencies frequently set up “honeypots” – fake websites designed to catch criminals in the act. 

The closure of notorious drug markets like Silk Road and the arrest of its founder, Ross Ulbricht, in 2013, marked a significant victory for these operations. However, as one site is taken down, others often emerge to take its place, illustrating the persistent cat-and-mouse game between authorities and cybercriminals. However, the dark web’s reputation as a lawless zone is somewhat exaggerated. For many, it is a vital tool for escaping censorship and surveillance. In countries like Russia and China, where internet access is heavily restricted, the dark web offers a means to access banned information and communicate freely. 

Even mainstream entities like Facebook and The New York Times maintain dark web versions of their sites to ensure global accessibility. Despite its dark reputation, the dark web is not inherently illegal. In fact, it plays a crucial role in protecting online privacy and freedom. While criminals have exploited its anonymity, it also empowers individuals in repressive regimes to speak out against injustice, report on human rights abuses, and share critical information with the world. As cyber threats continue to evolve, so too does the dark web. 

It remains a double-edged sword – a refuge for both the world’s worst actors and its most vulnerable. Understanding its complexities and the balance between privacy and security is essential as the digital landscape continues to expand.
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Rhysida
Cyber Attacks Dark Web Double extortion Ransomware Rhysida

Hackers Steal 6 Terabytes Data, Sells on Dark Web

Hackers Steal 6 Terabytes Data, Sells on Dark Web

The City of Columbus faces a major cybersecurity threat due to a hacking group Rhysida’s claims of stealing a massive 6.5 terabytes of sensitive information. The data heist happened after a ransomware attack on July 18 that forced the city to close down various online operations. 

Ransomware attack 

Mayor Andrew Ginther acknowledged the attack but didn’t disclose the group and the type of data compromised, only saying the attack came from an ‘established and sophisticated threat actor operating overseas.” 

Although the IT department was able to stop the hackers from encrypting the data, the hackers still got the most of it. Claiming responsibility for the attack, Rhysida is auctioning the stolen data on a dark website for sale. 

Hackers ask for Bitcoin as ransom

The ransom demand is 30 Bitcoin, which comes to around $1.9 million. The data for sale includes databases and city video camera access. The hackers promise buyers full ownership, and reselling is not allowed. In earlier attacks, if Rhysida couldn't find a buyer, they just leaked the data publicly. 

The mayor’s office is currently mute about the ongoing investigation. However, they have taken measures to save impacted employees by providing Experian credit monitoring services. The safety step extends to the whole city, judge employees, and Franklin County Municipal Court clerk. 

The mayor stressed that the threat actors’ main goal was to churn out as much money as possible, and the city is improving its cybersecurity infrastructure to avoid future attacks.

Use of Double Extortion 

According to experts, Rhysdia’s action aligns with a strategy called “double extortion.” It suggests the threat actors extracted the sensitive data before starting the encryption process. Even after the city stopped the encryption, Rhysida may still have important data. However, experts also said that Rhysida has a history of exaggerating the volume of stolen data they have claimed.

At present, the city is working to limit the crisis, the Columbus city residents await more updates and hope for an answer that prevents their sensitive data. 

“Even before the auction, some city employees were already falling victim to compromised data. Brian Steel, president of the local branch of the Fraternal Order of Police, confirmed to NBC4 that at least 12 Columbus police officers had their bank accounts hacked. However, there’s no evidence to connect this as a direct symptom of Rhysida’s attack,” reports NBC4. 

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Stolen Data
Dark Web Data Breach data stealing Information Leak Phishing Attack PII Stolen Data

Massive Data Breach Exposes Personal Information of 2.9 Billion People Worldwide

 

No matter how cautious you are online, your personal data can still be vulnerable, as demonstrated by a recent data breach that exposed the information of 2.9 billion people. This alarming incident was brought to light as part of a class action lawsuit filed earlier this month. The lawsuit, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, claims that the personal data, including full names, addresses, and Social Security Numbers, was compromised by a public records data provider named National Public Data, a company specializing in background checks and fraud prevention.  

The stolen data, which includes detailed personal information dating back 30 years, was taken by a cybercriminal group known as USDoD. According to the complaint, these hackers attempted to sell the vast collection of data on the dark web for $3.5 million. Given the enormous number of people affected, it is likely that the data includes individuals not only from the U.S. but from other countries as well. National Public Data allegedly obtained this massive amount of personal information through a process known as scraping, a technique used to collect data from websites and other online sources. The troubling aspect of this case is that the company reportedly scraped personally identifiable information (PII) from non-public sources, meaning many of the individuals affected did not voluntarily provide their data to the company. 

One of the plaintiffs, a California resident, became aware of the breach after receiving a notification from an identity theft protection service that his information had been leaked on the dark web. As part of the lawsuit, this plaintiff is seeking a court order for National Public Data to securely dispose of all the personal information it acquired through scraping. Additionally, the plaintiff is asking for financial compensation for himself and other victims, along with the implementation of stricter security measures by the company. In the wake of such a breach, the exposed data could be used by hackers to commit various forms of identity theft and fraud. While National Public Data has yet to issue a formal statement, it is likely that the company will be required to notify affected individuals of the breach. These notifications are expected to arrive by mail, so it is important to monitor your mailbox closely. 

Typically, companies responsible for data breaches offer affected individuals free identity theft protection or credit monitoring for a period of time. Until such services are offered, it is crucial to be vigilant in checking your emails and messages, as hackers may use the stolen data to conduct phishing attacks. Additionally, carefully monitoring your bank and financial accounts for any signs of unauthorized activity is recommended. 

This breach, which is nearly as significant as the 2013 Yahoo! breach that exposed the data of 3 billion people, is likely to have far-reaching consequences. Tom’s Guide has reached out to National Public Data for further information and will provide updates as the situation develops.
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User Privacy
Dark Web Data Breach Data Leak Personal Data User Data User Privacy

Dark Web Actor Claims Responsibility of ADT Data Breach

 

A dark web actor has claimed responsibility for a data breach affecting ADT, an American security company known for its residential and commercial alarm monitoring services. On August 1, 2024, an individual or group using the alias "netnsher" publicly admitted their role in this major breach. According to the threat actor's post, the ADT data leak compromised around 30,812 records, including nearly 30,400 unique email addresses. 

Numerous personal details, including email addresses, physical addresses, user IDs, and transaction histories, are included in the hacked data. Along with making these records public, the threat actor "netnsher" also provided a sample of the ADT breach's evidence.

The ADT data leak was first reported on July 31, 2024, and became public the next day. Notably, another data leak concerning ADT occurred earlier on July 8, 2024, when the threat actor identified as "Abu_Al_Sahrif" revealed internal ADT records from 2020 to 2023. 

It is unknown whether the new hack by "netnsher" used data from the earlier leak or was obtained in a different way. It is unknown whether the new hack by "netnsher" used data from the earlier leak or was obtained in a different way. The consequence of this ADT data breach is significant, given that ADT Inc. is a key participant in the security sector with a revenue of almost $5 billion. The disclosed documents contain sensitive information that, if exploited, could result in identity theft or phishing. 

The local media outlet contacted ADT Inc. for comment on the incident. In their response, ADT confirmed their knowledge of the occurrence, saying, "ADT is aware of this claim, and it is under investigation." The company is currently investigating every aspect of the breach and its impact on affected consumers.

This ADT breach comes after a string of similar instances using the threat actor "netnsher." On April 26, 2024, this TA was related to a new data breach accusation involving Kernel Finance, an Indian GST billing solution that allegedly exposed over 7,000 bank account details and other sensitive information. On the same day, "netnsher" disclosed critical access tokens and files from the Law Firm Banking Trustnota, showing their skills and possible threats, according to Constella Intelligence.
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Threat Landscape
CISOs Cyber Security Dark Web Healthcare Industry Threat Landscape

Dark Web Intel Underutilized by CISOs, Diminishing Healthcare Industry

 

The healthcare industry faces challenges in keeping up with the rapidly evolving healthcare cybersecurity landscape. This is due in part to CISOs failing to take use of dark web intelligence, which leaves the industry with a weaker cyber posture than other sectors. Only 57% of healthcare CISOs have included dark web intelligence in their plans, according to a Searchlight Cyber Report. 

Researchers highlighted that the dark web acts as a hub for cybercriminal activity, with marketplaces for buying and selling malware, exploits, and stolen data. It also provides a forum for threat actors to share skills and discuss strategies. Furthermore, criminals use the dark web to host ransomware leak sites, threatening to reveal stolen data unless a ransom is paid. 

Collecting threat intelligence, pre-attack intelligence, and data from the dark web can help many organisations enhance their cybersecurity posture. This method, known as the "pre-attack phase," allows businesses to detect and mitigate cybersecurity risks before they enter their network. 

A poll titled "Proactive Defence: How Enterprises Are Using Dark Web Intelligence," performed between November 18, 2022, and January 16, 2023, gathered responses from 1,008 CISOs representing large enterprises with revenue in excess of $200 million and more than 2,000 employees. 

While the financial sector leads in the adoption of dark web intelligence, with 85 percent of organisations acquiring it, the healthcare industry lags behind. According to survey results, healthcare CISOs are 20 percentage points behind other industries in gathering data from the dark web, which is harming their cybersecurity posture. Most CISOs in the United States are confident in their ability to comprehend their adversaries' profiles. 

Specifically, 85 percent of US CISOs expressed confidence, while 80 percent of US firms reported acquiring threat intelligence. While researchers see this high level of dark web data awareness and uptake as promising, significant sector differences persist. The healthcare sector has demonstrated a lack of confidence in knowing the profiles of potential adversaries.

Researchers identified that, compared to the industry average of 77 percent, just 60 percent of healthcare CISOs feel confident in understanding their adversaries’ characteristics. A lack of awareness of data intelligence can limit their ability to detect and neutralise legitimate threats before they enter the network. 

In contrast, industries such as manufacturing, financial services, and professional services report higher security postures. Because of increased use of threat intelligence and dark web monitoring, these industries are more confident in recognising and responding to possible threats. 

Every week, millions of dollars in ransoms and protected health information (PHI) are stolen from secure systems and made available on the dark web. This regrettable pattern reveals the tragic fate of many exfiltrated patient data records, emphasising the critical need for the healthcare industry to address its security vulnerabilities and knowledge gaps.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Account security Account Takeover BreachForums Dark Web Data Safety GitHub NPM Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Critical npm Account Takeover Vulnerability Sold on Dark Web

 

A cybercriminal known as Alderson1337 has emerged on BreachForums, offering a critical exploit targeting npm accounts. This vulnerability poses a significant threat to npm, a crucial package manager for JavaScript managed by npm, Inc., a subsidiary of GitHub. Alderson1337 claims this exploit can enable attackers to hijack npm accounts linked to specific employees within organizations. 

The method involves embedding undetectable backdoors into npm packages used by these employees, potentially compromising numerous devices upon updates. This exploit could have widespread implications for organizational security. Instead of sharing a proof of concept (PoC) publicly, Alderson1337 has invited interested buyers to contact him privately, aiming to maintain the exploit’s confidentiality and exclusivity. If executed successfully, this npm exploit could inject backdoors into npm packages, leading to extensive device compromise. 

However, npm has not yet issued an official statement, leaving the claims unverified. The incident primarily impacts npm Inc., with npmjs.com being the related website. While the potential repercussions are global, the specific industry impact remains undefined. Account takeover (ATO) vulnerabilities represent severe risks where cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to online accounts by exploiting stolen credentials. These credentials are often obtained through social engineering, data breaches, or phishing attacks. 

Once acquired, attackers use automated bots to test these credentials across various platforms, including travel, retail, finance, eCommerce, and social media sites. Users’ reluctance to update passwords and reusing them across different platforms increase the risk of credential stuffing and brute force attacks. Such practices allow attackers to access accounts, potentially leading to identity theft, financial fraud, or misuse of personal information. To mitigate ATO attack risks, experts recommend adopting strong password management practices, including using unique, complex passwords for each account and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Regular monitoring for unauthorized account activities and promptly responding to suspicious login attempts are also crucial for maintaining account security. 

While Alderson1337’s claims await verification, this incident underscores the ongoing challenges posed by account takeover vulnerabilities in today’s interconnected digital landscape. Vigilance and collaboration across the cybersecurity community are essential to mitigating these threats and preserving the integrity of online platforms and services.
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VPNS
Dark Web Email address email masking NordVPN Privacy Spam VPNS

Why You Should Mask Your Email Address


 

In today's digital age, entering your real email address into a website is a risky move. It's all too common for websites to sell your information to data brokers, who then use it for marketing, targeted ads, or even reselling. To safeguard your privacy and security, masking your email address has become a crucial practice.

Email masking is essential not just for avoiding spam but also for protecting your personal information from falling into the wrong hands. If your email address is leaked in a data breach, it could end up on the dark web, accessible to scammers and cybercriminals. These malicious actors store your data in databases for use in scams and hacking attempts. Additionally, there have been instances where government bodies have purchased data broker information for surveillance purposes.

By using masked emails when signing up for services and accounts, you can prevent your details from being leaked. A masked email can be discarded with a single click, rendering it useless to scammers. This proactive measure significantly reduces your risk of being targeted by cyber threats.

Easy Solutions for Email Masking

For those looking to enhance their privacy effortlessly, two services stand out: NordVPN and Surfshark. These VPN providers offer more than just secure internet connections; they also provide simple and effective email masking solutions.

NordVPN integrates email masking with its built-in password manager, NordPass. This service is user-friendly, offering fast speeds and excellent content unblocking capabilities. Priced at $3.39 per month for a two-year plan, NordVPN delivers great value and a range of privacy tools. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.

Surfshark is another excellent choice, especially for those on a budget. It not only masks your email but also offers phone number masking for users in the US, with plans to expand this feature to other regions. Known for its speed and effectiveness in streaming, Surfshark provides a high-quality VPN service with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to test the service before committing.

Using a VPN like NordVPN or Surfshark offers several other benefits. These services protect your devices from hackers, enable you to stream content from abroad, and block ads and malware. The comprehensive protection offered by VPNs makes them a valuable tool for maintaining online privacy and security.


Taking Privacy Further with Incogni

For those looking to take their privacy a step further, Incogni is a useful tool. It actively removes your information from data brokers, reducing the chances of being targeted by aggressive marketing and advertisers. Bundling Incogni with a Surfshark subscription can be a cost-effective way to enhance your privacy defences.

Keeping your email address private is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself from unwanted spam and cyber threats. By utilising services like NordVPN and Surfshark for email masking, and tools like Incogni for data removal, you can enjoy a more secure and private online experience.


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Hacker group
Breach Forums Cyber Crime Dark Web Domain FBI Hacker group

Breach Forums Plans Dark Web Return Despite FBI Crackdown

 

Breach Forums, the infamous cybercrime and hacker forum, is all set to return to the dark web under a new Onion label, Hackread reported. While the exact timing for the resuscitation of its clearnet domain is unknown, officials are trying to revive it this week. 

ShinyHunters, a hacker and Breach Forums administrator, confirmed the latest developments to a local media outlet . According to the hacker, the new Onion domain for Breach Forums is preparing for a comeback, which is scheduled for the following week. 

"The onion is ready, it's not public yet, but it will probably be launched this week." When asked about the status of the clearnet domain, the hacker just stated that "the clearnet will come back," without providing a specific timeline. 

Notably, on May 15th, 2024, the FBI seized Breach Forums V2, apparently after apprehending two admins, one known by the moniker Baphomet. ShinyHunters told Hackread.com that they believe Baphomet may have handed up backend credentials to the FBI, resulting in the entire seizure of the forum's Escrow, as well as its dark web and clearnet domains. 

However, recent developments have taken an unexpected turn, with ShinyHunters announcement last week that they had retrieved access to the seized clearnet domain for Breach Forums from the FBI using an unspecified technique. 

Interestingly, neither the FBI nor the Department of Justice has issued a statement on the seizure or any of the linked events. While the FBI has recognised the seizure and requested victims of data breaches on Breach Forums to come forward and fill out a form to help with further investigations, official statements from authorities are still waiting. 

With ShinyHunters' revelation that they had regained access to the confiscated clearnet domain, the narrative develops, leaving many doubts regarding the forum's future and the role of law enforcement authorities. However, it is clear that Breach Forums is undergoing a huge transition. From its confiscation by the FBI to its probable resurrection with a new Onion domain, the story depicts the dangerous and strange world of cybercrime.
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Threat actor
CD Projekt data Cisco breach Cyber Security Cybersecurity Dark Web Data Leak digital decryption keys HelloGookie rebrand HelloKitty ransomware Threat actor

HelloKitty Ransomware Renames to 'HelloGookie,' Unveils CD Projekt and Cisco Data

 

The operator behind the HelloKitty ransomware has rebranded it as 'HelloGookie,' with passwords for previously leaked CD Projekt source code, Cisco network data, and decryption keys from earlier attacks being released.

Identified as 'Gookee/kapuchin0,' the threat actor claims to be the original creator of the now-defunct HelloKitty ransomware, coinciding the rebranding with the launch of a new dark web portal for HelloGookie. To mark the occasion, four private decryption keys were disclosed, enabling the recovery of files from previous attacks, alongside internal data stolen from Cisco in 2022 and passwords for leaked CD Projekt source code.

Developers have already utilized the leaked Witcher 3 source code to compile the game, showcasing screenshots and videos of development builds. The leaked source code contains binaries to launch a developer build of Witcher 3, with efforts underway to compile the game from the source.

HelloKitty, initially launched in November 2020, garnered attention for targeting corporate networks, encrypting systems, and stealing data. Notably, the ransomware group breached CD Projekt Red in February 2021, encrypting servers and pilfering source code, including for Witcher 3.

In 2022, Yanluowang's data leak site was allegedly hacked, revealing conversations linking the group closely to the HelloKitty developer. Gookee/kapuchin0 subsequently leaked the HelloKitty builder and source code, signaling the end of operations. However, rebranded as HelloGookie, the threat actor has not disclosed new victims or evidence of recent attacks but released stolen data from prior breaches.

The leaked data includes NTLM hashes from Cisco's breach, indicating a closer relationship between HelloGookie and Yanluowang. Cisco acknowledged the incident, referring to a 2022 blog post by Cisco Talos detailing the security breach.

The future success and notoriety of HelloGookie remain uncertain, contrasting with the operational achievements of HelloKitty.
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NHS
Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cyberhackers CyberThreat Dark Web Data Breach Data Records Galloway Medical Files NHS

Dark Web Nightmare: Scots NHS Patient Data Breach Exposes Medical Files

 


Following a major data breach at NHS Dumfries and Galloway, patients can access their private medical records online with just a few clicks. It has been reported that an extremely large amount of data has been stolen from the NHS by a group known as INC Ransom. 

To keep this vast amount of personal information confidential, the group demanded a ransom and then uploaded a massive amount of information to the dark web. As a result of the cyber attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway in March, the data of its victims has now been released onto the dark web. NHS Scotland advised potential victims to remain vigilant about cyber attacks. 

Nevertheless, the media reports claim that a search on the dark web resulted in personal information about six patients, including a disabled child aged 10 and an 81-year-old man who was disabled. In addition to providing patients' names and dates of birth, the documents also include their home addresses and even their personal email addresses, details of the patient's life and medical history, test results, and private disclosures about their condition that were made to physicians. 

In response to the Sunday Mail report, NHS Dumfries and Galloway confirmed to the newspaper that patients have been informed, but they don't know what files the hackers have or how many more individuals have been compromised. Using the dark web, cybercriminals released documents that proved they had hacked the NHS system that were easily accessed by the Sunday Mail. 

There are some of the most personal details about six patients, including an 81-year-old man who was disabled at the age of 10 and a disabled 10-year-old girl. Furthermore, the documents reveal the patient's name and date of birth, in addition to their unique numerical identifiers called CHI numbers. It also gives their home addresses, as well as one person's e-mail address.

Furthermore, they contain intimate details regarding people's lives and medical histories, as well as test results, which are disclosed to doctors privately. According to the Sunday Mail, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has informed six patients that their data has been stolen, but they have no idea how many more have been affected or what files they have on hand.

As deputy leader of Labour, Jackie Baillie asked Health Secretary Neil Gray to explain how the breach occurred and what measures are being taken to prevent it in other health boards As a result of the breach, experts warn that the people whose personal information was compromised may be vulnerable to identity theft and other kinds of fraud. Managing director of the Cybersecurity Research Centre at Abertay University, Professor Lynne Coventry, said, "Health records can contain sensitive health information as well as financial information, making them more valuable than financial records." 

As a result of the data breach, thousands of people may potentially be affected, but authorities are not yet sure how significant it will be. There have been several calls for transparency from the NHS regarding the breach, and Patrick McGuire, partner at Thompsons Solicitors, says the NHS needs to provide support to those who were affected by the breach. 

McGuire also claimed that the NHS could be faced with significant legal claims from individuals whose personal information was exposed. This has got to be one of Scotland's biggest data breaches, possibly even the whole of Scotland. McGuire stated that the amount of information is enormous. The Scottish Conservative party's health spokesman, Dr Sandesh Gulhane, has stated that those whose information has been stolen are likely to seek financial compensation and that defending these claims could prove to be a significant challenge. 

During his interview with the press, Mr Gray revealed that he must take responsibility for the mitigation of the damage and prevent future attacks by explaining to the public what actions are being taken to mitigate these damages. As a result of the scale of the attack, it is difficult for NHS Dumfries and Galloway to determine exactly what data the hackers could access or how many individuals might be impacted. Police Scotland has confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. 

According to the health board, the six patients whose information had already been published online have already been contacted. Moreover, the NHS Scotland regional board has reported that no disruptions were reported to patient-facing services due to the cyber incident and that normal operations continued. 

According to the Scottish government, the cyber attack targeted NHS Dumfries and Galloway and no further incidents have been reported across NHS Scotland as a result of the cyber attack. The company has been around since July 2023, when it appeared on the scene. Numerous organizations, including healthcare institutions, have been indiscriminately targeted by ransomware. 

The group obtains access to the enterprise via phishing emails and exploiting vulnerabilities in software resulting in exploitation of Citrix NetScaler vulnerability CVE-20233519. Using TOR, it communicates with its victims over a TOR-based portal and tracks payments using a unique ID code that is at the heart of every payment.
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User Privacy
Dark Web Data Breach Data Leak Private Data Tech Firm User Privacy

Private Data of 7.5 million BoAt Users Leaked in Massive Data Breach

 

More than 7.5 million boAt customers' customer information has surfaced on the dark web. It is possible to purchase personally identifiable information (PII) such as a name, address, contact number, email ID, customer ID, and more. The threat actor leaked around 2GB of data on the forum. 

On April 5, a hacker dubbed ShopifyGUY claimed to have accessed the data of audio products and smartwatch maker boAt Lifestyle. The threat actor leaked data breach files comprising 75,50,000 entries of personally identifiable information (PII) from consumers. Forbes India validated the report by speaking with a number of the consumers who have recently purchased boAt items. 

These data breaches have implications that extend beyond the immediate loss of private data. People are more susceptible to monetary fraud, phishing scams, and identity theft. Threat Intelligence Researcher Saumay Srivastava notes that sophisticated social engineering assaults could be carried out by threat actors who employ users' personal information to get access to bank accounts, carry out transactions, and fraudulently use credit cards.

“The consequences for companies include a loss of customer confidence, legal consequences and reputational harm. The major implications make it even more essential to implement adequate security practices,” Saumya added. 

The leaker's profile (ShopifyGUY) is rather new, with only this leak under his belt. Because the data is genuine, the hacker will establish a good reputation among the forum community, increasing future data purchases, explains Rakesh Krishnan, senior threat analyst at NetEnrich. 

"Considering the timeline, we can assume that the hackers gained access to the boAt customer database at least one month ago and put the data on the forum yesterday.”

Ideally, the company should notify all users, conduct a thorough investigation into how the attackers gained access and what else they could access, and then overhaul their security measures to ensure this does not happen again, but realistically, it will deny and move on, explains Yash Kadakia, founder of Security Brigade. 

The data is available for eight credits on several forums, thus it practically costs two euros to purchase it. It will most likely be available for free on Telegram within a few days. Many scammers will use this information to carry out various phone and email scams, Kadakia noted. 

According to an IDC report, boAt, which was founded in 2016 by Aman Gupta, a judge on Shark Tank, and Sameer Mehta, is now the second most popular wearable brand as of the third quarter of 2023. The Gurugram-based business is well-regarded by Indian customers and is renowned for its affordable headphones and other audio equipment. In addition, it produces speakers and smartwatches.
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Threat actor
Commonwealth of Independent States Cybersecurity Dark Web Exfiltration Lazy Koala malware password stealer malware Phishing Attacks PT ESC Telegram Threat actor

Lazy Koala: New Cyber Threat Emerges in CIS Region

 

Cybersecurity researchers at Positive Technologies Expert Security Center (PT ESC) recently uncovered a new threat actor they've named Lazy Koala. Despite lacking sophistication, this group has managed to achieve significant results.

The report reveals that Lazy Koala is targeting enterprises primarily in Russia and six other Commonwealth of Independent States countries: Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Armenia. Their victims belong to government agencies, financial institutions, and educational establishments. Their primary aim is to acquire login credentials for various services.

According to the researchers, nearly 900 accounts have been compromised so far. The purpose behind the stolen information remains unclear, but it's suspected that it may either be sold on the dark web or utilized in more severe subsequent attacks.

The modus operandi of Lazy Koala involves simple yet effective tactics. They employ convincing phishing attacks, often using native languages to lure victims into downloading and executing attachments. These attachments contain a basic password-stealing malware. The stolen files are then exfiltrated through Telegram bots, with the individual managing these bots being dubbed Koala, hence the group's name.

Denis Kuvshinov, Head of Threat Analysis at PT ESC, describes Lazy Koala's approach as "harder doesn't mean better." Despite their avoidance of complex tools and tactics, they manage to accomplish their objectives. Once the malware establishes itself on a device, it utilizes Telegram, a preferred tool among attackers, to exfiltrate stolen data.

PT ESC has notified the victims of these attacks, warning that the stolen information is likely to be sold on the dark web.
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Threat Landscape
Business Security CISO Cyber Security Dark Web Data Privacy Threat Landscape

Here's Why Tracking Everything on the Dark Web Is Vital

 

Today, one of the standard cybersecurity tools is to constantly monitor the Dark Web - the global go-to destination for criminals - for any clues that the trade secrets and other intellectual property belonging to the organisation have been compromised. 

The issue lies in the fact that the majority of chief information security officers (CISOs) and security operations centre (SOC) managers generally assume that any discovery of sensitive company data indicates that their enterprise systems have been successfully compromised. That's what it might very well mean, but it could also mean a hundred different things. The data may have been stolen from a supply chain partner, a corporate cloud site, a shadow cloud site, an employee's home laptop, a corporate backup provider, a corporate disaster recovery firm, a smartphone, or even a thumb drive that was pilfered from a car.

When dealing with everyday intellectual property, such as consumer personal identifiable information (PII), healthcare data, credit card credentials, or designs for a military weapons system, knowing that some version of it has been acquired is useful. However, it is nearly hard to know what to do unless the location, timing, and manner of the theft are known. 

In some cases, the answer could be "nothing." Consider some of your system's most sensitive files, including API keys, access tokens, passwords, encryption/decryption keys, and access credentials. If everything is carefully recorded and logged, your team may find that the discovered Dark Web secrets have already been systematically deleted. There would be no need for any further move.

Getting the info right

Most CISOs recognise that discovering secrets on the Dark Web indicates that they have been compromised. However, in the absence of correct details, they frequently overreact — or improperly react — and implement costly and disruptive modifications that may be entirely unnecessary. 

This could even include relying on wrong assumptions to make regulatory compliance disclosures, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) cybersecurity obligations. This has the potential to subject the organisation to stock drops and compliance fines that are avoidable. 

Establishing best practices

You must keep a tightly controlled inventory of all of your secrets, including intricate and meticulous hashing techniques to trace all usage and activity. This is the only way to keep track of all activity involving your machine credentials in real time. If you do this aggressively, you should be able to detect a stolen machine credential before it reaches the Dark Web and is sold to the highest bidder.

Another good strategy is to regularly attack the Dark Web — and other evil-doers' dens — with false files to add a lot of noise to the mix. Some discriminating bad guys may avoid your data totally if they are unsure if it is genuine or not.
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