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Showing posts with label Ransomware attack. Show all posts
Swiss Government
Data Breach Data Leak Radix Ransomware attack Swiss Government

Swiss Health Foundation Ransomware Attack Exposes Government Data

 

The Swiss government is announcing that a ransomware assault at the third-party company Radix has affected sensitive data from multiple federal offices.

The Swiss authorities claim that the hackers obtained information from Radix systems and then posted it on the dark web. The nation's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is assisting in the analysis of the leaked data to determine which government agencies are affected and to what extent. 

“The foundation Radix has been targeted by a ransomware attack, during which data was stolen and encrypted,” the Swiss government noted. “Radix’s customers include various federal offices. The data has been published on the dark web and will now be analyzed by the relevant offices.” 

Radix is a Zurich-based non-profit focused on health promotion. It operates eight competence centres that carry out projects and services for the Swiss federal government, cantonal and municipal corporations, and other public and private organisations. 

According to the organization's statement, Sarcoma ransomware affiliates penetrated its systems on June 16. Sarcoma is a newly emerging ransomware outfit that began operations in October 2024 quickly became one of the most active, claiming 36 victims in its first month. One notable example was an attack on PCB giant Unimicron. 

Phishing, supply-chain attacks, and outdated flaws are some of the ways Sarcoma gains access. Once RDP connections are exploited, the hackers usually proceed laterally across the network. The threat actor may encrypt the data in addition to stealing it in the final phase of the attack. On June 29, the ransomware outfit uploaded the stolen Radix data on their leak portal on the dark web, most likely after extortion attempts failed. 

Personalised alerts were sent to affected individuals, according to Radix, which also states that there is no proof that critical information from partner organisations was compromised. Radix advises potentially vulnerable users to be on guard over the next few months and to be cautious of attempts to obtain their account credentials, credit card details, and passwords in order to mitigate this risk. 

In March 2024, the Swiss government confirmed it had experienced a similar exposure via third-party software services provider Xplain, which was attacked by the Play ransomware gang on May 23, 2023. As a result of that incident, 65,000 Federal Administration documents were leaked, many of which included private and sensitive data.
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Ransomwares
Data Breach Data Privacy data security Data Theft Healthcare Data healthcare data breach Healthcare Industry Personal Information Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Horizon Healthcare RCM Reports Ransomware Breach Impacting Patient Data

 

Horizon Healthcare RCM has confirmed it was the target of a ransomware attack involving the theft of sensitive health information, making it the latest revenue cycle management (RCM) vendor to report such a breach. Based on the company’s breach disclosure, it appears a ransom may have been paid to prevent the public release of stolen data. 

In a report filed with Maine’s Attorney General on June 27, Horizon disclosed that six state residents were impacted but did not provide a total number of affected individuals. As of Monday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights had not yet listed the incident on its breach portal, which logs healthcare data breaches affecting 500 or more people.  

However, the scope of the incident may be broader. It remains unclear whether Horizon is notifying patients directly on behalf of these clients or whether each will report the breach independently. 

In a public notice, Horizon explained that the breach was first detected on December 27, 2024, when ransomware locked access to some files. While systems were later restored, the company determined that certain data had also been copied without permission. 

Horizon noted that it “arranged for the responsible party to delete the copied data,” indicating a likely ransom negotiation. Notices are being sent to affected individuals where possible. The compromised data varies, but most records included a Horizon internal number, patient ID, or insurance claims data. 

In some cases, more sensitive details were exposed, such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license or passport numbers, payment card details, or financial account information. Despite the breach, Horizon stated that there have been no confirmed cases of identity theft linked to the incident. 

The matter has been reported to federal law enforcement. Multiple law firms have since announced investigations into the breach, raising the possibility of class-action litigation. This incident follows several high-profile breaches involving other RCM firms in recent months. 

In May, Nebraska-based ALN Medical Management updated a previously filed breach report, raising the number of affected individuals from 501 to over 1.3 million. Similarly, Gryphon Healthcare disclosed in October 2024 that nearly 400,000 people were impacted by a separate attack. 

Most recently, California-based Episource LLC revealed in June that a ransomware incident in February exposed the health information of roughly 5.42 million individuals. That event now ranks as the second-largest healthcare breach in the U.S. so far in 2025. Experts say that RCM vendors continue to be lucrative targets for cybercriminals due to their access to vast stores of healthcare data and their central role in financial operations. 

Bob Maley, Chief Security Officer at Black Kite, noted that targeting these firms offers hackers outsized rewards. “Hitting one RCM provider can affect dozens of healthcare facilities, exposing massive amounts of data and disrupting financial workflows all at once,” he said.  
Maley warned that many of these firms are still operating under outdated cybersecurity models. “They’re stuck in a compliance mindset, treating risk in vague terms. But boards want to know the real-world financial impact,” he said. 

He also emphasized the importance of supply chain transparency. “These vendors play a crucial role for hospitals, but how well do they know their own vendors? Relying on outdated assessments leaves them blind to emerging threats.” 

Maley concluded that until RCM providers prioritize cybersecurity as a business imperative—not just an IT issue—the industry will remain vulnerable to repeating breaches.
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User Security
Ahold Delhaize Data Breach Grocery Giant Ransomware attack User Security

2.2 Million People Impacted by Ahold Delhaize Data Breach

 

Ahold Delhaize, the Dutch grocery company, reported this week that a ransomware attack on its networks last year resulted in a data breach that affected more than 2.2 million customers. 

The cybersecurity breach was discovered in November 2024, when numerous US pharmacies and grocery chains controlled by Ahold Delhaize reported network troubles. The incident affected Giant Food pharmacies, Hannaford supermarkets, Food Lion, The Giant Company, and Stop & Shop.

In mid-April 2025, Ahold Delhaize was attacked by the Inc Ransom ransomware organisation. Shortly after, the company acknowledged that the hackers probably stole data from some of its internal business systems.

 Since then, Ahold Delhaize has determined that personal data has been hacked, and those affected are currently being notified. Internal employment records for both current and defunct Ahold Delhaize USA enterprises were included in the stolen files. The organization told the Maine Attorney General’s Office that 2,242,521 people are affected.

The compromised information differs from person to person, however it includes name, contact information, date of birth, Social Security number, passport number, driver's license number, financial account information, health information, and employment-related information. Affected consumers will receive free credit monitoring and identity protection services for two years. 

The attackers published around 800 Gb of data allegedly stolen from Ahold Delhaize on their Tor-based leak website, indicating that the corporation did not pay a ransom. Inc Ransom claimed to have stolen 6 TB of data from the company.

Cyberattacks on the retail industry, notably supermarkets, have increased in recent months. In April, cybercriminals believed to be affiliated with the Scattered Spider group targeted UK retailers Co-op, Harrods, and M&S. 

Earlier this month, United Natural Foods (UNFI), the primary distributor for Amazon's Whole Foods and many other North American grocery shops, was targeted by a hack that disrupted company operations and resulted in grocery shortages. According to UNFI, there is no evidence that personal or health information was compromised, and no ransomware group claimed responsibility for the attack.
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Scattered Spider
Cyber Attacks Cyber Breach DragonForce DragonForce Ransomware Group Hacker group Hacking Attack M&S Ransom Demand Ransomware attack Ransomwares Scattered Spider

M&S Faces £300M Loss After Cyberattack Involving DragonForce and Scattered Spider

 

Marks & Spencer has resumed its online services after a serious cyberattack earlier this year that disrupted its operations and is expected to slash profits by £300 million. The British retail giant’s digital operations were hit hard, and recent developments suggest the breach may have been orchestrated by multiple hacker groups. 

A hacking group known as DragonForce is now linked to the incident. According to reports by the BBC, the group sent an email to M&S CEO Stuart Machin shortly after the attack, boasting about their success and demanding ransom. The message, written in aggressive and alarming language, implied the group had encrypted the retailer’s servers. DragonForce, which has rebranded itself as a “Ransomware Cartel,” operates by offering malware tools to affiliates in exchange for a percentage of ransom earnings. 

Originally emerging in 2023, the group has become increasingly active on major dark web forums in recent months. While some cybersecurity experts believe the group is based in Malaysia, others speculate ties to Russia. They have also been linked to a similar attack on the Co-op. Meanwhile, another group, Scattered Spider, had earlier been suspected of executing the attack. Known for its advanced social engineering techniques, the group is composed primarily of young hackers from the US and UK. They have previously impersonated IT personnel and used SIM swapping tactics to breach organizations. 

In 2023, they gained notoriety after cyberattacks on major US casino operators like Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts, resulting in multi-million-dollar ransoms. The M&S cyberattack, disclosed on April 22, disrupted online orders and even stopped contactless payments in physical stores. As a result, hundreds of agency workers were temporarily relieved from duty. The company confirmed that customer data—including names, email addresses, addresses, and birth dates—was compromised during the breach. The cause, according to Machin, was human error by a third-party service provider. 

In response to the growing threat, the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) issued industry-wide guidance. Law enforcement agencies, including the National Crime Agency (NCA), are actively investigating the case and considering whether the incidents involving these hacker groups are interconnected. The financial impact has been significant. M&S’s market value dropped by £650 million in the days following the attack. Despite these setbacks, the company has now reopened its standard delivery service in England, Scotland, and Wales, with additional services like click-and-collect and international orders expected to follow soon. 

In a recent statement, M&S emphasized its commitment to restoring customer trust and maintaining high service standards. The company said, “Our stores have remained operational, and we’re now focused on delivering the quality and service our customers expect as we recover from this disruption.”
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Threat Landscape
Business Security Cyber Security Ransomware attack Threat Intelligence Threat Landscape

Understanding the Dynamic threat Landscape of Ransomware Attacks

 

The constant expansion of cyber threats, particularly malware and ransomware, necessitates our undivided attention. Our defence strategy must evolve in tandem with the threats. So far this year, ransomware has targeted Frederick Health Medical Group, Co-op Supermarkets, and Marks & Spencer. 

This meant that critical data got into the wrong hands, supply networks were interrupted, and online transactions were halted. Almost 400,000 PCs were attacked with Lumma Stealer malware, a ClickFix malware version went viral, and a new spyware dubbed 'LOSTKEYS' appeared.

The threat landscape is always evolving, making traditional security methods ineffective. Effective protection methods are not only useful; they are also required to protect against severe data loss, financial damage, and reputational impact that these attacks can cause. Understanding the nature of these enemies is a critical first step towards developing strong defences. 

Ransomware: An ongoing and profitable menace 

Ransomware deserves special attention. It encrypts data and demands payment for its release, frequently spreading through phishing or software weaknesses. More complex ransomware variations take data before encrypting it, combining the threat with blackmail. The effects of ransomware include:

Data loss: May be permanent without backups. 

Financial costs: Includes ransom, restoration, and penalties 

Reputational damage: If publicly exposed, trust is lost. 

Ransomware's profitability makes it particularly tenacious. It does not just impact huge companies; small firms, healthcare systems, and educational institutions are all common targets. Its ease of deployment and high return on investment continue to attract cybercriminals, resulting in more aggressive campaigns.

Ransomware attacks increasingly frequently use "double extortion," in which attackers exfiltrate data before encrypting it. Victims confront two threats: inaccessible data and public exposure. This strategy not only enhances the chance of ransom payment, but also raises the stakes for organisations who are already battling to recover.

Challenges

Malware and ransomware are challenging to detect due to evasive strategies. Attackers are getting more creative, using legitimate administrative tools, zero-day vulnerabilities, and social engineering to get around defences. A multi-layered security approach that includes behavioural detection, endpoint hardening, and regular system updates is necessary to defend against these threats.

In the end, protecting against malware and ransomware involves more than just technology; it also involves mentality. Professionals in cybersecurity need to be knowledgeable, proactive, and flexible. The defenders must adapt to the ever-changing threats.
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Social Engineering
Cyber Attacks Extortion FBI Luna Moth Ransomware attack Social Engineering

FBI Warns of Luna Moth Ransomware Attacks Targeting U.S. Law Firms

 

The FBI said that over the last two years, an extortion group known as the Silent Ransom Group has targeted U.S. law firms through callback phishing and social engineering tactics. 

This threat outfit, also known as Luna Moth, Chatty Spider, and UNC3753, has been active since 2022. It was also responsible for BazarCall campaigns, which provided initial access to corporate networks for Ryuk and Conti ransomware assaults. Following Conti's shutdown in March 2022, the threat actors broke away from the cybercrime syndicate and created their own operation known as the Silent Ransom Group.

In recent attacks, SRG mimics the targets' IT help via email, bogus websites, and phone conversations, gaining access to their networks via social engineering tactics. This extortion group does not encrypt victims' systems and is infamous for demanding ransoms in order to keep sensitive information stolen from hacked devices from being leaked online. 

"SRG will then direct the employee to join a remote access session, either through an email sent to them, or navigating to a web page. Once the employee grants access to their device, they are told that work needs to be done overnight," the FBI stated in a private industry notification.

"Once in the victim's device, a typical SRG attack involves minimal privilege escalation and quickly pivots to data exfiltration conducted through 'WinSCP' (Windows Secure Copy) or a hidden or renamed version of 'Rclone.'” 

After acquiring the victims' data, they use ransom emails to blackmail them, threatening to sell or publish the information. They frequently call employees of breached organisations and force them into ransom negotiations. While they have a dedicated website for disclosing their victims' data, the FBI claims the extortion ring does not always followup on its data leak promises. 

To guard against these attacks, the FBI recommends adopting strong passwords, activating two-factor authentication for all employees, performing regular data backups, and teaching personnel on recognising phishing efforts.

The FBI's warning follows a recent EclecticIQ report detailing SRG attacks targeting legal and financial institutions in the United States, with attackers observed registering domains to "impersonate IT helpdesk or support portals for major U.S. law firms and financial services firms, using typosquatted patterns.”

A recent EclecticIQ report about SRG attacks against American legal and financial institutions revealed that the attackers were registering domains to "impersonate IT helpdesk or support portals for major U.S. law firms and financial services firms, using typosquatted patterns." The FBI issued the warning in response to this information. 

Malicious emails with fake helpdesk numbers are being sent to victims, prompting them to call in order to fix a variety of non-existent issues. On the other hand, Luna Moth operators would try to deceive employees of targeted firms into installing remote monitoring & management (RMM) software via phoney IT help desk websites by posing as IT staff.

Once the RMM tool is installed and started, the threat actors have direct keyboard access, allowing them to search for valuable documents on compromised devices and shared drivers, which will then be exfiltrated via Rclone (cloud syncing) or WinSCP (SFTP). According to EclecticIQ, the Silent Ransom Group sends ransom demands ranging from one to eight million USD, depending on the size of the hacked company.
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Ransomwares
Cyberattack Data Breach Data Leak data security Employee Data Healthcare Interlock gang Interlock ransomware Kettering Health Ransomware attack Ransomware group Ransomwares

Kettering Health Ransomware Attack Linked to Interlock Group

 

Kettering Health, a prominent healthcare network based in Ohio, is still grappling with the aftermath of a disruptive ransomware attack that forced the organization to shut down its computer systems. The cyberattack, which occurred in mid-May 2025, affected operations across its hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. Now, two weeks later, the ransomware gang Interlock has officially taken responsibility for the breach, claiming to have exfiltrated more than 940 gigabytes of data.  

Interlock, an emerging cybercriminal group active since September 2024, has increasingly focused on targeting U.S.-based healthcare providers. When CNN first reported on the incident on May 20, Interlock had not yet confirmed its role, suggesting that ransom negotiations may have been in progress. With the group now openly taking credit and releasing some of the stolen data on its dark web site, it appears those negotiations either failed or stalled. 

Kettering Health has maintained a firm position that they are against paying ransoms. John Weimer, senior vice president of emergency operations, previously stated that no ransom had been paid. Despite this, the data breach appears extensive. Information shared by Interlock indicates that sensitive files were accessed, including private patient records and internal documents. Patient information such as names, identification numbers, medical histories, medications, and mental health notes were among the compromised data. 

The breach also impacted employee data, with files from shared network drives also exposed. One particularly concerning element involves files tied to Kettering Health’s in-house police department. Some documents reportedly include background checks, polygraph results, and personally identifiable details of law enforcement staff—raising serious privacy and safety concerns. In a recent public update, Kettering Health announced a key development in its recovery process. 

The organization confirmed it had restored core functionalities of its electronic health record (EHR) system, which is provided by healthcare technology firm Epic. Officials described this restoration as a significant step toward resuming normal operations, allowing teams to access patient records, coordinate care, and communicate effectively across departments once again. The full scope of the breach and the long-term consequences for affected individuals still remains uncertain. 

Meanwhile, Kettering Health has yet to comment on whether Interlock’s claims are fully accurate. The healthcare system is working closely with cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement agencies to assess the extent of the intrusion and prevent further damage.
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Ransomwares
Customer Data Cyberattack Data Breach Data Leak data security Personal Information personal information exposure Qilin Qilin Ransomware Ransomware attack Ransomware group Ransomwares

Lee Enterprises Ransomware Attack Exposes Data of 40,000 Individuals

 

Lee Enterprises, a major U.S. news publisher, is alerting nearly 40,000 individuals about a data breach following a ransomware attack that took place in early February 2025. The company, which owns and operates 77 daily newspapers and hundreds of weekly and special-interest publications across 26 states, reported that the cyberattack resulted in the theft of personal information belonging to thousands of people. 

Details of the breach were revealed in a recent disclosure to the Maine Attorney General’s office. According to the company, the attackers gained unauthorized access to internal documents on February 3, 2025. These files contained combinations of personal identifiers such as names, Social Security numbers, driver’s license details, bank account information, medical data, and health insurance policy numbers. The security incident caused widespread operational disruptions. 

Following the attack, Lee Enterprises was forced to shut down multiple parts of its IT infrastructure, impacting both the printing and delivery of its newspapers. Several internal tools and systems became inaccessible, including virtual private networks and cloud storage services, complicating daily workflows across its local newsrooms. In a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission shortly after the breach, the company confirmed that critical systems had been encrypted and that a portion of its data had been copied by the attackers. 

The source of the attack is yet to be identified, a group known as Qilin has allegedly claimed responsibility near the end of February. The group alleged it had stolen over 120,000 internal files, totaling 350 gigabytes, and threatened to publish the material unless their demands were met. Soon after, Qilin posted a sample of the stolen data to a dark web leak site, which included scans of government-issued IDs, financial spreadsheets, contracts, and other confidential records. The group also listed Lee Enterprises as a victim on its public-facing extortion portal. 

When asked about the authenticity of the leaked data, a spokesperson for Lee Enterprises stated the company was aware of the claims and was actively investigating. This is not the first cybersecurity issue Lee Enterprises has faced. The company’s network was previously targeted by foreign actors during the lead-up to the 2020 U.S. presidential election, where hackers from Iran allegedly attempted to use compromised media outlets to spread disinformation. 

The ransomware attack highlights ongoing threats facing media companies, especially those handling high volumes of personal and financial data. As Lee Enterprises continues its recovery and legal steps, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for robust digital defenses in today’s information-driven landscape.
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User Privacy
Cyber Attacks MathWorks MATLAB Ransomware attack User Privacy

MathWorks Hit by Ransomware Attack Affecting Over 5 Million Clients

 

The renowned MATLAB programming language and numeric computing environment's developer has reported a ransomware attack on its IT systems. 

MathWorks, based in Massachusetts, sent an update to users after initially reporting issues on May 18, stating that the company had been hit by a ransomware attack that shut down online services and internal systems used by employees. 

“We have notified federal law enforcement of this matter,” the company noted. “We have brought many of these systems back online and are continuing to bring other systems back online with the assistance of cybersecurity experts.” 

MathWorks has millions of users, including engineers and scientists who use MATLAB for data analysis, calculation, and other purposes. MATLAB and other MathWorks products are utilised by nearly 6,500 colleges and universities, according to the company.

The firm has 6,500 employees and over 30 offices in Europe, Asia, and North America. This issue affected several MATLAB services as well as parts of the MathWorks website, such as the job page, cloud centre, store, and file exchange. MATLAB Online and MATLAB Mobile were restored on Friday.

MathWorks stated in a Tuesday update that the issue was still being investigated. Several pages on the MathWorks website are still offline. The firm did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

Verizon's comprehensive data breach report released last month revealed that ransomware was utilised in nearly half of the 12,195 confirmed data breaches in 2024. The researchers discovered that 64% of ransomware victims did not pay the ransoms, up from 50% two years ago, and the typical amount paid to ransomware groups has dropped to $115,000 (down from $150,000 last year). 

“This could be partially responsible for the declining ransom amounts. Ransomware is also disproportionately affecting small organizations,” the researchers noted. “In larger organizations, ransomware is a component of 39% of breaches, while small and medium-sized businesses experienced ransomware-related breaches to the tune of 88% overall.” 

The number of large ransoms paid has also reduced, with Verizon estimating that 95% of ransoms paid will be less than $3 million by 2024. That value is a significant increase above the $9.9 million recorded in 2023.
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Ransomware attack
Cyber Attacks Cyberattack elective procedures Interlock gang Kettering Health Ohio hospitals Ransomware attack

Ransomware Attack Disrupts Kettering Health Network, Elective Procedures Canceled Across 14 Ohio Facilities

 

A ransomware incident has caused a significant “system-wide technology outage” at a network of over a dozen medical centers in Ohio, resulting in the cancellation of both inpatient and outpatient elective procedures. This information comes from a statement released by the health system and a ransom note obtained by CNN.

Kettering Health, which serves a substantial portion of Ohio and employs more than 1,800 physicians, confirmed in a statement that the cyberattack began Tuesday morning and has created “a number of challenges” across its 14 facilities. The disruption has also affected the network’s call center. Despite this, emergency rooms and outpatient clinics remain operational and continue to treat patients.

“Inpatient and outpatient procedures have been canceled for today,” the network said in its statement. “Scheduled procedures at Kettering Health medical centers will be rescheduled.” It added that contingency protocols are in place “for these types of situations” to maintain safe and high-quality patient care.

Internally, Kettering Health's IT teams and executives are working to limit the damage from the ransomware attack. According to the ransom note reviewed by CNN, hackers deployed ransomware on the network’s computer systems.

“Your network was compromised, and we have secured your most vital files,” the note reads. It warns that the attackers may release allegedly stolen data online unless negotiations for a ransom payment begin.

The note includes a link to an extortion platform tied to the ransomware group known as Interlock, which surfaced in late 2023. Since then, the group has reportedly targeted various sectors including technology, manufacturing, and government organizations, as per Cisco’s cyber-intelligence division, Talos.

A spokesperson for Kettering Health did not offer additional details beyond the network’s official statement.

Typically, major cyber incidents affecting U.S. healthcare providers involve responses from the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). CNN has reached out to all three agencies for comment.

Cybercriminals have long targeted the U.S. healthcare sector, viewing hospitals as particularly vulnerable and likely to pay ransoms to prevent disruptions in patient care. Last year, healthcare organizations reported more than 440 ransomware incidents and data breaches to the FBI—more than any other critical infrastructure sector.

In the past 18 months, a string of high-profile cyberattacks on major health providers has directly affected patient care nationwide, prompting growing concern among lawmakers and federal authorities about the resilience of U.S. healthcare cybersecurity systems.

One such attack last year on Ascension, a nonprofit health system based in St. Louis with operations across 19 states, left nurses at some hospitals working without access to electronic health records, compromising patient safety, according to what two nurses told CNN. Similarly, a February 2024 ransomware attack on a UnitedHealth Group subsidiary disrupted pharmacy services across the country and exposed sensitive data belonging to a large number of Americans.
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UK
Cyber Attacks Logistics Firm Peter Green Chilled Ransomware attack UK

British supermarkets' Supplier of Refrigerated Goods Hit by a Ransomware Attack

 

Peter Green Chilled, a logistics firm, has announced that it has been attacked by a ransomware attack, interrupting deliveries of refrigerated goods to some of the country's top supermarkets.

Customers — largely smaller producers who provide food to regional stores in Somerset, such as Aldi, Tesco, and Sainsbury's — received an email last Thursday informing them that the company will be unable to complete part of their orders owing to the cyber incident.

Peter Green Chilled told the BBC that the attack occurred last Wednesday and had no effect on the company's transport business, but he declined to elaborate on how the incident affected the IT infrastructure via which orders are placed. 

A substantial part of the nation's frozen food is transported by Reed Boardall, a cold storage and refrigerated transport company that was attacked a number of years ago. Some of its customers have warned that they would be spoilt if they couldn't get their products delivered to retailers in time, despite the fact that Peter Green Chilled is a far smaller supplier than Reed Boardall.

After incidents involving Marks & Spencer, the Co-op, and the upscale London retailer Harrods, this attack is the most recent to affect the British retail industry. A string of recent attacks, including one revealed last week that could expose the personal information of domestic violence victims to their abusers, has prompted renewed calls for the British government to adopt a more active response to the ransomware threat. 

Law enforcement agencies should hack the criminals' systems and take them down as the "ideal response" to ransomware gangs' attempts at data extortion, in which the gangs steal data and threaten to release it unless a certain amount of money is paid in cryptocurrency, according to Gareth Mott, a research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute think tank.

It was not an easy task, Mott said. Even though the National Crime Agency and its allies had been successful in combating ransomware organisations such as LockBit, Mott stated that he was unsure if they currently have the ability to eliminate the most risky data breaches on a selective basis.
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SentinelOne
Babuk Babuk Ransomware critical vulnerabilities Cyber Security cybercriminals EDR Ransomware attack Ransomwares SentinelOne

SentinelOne EDR Exploit Allows Babuk Ransomware Deployment Through Installer Abuse

 

A newly discovered exploit has revealed a critical vulnerability in SentinelOne’s endpoint detection and response (EDR) system, allowing cybercriminals to bypass its tamper protection and deploy the Babuk ransomware. The method, identified as a “Bring Your Own Installer” technique, was uncovered by John Ailes and Tim Mashni from Aon’s Stroz Friedberg Incident Response team during a real-world ransomware case investigation. 


The core issue lies in how the SentinelOne agent handles updates. When an agent is upgraded, the existing version is momentarily stopped to make way for the new one. Threat actors have figured out how to exploit this transition window by launching a legitimate SentinelOne installer and then terminating it mid-process. This action disables the EDR protection temporarily, leaving the system vulnerable long enough to install ransomware or execute malicious operations without being detected.  

Unlike traditional bypasses that rely on third-party drivers or hacking tools, this method takes advantage of SentinelOne’s own software. Once the process is interrupted, the system loses its protection, allowing the attackers to act with impunity. Ailes stressed that the bypass can be triggered using both older and newer agent versions, putting even up-to-date deployments at risk if specific configuration settings are not enabled. During their investigation, the team observed how the targeted device disappeared from the SentinelOne management console shortly after the exploit was executed, signaling that the endpoint had become unmonitored. 

The attack was effective across multiple versions of the software, indicating that the exploit isn’t tied to a particular release. To mitigate this risk, SentinelOne recommends activating a feature called “Online Authorization” (also referred to as Local Upgrade Authorization). This setting ensures that any attempt to upgrade, downgrade, or uninstall the agent must first be approved via the SentinelOne management console. 

Although this option exists, it is not enabled by default for existing customers, largely to maintain compatibility with deployment tools like Microsoft’s System Center Configuration Manager. Since the vulnerability was disclosed, SentinelOne has taken steps to notify customers and is now enabling the protective setting by default for new installations. 

The company also confirmed sharing the findings with other major EDR providers, recognizing that similar techniques could potentially impact their platforms as well. While the current exploit does not affect SentinelOne when configured correctly, the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of security hardening, particularly in the tools meant to defend against sophisticated threats.
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Ransomwares
Cyber Attacks data security Data Theft Hacker attack Pharmaceutical Firms Ransom Demand Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Pune-Based Biopharma Company Hit by Ransomware Attack, Hackers Demand $80,000

 

A multinational biopharmaceutical company based in Pune has fallen victim to a sophisticated ransomware attack, with cybercriminals encrypting vital data and demanding $80,000 (over Rs 68 lakh) for its release. The attackers have also threatened to leak the stolen proprietary data on the dark web if the ransom is not paid, according to local police authorities. 

The incident came to light when a senior executive from the company’s Pune office lodged a complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station of Pimpri Chinchwad on Monday evening. The attack was first identified on Sunday afternoon, prompting immediate concern due to the sensitivity of the data involved. According to initial investigations by cybercrime officials, the breach is believed to have occurred through a compromised endpoint device—most likely via a phishing email containing a malicious link. 

Once the attackers gained access to the internal network, they deployed ransomware to the company’s main server and extended it to more than a dozen connected servers. Sensitive data, including proprietary pharmaceutical formulations, manufacturing protocols, and confidential business documents, was then encrypted and locked. 

“A preliminary probe suggests that vulnerabilities in the company’s cybersecurity setup allowed the attackers to infiltrate its systems,” an officer from the Cyber Police Station said. “Unfortunately, a significant portion of the critical data was not backed up offline, leaving the organization exposed to potential data loss if the ransom is not paid.” The hackers have made it clear that if their ransom demand of $80,000 is not met, the stolen data will be sold on the dark web. 

So far, the company has not paid the ransom, and authorities are currently analyzing IP logs and other digital evidence to trace the origin of the attack. Cybercrime investigators have urged all businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity measures, including regularly backing up data offline, updating firewall configurations, and educating employees about phishing threats. “This incident is a wake-up call for organizations to prioritize robust digital security,” the officer added.  

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Sandeep Doiphode emphasized the growing need for enterprises to invest in both technology and skilled cybersecurity personnel. “This case underlines the urgent necessity for companies to stay ahead of evolving threats through both infrastructure and human resource development,” he said. Police also noted that ransomware attacks typically use phishing emails and exploit weak security protocols. Payments are often demanded in cryptocurrency, making the attackers harder to trace. 

The investigation remains ongoing.
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Rhysida ransomware gang
Data Breach Data Leak Extortion Ransomware attack Ransomware group Ransomwares Rhysida Rhysida Ransomware Rhysida ransomware gang

Rhysida Ransomware Group Leaks 1.3M Files Stolen from Oregon DEQ After Failed Extortion Attempt

 

A major ransomware breach has rocked the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), with over 1.3 million files—amounting to 2.4 terabytes—dumped online by the cybercriminal group Rhysida. The stolen data, now circulating on the dark web, reportedly includes confidential information linked to DEQ employees. Whether personal data of Oregon residents outside the agency was compromised remains unconfirmed. DEQ first disclosed system disruptions on April 9, attributing them to a suspected cyberattack. 

The agency, responsible for regulating pollution, waste, air quality, and smog checks for vehicle registrations, had to suspend several core services as a result. An investigation into the breach is underway, but DEQ has not officially confirmed the volume or content of the compromised data. However, Rhysida’s own dark web site claimed responsibility, stating that it attempted to contact DEQ but was ignored. The group then released the data publicly, writing: “They think their data hasn’t been stolen. They’re sorely mistaken.” Before the leak, the group had placed a $2.5 million price tag—30 Bitcoins—on the files, offering them at auction to the highest bidder. 

By April 24, some of the stolen content had reportedly been sold, while the remaining files were made freely available for download. The breach has had serious operational consequences. For nearly a week following the attack, DEQ employees were locked out of their internal systems and email. Emails sent between April 9 and 11 were lost entirely. Vehicle emissions testing—a requirement for registrations in parts of Oregon—was halted across all non-DEQ testing locations, though some services resumed at DEQ-owned facilities on April 14. In a statement issued April 19, DEQ confirmed that employees were gradually regaining access to their work devices, moving from phones back to laptops. 

Despite the cyber disruption, spokesperson Lauren Wirtis said DEQ’s mission-critical services via its online platform DEQ Online remained operational and unaffected. Rhysida, an increasingly active ransomware gang, has previously attacked global organizations including the British Library, Chilean Army, and the Port of Seattle. Their tactics typically include data theft, extortion, and high-pressure ransom demands. 

Oregon’s Enterprise Information Services is leading the forensic investigation, alongside efforts to strengthen state cybersecurity systems. As of April 26, DEQ clarified that no ransom negotiations had occurred, and the timeline for completing the investigation remains uncertain.
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Ransomwares
Cyber Attacks cybercrime group cybercriminals data security Data Theft DOGE Dogecoin Elon Musk Ransom Demand Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Cybercriminals Behind DOGE Big Balls Ransomware Demand $1 Trillion, Troll Elon Musk

 

A cybercrime group notorious for its outrageous tactics has resurfaced with a ransomware attack demanding an unbelievable $1 trillion from its victims. The group, responsible for the DOGE Big Balls ransomware campaign, has updated its ransom demands with bizarre references to Elon Musk and the Dogecoin meme culture, blending humor with a highly dangerous threat.  

According to a report by Trend Micro researchers Nathaniel Morales and Sarah Pearl Camiling, the attackers are leveraging a modified form of the FOG ransomware to carry out these intrusions. The malware exploits a long-known Windows vulnerability (CVE-2015-2291) through a multi-step PowerShell script that allows deep access into infected systems. Delivered via deceptive shortcut files inside ZIP folders, the malware initiates a chain reaction to execute its payload. Though the ransom note may appear comical—mocking Musk’s past corporate directives and making false claims about stealing “trilatitude and trilongitude” coordinates—the security community warns against taking this threat lightly. 

The ransomware performs environment checks to avoid detection, analyzing machine specs, RAM, and registry entries to detect if it’s being run in a sandbox. If any signs of monitoring are detected, the malware will exit silently. The FBI, in its April 2025 Internet Crime Report, highlighted ransomware—particularly FOG variants—as a dominant threat, impacting critical infrastructure and organizations across the U.S. The report revealed over 100 known FOG ransomware infections between January and March 2025, making it the most reported strain of the year thus far. Beyond encryption, the malware also exfiltrates sensitive data and pressures victims to communicate via the Tor network for instructions. 

The attackers claim stolen files and urge victims not to involve law enforcement, adding a “don’t snitch now” line in their taunting ransom message. Despite its absurd tone, security leaders emphasize the seriousness of the attack. Dr. Ilia Kolochenko, CEO of ImmuniWeb, cautions that many victims discreetly pay ransoms to groups known for not leaking data—urging companies to seek legal and cybersecurity advice before making decisions. 

Although the group hides behind memes and internet jokes, their ability to cause significant operational and financial disruption is very real. Their humor might distract, but the threat demands urgent attention.
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User Security
Cyber Attacks DOGE Fog Hackers Ransomware attack User Security

'Fog' Attackers Mock Victims With DOGE Ransom Notes

 

Fog ransomware assaults over the last month have included a new ransom note mentioning the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and enticing victims to propagate the malware to other PCs, Trend Micro said earlier this week. 

Analysis of the latest samples of Fog ransomware, which were published to VirusTotal between March 27 and April 2, 2025, found that they propagated via the transfer of a ZIP file containing an LNK file disguised as a PDF called "Pay Adjustment." This shows that attacks were carried out via phishing emails to employees.

Once the "Pay Adjustment" LNK file is clicked, a PowerShell script named stage1.ps1 is executed, which retrieves multiple payloads from a hacker-controlled domain. These include the ransomware loader cwiper.exe, a bring-your-own-vulnerable-driver (BYOVD) privilege escalation tool named Ktool.exe, a QR code image directing to a Monero wallet, a ransom letter called RANSOMNOTE.txt, and more malicious PowerShell scripts. 

Ktool.exe extracts the vulnerable Intel Network Adapter Diagnostic Driver iQVW64.sys to the %TEMP% folder, passing the target process ID (PID) and a hardcoded key as arguments. Lootsubmit.ps1 and Trackerjacker.ps1 are PowerShell scripts that collect and exfiltrate system information such IP addresses, CPU configurations, MAC addresses, and system geolocations. 

Before dropping the Fog ransomware, the ransomware loader checks to ensure it is not in a sandbox environment. It also drops dbgLog.sys, which tracks encryption-related activities, and readme.txt, an additional ransom note. This ransom note is identical to those found in past Fog ransomware assaults. 

Odd political references

While the final ransom note, readme.txt, is identical to prior attacks, the initial ransom note, RANSOMNOTE.txt, refers to DOGE and includes the names of specific individuals involved with the department. 

The note reads, "Give me five bullet points on what you accomplished for work last week," and refers to emails sent to federal employees in February as part of a DOGE campaign. The note further offers to decrypt the user's data for free if they deliver the malicious files to another person or manually execute the malicious PowerShell commands on someone else's PC. 

Earlier this year, the DoNex ransomware group followed a similar tactic, promising payment to targets in exchange for sharing sensitive company data or spreading the malware throughout their organisation. The PowerShell script also contains bizarre political references, such as the statement "The CIA didn't kill Kennedy, you idiot." The script also launched several politically orientated YouTube videos, including an episode of "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.”
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Ransomwares
Cyber Attacks Cyber Researchers Dark Web data security Interlock Interlock ransomware Malware Attack Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Interlock Ransomware Gang Deploys ClickFix Attacks to Breach Corporate Networks

 

Cybersecurity researchers have revealed that the Interlock ransomware gang has adopted a deceptive social engineering technique called ClickFix to infiltrate corporate networks. This method involves tricking users into executing malicious PowerShell commands under the guise of resolving system errors or completing identity verification steps, leading to the deployment of file-encrypting malware. 

While ClickFix attacks have previously been associated with ransomware campaigns, this marks the first confirmed use by Interlock, a ransomware operation that surfaced in late September 2024. The group targets both Windows systems and FreeBSD servers and maintains a dark web leak portal to pressure victims into paying ransoms that can reach millions of dollars. Interlock does not seem to operate as a ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) model. 

According to Sekoia researchers, Interlock began using ClickFix tactics in January 2025. Attackers set up fake websites mimicking legitimate IT tools—such as Microsoft Teams and Advanced IP Scanner—to lure victims. These fake sites prompt users to click a “Fix it” button, which silently copies a malicious PowerShell script to the user’s clipboard. If run, the command downloads a 36MB PyInstaller payload that installs malware under the guise of a legitimate tool. 

Researchers found the malicious campaign hosted on spoofed domains like microsoft-msteams[.]com, microstteams[.]com, ecologilives[.]com, and advanceipscaner[.]com. Only the last domain led to the actual malware dropper disguised as Advanced IP Scanner. When users unknowingly run the script, a hidden PowerShell window executes actions such as system reconnaissance, persistence via Windows Registry, and data exfiltration. The attackers deploy a range of malware via command-and-control (C2) servers, including LummaStealer, BerserkStealer, keyloggers, and the Interlock RAT—a basic remote access trojan capable of dynamic configuration, file exfiltration, shell command execution, and DLL injection. 

Post-compromise, Interlock operators use stolen credentials to move laterally through networks via RDP, leveraging remote access tools like PuTTY, AnyDesk, and LogMeIn. Data is exfiltrated to Azure Blob Storage, after which the Windows variant of Interlock ransomware is scheduled to run daily at 8:00 PM—a redundancy tactic to ensure encryption if the initial payload fails. The gang’s ransom notes have also evolved, now placing emphasis on the legal and regulatory consequences of leaked data. 

ClickFix attacks are gaining popularity among various cybercriminal groups, with recent reports also linking them to North Korean state-sponsored actors like the Lazarus Group, who use similar tactics to target job seekers in the cryptocurrency sector.
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Ransomwares
Backdoor Backdoor Attacks Critical Infrastructure Cyber Attacks Healthcare Malware Attack RansomHub Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Symantec Links Betruger Backdoor Malware to RansomHub Ransomware Attacks

 

A sophisticated custom backdoor malware called Betruger has been discovered in recent ransomware campaigns, with Symantec researchers linking its use to affiliates of the RansomHub ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) group. The new malware is considered a rare and powerful tool designed to streamline ransomware deployment by minimizing the use of multiple hacking tools during attacks. 

Identified by Symantec’s Threat Hunter Team, Betruger is described as a “multi-function backdoor” built specifically to aid ransomware operations. Its functions go far beyond traditional malware. It is capable of keylogging, network scanning, privilege escalation, credential theft, taking screenshots, and uploading data to a command-and-control (C2) server—all typical actions carried out before a ransomware payload is executed. Symantec notes that while ransomware actors often rely on open-source or legitimate software like Mimikatz or Cobalt Strike to navigate compromised systems, Betruger marks a departure from this norm. 

The tool’s development suggests an effort to reduce detection risks by limiting the number of separate malicious components introduced during an attack. “The use of custom malware other than encrypting payloads is relatively unusual in ransomware attacks,” Symantec stated. “Betruger may have been developed to reduce the number of tools dropped on a network during the pre-encryption phase.” Threat actors are disguising the malware under file names like ‘mailer.exe’ and ‘turbomailer.exe’ to pose as legitimate mailing applications and evade suspicion. While custom malware isn’t new in ransomware operations, most existing tools focus on data exfiltration. 

Notable examples include BlackMatter’s Exmatter and BlackByte’s Exbyte, both created to steal data and upload it to cloud platforms like Mega.co.nz. However, Betruger represents a more all-in-one solution tailored for streamlined attack execution. The RansomHub RaaS operation, previously known as Cyclops and Knight, surfaced in early 2024 and has quickly become a major threat actor in the cybercrime world. Unlike traditional ransomware gangs, RansomHub has focused more on data theft and extortion rather than just data encryption. Since its emergence, RansomHub has claimed several high-profile victims including Halliburton, Christie’s auction house, Frontier Communications, Rite Aid, Kawasaki’s EU division, Planned Parenthood, and Bologna Football Club. 

The group also leaked Change Healthcare’s stolen data after the BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware group’s infamous $22 million exit scam. More recently, the gang claimed responsibility for breaching BayMark Health Services, North America’s largest addiction treatment provider. BayMark serves over 75,000 patients daily across more than 400 locations in the US and Canada. According to the FBI, as of August 2024, RansomHub affiliates have compromised over 200 organizations, many of which are part of critical infrastructure sectors such as government, healthcare, and energy. 

As ransomware groups evolve and adopt more custom-built malware like Betruger, cybersecurity experts warn that defenses must adapt to meet increasingly sophisticated threats.
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Threat Landscape
AI Business Security Cyber Security Ransomware attack Threat Landscape

Explaining AI's Impact on Ransomware Attacks and Businesses Security

 

Ransomware has always been an evolving menace, as criminal outfits experiment with new techniques to terrorise their victims and gain maximum leverage while making extortion demands. Weaponized AI is the most recent addition to the armoury, allowing high-level groups to launch more sophisticated attacks but also opening the door for rookie hackers. The NCSC has cautioned that AI is fuelling the global threat posed by ransomware, and there has been a significant rise in AI-powered phishing attacks. 

Organisations are increasingly facing increasing threats from sophisticated assaults, such as polymorphic malware, which can mutate in real time to avoid detection, allowing organisations to strike with more precision and frequency. As AI continues to rewrite the rules of ransomware attacks, businesses that still rely on traditional defences are more vulnerable to the next generation of cyber attack. 

Ransomware accessible via AI 

Online criminals, like legal businesses, are discovering new methods to use AI tools, which makes ransomware attacks more accessible and scalable. By automating crucial attack procedures, fraudsters may launch faster, more sophisticated operations with less human intervention. 

Established and experienced criminal gangs gain from the ability to expand their operations. At the same time, because AI is lowering entrance barriers, folks with less technical expertise can now utilise ransomware as a service (RaaS) to undertake advanced attacks that would ordinarily be outside their pay grade. 

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, stated that it has detected and blocked more than 20 fraudulent operations with its famous generative AI tool. This ranged from creating copy for targeted phishing operations to physically coding and debugging malware. 

FunkSec, a RaaS supplier, is a current example of how these tools are enhancing criminal groups' capabilities. The gang is reported to have only a few members, and its human-created code is rather simple, with a very low level of English. However, since its inception in late 2024, FunkSec has recorded over 80 victims in a single month, thanks to a variety of AI techniques that allow them to punch much beyond their weight. 

Investigations have revealed evidence of AI-generated code in the gang's ransomware, as well as web and ransom text that was obviously created by a Large Language Model (LLM). The team also developed a chatbot to assist with their operations using Miniapps, a generative AI platform. 

Mitigation tips against AI-driven ransomware 

With AI fuelling ransomware groups, organisations must evolve their defences to stay safe. Traditional security measures are no longer sufficient, and organisations must match their fast-moving attackers with their own adaptive, AI-driven methods to stay competitive. 

One critical step is to investigate how to combat AI with AI. Advanced AI-driven detection and response systems may analyse behavioural patterns in real time, identifying anomalies that traditional signature-based techniques may overlook. This is critical for fighting strategies like polymorphism, which have been expressly designed to circumvent standard detection technologies. Continuous network monitoring provides an additional layer of defence, detecting suspicious activity before ransomware can activate and propagate. 

Beyond detection, AI-powered solutions are critical for avoiding data exfiltration, as modern ransomware gangs almost always use data theft to squeeze their victims. According to our research, 94% of reported ransomware attacks in 2024 involved exfiltration, highlighting the importance of Anti Data Exfiltration (ADX) solutions as part of a layered security approach. Organisations can prevent extortion efforts by restricting unauthorised data transfers, leaving attackers with no choice but to move on.
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Ransomwares
Cyber Attacks Cyber Breach Cyber Defenses Data protection financial attack Financial Loss Ransomware attack Ransomwares

Fourlis Group Confirms €20 Million Loss from IKEA Ransomware Attack

 

Fourlis Group, the retail operator responsible for IKEA stores across Greece, Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria, has revealed that a ransomware attack targeting its systems in late November 2024 led to significant financial losses. The cyber incident, which coincided with the busy Black Friday shopping period, disrupted critical parts of the business and caused damages estimated at €20 million (around $22.8 million). 

The breach initially surfaced as unexplained technical problems affecting IKEA’s e-commerce platforms. Days later, on December 3, the company confirmed that the disruptions were due to an external cyberattack. The attack affected digital infrastructure used for inventory restocking, online transactions, and broader retail operations, mainly impacting IKEA’s business. Other brands under the Fourlis umbrella, including Intersport and Holland & Barrett, were largely unaffected.  

According to CEO Dimitris Valachis, the company experienced a loss of approximately €15 million in revenue by the end of 2024, with an additional €5 million impact spilling into early 2025. Fourlis decided not to comply with the attackers’ demands and instead focused on system recovery through support from external cybersecurity professionals. The company also reported that it successfully blocked a number of follow-up attacks attempted after the initial breach. 

Despite the scale of the attack, an internal investigation supported by forensic analysts found no evidence that customer data had been stolen or exposed. The incident caused only a brief period of data unavailability, which was resolved swiftly. As part of its compliance obligations, Fourlis reported the breach to data protection authorities in all four affected countries, reassuring stakeholders that personal information remained secure. Interestingly, no known ransomware group has taken responsibility for the attack. This may suggest that the attackers were unable to extract valuable data or are holding out hope for an undisclosed settlement—though Fourlis maintains that no ransom was paid. 

The incident highlights the growing risks faced by digital retail ecosystems, especially during peak sales periods when system uptime is critical. As online platforms become more central to retail operations, businesses like Fourlis must invest heavily in cybersecurity defenses. Their experience reinforces the importance of swift response strategies, external threat mitigation support, and robust data protection practices to safeguard operations and maintain customer trust in the face of evolving cyber threats.
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