Latest ransomware news

Here are some of the latest ransomware news and updates:

Recent Ransomware Attacks:

  1. Colonial Pipeline Ransomware Attack: In May 2021, the Colonial Pipeline Company, which operates the largest fuel pipeline in the US, was hit by a ransomware attack. The attack caused a 6-day shutdown of the pipeline, leading to fuel shortages and price increases.
  2. JBS Meatpacking Ransomware Attack: In June 2021, JBS, a leading meatpacking company, was hit by a ransomware attack. The attack caused the company to shut down its operations in the US and Australia, leading to meat shortages and price increases.
  3. Kaseya Ransomware Attack: In July 2021, Kaseya, a software company that provides IT management solutions, was hit by a ransomware attack. The attack affected over 1,500 businesses, including hospitals, schools, and government agencies.

New Ransomware Variants:

  1. DarkSide Ransomware: In May 2021, a new ransomware variant called DarkSide was discovered. DarkSide is a variant of the GandCrab ransomware and is believed to be linked to the same group of cybercriminals.
  2. BlackMatter Ransomware: In June 2021, a new ransomware variant called BlackMatter was discovered. BlackMatter is a variant of the REvil ransomware and is believed to be one of the most sophisticated ransomware variants to date.
  3. Clop Ransomware: In July 2021, a new ransomware variant called Clop was discovered. Clop is a variant of the DoppelPaymer ransomware and is believed to be linked to the same group of cybercriminals.

Ransomware Trends:

  1. Increased Use of Double Extortion: Ransomware attackers are increasingly using a tactic called double extortion, where they not only encrypt a victim's data but also threaten to release the data publicly if the ransom is not paid.
  2. Increased Use of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): Ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) is a model where cybercriminals can rent or buy ransomware tools and services from other cybercriminals. This has made it easier for attackers to launch ransomware attacks.
  3. Increased Focus on Healthcare and Government Targets: Ransomware attackers are increasingly targeting healthcare and government organizations, which are seen as lucrative targets due to the sensitive nature of the data they hold.

Ransomware Prevention and Mitigation:

  1. Regular Backups: Regular backups of critical data can help prevent data loss in the event of a ransomware attack.
  2. Keep Software Up-to-Date: Keeping software up-to-date with the latest security patches can help prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.
  3. Use Anti-Ransomware Software: Using anti-ransomware software can help detect and prevent ransomware attacks.
  4. Employee Education: Educating employees on how to prevent ransomware attacks, such as not opening suspicious emails or attachments, can help prevent attacks.

I hope this information is helpful.