Initial access brokers (IABs) form a key part of the cybercriminal ecosystem. They facilitate access for ransomware groups, data leakers, and advanced persistent threat groups (APTs) into corporate networks. They are highly specialised, and professional, and operate in an established, lucrative market often characterised by rigid rules and conventions. Every ransomware attack or data breach begins with initial access, following the reconnaissance phase of an attack.

To find out, check out Episode 20 of the Cyjax Geopolitical and Cybersecurity Podcast. Here’s a summary of what’s on the table… In the latest episode of the Cybersecurity & Geopolitical Discussion, the hosts Ian Thornton-Trump CD, CISO for Cyjax, Lisa Forte of Red Goat Security and Philip Ingram MBE of Grey Hare Media, delve into the complexities of China’s image from an outsider’s perspective.

Cyjax analysts have identified the distribution of STOP ransomware on Google Groups through mass spam attacks on Usenet. Over 385,000 posts have been observed, which contain malicious links resulting in ransomware infection. This campaign, henceforth referred to as “STOPNET.GG”, has been in operation since at least May 2023, and is ongoing at the time of writing.

To find out, check out Episode 19 of the Cyjax Geopolitical and Cybersecurity Podcast. Here’s a summary of what’s on the table… A new year brings new threats! So join our CISO Ian Thornton-Trump CD and his guests Lisa Forte, Partner at Red Goat Security and Philip Ingram MBE of Grey Hare Media, for expert analysis of how some of the more compelling world events set to take place this year could impact global stability and security.

As businesses have evolved, so have cybercriminals and the means they use to try and penetrate their digital assets. Every day, new threats arise and unscrupulous organisations create means to attack physical networks, cloud services, and other key business functions and this is why having a robust cyber security risk management plan is critical.

In today’s digital age, the cybersecurity landscape is more akin to an ever-shifting battleground, where the only constant is change. Threat actors continuously evolve their strategies, exploiting new vulnerabilities and adapting to the latest defences.

According to figures published in the ONS Crime Survey on 19 October, the rate of shop theft in the UK increased by 25 percent in the year ending June 2023. The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), meanwhile, reported more than 1.1m instance of theft in 2022, with many carried out by organised gangs.