Learn about careers with us and search open job opportunities here. In Q4 2023, Kroll identified an uptick in engagements involving Akira ransomware, a trend that has continued into 2024. Kroll observed that in the majority of cases, initial activity could be tracked back to a Cisco ASA VPN service.

On April 18th, the United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), and the Netherlands’ National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC-NL) issued an urgent advisory about Akira ransomware’s recently exhibited malicious behavior (as of February 2024). Detailed information about these threats and the associated IOCs and TTPs can be seen on #StopRansomware: Akira Ransomware.

The Blackjack hacking group, reportedly associated with Ukrainian intelligence services, has claimed responsibility for a significant cyberattack impacting emergency detection and response systems in Moscow and surrounding areas.

Let’s explore how SpiderLabs created and incorporated user prompts, specifically Windows dialog boxes into its malware loader to make it more convincing to phishing targets during a Red Team engagement.

Netskope Threat Labs recently analyzed a new ransomware strain named Evil Ant. Evil Ant ransomware is a Python-based malware compiled using PyInstaller that looks to encrypt all files stored on the victim’s personal folders and external drives. This ransomware strain requires process continuity from encryption until file recovery. Rebooting, shutting down, or ending the ransomware process will make affected files unrecoverable.

In late February 2024, Mandiant identified APT29, a Russian state-sponsored threat group, deploying a new backdoor called WINELOADER to target German political parties. This campaign marks a significant shift in APT29's targeting, as they have traditionally focused on government and diplomatic entities. The expansion to political parties suggests an evolution in the group's intelligence gathering priorities, likely influenced by the current geopolitical climate.

The (apparent) takedown of major ransomware players like Blackcat/ALPHV and LockBit and the threat groups’ (apparent) revival is a prime example of the Whack-a-Mole nature of combating ransomware gangs that often takes place. However, this level of difficulty doesn’t mean the pressure should be relieved.

The ransomware landscape is evolving with increased competition among threat groups and the emergence of new ransomware operations. However, victim organizations and potential targets are strengthening their security measures and procedures to prepare for potential ransomware attacks. Our latest quarterly report for Q1 2024 shows a significant decrease in ransomware incidents, down to 1,048 cases, representing a 22% decline compared to Q4 2023.

I started my career as a Counterintelligence Special Agent in the U.S. Army, quickly learning how to decode the complex signals of security threats. Next, I sharpened my skills in state law enforcement, investigating (and preventing) cybercrime by identifying and mitigating digital threats.