ICO and UK NCA Collaborate to Support Cyber Attack Victims
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance support for victims of cyberattacks. Under this agreement, victims of cyberattacks and ransomware will receive comprehensive assistance from government agencies, aiming to reduce risks associated with data breaches and digital threats. Both organizations will work together, sharing information about incidents while ensuring that victim data remains confidential without consent. The agencies will also address the impact of attacks using scientific methods and professional support to mitigate risks.
RansomHub Ransomware Targets Planned Parenthood
RansomHub, a ransomware group possibly funded by Russian intelligence, has threatened Planned Parenthood, a non-profit organization focused on reproductive health, with a demand for $30 million. The group, previously linked to BlackCat (also known as ALPHV), has claimed it will sell the stolen data if their demands are not met. They have reportedly already put 1GB of the stolen data up for sale, applying pressure on the organization with a deadline approaching this weekend.
Cosmic Beetle Deploys SCRansom Ransomware
The Cosmic Beetle threat group, associated with the Kremlin, has begun deploying SCRansom ransomware targeting small and medium-sized businesses across Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and parts of the Middle East. The ransomware primarily affects sectors including manufacturing, legal, education, healthcare, and technology, with recent attacks also impacting finance and hospitality businesses. Cosmic Beetle, an affiliate of RansomHub, is using a toolkit named Spacecolon to spread the Scarab Ransomware globally.
Poland Blocks Pegasus Spyware Investigation
NSO Group, the developer of the Pegasus surveillance software, has faced controversy for selling the software to private individuals who used it for unauthorized spying. Following its global misuse, several countries, including the U.S., Australia, India, Germany, and Poland, imposed bans on the software and launched investigations into the misuse. However, Poland’s special Parliamentary Commission has blocked the investigation, citing its unconstitutionality. Magdalena Sroka, head of the Pegasus Probe Commission, has condemned the ban, accusing it of being politically motivated by the previous government.
