Daily Brief

Christie's auction house website became inaccessible following a "technology security issue" identified last Thursday, days before hosting an auction showcasing $840 million worth of art. The incident, described as a cyberattack, prompted Christie's to redirect visitors to a temporary website while efforts to restore the main site continue. There's currently no evidence that customer data was compromised. Despite the cyberattack, Christie's confirmed that their high-profile art auction would proceed as scheduled using in-person and telephone bidding methods. This cybersecurity issue follows less than a year after Christie's faced criticism for inadvertently exposing location data of high-end art owners through their website. The broader context includes a spike in cyberattacks globally, targeting diverse organizations from Europol to the Ohio Lottery. Such incidents were a significant topic at the recent RSA Conference, emphasizing the need for enhanced product security. US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Jen Easterly highlighted the importance of holding technology manufacturers accountable to reduce the frequency and impact of cyberattacks.

A significant LockBit Black ransomware campaign has been initiated through the Phorpiex botnet, dispersing millions of phishing emails. The campaign started in April and utilizes ZIP file attachments that contain malware executables to deliver the LockBit Black payload. These emails are misleadingly titled with common phrases such as "your document" and "photo of you???" sent from aliases like Jenny Brown and Jenny Green, originating from over 1,500 unique IP addresses globally. Upon executing the malware, it attempts to steal sensitive data, terminate various services, and encrypts files which could lead to potential data loss and service disruption. Proofpoint discovered this vast scale attack, noting its uniqueness due to the volume of emails sent and the utilization of ransomware as its primary payload. The Phorpiex botnet, which has facilitated these attacks, has been involved in various cybercriminal activities over a decade, adapting over time to include more sophisticated criminal tools. NJCCIC advises businesses to implement strong ransomware mitigation and endpoint security strategies, including the use of effective email filtering to preclude these phishing attempts.

Since April, millions of phishing emails have been used to distribute LockBit Black ransomware via the Phorpiex botnet. New Jersey's Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) identified ZIP attachments in emails as the primary method for delivering the ransomware. Attackers used fake sender names and targeted global victims, employing over 1,500 unique IP addresses from multiple countries. The LockBit Black campaign uses a builder leaked in September 2022 and is not affiliated with the official LockBit ransomware operation. The ransomware encrypts and steals data, and terminates services on infected systems upon execution. Proofpoint observed this "spray-and-pray" tactic intensely over a week, noting these were the first observed instances of LockBit Black linked to Phorpiex. Phorpiex botnet, known for over a decade, has evolved significantly, affecting over 1 million devices and recently engaging in cryptocurrency theft. NJCCIC recommends implementing risk mitigation strategies and using endpoint and email filtering solutions to defend against such phishing attacks.

Multiple US security agencies issued advisories on Black Basta after it claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on Ascension. Ascension's operations have been severely disrupted, causing ambulance diversions and reliance on manual systems. The ransomware has targeted over 500 organizations since April 2022, including many within critical infrastructure sectors. The advisories urge healthcare and other critical infrastructure sectors to implement mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of ransomware attacks. Attack vectors for Black Basta include spearphishing, exploiting vulnerabilities, and using initial access brokers to obtain valid credentials. CISA and other agencies recommend implementing multifactor authentication, securing remote access software, and educating staff about phishing. Restoration of Ascension's systems is ongoing, with a focus on safety and a coordinated approach across their care sites. No specifics about ransom demands or negotiations have been disclosed publicly, but historical interactions suggest high-figure demands.

Threat actors utilize DNS tunneling to monitor target interactions with phishing emails and to examine network vulnerabilities. DNS tunneling involves encoding and transferring data through DNS queries, converting the communications network into a secretive channel. Techniques like Base16, Base64, and custom encoding are used for embedding data in DNS queries to bypass firewall and network filtering. Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 observed this method in malicious campaigns for tracking victim responses and scanning networks. The "TrkCdn" campaign uses encoded DNS queries to track when recipients interact with phishing content and confirm malicious payload delivery. The "SecShow" campaign employs DNS tunneling to map network infrastructures, identify flaws, and test network responses to DNS queries. Recommendations include implementing DNS monitoring tools and restricting DNS resolvers to essential queries to mitigate misuse.

The City of Helsinki disclosed a data breach impacting its educational services, affecting over 80,000 students and personnel. An attacker exploited an unpatched vulnerability in a remote access server to access a network drive containing millions of files. The breach involved a variety of sensitive data including personal IDs, email addresses, and details about children's education and welfare. Authorities confirmed that a security update was available prior to the breach but was not applied to the vulnerable system. The breach's full scope is still under investigation, and comprehensive assessments and recovery efforts are ongoing. Helsinki has alerted the Data Protection Ombudsman and the National Cyber Security Centre, and advice has been issued to those possibly affected. No group has claimed responsibility for the breach, leaving the identity of the perpetrators unknown at this stage.

MITRE Corporation has released a new threat-modeling framework named EMB3D, targeting embedded device manufacturers. EMB3D was developed in collaboration with industry experts to provide a comprehensive view of cyber threats and mitigation strategies specifically for embedded devices. The framework is designed as a "living framework," similar to the ATT&CK model, and will continuously update as new threats and solutions emerge. EMB3D aims to foster a secure-by-design approach, enabling manufacturers to integrate security early in the device design process, which could decrease the need for additional security measures post-production. This initiative could lead to devices being less vulnerable at the time of release, with secure configurations as the default setting. Nozomi Networks’ research highlights that industrial environments, including OT and IoT devices, are increasingly targeted by cyberattacks exploiting various vulnerabilities. EMB3D offers a unified platform to aid ICS manufacturers in understanding and mitigating threats early, potentially leading to more secure infrastructure and lower security costs.

IBM's X-Force Red team, utilizing AI-enhanced tools, successfully infiltrated the world's largest manufacturer of a crucial computer component within just eight hours. The penetration test, originally scheduled for three weeks, aimed to identify and exploit security vulnerabilities across the manufacturer’s network. The AI tools employed enabled rapid data analysis, identification of attack paths, and exploitation of flaws, remarkably accelerating the red teaming process. During the operation, X-Force exploited a vulnerability in the company’s HR portal, gaining unobserved access which allowed for further network penetration and escalation of privileges. The team utilized a rootkit to remain undetected, ultimately mapping the internal network and accessing designs of significant technological components. The effectiveness of AI tools in offensive security practices highlights potential applications for both legitimate cyber defenses and malicious activities by criminals and nation-state actors. The discussion at an AI security event during the RSA Conference included insights from US Cyber Command and the NSA, emphasizing rapid advancements in AI security and its implications for national and global cybersecurity.

Criminal IP, an Asian-based Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) search engine, has partnered with Quad9 to share and utilize threat intelligence data effectively. This alliance marks Criminal IP as the first in Asia to provide domain and IP-based threat data to enhance Quad9's DNS-based blocking service. Test results demonstrated that 99.1% of the malicious domains identified by Criminal IP were unique, enhancing the efficacy of Quad9's blocklist against malware, phishing, spyware, and botnets. Quad9, a non-profit DNS service, incorporates various TI data sources, including IBM and F-Secure, alongside Criminal IP's intelligence to offer robust cybersecurity while adhering to Swiss Data Protection and GDPR. Criminal IP's database updates daily, enhancing the detection and prevention capabilities of connected cyber systems through their specialized APIs integrated into corporate security systems like SOAR and SIEM. This collaboration not only aims to protect Quad9’s global user base but also improve the precision and relevance of Criminal IP's threat data. The service is easily accessible to end users by setting their DNS to Quad9’s server address (9.9.9.9), providing immediate protection enhancements.

The 2024 Browser Security Report indicates browsers are major enterprise security risks due to increasing cyber attacks. Cyber attackers use browsers to commit account takeovers, deploy malicious extensions, and conduct phishing attacks, aiming to access sensitive data and systems. Security leaders are provided with essential data on browser-based threats, aiding in the planning and strengthening of security architectures. The report outlines the most critical vulnerabilities and prevailing attack vectors that jeopardize enterprise security. It serves as a benchmark for decision-makers to evaluate and improve their current security strategies against browser-based threats. Recommendations include a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to mitigate these risks and enhance browser security. The full report provides detailed examples and insights not covered in the article, offering further guidance for security professionals looking to deepen their understanding of browser threats.

A cybercriminal using the alias IntelBroker claimed to have stolen classified data from Europol, including source code and employee information. The affected platform, Europol Platform for Experts (EPE), has been offline since May 10 for maintenance, following the data breach allegations. Europol confirmed that the incident involves a closed user group within the EPE, but stressed that no core systems or operational information were compromised. IntelBroker also claimed responsibility for breaching additional parts of Europol, such as the cryptocurrency and space divisions of the European Cybercrime Centre, and other projects. Data allegedly stolen included screenshots and discussions from the EPE on obtaining sensitive data from social media platforms. Europol has initiated an investigation and taken preliminary actions but has not provided detailed comments on the situation. The incident coincides with a recent security breach at the European Parliament, suggesting a broader pattern of cyber threats targeting EU institutions.

The disconnect between IT management and analysts has increased due to high volumes of alerts and manual triage processes. Analysts face alert fatigue, leading to overlooked incidents and repeated false positive findings, causing significant time inefficiencies. The SHQ Response Platform integrates AI to automate log correlation, improving incident analysis efficiency by centralizing critical data. This platform enables analysts to remain within one interface instead of pivoting across multiple systems, thereby gaining clarity on incident narratives through automated timelines and updates. Automated tools within the platform can block identified compromises, streamlining the process from detection to mitigation. SecurityHQ's Risk Register fosters a collaborative environment, aligning technical analysis with business strategy and mitigating actions. By reducing manual tasks, analysts can also see the impact of their work in broader organizational contexts, increasing job satisfaction and efficacy. The platform suggests a shift towards proactive cybersecurity management, focusing on strategies and long-term goals rather than immediate incident closure.

Cybersecurity researchers identified multiple severe vulnerabilities in Cinterion cellular modems, impacting various critical sectors including industrial, healthcare, and financial services. The most dangerous flaw, designated as CVE-2023-47610, allows remote code execution via SMS, enabling attackers to manipulate modem memory without physical access. Additional vulnerabilities relate to Java-based MIDlet applications in the modems, permitting unapproved elevation of user privileges and code execution. The vulnerabilities were first revealed at OffensiveCon in Berlin and further detailed by Kaspersky’s ICS CERT in advisories. The complex integration of modems within broader technology ecosystems makes it difficult to determine the full range of affected products. Mitigation recommendations include disabling non-essential SMS features, using private Access Point Names, enhancing physical security controls, and routine security evaluations. Researchers Sergey Anufrienko and Alexander Kozlov are credited with discovering these flaws, highlighting ongoing security challenges in integrated network devices.

Black Basta ransomware-as-a-service has affected more than 500 organizations in North America, Europe, and Australia across 12 critical infrastructure sectors. Joint advisory by CISA, FBI, HHS, and MS-ISAC warns that Black Basta uses phishing, exploits known vulnerabilities, and employs double-extortion tactics. Unlike typical ransomware, Black Basta's ransom notes do not demand immediate payment but instead instruct victims to contact them via a specific URL. The group uses techniques including network scanning, lateral movement tools, and privilege escalation exploits to conduct attacks. Incident response observed the use of Backstab tool to disable endpoint detection, with final encryption through ChaCha20 algorithm. Ransomware landscape shows an 18% decrease in Q1 2024 activities, influenced by law enforcement actions and changing tactics among groups. Payment trends indicate a significant drop in the average ransom payments, correlating with an increased reluctance among victims to meet ransom demands.

British cybersecurity infrastructure faces critical challenges addressing ransomware, data breaches, and extortion threats. Recent attacks on Leicester City Council and NHS Scotland underscore the frequency and scale of these cybersecurity incidents. Criminal groups are increasingly organized, stealing data and monetizing it through sophisticated use of cryptocurrencies. Rubrik's CISO, Richard Cassidy, emphasizes the need for proactive security investments to mitigate cyber threats. Cassidy, with 20 years in cybersecurity, discusses the importance of understanding and improving cyber defense strategies. Continuous changes in cybercriminal methods necessitate a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity policies and practices. Potential consequences of inadequate cyber strategies include severe regulatory actions, hefty fines, and custodial sentences.