Global Cyber Pulse | 30 January, 2025

Cyber Attack
January 30, 2025 | Cybersecurity
By Ashwani Mishra, Editor-Technology, 63SATS

Cyber threats are intensifying worldwide, impacting governments, healthcare, finance, and AI innovation.

India rescued 67 trafficked citizens from cyber-scam operations in Laos, while a major data breach exposed sensitive information from China’s AI firm DeepSeek. South Africa’s weather service and Maryland’s healthcare network were crippled by cyberattacks, disrupting critical services.

Meanwhile, hackers stole $85 million from crypto exchange Phemex, fueling speculation of North Korea’s involvement. As global cyber risks mount, Australia is investing $6.4 million to fortify healthcare cybersecurity. These incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger defenses against digital threats across industries and nations.

India Rescues 67 Citizens Trapped in Cyber-Scam Centers in Laos

In a major crackdown on human trafficking, the Indian Embassy in Vientiane successfully rescued 67 Indians trapped in cyber-scam centers in Laos. The victims were lured with fake job offers and forced to work in scam operations within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ). Facing abuse from criminal syndicates, they sought help from the Indian mission, which coordinated with Lao authorities for their release.

The rescued individuals were transported to Vientiane, where they received essential support, including accommodation and food. The Indian government remains vigilant against cybercrime networks exploiting vulnerable citizens.

Chinese AI Firm DeepSeek Exposed in Massive Data Leak

Cybersecurity firm Wiz has discovered a significant data breach at DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, exposing sensitive information to the open internet. The breach, identified through infrastructure scans, included over a million lines of unsecured data, software keys, and user chat logs.

This incident raises concerns over data security in AI-driven platforms, particularly regarding potential misuse of exposed credentials. The leak highlights the growing cybersecurity risks associated with AI development, especially in regions with lax regulatory oversight. DeepSeek has yet to issue a formal response on the breach or its implications.

South African Weather Service Hit by Cyberattack, Systems Offline

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has been knocked offline by a cyberattack, disrupting critical weather data for airlines, farmers, and emergency services. The attack, which began over the weekend, has crippled its website and email systems, forcing SAWS to rely on social media for updates. Officials are working with cybersecurity experts to restore services while investigating the breach. No ransomware group has claimed responsibility, but South Africa remains a frequent target of cybercriminals. The disruption underscores the vulnerability of national infrastructure to cyber threats, raising alarms about digital security in essential services.

Maryland Healthcare Network Crippled by Ransomware Attack

A ransomware attack on Frederick Health Medical Group in Maryland has forced officials to shut down IT systems, causing delays and appointment cancellations. The attack, identified earlier this week, prompted the hospital to take emergency measures, temporarily going offline while cybersecurity experts work to contain the breach.

While some facilities remain operational using backup protocols, patients have been advised of service disruptions. The incident highlights the growing cyber threat to healthcare institutions, which remain prime targets due to their reliance on digital infrastructure for patient records and critical medical operations.

Crypto Exchange Phemex Loses $85 Million in Sophisticated Cyber Heist

A major cryptocurrency heist has rocked Phemex, with cybercriminals draining over $85 million from the exchange in a highly coordinated attack. Initially estimated at $29 million, the losses ballooned over the weekend, raising speculation about North Korea-linked hackers, who were behind 61% of last year’s $2.2 billion crypto thefts.

Phemex confirmed the breach, swiftly suspending deposits and withdrawals while isolating compromised systems. The Singapore-based platform assured users that asset reserves remain intact and released a Proof of Reserves to maintain transparency. Law enforcement and cybersecurity firms are now investigating the incident.

Australia Boosts Healthcare Cybersecurity with $6.4 Million Initiative

Amid rising cyber threats, Australia has allocated $6.4 million to establish a dedicated cyber threat-sharing network for the healthcare sector. The Critical Infrastructure – Information Sharing and Analysis Centre (CI-ISAC) will spearhead the Health Cyber Sharing Network (HCSN), enhancing real-time intelligence exchange among hospitals, clinics, and medical institutions.

The initiative comes as Australia’s healthcare sector faces costly data breaches, with average breach expenses reaching AUD $10.93 million in 2023. With over 7,000 healthcare facilities nationwide, the project aims to bolster cyber resilience and protect sensitive patient data from malicious actors.