By Ashwani Mishra, Editor-Technology, 63SATS
Hacker “Fenice” leaked 2.9 billion records from National Public Data, exposing sensitive information. Mobile Guardian suffered a breach, wiping data from 13,000 student devices. The UK ICO proposes a £6.09 million fine for Advanced Computer Software’s 2022 data breach. Ransomware attacks and new threats like Doubleface and Chameleon Trojan are escalating globally.
Stay ahead in the dynamic world of cybersecurity.
Here’s your concise guide to the latest trends, threats, and breakthroughs from around the globe:
Major Data Breach at National Public Data
A hacker known as “Fenice” has leaked 2.9 billion records from National Public Data, exposing personal details such as names, addresses, and SSNs. The data, divided into two links totaling 277GB, was posted on Breach Forums. This breach follows an earlier attempt by “sxul” to sell the data, and now Jerico Pictures Inc., which owns National Public Data, faces significant legal challenges.
Hacker Wipes 13,000 Devices via Mobile Guardian
Mobile Guardian, a global digital classroom management platform, was breached, resulting in the remote wipe of data from at least 13,000 student devices. The attack impacted the platform’s North American, European, and Singaporean users. Mobile Guardian provides comprehensive device management and security for educational institutions.
UK ICO Proposes Multi-Million Fine for Advance Software
The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) plans to fine Advanced Computer Software Group Ltd. £6.09 million (approx. US$7.74 million) for failing to protect personal and medical data during a 2022 ransomware attack. The ICO’s provisional finding highlights significant lapses in safeguarding sensitive information.
Ransomware Attacks Surge in 2024
According to Rapid7, ransomware groups launched over 2,570 attacks in the first half of 2024, averaging 14 attacks per day. The number of ransomware groups posting on data leak sites increased by 67%, with a total of 2,611 posts recorded. The rise in activity underscores the escalating threat landscape.
New Doubleface Ransomware Variant Unveiled
A new ransomware variant, Doubleface, has emerged with claims of being undetectable by major antivirus solutions. It utilizes a combination of AES-128 and RSA-4096 encryption algorithms, according to a Dark Web Informer tweet.
Chameleon Trojan Resurfaces in Canada and Europe
Chameleon, a Device-Takeover Trojan first discovered in December 2022, has reappeared with new campaigns targeting Canada and Europe. The Trojan is now disguising itself as a CRM app and uses multi-staged delivery methods to bypass Android 13+ restrictions.
