#Ransomwareattacks

[thecryptonewshub]

Crypto Criminal Transactions Crossed $40B in 2024: A Deep Dive into the Growing Trend

Analyzing the Surge in Crypto Criminal Transactions: What the $40B Milestone Means for the Industry. In 2024, crypto criminal transactions reached an alarming $40 billion, a significant increase from previous years, according to a report by Chainalysis. This troubling milestone highlights the growing prevalence of illegal activities in the crypto space, including scams, fraud, and ransomware attacks. As criminal activity shifts from Bitcoin to stablecoins, the methods for laundering stolen funds have also evolved, with stablecoins now accounting for 63% of illicit transactions.

Blockchain technology has surely transformed the banking sector by providing unprecedented speed, transparency, and security. However, the same characteristics have made it appealing to bad actors. In fact, in 2021, Bitcoin accounted for 70% of illicit transactions, but stablecoins currently dominate, with an increasing proportion of criminals choosing these assets for their perceived stability and ease of entry into established financial systems. Also Read:  pi-network-adoption-surges-as-crypto-eyes-new-heights/ In reaction to the growth in illegal cryptocurrency transactions, regulatory organisations are hurrying to enact new measures to fight the rising problem. Although institutional adoption has helped to reduce the proportion of illicit transactions compared to legitimate activity, the sheer amount of criminal transactions continues to concern regulators, lawmakers, and blockchain companies. According to the Chainalysis analysis, the overall estimated value of cryptocurrency illegal transactions in 2024 may exceed $51.3 billion as more data is collected. This estimate implies that criminals are growing more competent at utilising the cryptocurrency industry for illegal purposes, and the general landscape for illicit transactions is evolving. This tendency represents a huge challenge to the cryptocurrency sector. As decentralised finance (DeFi) expands and more people enter the digital asset arena, there will surely be a continuous battle to keep the financial system secure and transparent. The growth in crypto illicit activities serves as a sharp reminder of the risks involved with digital currencies, and why both individuals and institutions must remain careful in protecting their assets. In conclusion, the $40 billion milestone in crypto illicit transactions serves as a wake-up call for the sector. While blockchain technology offers enormous promise for growth and innovation, it also draws unscrupulous actors, who are increasingly seeking ways to use its characteristics for criminal purposes. As we move forward, it is evident that measures to combat crypto crime will need to be stepped up in order to maintain the crypto space's validity and assure its ongoing expansion. Read the full article

[inexable]

Decoding the Cybercrime Treaty: Necessary Step or Dangerous Precedent?

The upcoming U.N. vote on a global cybercrime treaty has set off a fierce debate within the Biden administration. On one hand, the treaty promises to establish global norms for tackling cybercrime; on the other, there's a real fear that nations like Russia, China, and Iran could exploit it to justify oppressive surveillance measures.

Given the growing threats and rising global ransomware attacks, should the U.S. back the treaty despite the risks? Or would abstaining leave a dangerous void for adversarial nations to shape cyber norms that disregard civil liberties?

Would you support the treaty to combat cybercrime globally or oppose it to protect digital rights and privacy? Can the potential benefits outweigh the risks? Let’s discuss!

[thxnews]

Major Rewards Offered to Dismantle Hive Ransomware Group

Unveiling a Significant Bounty

In a bold move to combat cybercrime, the U.S. Department of State has announced a substantial reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of key leaders within the Hive ransomware group. An additional reward of up to $5 million is offered for information leading to the arrest or conviction of individuals attempting to engage in Hive ransomware activities.   Global Impact of Hive Ransomware The Hive ransomware variant has left its mark on over 80 countries, targeting countless victims, including those within the United States. Since late July 2022, the FBI's successful infiltration into Hive's networks has prevented potential ransom payments estimated at $130 million, offering a glimmer of hope to victims worldwide.  

A Coordinated Crackdown

This announcement is part of a concerted effort by the U.S. Department of Justice, alongside Europol and authorities from Germany and the Netherlands, to seize control of Hive’s servers and websites. This strategic move aims to halt Hive's operations, preventing further attacks and extortion against critical infrastructure and the economic foundation of multiple nations.   The Role of International Collaboration The takedown of Hive's infrastructure signifies the importance of international cooperation in the fight against transnational organized crime. By joining forces with global partners, the U.S. is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding its citizens and allies against the pervasive threat of ransomware.  

Leveraging the TOCRP Initiative

The rewards are part of the Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP), underscoring the U.S. government's dedication to disrupting global crime networks. Through TOCRP, the State Department bolsters law enforcement efforts, aiming to bring elusive criminals to justice and protect national and international security interests. How to Share Information Encouraging individuals with valuable information on Hive ransomware activities to come forward. The U.S. government assures confidentiality and protection for informants, providing a secure avenue for sharing intelligence that could lead to the dismantling of one of the most formidable ransomware groups in recent history.  

A Call to Action Against Cybercrime

The U.S. government's announcement of rewards for information on the Hive ransomware group marks a critical step in the ongoing battle against cybercriminals. By incentivizing whistleblowers and enhancing collaborative law enforcement efforts, the U.S. and its allies demonstrate a unified front against the cyber threats that jeopardize global stability and security.   Sources: THX News & US Department of State. Read the full article

[preponias]

Ransomware Attacks

[digitalworldvision]

Cyber Security Attack New York Blood Centre

[govindhtech]

Check The Azure VMware Solution’s Most Recent Features

AVS Azure VMware Solution

With Azure VMware Rapid Migration Plan, you can save a ton of money while moving or expanding VMware environments to Azure quickly and seamlessly. You can also access 200+ Azure services.

Get a quick migration for workloads on VMware.

Select a migration solution that combines the greatest features of Azure and VMware on fully managed infrastructure for ease of use.

Extend or migrate to the cloud more quickly without the need for re-platforming, reworking, or re-hosting.

Make use of your current abilities and workflow. NSX, vSAN, HCX, and VMware vSphere are all part of the Azure VMware Solution.

Customers of Windows and SQL Server can receive unrivaled cost savings with free Extended Security Updates.

Take care of a range of use cases, such as capex challenges, cyberthreats, license issues, datacenter exits, and capacity requirements.

Benefits

Examine switching to the Azure VMware Solution

Relocation according to your terms

Either transfer cloud-ready workloads to Azure infrastructure as a service (IaaS) or migrate everything exactly as is to Azure VMware Solution.

Effectiveness

By switching to Azure VMware Solution, you can avoid overprovisioning, hardware updates, and decommissioning infrastructure expenditures.

Regularity

Boost IT efficiency by making use of the VMware resources and expertise that already exist.

Value addition

Give IT personnel more time to work on value-adding projects rather than maintaining on-premises software and datacenters.

Dependable

With VMware technology that is completely managed and maintained by Microsoft, you can achieve business continuity, reduced downtime, and fewer disruptions.

Creativity

With access to native Azure services and tools and a highly productive cloud platform, move more quickly.

It gives me great pleasure to present some of the most recent changes Azure has made to the Azure VMware Solution.

Currently, 33 areas provide Azure VMware Solution: More than any other cloud provider, AVS is currently available in 33 Azure regions. Since its introduction four years ago, we have been striving to support customers worldwide through geographic expansion. India Central, UAE North, Italy North, and Switzerland North were the most recent additions. See which region is closest to you by visiting the Azure products by region webpage.

The DoD SRG Impact Level 4 Provisional Authorization (PA) in Azure Government has now authorized the addition of Azure VMware Solution as a service: Azure Government in Arizona and Virginia currently offers AVS.

Increased compatibility with VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF): Customers of NetApp and VMware by Broadcom may now use NetApp ONTAP software for all storage needs, including consolidated and standard architectures, to streamline their VCF hybrid cloud platforms. In order to give NetApp storage systems running VMware workloads symmetric active-active data replication capabilities, the most recent version of ONTAP Tools for VMware (OTV) will offer SnapMirror active sync. By removing data protection from their virtualized compute and enhancing data availability, SnapMirror active sync enables users to work more productively. Study up on it.

New features for Azure VMware Solution: Spot Eco by NetApp with AVS reserved instances may now be used by clients to maximize the value of their deployments when they are expanding or relocating their vSphere virtual machines (VMs). Compute expenses can be greatly decreased by offloading data storage to Azure NetApp Files and managing AVS reserved instances using Spot Eco. Find out more about Azure NetApp Files.

Use JetStream with Azure VMware Solution to Improve Disaster Recovery and Ransomware Protection: Azure’s customers require comprehensive choices to protect their essential workloads without sacrificing application performance. Disaster Recovery (DR) and ransomware protection are major concerns for enterprises today. AVS provides cutting-edge disaster recovery (DR) solutions with near-zero Recovery Point Objective (RPO) and instant Recovery Time Objective (RTO) through partnerships with top technology firms like JetStream. By continuously replicating data, the JetStream DR and Ransomware solution delivers Continuous Data Protection (CDP).

Using affordable and high-performance storage choices like Azure Blob Storage, Azure NetApp Files (ANF), and ESAN-based solutions, it uses heuristic algorithms to detect data tampering through VMware-certified VAIO APIs. Compared to other products on the market that guard against ransomware by taking irreversible photos, Azure’s strategy is distinct. JetStream and Microsoft have collaborated to create a special feature that rehydrates virtual machines (VMs) and their associated data from object storage, enabling them to be deployed to AVS nodes that are provisioned on-demand, either with or without a pilot light cluster. In the case of a disaster or ransomware attack, this guarantees a quick, affordable recovery with little downtime.

The VMware Rapid Migration Plan is a comprehensive suite of licensing perks and programs that Azure just introduced. It will safeguard your price and help you save money when you migrate to Azure VMware Solution. If your needs change, you can shift the value to other types of compute by using Reserved Instances to lock in pricing for one, three, or five years. With Azure Migrate and Modernize services, you may minimize migrating costs. You can also receive special Azure credits for purchasing Azure VMware Solutions. Additional savings on SQL Server and Windows Server licenses might be available to you.

Read more on govindhtech.com

[good-health-life]

Wow, this is a serious concern! Cybersecurity threats like ransomware attacks on U.S. health care companies are alarming. It's troubling that individuals associated with North Korean intelligence are involved in such malicious activities. This highlights the importance of staying vigilant and enhancing cybersecurity measures. #Cybersecurity #RansomwareAttack #NorthKorea

[osintelligence]

https://bit.ly/3V3vsRj - 🔒 Hackers known as LockBit threaten to release court documents from Fulton County, Georgia, including those related to Donald Trump's criminal case, unless they receive a ransom by Thursday. The group, which was recently disrupted by law enforcement, claims the documents could impact the upcoming U.S. election. #CyberSecurity #Ransomware #Election2024 🌐 After a brief shutdown following a law enforcement raid, LockBit resurfaced online, renewing their ransom demands and claiming possession of sensitive documents. This move comes despite a significant takedown operation by the FBI and international partners, showcasing the persistent challenge of combating cybercrime. #DigitalThreat #LawEnforcement #CyberCrime 💼 The focus of the hack is on Fulton County's court system, which has been under scrutiny due to charges filed against Donald Trump and his allies concerning attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. The breach's timing and LockBit's overt political statements add layers of complexity to the incident. #LegalSystem #PoliticalInterference #Justice 🌎 LockBit operates a ransomware-as-a-service model, targeting a wide range of victims globally, including major corporations and government entities. This incident underscores the extensive reach and sophisticated operations of modern cybercriminal syndicates. #GlobalSecurity #RansomwareAttack #CyberThreats 🏛️ Fulton County and its officials have stated they will not comply with the ransom demand, focusing instead on restoring services safely. This stance is echoed by law enforcement agencies, which continue to investigate and combat the threat posed by groups like LockBit.

[ransomware-virus-removal-service]

Ransomware

Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common in recent years, and no organization is immune to the threat. These attacks can be devastating, locking down sensitive data and holding it for ransom. Understanding what ransomware is, how it works, and how to recover from an attack is vital for anyone who wants to protect their business from this growing threat.

In this blog post, we will cover all aspects of ransomware recovery- from understanding ransomware to the different types of ransomware, the impact on businesses, famous cases of attacks, and strategies to prevent future attacks.

https://www.datarecoveryinmalaysia.com/ransomware-virus-removal-services.html

We will also provide steps that businesses can take to remove ransomware and stay prepared for future threats. So let's dive in and learn everything you need to know about ransomware recovery!

[entrepreneurshipsecrets]

Surviving the Ransomware Storm: Strategies for Effective Recovery

Malicious attacks on computers today are happening in startups, businesses of all sizes, and organizations. These can be a liability to you or your organization since in these attacks, your data is usually encrypted, which messes up your privacy and operations.

What is a Ransomware Attack?

A ransomware attack usually happens when you lose access to your data on your computer by clicking on suspicious links or websites. When you click on the suspicious pages, your computer will be contaminated by a virus that will encrypt your data and keep you from accessing it. In exchange for your access or for a decryption tool that will unlock the encrypted data, the attacker will ask for a ransom or payment in the form of money from the victims. Read on below to learn more about how ransomware attacks work, from infection to the release of your data. Infection The attacker will usually send you the ransomware through malicious email attachments, links, or compromised websites. Once you click through these links, your computer or network becomes infected. Your files and data become encrypted and you will no longer have access to them unless you comply with the ransom. Ransom Note The encryption becomes clear to you when a ransom note is displayed on your screen. The note will serve as a confirmation that your files are no longer accessible, then, instructions will be provided on how you can obtain the decryption key. The note will also give you instructions on how to go about the ransom payment which will be discussed further below. Ransom Payment The victim will usually be asked to pay the ransom through Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency. The amount will just depend on the attacker. When you’re a bigger organization and you are holding more important files, expect a larger ransom amount. Note that paying will also not guarantee a safe return of your data. Data Release When you pay the ransom, you will usually get the decryption key to access your data back again. You are actually very fortunate if this happens. Some attackers are just downright filthy. These cybercriminals wouldn’t mind not providing you with the promised decryption key even after you pay the ransom. The worst part about these attacks is the encouragement the attacker gets when victims pay the ransom after receiving the threat. This encourages cybercriminals to continue what they do. Additionally, it may not necessarily lead to the recovery of the data lost.

How to Survive a Ransomware Incident

Ransomware attacks are often difficult to stop. However, there are proactive measures you can incorporate to stay safe despite these threatening cybercrimes. Regularly backing up your data and keeping software and systems updated are a must. Also, try to use unique passwords, implement cybersecurity measures, and always educate your organization about the evolving risks of phishing emails and suspicious downloads. With that said, below are the steps you can take to outsmart ransomware cybercriminals. Back Your Data Up Have a robust backup system in place. Regularly back up your data, and store your backups offline or in isolated environments where ransomware cannot easily reach. In worst-case scenarios that your primary data is compromised, you can always restore it from a clean backup that was not reached by the virus or encryption. Implement a Comprehensive Security Plan Have a security plan in place to prevent ransomware attacks. Start by using up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software. Regularly patch and update your systems, and educate employees about the risks of ransomware. Include security awareness training during onboarding that discusses suspicious emails and activities that may lead to ransomware infections Segment Your Network Divide your network into isolated segments. This way, the attacker will not have easy access to the whole system during the attacks. If one part of your network is compromised, the ransomware won’t be able to reach the rest of the network. Have an Incident Response Plan Having a well-defined incident response plan is crucial to outsmart cybercriminals. Create a plan that outlines the steps to take when a ransomware attack occurs. This should include identifying the type of ransomware, isolating affected systems, notifying relevant authorities, and deciding whether to pay the ransom or rely on backups. Paying the ransom is usually not recommended. Engage with Law Enforcement Seek help from law enforcement agencies. The appropriate authorities can help track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks because they also have experts in their team who are equipped with updated tools that can outsmart cybercriminals. Additionally, they may have insights or resources that can help you recover your stolen data. Consider the Ethical Dilemma of Paying the Ransom It's advisable to explore all other recovery options before considering ransom payment. As discussed, paying the ransom may seem like a quick solution to regain access to your data but it also encourages criminals to continue their activities. There is also no guarantee that paying the ransom will result in the safe return of your data. Seek Professional Assistance Recovering from a ransomware attack can be complex. It is definitely not an easy job for an average Joe. Thus, it is better that you consider enlisting the help of cybersecurity professionals who specialize in ransomware recovery. Review and Strengthen Security After surviving a ransomware attack, take the opportunity to review and strengthen your organization's security posture. What are the vulnerabilities that you have in your computer? Continuously monitor and update your security protocols with an IT expert. Prepare for the Future Ransomware attacks are continually evolving. It's essential to stay vigilant and adapt your security measures accordingly. Regularly update your security policies and educate your team on emerging threats and best practices. For best results, have an in-house IT professional team that can keep your security measures updated especially if you are running a big business.

Conclusion

Surviving a ransomware attack is a challenging and stressful experience. But still, with the right strategies in place, it is possible to recover effectively. As mentioned above, prioritize data backups, implement a comprehensive security plan, and have a well-defined incident response plan to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks. Don’t hesitate to make an investment in robust cybersecurity measures to reduce the likelihood of falling victim to ransomware in the first place. Hire the right team that will help you prevent or survive cyberattacks. Also, stay informed and stay prepared. You'll be better equipped to weather the ransomware storm. Photo by Michael Geiger on Unsplash Read the full article

[adzguru]

Financial Modelling Services in Australia

Another company had been victimized by cybercrime, that time the well-known British newspaper The Guardian. It had been hit by a ransomware attack, according to reports. Always be on the lookout for potential threats to critical infrastructure and maintain data privacy and confidentiality.

[newsbites]

News from Belize, 17 July

А rаnѕоmwаrе grоuр tаrgеtеd Веlіzе Еlесtrісіtу Lіmіtеd (ВЕL) аnd rеlеаѕеd 355 GВ оf соmрrоmіѕеd dаtа, іnсludіng соnfіdеntіаl іnfоrmаtіоn оn еmрlоуееѕ аnd сuѕtоmеrѕ.

The dаtа frоm Веlіzе Еlесtrісіtу Lіmіtеd (ВЕL) wаѕ rеlеаѕеd оn Frіdау bу #RаgnаrLосkеr, а rаnѕоmwаrе grоuр thаt hаd арраrеntlу bееn tаrgеtіng thе utіlіtу соmраnу ѕіnсе Мау.

ВЕL fаіlеd tо rеѕроnd tо thе rаnѕоmwаrе grоuр'ѕ dеmаndѕ, lеаdіng thеm tо рublіѕh thе ѕtоlеn dаtа.

ВЕL іѕ wоrkіng tо іnvеѕtіgаtе аnd аddrеѕѕ thе dаtа lеаk whіlе іmрlеmеntіng рrеvеntаtіvе mеаѕurеѕ tо рrоtесt аgаіnѕt futurе суbеrаttасkѕ.

2. Іn rесоgnіtіоn оf hіѕ соntrіbutіоnѕ, Gаlеn Unіvеrѕіtу аwаrdеd former government minister, Daniel Ѕіlvа, аn hоnоrаrу dосtоrаtе аnd соntіnuеѕ tо hоnоr hіm wіth аn аnnuаl ѕсhоlаrѕhір іn hіѕ nаmе.

Per Love FM: a man has lost his life in a road traffic accident; the Belize City Mayor has said that his preferred cruise port plan is the one sponsored by Stake Bank, which shows the most signs of progress; a man from Cayo Village was reportedly denied medical attention at hospital following a chop wound from a machete; a refurbished fire station was inaugurated over the weekend and a newcommunity hub opened in Stann Creek district.

Breaking Belize News today mеntіоnѕ соntrоvеrѕу ѕurrоundіng Guаtеmаlа'ѕ Рublis Роѕесutоr'ѕ оffісе аnd fоrmеr UDР Rерrеѕеntаtіvе Аnthоnу 'Vооtѕ' Mаrtіnеz launсhіng а rесаll реtіtіоn аgа іnѕt hіѕ ѕuссеѕѕоr. Аddіtіоnаllу, іt mеntіоnѕ Velіzе hоѕtіng thе ХІV АФЕСАVОL Wоmеn'ѕ U-19 Сentrаl Аmеrісаn Сhamріоnѕhіr аnd thе еffесtѕ оf ехtrеmе hеаt іn Аmеrіса.

[classifieds-marketing-news]

Understanding Ransomware: A Guide for Small Businesses

Ransomware is a malicious software that restricts access to your device or data until a ransom is paid. In this article, we explore how ransomware enters your system, how it works, and how to prevent attacks. A ransomware attack occurs when malware prevents access to your device or data until a ransom is paid. Attackers may threaten to publish data if the ransom is not paid. Ransomware can be locker ransomware, which locks access, or crypto ransomware, which encrypts files. Ransomware usually enters a device, assesses critical data, encrypts files, and demands a ransom. Paying the ransom doesn't guarantee recovery, so it's not recommended. Historical ransomware attacks include CryptoLocker, CryptoWall, Locky, WannaCry, NotPetya, and more. To prevent ransomware, you can have good network policies, secure servers, backup data offline and online, and encourage safe online behavior. Installing security software like antivirus, firewall, and email filtering can also help. Advanced strategies include ATP, email filtering, and security audits. In case of a ransomware infection, isolate the device, assess damage, check for a decryption key, and restore from backups. Seek professional help for recovery. Immediate actions post-infection include isolation, incident response activation, legal compliance, and stakeholder communication. Ransomware can get on your device through spam emails, phishing, pop-ups, pirated software, weak passwords, and more. Attackers prefer cryptocurrency payments for anonymity. Ransomware can spread through Wi-Fi, infecting all connected devices. Protect yourself from ransomware by following the prevention strategies mentioned above. Stay safe online and be cautious of suspicious emails, links, and downloads. And remember, it's crucial to have backups and a plan in case of a ransomware attack. #StartupBusiness #Businesses #Guide #howdoesransomwarework #Ransomware #ransomwareattack #Small #Understanding #whatisaransomware #whatisaransomwareattack #whatisransomware https://tinyurl.com/228z9vpf

[globalresourcesvn]

CMC: Vượt qua tấn công Ransomware, Dịch vụ Khách Hàng Vẫn Hoàn Toàn Bình Thường!

CMC: Vượt qua tấn công Ransomware, Dịch vụ Khách Hàng Vẫn Hoàn Toàn Bình Thường! #CMCSafe #RansomwareAttack #CybersecurityVietnam #AnNinhMang Thông tin chính thức từ CMC cho thấy doanh nghiệp này đã trải qua một sự cố an ninh mạng nghiêm trọng. Một phần nhỏ hệ thống kỹ thuật của CMC đã bị tấn công ransomware có chủ đích. Tuy nhiên, nhờ hệ thống ứng cứu sự cố hoạt động hiệu quả, sự gián đoạn dịch…