This Week In Cybersecurity: 17th February to 21st February

This week highlights significant cybersecurity incidents, including the rise of BlackLock ransomware, a data breach at Insight Partners, and the emergence of FinalDraft malware. Stay informed!
This Week In Cybersecurity: 17th February to 21st February
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    BlackLock Ransomware: A Rapidly Rising Cyber Threat

    BlackLock ransomware, identified in March 2024, has surged 1,425% in activity, making it a significant player in the ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) ecosystem. It uses custom malware, avoiding analysis by security researchers. Employing a double extortion tactic, BlackLock encrypts and exfiltrates data, targeting Windows and VMware systems. The group utilizes a sophisticated leak site to pressure victims into paying ransoms quickly. Recruitment occurs on Russian-language forums, emphasizing urgency in bringing on new affiliates. Read more

    Venture Capital Giant Insight Partners Hit by Cyber Attack

    Insight Partners experienced a cyber attack in January 2025, attributed to social engineering tactics. The breach compromised some information systems, prompting an immediate investigation. The firm, managing over $90 billion in assets, quickly notified law enforcement and engaged cybersecurity experts. While the attackers reportedly lost access post-breach, the nature of stolen data remains undisclosed. Insight Partners reassured stakeholders of no significant operational disruptions and committed to transparency throughout the investigation. Read more

    MacOS Malware FrigidStealer Employ Sophisticated Web Injection Attacks

    FrigidStealer malware, linked to cybercriminal groups TA2726 and TA2727, uses web injection attacks to target MacOS users. This malware exploits Outlook email drafts for command-and-control communication, evading detection by blending with Microsoft 365 traffic. The attack involves a loader, PathLoader, that facilitates persistent access via OAuth tokens. The malware supports data exfiltration and process injection, demonstrating advanced capabilities while obscuring malicious activity. A Linux variant employs similar techniques, enhancing the threat landscape. Read more

    Coast Guard Data Breach Delays Pay for 1,135 Service Members

    A data breach within the U.S. Coast Guard affected the payroll system, delaying payments for 1,135 service members. The breach is under investigation by the Coast Guard Investigative Service and Cyber Command. Initial reports of the breach emerged via social media, highlighting a lack of transparency. This incident follows a previous breach that compromised 10,700 personnel. The Coast Guard aims to expedite payments while addressing vulnerabilities within its data systems. Read more

    Finastra Data Breach: Customer Data Compromised in Cyber Attack

    Finastra confirmed a data breach exposing customer names and financial account information, resulting from unauthorized access to its SFTP system. The breach occurred between October and November 2024, with notification letters sent in February 2025. Cybersecurity experts were engaged to investigate the incident promptly. Affected customers are advised to monitor financial accounts closely. This breach underscores the vulnerabilities in financial technology infrastructure and the need for enhanced security measures. Read more

    FinalDraft Malware Uses Outlook Drafts for Covert Cyber Espionage

    FinalDraft malware utilizes Outlook email drafts for covert command-and-control communication, facilitating data exfiltration and process injection. Part of the REF7707 cyber espionage campaign, it targets high-value institutions. The malware loader, PathLoader, bypasses static analysis and maintains persistent access via OAuth tokens stored in the Windows Registry. FinalDraft’s capabilities include network proxying and password theft, highlighting the evolving tactics in cyber espionage. Organizations should enhance defenses against such sophisticated threats. Read more

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