Ransomware hackers are delving into the archives for some old-school attacks
Ransomware hackers are delving into the archives, looking for old vulnerabilities that could be exploited in new attacks, experts have claimed.
A new report recently published by Cyber Security Works, Ivanti, Cyware, and Securin found that for ransomware operators, “old is still gold”, as more than three-quarters (76%) of all the vulnerabilities being exploited in ransomware attacks were discovered between 2010 and 2019.
Last year, of the 56 vulnerabilities that were proven to have been used to deploy malware, 20 (35%) were discovered between 2015 and 2019.
Looking for holes
To deploy ransomware, the attackers need to find a vulnerability that will allow them to install malicious code remotely, disable any firewalls or antivirus solutions the victims might have installed on their endpoints, and cover their tracks as they go about the encryption.
A useful vulnerability can be found anywhere, from the operating system (OS), to any programs the victims might have installed on their devices, to any connected devices such as routers, printers, smart home devices, and similar.
While security researchers, as well as hardware and software vendors, try their best to discover these vulnerabilities before they’re abused, and release a patch to plug the hole, users are often not that quick. As a result, many devices out there are still vulnerable to years-old flaws. Older vulnerabilities are arguably more dangerous than newly discovered ones, as for those there is already a proof-of-concept and a developed compromise methodology. The only thing the attackers need to do in such a case is to find a vulnerable device.
Last year, the research states, 56 new vulnerabilities used to deploy malware were discovered, among a total of 344 flaws found in 2022 – representing a 19% increase year-on-year.
“Ransomware is top of mind for every organization whether in the private or public sector,” said Srinivas Mukkamala, Chief Product Officer, Ivanti. “Combating ransomware has been placed at the top of the agenda for world leaders because of the rising toll being placed on organizations, communities and individuals. It is imperative that all organizations truly understand their attack surface and provide layered security to their organization so they can be resilient in the face of increasing attacks.”
- Here’s a rundown of the best firewalls (opens in new tab) at the moment
Audio player loading… Ransomware hackers are delving into the archives, looking for old vulnerabilities that could be exploited in new attacks, experts have claimed. A new report recently published by Cyber Security Works, Ivanti, Cyware, and Securin found that for ransomware operators, “old is still gold”, as more than three-quarters…
Recent Posts
- DJI’s first power stations can fast charge its drone batteries
- The Meta Quest 2 has received another permanent price drop to just $199
- The 6 best Mint alternatives to replace the budgeting app that shut down
- The importance of the Vulnerability Operations Centre for cybersecurity
- Razer’s Kishi Ultra gaming controller brings haptics to your USB-C phone, PC, or tablet
Archives
- April 2024
- March 2024
- February 2024
- January 2024
- December 2023
- November 2023
- October 2023
- September 2023
- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
- May 2023
- April 2023
- March 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
- December 2022
- November 2022
- October 2022
- September 2022
- August 2022
- July 2022
- June 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- February 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
- November 2021
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
- July 2021
- June 2021
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February 2021
- January 2021
- December 2020
- November 2020
- October 2020
- September 2020
- August 2020
- July 2020
- June 2020
- May 2020
- April 2020
- March 2020
- February 2020
- January 2020
- December 2019
- November 2019
- December 2011