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Record-Breaking Ransoms and Breaches: A Timeline of Ransomware in 2024
As we near the end of the year, it’s time to take stock of the most significant ransomware attacks and data breaches that have taken place throughout 2024. Unfortunately, the past few months have been marked by a surge in record-breaking ransoms and alarming incidents.
One of the most notable cases occurred at Casio, a Japanese electronics company, which was hit by a ransomware attack in November. The hackers accessed sensitive information including employee data, contractors, and business partners, as well as sensitive company data such as invoices and human resources files. While the extent of the breach is still unclear, it’s evident that the attackers had significant access to Casio’s systems.
In another disturbing incident, Blue Yonder was hit by ransomware in November. The supply chain software provider revealed little about the attack but did confirm that it experienced disruption at several major retailers, including UK supermarket chains Morrisons and Sainsbury’s, as well as US coffee giant Starbucks. The attackers reportedly stole 680 gigabytes of data from the company, which includes documents, reports, insurance documents, and email lists.
The healthcare sector has also been severely impacted by ransomware attacks this year. In December, Artivion, a medical device company that manufactures implantable tissues for cardiac transplants, confirmed a “cybersecurity incident” involving the “acquisition and encryption” of data – a clear indication of a ransomware attack. The company took certain systems offline in response to the cyberattack.
Ransomware attacks have also continued to target healthcare organizations, including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital Trust, which was hit by Inc Ransom, a Russia-linked gang that previously targeted another NHS trust in Scotland earlier this year. This month, Inc Ransom claimed to have obtained patient records and donor reports from Alder Hey, as well as data from several nearby hospitals.
As the year draws to a close, it’s clear that ransomware attacks continue to pose a significant threat to organizations across industries. The recent surge in record-breaking ransoms and breaches serves as a stark reminder of the need for businesses and individuals alike to prioritize cybersecurity and protect sensitive information.
Source: techcrunch.com
