Interactive Report Summary
Q1 2024 Cyber Threat Report
As we progress through the first quarter of 2024, the cyber threat landscape continues to evolve with increasing complexity. This period has seen a substantial surge in ransomware incidents, dark web commerce and exploit activities, reflecting a dynamic and challenging environment for cybersecurity professionals.
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Ransomware Spotlight: LockBit
LockBit has been a consequential player in the ransomware realm, particularly affecting the manufacturing industry. The Q1 2024 Threat Landscape Report reveals that the ransomware group's operations saw a 1.74% increase in extortion publications from the previous quarter, with a notable focus on the manufacturing sector due to its critical role in supply chains and potential for considerable operational disruptions.
The manufacturing industry's complex IT and operational technology (OT) systems present unique security challenges, often making them prime targets for ransomware attacks. Historical underinvestment in cybersecurity within some industry sectors, combined with possessing valuable intellectual property, makes manufacturers particularly vulnerable. To combat these threats, it is crucial for organizations to implement robust cybersecurity measures, including regular system updates, comprehensive employee training, and advanced threat detection and response solutions.
Methodology
How Nuspire produces its threat intelligence
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JANUARY THROUGH MARCH
Q1 2024 in Review
Q1 2024 saw significant events such as Google OAuth account hijackings, the release of a BlackBasta ransomware decryptor, critical tech company vulnerabilities and patches, a major crackdown on LockBit ransomware, and numerous cybersecurity agency alerts on exploited vulnerabilities and threats.
January
1.3
Infostealers abuse Google OAuth Endpoint to ‘Revive’ Cookies, Hijack Accounts
1.4
Researchers Release Decryptor for BlackBasta Ransomware
1.10
Microsoft’s January Patch Tuesday Addresses 49 Vulnerabilities, Including Two Critical
1.17
Over 178K SonicWall Firewalls Vulnerable to DoS, Potential RCE Attacks
1.18
FBI and CISA Warn of Androxgh0st Malware Attacks
1.23
CISA Emergency Directive Demands Action on Ivanti Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
1.24
Critical VMware vCenter Vulnerability Exploited in the Wild
1.31
New Ivanti Connect Secure Zero-Day Exploited by Threat Actors
February
2.6
Ivanti Connect Secure Zero-Day Now Under Mass Exploitation
2.7
Critical Cisco Vulnerability Allows CSRF Attacks on Express Series Gateways
2.9
New Fortinet RCE Vulnerability Announced for SSL-VPN
2.9
Critical Format String Bug Announced by Fortinet Affecting FGFM Daemon
2.14
Microsoft’s February Patch Tuesday Addresses 2 Zero-Days, 73 Vulnerabilities
2.15
Zoom Announces Critical Vulnerability for Desktop Application
2.19
SolarWinds Fixes RCE Vulnerabilities in SolarWinds ARM Products
2.20
Law Enforcement Seize LockBit Servers and Arrest Operators in Global Operation
2.20
ConnectWise Announces Critical Vulnerabilities Affecting ScreenConnect
2.23
UnitedHealth’s Optum Attacked, Causing U.S. Healthcare Billing Outages
March
3.5
Critical Vulnerability Announced in JetBrains’ TeamCity with Exploit Available
3.13
Microsoft’s March Patch Tuesday: Two Critical Security Updates Released
2.21
CISA, NSA, FBI and Five Eyes Issue New Alert on Chinese APT Volt Typhoon
3.27
CISA Warns of Active Exploitation of Flaws in Fortinet, Ivanti & Nice Linear
Activity
Average
0
Total Events
0
Publications Averaged Per Week
+3.0%
Increase in Publications
Ransomware
Detection, Q1 2024There was an increase of 3.69% in ransomware publications compared to Q4 2023.
How to Combat
To fortify defenses against ransomware, organizations should implement robust endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems, conduct regular data backups and enhance cybersecurity awareness among employees. These measures are crucial for preempting attacks and mitigating their impact.
Ransomware
In Q1, ransomware activities surged, with a 3.69% increase in ransomware publications from Q4 2023. LockBit Ransomware remained prevalent despite law enforcement efforts, clocking an increase of 1.74%, demonstrating these threats’ persistent and adaptive nature.
Activity
Average
0
Total Marketplace Listings
0
Credit Cards For Sale
+58.0%
Increase in Total Listings
Dark Web
Detection, Q1 2024Nuspire saw a 58.16% spike in dark web marketplace listings in Q1.
How to Combat
To combat dark web threats effectively, it is essential to implement comprehensive cybersecurity measures, such as advanced threat detection systems and stringent data protection protocols. A dark web monitoring service can enhance these efforts by continuously surveilling dark web marketplaces. Regular monitoring is crucial for early detection of potential threats and swift response to protect sensitive data.
Dark Web
Dark web marketplace listings saw a dramatic 58.16%, with significant trades in stolen data such as credit cards and email accounts. This rise indicates a bustling underground economy that poses a continuous threat to data security.
Activity
Average
0
Total Events
0
Unique Exploits Detected
+52.0%
Increase in Total Activity
Exploits
Detection, Q1 2024In Q1, exploit activity surged by 52.61%.
How to Combat
Preventing exploits involves rigorous system patching, using firewalls with intrusion prevention systems, and staying informed through security news and vendor bulletins. Proactive security measures are vital to thwart attackers and reduce the risk of breaches.
Exploits
Exploitation events witnessed a sharp rise of 52.61% in Q1, with notable activity targeting vulnerabilities in systems like Hikvision cameras. This increase underscores the critical need for timely patching and system updates to prevent exploitation.
Stay Vigilant
Q1 2024 threat data indicates increased ransomware, dark web transactions and exploitation events, necessitating vigilant and comprehensive defense strategies. To safeguard against these evolving cyber threats, organizations should implement a cohesive strategy encompassing robust endpoint security, incident response planning, strict data protection, advanced monitoring, meticulous patch management and proactive vulnerability assessments. These combined measures create a solid framework to counter the dynamic and increasingly complex cyber threat environment.
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