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stolen information
Data Breach Google Hacking Phishing Attack Salesforce Scams stolen information

Google Confirms Data Breach in Salesforce System Linked to Known Hacking Group

 



Google has admitted that some of its customer data was stolen after hackers managed to break into one of its Salesforce databases.

The company revealed the incident in a blog post on Tuesday, explaining that the affected database stored contact details and notes about small and medium-sized business clients. The hackers, a group known online as ShinyHunters and officially tracked as UNC6040, were able to access the system briefly before Google’s security team shut them out.

Google stressed that the stolen information was limited to “basic and mostly public” details, such as business names, phone numbers, and email addresses. It did not share how many customers were affected, and a company spokesperson declined to answer further questions, including whether any ransom demand had been made.

ShinyHunters is notorious for breaking into large organizations’ cloud systems. In this case, Google says the group used voice phishing, calling employees and tricking them into granting system access — to target its Salesforce environment. Similar breaches have recently hit other companies using Salesforce, including Cisco, Qantas, and Pandora.

While Google believes the breach’s immediate impact will be minimal, cybersecurity experts warn there may be longer-term risks. Ben McCarthy, a lead security engineer at Immersive, pointed out that even simple personal details, once in criminal hands, can be exploited for scams and phishing attacks. Unlike passwords, names, dates of birth, and email addresses cannot be changed.

Google says it detected and stopped the intrusion before all data could be removed. In fact, the hackers only managed to take a small portion of the targeted database. Earlier this year, without naming itself as the victim, Google had warned of a similar case where a threat actor retrieved only about 10% of data before being cut off.

Reports suggest the attackers may now be preparing to publish the stolen information on a data leak site, a tactic often used to pressure companies into paying ransoms. ShinyHunters has been linked to other criminal networks, including The Com, a group known for hacking, extortion, and sometimes even violent threats.

Adding to the uncertainty, the hackers themselves have hinted they might leak the data outright instead of trying to negotiate with Google. If that happens, affected business contacts could face targeted phishing campaigns or other cyber threats.

For now, Google maintains that its investigation is ongoing and says it is working to ensure no further data is at risk. Customers are advised to stay alert for suspicious calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from Google or related business partners.

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Ransomware
Cyber Attacks Data Leak Dollar Tree Hacking Ransomware

Dollar Tree Refutes Cyberattack Claim, Says Leaked Data Belongs to Another Company

 




Discount retail chain Dollar Tree has denied being the target of a recent cyberattack, following claims by a ransomware group that it stole sensitive company files. According to Dollar Tree, the data allegedly leaked online does not belong to them but appears to be from a completely different company.

The hacking group, which calls itself “INC Ransom,” listed Dollar Tree on its dark web site, stating it had stolen over one terabyte of confidential information, including personal documents such as scanned passports. The group even shared a sample of the files and quoted an old Dollar Tree press release to suggest it had access to internal information.

However, Dollar Tree has firmly denied being hacked. Company officials say the data actually comes from 99 Cents Only, a separate discount chain that went out of business earlier this year.


What really happened?

99 Cents Only, once a popular budget retailer, filed for bankruptcy in April 2024. Rising costs, pandemic aftereffects, and increasing theft were cited among the reasons for its financial collapse. By mid-2024, all 371 of its stores were shut down and assets liquidated.

Dollar Tree later acquired rights to 170 of these store locations, along with their U.S. and Canadian web domains and some store equipment. But according to Dollar Tree, they never purchased the company's internal data, networks, or systems.

A Dollar Tree spokesperson clarified the situation:

"The files mentioned in these cyberattack claims appear to be linked to former employees of 99 Cents Only. Dollar Tree only acquired certain real estate leases and select assets not their data or technology infrastructure. Any suggestion that we were breached is simply not true."

Because 99 Cents Only is no longer operational, its customer support lines and emails are inactive, making it difficult to get an official response from the company itself.


Is Dollar Tree affected?

Dollar Tree says there’s no indication its own systems were accessed or compromised. The company remains one of the largest and most profitable players in the U.S. discount retail sector, reporting over $17 billion in sales last year.

While the ransomware group has not clarified the confusion, cybersecurity experts suggest the mix-up may stem from Dollar Tree’s acquisition of 99 Cents Only store leases, which may have led attackers or observers to wrongly associate the two companies.

This incident is a testament to how misleading information can spread quickly, especially when legacy data from bankrupt companies becomes part of a broader breach.

Dollar Tree is continuing to monitor the situation but insists there is no current threat to its systems or customer data.

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Ukraine
Cyber Attacks Drone Hacking Russia Ukraine

Ukrainian Hackers Claim Major Cyberattack on Russian Drone Manufacturer



In an unsettling development in the ongoing cyber conflict linked to the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukrainian-aligned hacking groups have claimed responsibility for a large-scale cyberattack targeting a major Russian drone manufacturing company.

The targeted firm, identified as Gaskar Group, is believed to play a key role in supplying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Russian forces. Two pro-Ukrainian hacker collectives, the BO Team and the Ukrainian Cyber Alliance, reportedly carried out the operation in collaboration with Ukraine’s military intelligence service.

The BO Team, a group known for supporting Ukraine through cyber operations, shared news of the breach on a Telegram channel on July 14. According to their statement, the team successfully gained full access to the internal network, servers, and data systems of the drone company. This breach reportedly allowed them to obtain sensitive technical details about existing and upcoming UAV models.

Following the infiltration, the hackers claimed they deleted a massive volume of data approximately 47 terabytes, which included 10 terabytes of backup files. They also say they disabled the company’s operational and support systems, potentially disrupting production and delaying the deployment of drones to the battlefield.

Ukrainian media sources have reported that Ukraine’s military intelligence has acknowledged the incident. In addition, some of the stolen data has allegedly been made public by the Ukrainian Cyber Alliance. These developments suggest that the cyberattack may have had a tangible impact on Russia’s drone supply chain.

While drone warfare has existed for years, the ongoing conflict has brought about a new level of reliance on smaller, low-cost drones for surveillance, attacks, and tactical missions. Both Ukraine and Russia have used these devices extensively on the frontlines, with drones proving to be a powerful asset in modern combat.

A March 2024 investigation by Reuters highlighted how drone use in Ukraine has grown to an unprecedented scale. First-person view (FPV) drones — often modified from commercial models have become especially important due to their low cost and versatility in hostile zones, where traditional aircraft are often vulnerable to air defense systems.

In June, drones were central to a Ukrainian strike known as "Operation Spiderweb," which reportedly resulted in major damage to Russian air assets.

In response to the latest incident, Gaskar Group has denied that the cyberattack caused serious damage. However, if the claims made by the hacking groups are proven true, the breach could significantly affect Russia’s ability to supply drones in the short term.

As cyber warfare continues to play a larger role in the ongoing conflict, incidents like these reflect how digital attacks are becoming just as critical as physical operations in today’s battles. 

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UK
Data Breach Hacking IntelBroker UK

UK Man Accused in Major International Hacking Case, Faces US Charges




A 25-year-old British citizen has been formally charged in the United States for allegedly leading an international hacking operation that caused millions in damages to individuals, companies, and public institutions.

Authorities in the US claim the man, identified as Kai West, was the person behind an online identity known as "IntelBroker." Between 2022 and 2025, West is accused of breaking into systems of more than 40 organizations and trying to sell sensitive data on underground online forums.

According to court documents, the financial impact of the operation is estimated to be around £18 million. If convicted of the most serious offense—wire fraud—West could face up to 20 years in prison.

Prosecutors believe that West worked with a group of 32 other hackers and also used the online alias “Kyle Northern.” While officials didn’t name the specific forum used, various sources suggest that the activity took place on BreachForums, a site often linked to the trade of stolen data.

Investigators say West posted nearly 160 threads offering stolen data for sale, often in exchange for money, digital credits, or even for free. His alleged victims include a healthcare provider, a telecom company, and an internet service provider—all based in the US. While official names were not disclosed in court, separate reports connect the IntelBroker identity to past breaches involving major companies and even government bodies.

One particularly concerning incident tied to the IntelBroker persona occurred in 2023, when a data leak reportedly exposed health and personal information of US lawmakers and their families. This included details such as social security numbers and home addresses.

Officials say they were able to trace West’s identity after an undercover operation led them to one of his cryptocurrency transactions. A $250 Bitcoin payment for stolen data allegedly helped link him to email addresses used in the operation.

West was arrested in France in February and remains in custody there. The United States is now seeking his extradition so he can stand trial.

The US Department of Justice has called this a “global cybercrime operation” and emphasized the scale of damage caused. FBI officials described West’s alleged activity as part of a long-running scheme aimed at profiting from illegally obtained data.

French authorities have also detained four other individuals in their twenties believed to be connected to the same forum, although no further details have been made public.

As of now, there has been no official response or legal representation comment from West’s side. 

Read more »
Ukraine
Hacking malware PathWiper Ukraine

New Malware Called ‘PathWiper’ Discovered in Ukraine Cyberattack

 



A new type of harmful computer program, known as ‘PathWiper,’ has recently been found during a cyberattack on an important organization in Ukraine. Security researchers from Cisco Talos reported this incident but did not reveal the name of the affected organization.

Experts believe the attackers are linked to a Russian hacking group that has been known to target Ukraine in the past. This discovery adds to the growing concerns about threats to Ukraine’s key systems and services.


How the Cyberattack Happened

According to the researchers, the hackers used a common tool that companies normally use to manage devices in their networks. The attackers seem to have learned exactly how this tool works within the victim’s system and took advantage of it to spread the malware across different computers.

Because the attack was carried out using this familiar software, it likely appeared as normal activity to the system’s security checks. This made the hackers’ movements harder to notice.


What Makes PathWiper Different

Malware that destroys files, known as “wiper” malware, has been used in Ukraine before. However, PathWiper works in a more advanced way than some of the older malware seen in past attacks.

In earlier cases, malware like HermeticWiper simply searched through storage drives in a straight list, going one by one. PathWiper, however, carefully scans all connected storage devices, including those that are currently not active. It also checks each device’s labels and records to make sure it is targeting the right ones.

In addition, PathWiper can find and attack shared drives connected over a network. It does this by looking into the system’s registry, an area where Windows computers store important system details to locate specific paths to these network drives.


Why This Is Serious

The way PathWiper is built shows that cyber attackers are continuing to create more advanced and more damaging tools. This malware’s ability to carefully search and destroy files across many connected devices makes it especially dangerous to organizations that provide essential services.

Even though the war between Russia and Ukraine has been going on for a long time, cyber threats like this are still growing and becoming more complex. Security experts are warning companies in Ukraine to be extra careful and make sure their protective systems are up to date.


Staying Careful and Updated

It is very important to keep track of new information about this malware. Companies often fix security problems quickly, and attackers may also change their methods. Writers and researchers covering such topics must carefully check for updates and confirm facts using reliable sources to avoid sharing old or incorrect details.

Cisco Talos is continuing to watch this situation and advises organizations to stay alert.

Read more »
threat
APT41 Attack Calendar Cybersecurity Detection Google Hacking malware phishing threat

APT41 Exploits Google Calendar in Stealthy Cyberattack; Google Shuts It Down

 

Chinese state-backed threat actor APT41 has been discovered leveraging Google Calendar as a command-and-control (C2) channel in a sophisticated cyber campaign, according to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (TIG). The team has since dismantled the infrastructure and implemented defenses to block similar future exploits.

The campaign began with a previously breached government website — though TIG didn’t disclose how it was compromised — which hosted a ZIP archive. This file was distributed to targets via phishing emails.

Once downloaded, the archive revealed three components: an executable file and a dynamic-link library (DLL) disguised as image files, and a Windows shortcut (LNK) masquerading as a PDF. When users attempted to open the phony PDF, the shortcut activated the DLL, which then decrypted and launched a third file containing the actual malware, dubbed ToughProgress.

Upon execution, ToughProgress connected to Google Calendar to retrieve its instructions, embedded within event descriptions or hidden calendar events. The malware then exfiltrated stolen data by creating a zero-minute calendar event on May 30, embedding the encrypted information within the event's description field.

Google noted that the malware’s stealth — avoiding traditional file installation and using a legitimate Google service for communication — made it difficult for many security tools to detect.

To mitigate the threat, TIG crafted specific detection signatures, disabled the threat actor’s associated Workspace accounts and calendar entries, updated file recognition tools, and expanded its Safe Browsing blocklist to include malicious domains and URLs linked to the attack.

Several organizations were reportedly targeted. “In partnership with Mandiant Consulting, GTIG notified the compromised organizations,” Google stated. “We provided the notified organizations with a sample of TOUGHPROGRESS network traffic logs, and information about the threat actor, to aid with detection and incident response.”

Google did not disclose the exact number of impacted entities.
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Hacking
arrest Bangladesh Breach Court Cyber Security Data E-Commerce Evaly Fraud Hacking

Evaly Website Allegedly Hacked Amid Legal Turmoil, Hacker Threatens to Leak Customer Data

 

Evaly, the controversial e-commerce platform based in Bangladesh, appeared to fall victim to a cyberattack on 24 May 2025. Visitors to the site were met with a stark warning reportedly left by a hacker, claiming to have obtained the platform’s customer data and urging Evaly staff to make contact.

Displayed in bold capital letters, the message read: “HACKED, I HAVE ALL CUSTOMER DATA. EVALY STAFF PLEASE CONTACT 00watch@proton.me.” The post included a threat, stating, “OR ELSE I WILL RELEASE THIS DATA TO THE PUBLIC,” signaling the potential exposure of private user information if the hacker’s demand is ignored.

It remains unclear what specific data was accessed or whether sensitive financial or personal details were involved. So far, Evaly has not released any official statement addressing the breach or the nature of the compromised information.

This development comes on the heels of a fresh wave of legal action against Evaly and its leadership. On 13 April 2025, state-owned Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) reported that a Dhaka court handed down three-year prison sentences to Evaly’s managing director, Mohammad Rassel, and chairperson, Shamima Nasrin, in a fraud case.

Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate M Misbah Ur Rahman delivered the judgment, which also included fines of BDT 5,000 each. The court issued arrest warrants for both executives following the ruling.

The case was filed by a customer, Md Rajib, who alleged that he paid BDT 12.37 lakh for five motorcycles that were never delivered. The transaction took place through Evaly’s website, which had gained attention for its deep discount offers and aggressive promotional tactics.
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Trojan
cryptocurrency Cyberattack Hacking malware printing Ransomware remoteaccess Security Software Trojan

Malware Discovered in Procolored Printer Software, Users Advised to Update Immediately

 

For at least six months, the official software bundled with Procolored printers reportedly included malicious code, including a remote access trojan (RAT) and a cryptocurrency-stealing malware.

Procolored, a Shenzhen-based manufacturer known for its affordable Direct-to-Film (DTF), UV DTF, UV, and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printers, has built a strong reputation in the digital printing market. Since its founding in 2018, the company has expanded to over 31 countries and developed a considerable footprint in the United States.

The issue was first identified by Cameron Coward, a tech YouTuber behind the channel Serial Hobbyism. He was installing the driver and companion software for a $7,000 Procolored UV printer when his security tool flagged a threat: the Floxif USB worm.

After further investigation, cybersecurity firm G Data confirmed that malware was being distributed through Procolored’s official software packages—potentially impacting customers for over half a year.

Initially dismissed by Procolored as a “false positive,” Coward found that every time he attempted to download or unzip the printer software, his system immediately quarantined the files.

“If I try to download the files from their website or unzip the files on the USB drive they gave me, my computer immediately quarantines them,” said the YouTuber.

Coward turned to Reddit for support in analyzing the malware before publishing a critical review. G Data researcher Karsten Hahn responded and discovered that six printer models—F8, F13, F13 Pro, V6, V11 Pro, and VF13 Pro—came with software downloads hosted on Mega that were infected with malware.

Mega.nz is the file-sharing platform Procolored uses to distribute printer software via its official website.

Hahn found 39 infected files, including:

  • XRedRAT: A RAT with capabilities such as keylogging, taking screenshots, accessing the remote shell, and file manipulation. Its hardcoded command-and-control (C2) URLs were consistent with previously analyzed samples.
  • SnipVex: A newly identified clipper malware that infects .EXE files and hijacks Bitcoin addresses copied to the clipboard. This malware is believed to have compromised the developer’s machine or software build environment.

According to G Data, the SnipVex malware was used to steal around 9.308 BTC (worth nearly $1 million at current exchange rates).

Company Response and Security Measures

Though Procolored initially denied any wrongdoing, the compromised software was removed from its website on May 8, and the company launched an internal probe.

In communication with G Data, Procolored explained that the infected files had been uploaded via a USB drive possibly infected with the Floxif worm.

“As a precaution, all software has been temporarily removed from the Procolored official website,” explained Procolored to G Data.

“We are conducting a comprehensive malware scan of every file. Only after passing stringent virus and security checks will the software be re-uploaded.”

G Data later confirmed that the newly uploaded software packages are clean and safe to install.

Customers who previously downloaded Procolored software are urged to update to the new versions and perform a system scan to remove remnants of XRedRAT and SnipVex. Given the nature of SnipVex's binary tampering, experts recommend a thorough system cleaning.

In a comment to BleepingComputer, Procolored emphasized that all of its software has now been verified and is secure:

“Procolored confirms that its software is completely safe, clean, and has no connection whatsoever to any cryptocurrency-related incidents. All software packages have been thoroughly scanned and verified by third-party tools including VirusTotal and G Data, with no threats detected. Users can purchase and use Procolored products with complete confidence, as there is no risk of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency theft linked to their software.”

“To further reassure customers, Procolored has provided third-party certifications and conducted strict technical checks to prove its software is secure.”

“In particular, the hash values of the key ‘PrintExp.exe’ file were verified and confirmed to match the official values published on Procolored’s website, proving the file is authentic, untampered, and free of any viruses or malware.”

“The company remains fully committed to customer care — no matter the issue, whether software or hardware, Procolored promises to resolve it to customer satisfaction, supported by their dedicated after-sales team and U.S.-based service resources.”


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Vulnerability
AI Cybersecurity Data Encryption Hacking Passwords penetration redteam SharePoint Vulnerabilities and Exploits Vulnerability

Pen Test Partners Uncovers Major Vulnerability in Microsoft Copilot AI for SharePoint

 

Pen Test Partners, a renowned cybersecurity and penetration testing firm, recently exposed a critical vulnerability in Microsoft’s Copilot AI for SharePoint. Known for simulating real-world hacking scenarios, the company’s redteam specialists investigate how systems can be breached just like skilled threatactors would attempt in real-time. With attackers increasingly leveraging AI, ethical hackers are now adopting similar methods—and the outcomes are raising eyebrows.

In a recent test, the Pen Test Partners team explored how Microsoft Copilot AI integrated into SharePoint could be manipulated. They encountered a significant issue when a seemingly secure encrypted spreadsheet was exposed—simply by instructing Copilot to retrieve it. Despite SharePoint’s robust access controls preventing file access through conventional means, the AI assistant was able to bypass those protections.

“The agent then successfully printed the contents,” said Jack Barradell-Johns, a red team security consultant at Pen Test Partners, “including the passwords allowing us to access the encrypted spreadsheet.”

This alarming outcome underlines the dual-nature of AI in informationsecurity—it can enhance defenses, but also inadvertently open doors to attackers if not properly governed.

Barradell-Johns further detailed the engagement, explaining how the red team encountered a file labeled passwords.txt, placed near the encrypted spreadsheet. When traditional methods failed due to browser-based restrictions, the hackers used their red team expertise and simply asked the Copilot AI agent to fetch it.

“Notably,” Barradell-Johns added, “in this case, all methods of opening the file in the browser had been restricted.”

Still, those download limitations were sidestepped. The AI agent output the full contents, including sensitive credentials, and allowed the team to easily copy the chat thread, revealing a potential weak point in AI-assisted collaborationtools.

This case serves as a powerful reminder: as AItools become more embedded in enterprise workflows, their securitytesting must evolve in step. It's not just about protecting the front door—it’s about teaching your digital assistant not to hold it open for strangers.

For those interested in the full technical breakdown, the complete Pen Test Partners report dives into the step-by-step methods used and broader securityimplications of Copilot’s current design.

Davey Winder reached out to Microsoft, and a spokesperson said:

“SharePoint information protection principles ensure that content is secured at the storage level through user-specific permissions and that access is audited. This means that if a user does not have permission to access specific content, they will not be able to view it through Copilot or any other agent. Additionally, any access to content through Copilot or an agent is logged and monitored for compliance and security.”

Further, Davey Winder then contacted Ken Munro, founder of Pen Test Partners, who issued the following statement addressing the points made in the one provided by Microsoft.

“Microsoft are technically correct about user permissions, but that’s not what we are exploiting here. They are also correct about logging, but again it comes down to configuration. In many cases, organisations aren’t typically logging the activities that we’re taking advantage of here. Having more granular user permissions would mitigate this, but in many organisations data on SharePoint isn’t as well managed as it could be. That’s exactly what we’re exploiting. These agents are enabled per user, based on licenses, and organisations we have spoken to do not always understand the implications of adding those licenses to their users.”
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Web3
Blockchain cryptocurrency Cyber Attacks CyberCrime Cybersecurity global threat Hacking IT workers North Korea Sanctions Web3

North Korea’s Global Cybercrime Network Uncovered: Fake IT Workers Funding Regime's Ambitions

 

A new report by cybersecurity firm DTEX has exposed how North Korea is operating a sophisticated international cybercrime network by embedding fake information technology workers within leading global corporations. These operatives, disguised as freelance developers, are channeling millions in stolen cryptocurrency to fund the reclusive nation’s military and weapons programs.

According to the report, North Korean agents are not driven by ideology but by a systemic need to survive. Trained from a young age, many are groomed to become covert cyber operatives or IT contractors. Two individuals, using the aliases “Naoki Murano” and “Jenson Collins,” were found residing in Russia and are believed to be involved in infiltrating Western companies. They’ve been linked to a $6 million cryptocurrency theft.

The regime operates through shadowy IT entities like Chinyong, which positions agents in countries like China, Laos, and Russia. These agents gain trust within blockchain and cryptocurrency projects, ultimately diverting digital assets back to Pyongyang. Since 2017, North Korea has reportedly funneled tens of millions of dollars through such schemes—prompting U.S. sanctions for financing weapons development (see: US Sanctions North Korean Entities for Sending Regime Funds).

The report states that North Korea’s cyber program has reached a pivotal stage, with its tactics becoming more aggressive and unpredictable. The regime now deploys techniques ranging from supply chain attacks to financial sector infiltration and even online propaganda. DTEX researchers noted that these operatives are so deeply integrated into major cryptocurrency and Web3 initiatives that, “it would seem that every other Web3 project has a North Korean on the payroll.”

“The threat of unintentionally hiring North Korean IT workers is larger than most people realize,” Kevin Mandia, founder and former CEO of Mandiant, said in a statement accompanying the report. “It's cover is global and active right now - which is why the industry and government need to work together to come up with solutions to counter the threat.”

The study also challenges the notion that North Korean cyber operatives follow rigid roles. Instead, many shift between missions, take on leadership responsibilities, and reuse false identities—suggesting a highly adaptive and fluid structure.

Past investigations have revealed that North Korean attacks on European tech firms were often facilitated by individuals operating from the U.S. and the U.K. An April report by Mandiant warned of increasing attempts by North Korean IT workers to secure positions in defense and government agencies, with U.S. businesses being their primary focus—even as operations grow across Europe (see: North Korean IT Scammers Targeting European Companies).

Michael Barnhart, the lead analyst behind the DTEX report, said his research is based on open-source intelligence, testimonies from defectors, blockchain forensics, and insights from Web3 infrastructure. He also leveraged proprietary datasets from unnamed partners to trace how North Korean agents shift money, access, and identities across borders.

“DPRK operatives are persistent,” Barnhart wrote, adding that North Korean cyber agents “do not take kindly to scrutiny” and “will try to uncover who is studying them and how.”
Read more »
Power Outage
Cyber Defenses Cyber Security Cyber Threats Cyberattack Hacker attack Hacking Portugal Cyber Army Portugese Power Grids Power Outage

Spain Investigates Cybersecurity of Power Suppliers After Widespread Grid Outage

 

Spain is investigating the cybersecurity practices of its power suppliers following a major power outage that affected much of the Iberian Peninsula at the end of April. While initial assessments by Spanish and Portuguese grid operators ruled out a cyberattack, authorities are now questioning whether smaller, independent energy producers may have inadvertently opened vulnerabilities within the national power infrastructure. 

The outage disrupted electricity supply across both Spain and Portugal, with most regions regaining power after ten hours. However, it took nearly a full day—23 hours—for Spain’s grid to be fully restored. Although no immediate signs of hacking were found, the duration and scale of the disruption raised alarms, prompting deeper scrutiny into the resilience of Spain’s decentralized energy network. According to a report from the Financial Times, Spain’s National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) has reached out to various smaller renewable energy producers, asking whether they experienced any unusual activity before the blackout on April 28. 

The inquiries also covered their use of recent security patches and whether their systems could be remotely accessed, signaling a broader concern over cybersecurity readiness among these suppliers. This line of investigation is significant given Spain’s heavy reliance on renewable energy, much of which is generated by smaller, less centralized plants. The concern is that these entities, though critical to Spain’s green transition, may lack the robust cyber defenses maintained by larger grid operators. 

While this doesn’t point to renewable energy as unreliable, it highlights how a fragmented supplier ecosystem could pose a collective security risk. Cybersecurity experts have also weighed in. A blog post by security firm Specops Software compared the Spanish outage to known cyberattacks on power grids, such as those in Ukraine in 2015 and 2016. While Specops acknowledged the Spanish grid operators’ conclusion that no breach was detected through their internal monitoring systems, the firm noted similarities in how the shutdown unfolded. 

However, Barracuda Networks’ regional director Miguel López suggested that if a cyberattack had indeed compromised critical systems, it would have taken significantly longer to recover, casting doubt on hacking as the root cause. Still, the possibility that attackers exploited a less secure third-party provider has not been ruled out. This renewed scrutiny comes amid global concerns over cyber threats to critical infrastructure. 

The U.S. and U.K. have both issued alerts about increased activity by pro-Russian hacktivists targeting industrial control systems. With recent research showing that 95% of critical infrastructure organizations experienced a data breach in the past year, Spain’s situation underscores the urgent need for improved cyber vigilance across all levels of the energy supply chain.
Read more »
SK Telecom
Data Breach Hacking sim cards SK Telecom

Personal Data Leak Hits SK Telecom Users, SIM Swap Threat Grows

 


A recent cyberattack has put the personal information of millions of South Korean mobile users at risk. SK Telecom, the country’s largest mobile service provider, has confirmed that a major data breach has affected up to 25 million customers. The attack was carried out using malware that could allow criminals to perform SIM swapping — a method where someone takes control of a person's phone number to access their accounts and data.

The company said it is still investigating the situation but assured the public that no misuse of the stolen data has been confirmed so far. Despite this, many customers are worried that the real damage could still happen in the future.

In response to the breach, a group of victims has come together to demand answers and action. This group, calling itself the “SKT USIM Hacking Joint Response,” says SK Telecom has not been clear about how serious the breach is. They fear that leaked phone numbers and related information could be used to break into other services, such as bank accounts, messaging apps, and social media platforms — all of which often use phone numbers for verification.

To ease concerns, SK Telecom has promised to provide free replacement SIM cards to all affected users. However, the company has run into challenges with supply. So far, it has only secured one million SIM cards and plans to get five million more by the end of May. This is far from enough to cover the 25 million people impacted, so it may take a while before everyone receives their replacement card.

SK Telecom has set up an online system where customers can book appointments to get their new SIM cards. But the company has warned that long wait times should be expected because of the high demand.

This incident has raised serious questions about mobile security and how quickly companies respond to digital threats. As people rely more on their smartphones for banking, shopping, and communication, protecting mobile data has never been more important.

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phishing
ceasefire Cyber Attacks Cybersecurity DDoS disinformation Hacking India Infrastructure Pakistan phishing

Cyber Warfare After Pahalgam: Over 1.5 Million Cyberattacks Target Indian Infrastructure

 

Following the Pahalgam terror incident, India experienced a massive wave of cyberattacks launched by hostile hacker groups operating from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and parts of the Middle East. As per a detailed investigation by the Maharashtra Cyber Cell, over 1.5 million cyber intrusions targeted Indian websites and digital systems in a deliberate, coordinated assault meant to disrupt national infrastructure and spread psychological unrest.

According to a government report titled “Road of Sindoor,” the cyber onslaught was a retaliatory move against India’s military operation conducted under the same name. The attacks aimed at government portals, municipal databases, aviation systems, and other vital infrastructure.

Despite the scale of the offensive, only 150 of the attacks showed limited success, marking a mere 0.01% success rate. This reflects India’s growing cyber resilience and the relatively low effectiveness of these foreign cyber operatives.

7 Pakistani-Backed Hacker Groups Identified

The Maharashtra Cyber Cell report identified seven key hacker groups orchestrating the campaign:
  • APT 36
  • Pakistan Cyber Force
  • Team Insane PK
  • Mysterious Bangladesh
  • Indo Hacks Sec
  • Cyber Group HOAX 1337
  • National Cyber Crew (Pakistan-allied)
These collectives employed tactics such as DDoS attacks, malware deployment, GPS spoofing, and website defacements. One of the more visible intrusions was the defacement of the Kulgaon Badlapur Municipal Council website. Additionally, several unverified claims circulated online, alleging cyber breaches of the Mumbai airport systems and telecom infrastructures.

More concerning was the coordinated use of disinformation, which sought to falsely portray that India's banking sector, power grid, and satellite systems had been compromised. The report revealed that over 5,000 fake social media posts linked to the India-Pakistan conflict were detected and removed.

Ceasefire Didn’t Halt Cyber Assaults

Even as a ceasefire agreement remained in place between India and Pakistan, cyber offensives continued, especially from Bangladesh, Indonesia, and allied Middle Eastern entities. While officials observed a decline in attack frequency post-ceasefire, they confirmed that the attacks never fully stopped.

Authorities stated, “These campaigns weren’t amateur attempts. They were designed to destabilize. Though thwarted, they signal a persistent digital threat landscape India must be prepared for.”

State and national intelligence units are now working in tandem to bolster surveillance, reinforce cybersecurity protocols, and pre-empt future threats.

The “Road of Sindoor” report has been formally shared with the Director General of Police, the State Intelligence Department, and other key law enforcement bodies, affirming India’s strategic focus on digital sovereignty and cybersecurity preparedness.
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ScatteredSpider
Cyberattack Cybersecurity Data Breach DragonForce Extortion Hacking Ransomware Retail ScatteredSpider

Marks & Spencer Cyberattack Fallout May Last Months Amid Growing Threat from Scattered Spider

 

Marks & Spencer is facing prolonged disruption after falling victim to a large-scale cyberattack. Experts warn that restoring normal operations could take months, highlighting a growing trend of sophisticated breaches targeting major retailers. This incident follows a wave of cyber intrusions, including those at Co-op and Harrods, allegedly orchestrated by the same hacking collective — Scattered Spider.

Described by ITPro as “the name on every security practitioner's mind right now,” Scattered Spider has gained notoriety for its aggressive tactics and global reach.

“Scattered Spider is one of the most dangerous and active hacking groups we are monitoring,” said Graeme Stewart of Check Point to Sky News.

Believed to be composed mainly of young, English-speaking individuals based in the UK and US, the group has reportedly executed over 100 cyberattacks since emerging in 2022. These attacks span sectors like telecommunications, finance, retail, and gaming.

One of their most prominent exploits occurred in 2023, when they severely disrupted two leading casino operators. Caesars Entertainment reportedly paid about $15 million to recover access, while MGM Resorts suffered estimated damages of around $100 million due to compromised customer data.

What makes Scattered Spider particularly elusive is its decentralized structure and independence from state backing. “They operate more like an organised criminal network, decentralised and adaptive,” Stewart added. Even after multiple arrests in the US and Europe, the group continues to rebound swiftly. “This is not a loose group of opportunistic hackers,” he emphasized.

Rather than relying solely on software flaws, Scattered Spider frequently exploits human error. The M&S and Co-op attacks, for example, were the result of “social engineering,” where attackers manipulated employees into revealing credentials.

Their tactics include mimicking corporate emails, sim swapping (cloning a phone number to hijack accounts), and building convincing fake login portals. “This is akin to ‘breaking down the front door’ of networks,” Paul Cashmore, CEO of Solace Cyber, told The Times. Once inside, Scattered Spider typically partners with ransomware gangs to carry out the final blow.

In these recent cases, the group appears to have collaborated with DragonForce, a ransomware cartel. Initially known as a pro-Palestinian hacktivist group based in Malaysia, DragonForce now operates a “ransomware-as-a-service” model. According to Bleeping Computer, they allow affiliates to use their tools and infrastructure in exchange for 20-30% of ransom payments.

The core motivation is financial gain. DragonForce reportedly reached out to the BBC claiming the Co-op breach was more severe than disclosed, hinting at an extortion attempt.

Organizations like the Co-op, which house personal data of millions, are prime targets. Once a system is locked, hackers demand large ransoms in return for decryption tools and promises to delete stolen data. “If a ransom is not paid, the ransomware operation typically publishes the stolen data on their dark web data leak site,” Bleeping Computer explained.

Whether or not to pay remains a complex dilemma. “Paying may provide a quick way to restore operations, protect customer data and limit immediate financial and reputational damage,” noted The Times. However, it also risks emboldening cybercriminals and marking companies as future targets.
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WebSockets
Blockchain codebase Credentials Crypto Cybersecurity dataexfiltration dependency devtools Firewall Gmail Hacking malware phishing PyPI python scripts SMTP Spoofing Threatactors WebSockets

Malicious PyPI Packages Exploit Gmail to Steal Sensitive Data

 

Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a disturbing new tactic involving malicious PyPI packages that use Gmail to exfiltrate stolen data and communicate with threat actors. The discovery, made by security firm Socket, led to the removal of the infected packages from the Python Package Index (PyPI), although not before considerable damage had already occurred.

Socket reported identifying seven malicious packages on PyPI, some of which had been listed for more than four years. Collectively, these packages had been downloaded over 55,000 times. Most were spoofed versions of the legitimate "Coffin" package, with deceptive names such as Coffin-Codes-Pro, Coffin-Codes, NET2, Coffin-Codes-NET, Coffin-Codes-2022, Coffin2022, and Coffin-Grave. Another package was titled cfc-bsb.

According to the researchers, once installed, these packages would connect to Gmail using hardcoded credentials and initiate communication with a command-and-control (C2) server. They would then establish a WebSockets tunnel that leverages Gmail’s email server, allowing the traffic to bypass traditional firewalls and security systems.

This setup enabled attackers to remotely execute code, extract files, and gain unauthorized access to targeted systems.

Evidence suggests that the attackers were mainly targeting cryptocurrency assets. One of the email addresses used by the malware featured terms like “blockchain” and “bitcoin” — an indication of its intent.

“Coffin-Codes-Pro establishes a connection to Gmail’s SMTP server using hardcoded credentials, namely sphacoffin@gmail[.]com and a password,” the report says.
“It then sends a message to a second email address, blockchain[.]bitcoins2020@gmail[.]com politely and demurely signaling that the implant is working.”

Socket has issued a warning to all Python developers and users who may have installed these packages, advising them to remove the compromised libraries immediately, and rotate all sensitive credentials.

The researchers further advised developers to remain alert for suspicious outbound connections:

“especially SMTP traffic”, and warned them not to trust a package just because it was a few years old.
“To protect your codebase, always verify package authenticity by checking download counts, publisher history, and GitHub repository links,” they added.

“Regular dependency audits help catch unexpected or malicious packages early. Keep strict access controls on private keys, carefully limiting who can view or import them in development. Use isolated, dedicated environments when testing third-party scripts to contain potentially harmful code.”
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ticketing
Cybersecurity Data Breach Digital Security Encryption event tickets Fraud Hacking Identity Theft PII Privacy ticketing

Massive Data Leak Exposes 520,000+ Ticket Records from Resale Platform 'Ticket to Cash'

 

A critical security lapse at online ticket resale platform Ticket to Cash has led to a major data breach, exposing over 520,000 records, according to a report by vpnMentor. The leak was first uncovered by cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler, who found the unsecured and unencrypted database without any password protection.

The database, weighing in at a massive 200 GB, contained a mix of PDFs, images, and JSON files. Among the leaked files were thousands of concert and live event tickets, proof of transfers, and receipt screenshots. Alarmingly, many documents included personally identifiable information (PII) such as full names, email addresses, physical addresses, and partial credit card details.

Using the internal structure and naming conventions within the files, Fowler traced the data back to Ticket to Cash, a company that facilitates ticket resale through over 1,000 partner websites. “Despite contacting TicketToCash.com through a responsible disclosure notice,” Fowler reported, “I initially received no response, and the database remained publicly accessible.” It wasn’t until four days later, following a second notice, that the data was finally secured. By then, an additional 2,000+ files had been exposed.

The responsible party behind maintaining the database—whether Ticket to Cash or a third-party contractor—remains uncertain. It’s also unknown how long the database was left open or whether it had been accessed by malicious actors. “Only a thorough internal forensic investigation could provide further clarity,” Fowler emphasized.

Ticket to Cash enables users to list tickets without upfront fees, taking a cut only when sales occur. However, the company has faced criticism over customer service, particularly regarding payment delays via PayPal and difficulty reaching support. Fowler also noted the lack of prompt communication during the disclosure process.

This breach raises serious concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity practices in the digital ticketing world. Leaked PII and partial financial information are prime targets for identity theft and fraud, posing risks well beyond the original ticketed events. As online ticketing becomes more widespread, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for strong security protocols and rapid response mechanisms to safeguard user data.
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takedown
Cyber Fraud Cyberattack CyberCrime Cybersecurity digitalcrime Europol Fraud Hacking LabHost LabRat lawenforcement phishing phishingkits phishingtools takedown

Global Cybercrime Crackdown Dismantles Major Phishing-as-a-Service Platform ‘LabHost’

 

In a major international crackdown, a law enforcement operation spearheaded by the London Metropolitan Police and coordinated by Europol has successfully taken down LabHost, one of the most notorious phishing-as-a-service (PhaaS) platforms used by cybercriminals worldwide.

Between April 14 and April 17, 2024, authorities carried out synchronized raids across 70 different sites globally, resulting in the arrest of 37 individuals. Among those arrested were four suspects in the UK believed to be the platform’s original creators and administrators. Following the arrests, LabHost’s digital infrastructure was completely dismantled.

LabHost had gained infamy for its ease of use and wide accessibility, making it a go-to cybercrime tool. The service offered more than 170 fake website templates imitating trusted brands from the banking, telecom, and logistics sectors—allowing users to craft convincing phishing campaigns with minimal effort.

According to authorities, LabHost supported over 40,000 phishing domains and catered to approximately 10,000 users across the globe. The coordinated enforcement effort was supported by Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3) and the Joint Cybercrime Action Taskforce (J-CAT), with 19 countries actively participating in the investigation.

LabHost showcased how cybercrime has become industrialized through subscription-based platforms. For a monthly fee of around $249, subscribers could access phishing kits, fraudulent websites, hosting services, and even tools to interact with victims in real-time.

One of its most dangerous features was LabRat, an integrated dashboard that enabled users to monitor ongoing phishing attacks. This tool also allowed cybercriminals to intercept two-factor authentication codes and login credentials, effectively bypassing modern security measures.

Its user-friendly interface eliminated the need for technical skills—opening the door for anyone with malicious intent and a credit card to launch sophisticated phishing schemes. The platform's popularity contributed to a spike in identity theft, financial fraud, and widespread data breaches.

Authorities hailed the takedown as a milestone in the fight against cybercrime. However, they also cautioned that the commoditization of cybercrime remains a serious concern.

"This is a critical blow to phishing infrastructure," cybersecurity experts said, "but the ease of recreating similar platforms continues to pose a major threat."

Following the seizure of LabHost’s backend systems, law enforcement agencies have begun analyzing the data to identify the perpetrators and their victims. This will mark the beginning of a new wave of investigations and preventative measures.

The operation involved agencies from 19 countries, including the FBI and Secret Service from the United States, as well as cybercrime units in Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Australia, and the UK. This unprecedented level of international cooperation highlights the cross-border nature of cyber threats and the importance of unified global action.

As authorities prepare for a fresh wave of prosecutions, the LabHost takedown stands as a defining moment in cyber law enforcement—both in its impact and its symbolism.
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Pakistan
Cyber Attacks Cyber Warfare Hacking India Internet Pakistan

Pakistan State-sponsored Hackers Attack Indian Websites, Attempts Blocked

Pakistan State-sponsored Hackers Attack Indian Websites, Attempts Blocked

Pakistan's cyber warfare against India

Recently, Pakistan state-sponsored hacker groups launched multiple failed hacking attempts to hack Indian websites amid continuous cyber offensives against India after the Pahalgam terror attack. These breach attempts were promptly identified and blocked by the Indian cybersecurity agencies. 

In one incident, the hacking group “Cyber Group HOAX1337” and “National Cyber Crew” attacked the websites of the Army Public School in Jammu (a union territory in India), trying to loiter on the site with messages mocking the recent victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.

State-sponsored attacks against Indian websites

In another cyberattack, hackers defaced the website of healthcare services for ex-servicemen, the sites of Indian Air Force veterans and Army Institute of Hotel Management were also attacked. 

Besides Army-related websites, Pakistan-sponsored hackers have repeatedly tried to trespass websites associated with veterans, children, and civilians, officials said.

Additionally, the Maharashtra Cyber Department defected more than 10 lakh cyberattacks on Indian systems by hacking gangs from various countries after the April 22 terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. 

Rise of targeted cyberattacks against India

A Maharashtra Cyber senior police official said that the state’s police cybercrime detection wing has noticed a sudden rise in digital attacks after the Kashmir terror strike.

Experts suspect these cyber attacks are part of a deliberate campaign to intensify tensions on digital platforms. These attempts are seen as part of Pakistan’s broader hybrid warfare plan, which has a history of using terrorism and information warfare against India. 

Besides Pakistan, cyberattacks have also surfaced from Indonesia, Morocco, and the Middle East. A lot of hacker groups have claimed links to Islamist ideologies, suggesting a coordinated cyber warfare operation, according to the police official. 

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Hacking
Crypto Cyber Attacks Cybersecurity Hacking

‘Elusive Comet’ Hackers Exploit Zoom to Target Crypto Users in Sophisticated Scam

 

A newly identified hacking group known as Elusive Comet is targeting cryptocurrency users through a deceptive campaign that leverages Zoom’s remote control feature to gain unauthorized access to victims' systems.

The remote control tool, built into Zoom, enables meeting participants to take control of another person's computer — a capability now being manipulated by cybercriminals to bypass technical defenses through social engineering rather than traditional code exploitation.

According to a report from cybersecurity firm Trail of Bits, the group’s tactics closely resemble those used in the $1.5 billion Bybit crypto heist believed to be linked to the Lazarus group.

"The ELUSIVE COMET methodology mirrors the techniques behind the recent $1.5 billion Bybit hack in February, where attackers manipulated legitimate workflows rather than exploiting code vulnerabilities," explains the Trail of Bits report.

Trail of Bits uncovered the campaign when attackers attempted to target their CEO via a direct message on X (formerly Twitter), posing as representatives of Bloomberg Crypto.

The ruse begins with a fraudulent invitation to a "Bloomberg Crypto" interview, sent to high-profile individuals either through email (bloombergconferences[@]gmail.com) or social media. The attackers use sock-puppet accounts, mimicking journalists or crypto media outlets, and send Calendly links to schedule the meeting.

Because both Calendly and Zoom links are genuine, the setup appears trustworthy to the victims. During the meeting, the attackers launch a screen-sharing session and issue a remote control request — with a crucial twist: their Zoom display name is changed to “Zoom.”

This results in a misleading prompt that reads:
"Zoom is requesting remote control of your screen,"
— tricking the target into thinking the request is from the app itself.

Granting access allows the attacker full remote control, enabling data theft, malware installation, unauthorized file access, or even the initiation of crypto transactions. In some cases, attackers establish persistence through hidden backdoors, remaining unnoticed even after disconnecting.

"What makes this attack particularly dangerous is the permission dialog's similarity to other harmless Zoom notifications," says Trail of Bits.
"Users habituated to clicking 'Approve' on Zoom prompts may grant complete control of their computer without realizing the implications."

To guard against such threats, Trail of Bits recommends the use of Privacy Preferences Policy Control (PPPC) profiles to restrict system accessibility permissions. For highly sensitive environments — particularly those handling digital assets or crypto transactions — the firm advises removing the Zoom desktop client entirely.

"For organizations handling particularly sensitive data or cryptocurrency transactions, the risk reduction from eliminating the Zoom client entirely often outweighs the minor inconvenience of using browser-based alternatives," explains Trail of Bits.
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SuperCardX
Android Hacking malware NFC phishing Skimming SuperCardX

SuperCard X Malware Turns Android Phones into NFC Relay Hubs for Real-Time Payment Fraud

 

Hackers are exploiting a Chinese-language malware-as-a-service (MaaS) platform known as SuperCard X to conduct near-field communication (NFC) relay attacks, enabling the theft of payment card data and real-time fraudulent transactions at point-of-sale (PoS) systems and ATMs. According to mobile security firm Cleafy, SuperCard X diverges from traditional banking malware by weaponizing the contactless features of modern payment cards, transforming infected Android devices into relay tools for instant cash-outs.

“Effectively turning any infected Android handset into an NFC relay station,” said mobile security firm Cleafy.

Cybercriminals can access preconfigured Reader and Tapper apps—used to capture and relay NFC card data—via Telegram channels, offering low-barrier entry into NFC fraud without the need to build custom tools.

The attack typically begins with spoofed messages sent via SMS or WhatsApp, impersonating a bank and warning of suspicious activity. Victims are urged to call a provided number, where scammers—posing as bank representatives—manipulate them into disabling card security settings through social engineering. Eventually, victims are sent a link to download the SuperCard X Reader, disguised as a legitimate security utility.

Once installed, the Reader app requests minimal NFC and system permissions, allowing it to evade standard antivirus detection. Cleafy’s research identified that SuperCard X reuses code from NFCGate and NGate, open-source frameworks that facilitate NFC relay functionalities.

Victims are tricked into tapping their payment cards against the infected Android device. This initiates silent harvesting of sensitive NFC data—such as Answer To Reset (ATR) messages—which are then transmitted via a secure HTTP-based command-and-control (C2) infrastructure, protected through mutual TLS encryption.

On the attacker’s side, the Tapper app—running on a separate Android phone—emulates the victim’s card using Host-based Card Emulation (HCE) mode. This allows the attacker to make contactless transactions at PoS terminals and ATMs, treating the emulated card as legitimate, especially after the victim has removed spending limits.

“SuperCard X distinguishes itself from conventional Android banking Trojans by omitting complex features such as screen overlays, SMS interception or remote desktop controls. It instead focuses on an NFC relay and streamlined permission model, granting it a low fingerprinting profile and allowing it to remain undetected by the vast majority of antivirus engines and behavioral monitors.”

In certain campaigns targeting users in Italy, Cleafy observed customized app versions distributed by affiliates. These variants had stripped-down interfaces—removing sign-up screens and Telegram links—and replaced them with benign app icons and names. During calls, fraudsters provide victims with pre-set credentials, eliminating the need for registration and further reducing the chance of user suspicion.
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