The latest BlackBerry Global Threat Intelligence Report reveals a significant 40% increase in cyberattacks against government and public service organizations compared to the previous quarter [1] [2] [3] [4]. These organizations [1] [2] [3] [4] [5], often with limited resources and less mature cyber defense programs [3] [4] [5], face threats from both nation-states and criminal underground groups [3] [4].
Description
The attacks primarily target sectors such as public transit, utilities [2] [4], schools [2] [4], and other essential government services [2]. Over a 90-day period [1], threat actors deployed approximately 11.5 attacks per minute [1], with a 13% increase in novel malware samples [1]. The healthcare and financial services industries remain the most targeted sectors [1] [5], with cybercriminals utilizing ransomware and infostealers [1]. Financial institutions are particularly vulnerable due to remote access vulnerabilities and the rise in malware targeting digital and mobile banking services [1]. State-sponsored threat actors [1], APT28 and the Lazarus Group [1], actively target government agencies [1], military organizations [1], businesses [1], and financial institutions [1]. They continuously adapt their techniques to make their attacks harder to detect and defend against [1]. The report also provides a summary of the top 20 techniques used by threat groups during the period [3].
Conclusion
These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in these critical sectors [2]. Government and public service organizations must prioritize the development of robust cyber defense programs to protect against the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks. Additionally, healthcare and financial institutions should invest in advanced security measures to safeguard sensitive data and mitigate the risks posed by ransomware and infostealers. Ongoing vigilance and collaboration between industry, government [1] [2] [3] [4] [5], and cybersecurity experts are crucial to staying ahead of evolving threats.
References
[1] https://thehackernews.com/2023/08/malware-unleashed-public-sector-hit-in.html
[2] https://vulners.com/thn/THN:264EF1B128782BCE3FD6ECD8B4D25C04
[3] https://cyber.vumetric.com/security-news/2023/08/15/malware-unleashed-public-sector-hit-in-sudden-surge-reveals-new-report/
[4] https://www.ihash.eu/2023/08/public-sector-hit-in-sudden-surge-reveals-new-report/
[5] https://techkranti.com/15-aug-23-in-security-news-today/
