A new report by cybersecurity researchers at BforeAI has uncovered a significant increase in malicious online activities targeting the Paris 2024 Olympics [1].
Description
The report reveals that French authorities have reported over 140 cyberattacks during the event, with threat actors setting up fake social media accounts [1], stores [1], ticketing systems [1], and launching fraudulent cryptocurrencies [1]. ANSSI implemented extensive security measures [2], recording 119 low-impact security events and 22 successful system targeting incidents [2]. The use of newly registered domains with signs of DNS abuse [1], unconventional top-level domains [1], misspellings of “Olympics,” and event-related keywords to attract traffic was highlighted. The threat landscape was deemed the most complex ever seen at an Olympics [2], with ransomware attacks posing a significant risk [2]. Consumers were warned about fake Olympic shop domains, ticket scams [1], and scam cryptocurrency coins [1]. Despite preparations [2], less than 20% of French businesses rated their cybersecurity posture as mature [2]. Individuals were advised to rely only on official Olympic websites and social media channels [1], avoid clicking on suspicious links [1], verify the authenticity of websites on unfamiliar TLDs [1], and refrain from investing in Olympics-related cryptocurrencies [1]. France and the UK announced an extension to their cyber partnership to assess risks associated with commercial cyber intrusion tools [2].
Conclusion
The surge in cyberattacks targeting the Paris 2024 Olympics underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Consumers and businesses must remain vigilant against online threats, such as fake domains, scams [1], and fraudulent activities. Collaboration between countries, like France and the UK [2], is crucial in addressing cyber risks and enhancing cybersecurity defenses for future events.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/cybercriminals-exploit-paris-fake/
[2] https://www.techmonitor.ai/technology/cybersecurity/french-authorities-report-over-140-cyberattacks-during-paris-2024-olympics
