Imagine the credit union taking steps after a potential cyber attack

Envision Credit Union may have been the latest victim of an apparent ransomware attack, malicious software that disrupts computer systems until requirements are met.

The first signs of a possible attack surfaced on social media this week, suggesting that the LockBit 2.0 ransomware group threatened to release stolen data on Aug. 30, according to Datminr, a New York-based company, the man-made Uses intelligence to alert potential security breaches.

The Tallahassee Democrat emailed Envision administrators several questions about the possible cyberattack.

A spokesman would only acknowledge “technical difficulty” and an “incident” while making the following statement to the Democrat.

Envision Credit Union recently encountered technical difficulties on certain systems despite extensive security measures.

We will take all appropriate steps to respond to the incident, including isolating affected systems, conducting an investigation with the assistance of third-party computer specialists into the nature and scope of the incident, and notifying law enforcement agencies.

We would like to reassure the public that at this point in time none of our members’ funds is at risk from this event and no member computer systems are affected. We work to ensure the continued confidentiality of member account information.

The declaration was also sent to Envision customers.

According to kaspersky.com, a global leader in cybersecurity and solutions, the LockBit ransomware automatically scans valuable targets, spreads the infection and aims to encrypt all accessible computer systems on a network.

“This ransomware is used for very targeted attacks against companies and other organizations,” it says on the website. “As a self-directed cyber attack, LockBit attackers have made a name for themselves by threatening organizations around the world.”

Some of his tactics include interrupting operations that stop essential functions, extorting the hacker’s financial gain and stealing data, and illegally posting it as blackmail if the victim fails to comply, the website says.

Ransomware attacks are increasing worldwide and locally. A recent key example in the United States came in May when the Darkside ransomware gang attacked the Colonial Pipeline Company, a Houston-based utility company behind the largest refinery oil pipeline in the country.

Cyber:Ransomware pirates have targeted local businesses. This is how you can defend yourself

Blake Dowling, CEO of Aegis Business Technologies, said ransomware is “the most insidious cyber threat to business.”

“Gift card fraud and other phishing attempts are a headache, but a system-wide ransomware incident can bring down an entire company with one click,” said Dowling. “Most email ransomware attacks target specific people in specific departments using social engineering (finding contact information on websites and social media).

These targeted attacks can sometimes bypass even the most comprehensive cybersecurity measures. If this was a ransomware situation, hopefully it was stopped and located before it could do much damage. “

Contact TaMaryn Waters at tlwaters@tallahassee.com or follow @TaMarynWaters on Twitter.

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The post Imagine the credit union taking steps after a potential cyber attack first appeared on Daily Florida Press.

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