clop attacks ALTERNATIVETECHS

Incident Date:

March 27, 2022

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Overview

Title

clop attacks ALTERNATIVETECHS

Victim

ALTERNATIVETECHS

Attacker

Clop

Location

Berkeley, USA

California, USA

First Reported

March 27, 2022

Alternative Technologies Suffers Ransomware Attack

Company Overview

Alternative Technologies, a worker-owned cooperative since 2022, has been a cornerstone in the Bay Area, serving nonprofits with dedication since 1989. The company is celebrated for its exceptional service, particularly noted for its knowledgeable technicians and a caring, attentive approach. Its clientele comprises some of the most forward-thinking businesses and effective nonprofits globally.

Vulnerabilities and Risks

Despite its commendable service record, Alternative Technologies' public disclosures do not extensively detail its operational size or the specifics of its technological infrastructure. However, it is known to utilize remote control and desktop software, network printer services, and network-attached storage (NAS) products, such as QNAS or Synology. These technologies are inherently vulnerable to ransomware attacks due to their visibility to hackers and the potential security gaps they can introduce into networks.

Mitigation Strategies

To counteract the threat of ransomware, it is imperative for companies to adopt comprehensive network access controls, restrict the types of data accessible to their systems, and maintain robust firewalls to safeguard their NAS systems. Regular system updates, coupled with employee training on recognizing phishing attempts and other common attack vectors, are critical in preventing ransomware breaches.

The ransomware attack on Alternative Technologies underscores the persistent threat of cyber attacks facing organizations today. It highlights the importance of continuous vigilance and the implementation of stringent security protocols to defend against ransomware and other cyber threats.

Sources

Recent Ransomware Attacks

The Recent Ransomware Attacks (RRA) site acts as a watchtower, providing you with near real-time ransomware tracking of attacks, groups and their victims. Given threat actors’ overarching, lucrative success so far, ransomware attacks have become the most ubiquitous, and financially and informationally impactful cyber threat to businesses and organizations today.

The site’s data is generated based on hosting choices of real-world threat actors, and a handful of other trackers. While sanitization efforts have been taken, we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy of the data. Attack updates will be made as source data is reported by reputable sources. By viewing, accessing, or using RRA you acknowledge you are doing so at your own risk.