LockBit 3.0 Ransomware Attack on Colonial School District
Incident Date:
May 10, 2024
Overview
Title
LockBit 3.0 Ransomware Attack on Colonial School District
Victim
Colonial School District
Attacker
Lockbit3
Location
First Reported
May 10, 2024
Ransomware Attack on Colonial School District by LockBit 3.0
Victim Profile
Located in Plymouth Meeting, PA, the Colonial School District serves the Education sector, offering a myriad of services and information through its website. With approximately 5,414 students in grades K-12, the district prides itself on its high academic standards and commitment to providing diverse opportunities.
Company Size and Standing
On LinkedIn, the Colonial School District boasts approximately 501-1,000 employees, contributing to the broader Colonial School District with 1,001-5,000 employees in total. Achieving an impressive 90% graduation rate, with 56% proficiency in math and 74% in reading, the district's dedication to academic excellence is evident. With expenses per student at $20,614 and an average teacher salary of $105,247, the district invests significantly in its educational mission.
Industry Standing and Vulnerabilities
Renowned for its commitment to providing a comprehensive education and fostering community engagement, the Colonial School District is unfortunately not immune to cyber threats. Its online presence, particularly its website housing critical information and resources, renders it a prime target for threat actors like LockBit 3.0.
Ransomware Group Details
LockBit 3.0, also known as LockBit Black, represents a formidable Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) group that has evolved from its predecessor, LockBit. Employing sophisticated encryption techniques, LockBit 3.0 is notorious for modifying filenames, altering desktop wallpapers, and leaving ransom notes, all while remaining highly obfuscated, complicating analysis for security experts. With advanced features such as lateral movement through networks and self-covering tracks, LockBit 3.0 poses a significant threat to organizations.
LockBit May Attacks
The assault on the Colonial School District forms part of LockBit 3.0's May 2024 campaign. After facing disruption to its infrastructure in February during "Operation Cronos," LockBit swiftly reemerged, targeting over 50 new victims within hours of reactivating its platform. This surge in activity underscores the group's adaptability and global reach, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced international cooperation in combating cybercrime effectively.
Sources:
Recent Ransomware Attacks
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