LockBit 3.0 Ransomware Attack on Hetero Drugs

Incident Date:

May 9, 2024

World map

Overview

Title

LockBit 3.0 Ransomware Attack on Hetero Drugs

Victim

Hetero

Attacker

Lockbit3

Location

Hyderabad, India

, India

First Reported

May 9, 2024

Ransomware Attack on Hetero by LockBit 3.0

Company Profile

Hetero Drugs, a leading pharmaceutical company, known for its status as the world's largest producer of anti-retroviral drugs, employing over 22,000 individuals globally and operating in more than 127 countries, recently faced a ransomware assault by the infamous LockBit 3.0 group. Specializing in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), formulations, biosimilars, antiretrovirals (ARVs), and branded generics, Hetero Drugs occupies a significant position in the pharmaceutical sector.

Attack Overview

The cyberattack by the LockBit 3.0 ransomware group on Hetero Group's website resulted in the exfiltration of 609 GB of data, including reports, certificates, HR data, and scans. The attackers have leaked a sample of the stolen data, but the specific ransom demand has not been disclosed.

Ransomware Group Distinction

The LockBit 3.0 ransomware group, also known as LockBit Black, is an advanced variant of the LockBit ransomware that emerged in 2022. It encrypts files, modifies filenames, changes desktop wallpapers, and drops ransom notes. The group operates under a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model, allowing other cybercriminals to use their malware for attacks. LockBit 3.0 has been used to target a wide range of organizations globally, showcasing its dangerous and disruptive capabilities.

LockBit May Attacks

This is part of the May 2024 attacks by LockBit 3.0, a cybercriminal group that resurfaced following the disruption of its infrastructure in February during "Operation Cronos." Despite law enforcement efforts, LockBit swiftly returned, targeting over 50 victims within hours of reactivating its platform. The group's adaptability and global reach highlight the challenges in combating cybercrime effectively.

Sources:

Recent Ransomware Attacks

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