lockbit2 attacks finances.gouv.c...

Incident Date:

March 17, 2022

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Overview

Title

lockbit2 attacks finances.gouv.c...

Victim

finances.gouv.c...

Attacker

Lockbit2

Location

Quebec, Canada

Quebec, Canada

First Reported

March 17, 2022

Ransomware Attack on Finances.gouv.qc.ca

The ransomware group Lockbit2 has claimed responsibility for an attack on the Quebec government's financial services website, finances.gouv.qc.ca. This website, a critical component of the Government sector, has been compromised by threat actors. While the specific vulnerabilities and the size of the organization have not been detailed, the financial services sector's attractiveness to ransomware attacks is well-documented, with institutions facing increasingly sophisticated cyber-enabled threats.

The financial services sector's susceptibility to ransomware attacks stems from the potential for significant financial loss and the risk of exposing sensitive information. Ransomware attackers frequently demand payments in virtual currencies, which can facilitate money laundering activities. Moreover, acceding to ransom demands may further embolden cybercriminals. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, providing ransomware attackers with expanded opportunities through phishing emails and compromised websites, which deceive users into downloading malicious software.

To counteract the threat of ransomware, organizations are advised to implement fundamental cybersecurity practices. These include regular file backups, updating operating systems, and establishing comprehensive recovery strategies. Additionally, it is crucial for incidents to be reported to cybersecurity authorities and law enforcement agencies promptly.

The ransomware attack on finances.gouv.qc.ca underscores the imperative for heightened vigilance and enhanced cybersecurity measures within the financial services sector. Prioritizing cybersecurity is essential in safeguarding against the severe repercussions of ransomware attacks, which can inflict considerable financial losses and compromise confidential data.

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.