Ransomware Attack Disrupts French Cultural Giant RMN
Incident Date:
August 29, 2024
Overview
Title
Ransomware Attack Disrupts French Cultural Giant RMN
Victim
Réunion des Musées Nationaux
Attacker
BrainCypher
Location
First Reported
August 29, 2024
Ransomware Attack on Réunion des Musées Nationaux by BrainCipher
Réunion des Musées Nationaux (RMN), a prominent French cultural organization, has recently been targeted by the ransomware group BrainCipher. The attackers claim to have exfiltrated 300 GB of sensitive data, posing significant risks to the institution's operations and reputation.
About Réunion des Musées Nationaux
Established in 2011, RMN oversees 34 national museums, including the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay. The organization employs between 1,001 and 5,000 individuals and generates an estimated revenue ranging from $100 to $500 million USD. RMN's primary activities include organizing exhibitions, managing permanent collections, and publishing art-related literature. The institution is renowned for its role in promoting art and culture in France, attracting approximately 2.5 million visitors to its exhibitions annually.
Attack Overview
The ransomware attack on RMN was orchestrated by BrainCipher, a group that emerged in early June 2024. The attackers infiltrated RMN's systems, exfiltrating 300 GB of sensitive data. This breach could potentially disrupt RMN's operations, including its exhibitions, publications, and digital platforms.
About BrainCipher
BrainCipher is known for its sophisticated attack methods, primarily using phishing and spear phishing to gain initial access. The group employs ransomware payloads based on LockBit 3.0, encrypting files and demanding ransom payments. BrainCipher operates a TOR-based data leak site where they publish information about compromised organizations.
Penetration and Vulnerabilities
BrainCipher likely penetrated RMN's systems through phishing attacks, exploiting vulnerabilities in the organization's cybersecurity measures. The group's use of initial access brokers and advanced evasion techniques further facilitated the breach. RMN's extensive digital operations and large volume of sensitive data made it an attractive target for the ransomware group.
Impact and Risks
The exfiltration of 300 GB of data poses significant risks to RMN, potentially affecting its exhibitions, digital platforms, and overall reputation. The breach underscores the importance of effective cybersecurity measures for cultural institutions managing large volumes of sensitive information.
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