Ransomware Attack Hits Spanish Irrigation Leader Gestiriego

Incident Date:

September 18, 2024

World map

Overview

Title

Ransomware Attack Hits Spanish Irrigation Leader Gestiriego

Victim

Gestiriego

Attacker

3AM

Location

Librilla, Spain

, Spain

First Reported

September 18, 2024

Ransomware Attack on Gestiriego by ThreeAM Group

Gestiriego, a prominent Spanish company specializing in advanced irrigation solutions, has fallen victim to a ransomware attack orchestrated by the ThreeAM ransomware group. The attackers have claimed responsibility for the breach on their dark web leak site, asserting that they have exfiltrated sensitive data from the organization.

About Gestiriego

Founded in 1985 and headquartered in Librilla, Murcia, Spain, Gestiriego is a leader in the agriculture sector, providing efficient irrigation solutions designed to enhance crop yields while promoting environmental sustainability. The company employs approximately 68 individuals and reported an annual revenue of about $12.6 million. Gestiriego's product range includes polyethylene pipes, micro-irrigation, and pressure systems, all tailored for effective water management in agriculture. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their AENOR certification, which attests to their adherence to stringent standards.

Attack Overview

The ThreeAM ransomware group has claimed to have successfully infiltrated Gestiriego's systems, potentially compromising sensitive information related to their operations and clients. The exact method of penetration remains unclear, but common tactics include phishing campaigns and exploiting vulnerabilities in network security. The attackers have threatened to publish the exfiltrated data on the dark web unless a ransom is paid.

About ThreeAM Ransomware Group

The ThreeAM ransomware group is known for its sophisticated attacks on various sectors, including agriculture. They employ a double extortion technique, where they steal data before encrypting it and then threaten to release the data publicly if the ransom is not paid. This method increases pressure on the victims to comply with their demands. The group typically targets organizations with valuable data and less effective cybersecurity measures.

Potential Vulnerabilities

Gestiriego's extensive international network and reliance on digital systems for managing their operations make them a lucrative target for ransomware groups. The company's focus on innovation and technology, while beneficial for their business, also introduces potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. Ensuring comprehensive cybersecurity measures and regular audits are crucial for protecting against such 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.