Ransomware Attack on Findel Educational Resources Exposes 870 GB of Data
Incident Date:
August 21, 2024
Overview
Title
Ransomware Attack on Findel Educational Resources Exposes 870 GB of Data
Victim
Findel Educational Resources
Attacker
Cicada 3301
Location
First Reported
August 21, 2024
Ransomware Attack on Findel Educational Resources by Cicada3301
About Findel Educational Resources
Findel Educational Resources, headquartered in Hyde, Cheshire, is a well-established company in the educational sector, operating since 1817. The company employs around 300 people and serves educational institutions in over 130 countries. Findel's portfolio includes several specialized brands such as Hope, GLS, Davies Sports, Philip Harris, and LDA, each catering to different educational needs. This extensive range allows Findel to offer over 32,000 products, making it a comprehensive provider of educational supplies.
What Makes Findel Stand Out
Findel is recognized for its commitment to supporting educators and enhancing learning experiences through a diverse range of high-quality products and services. The company's brands focus on various aspects of education, from primary and secondary education resources to sports equipment and science laboratory supplies. Findel's dedication to inclusivity is evident through its LDA brand, which provides resources tailored for Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Vulnerabilities and Targeting by Threat Actors
Despite its strong market position, Findel's extensive digital operations and global reach make it a lucrative target for cybercriminals. The company's reliance on eCommerce platforms and the handling of vast amounts of sensitive data, including customer information and financial records, present significant vulnerabilities. These factors likely contributed to Findel being targeted by Cicada3301.
Attack Overview
The ransomware attack by Cicada3301 resulted in the exfiltration of approximately 870 GB of sensitive data from Findel's systems. The compromised information includes passports, financial data, confidential documents, and the customer database. This breach poses significant risks to both the company and its clients, potentially leading to identity theft, financial loss, and reputational damage.
About Cicada3301
Cicada3301 is a new threat actor group that emerged in June 2024. Unlike traditional ransomware groups, Cicada3301 operates as a data broker, focusing on stealing sensitive data and selling it on dark web marketplaces. This approach signifies a shift from conventional ransomware tactics to more sustained and long-term damage strategies. Cicada3301's operations involve data theft and exfiltration, use of leak sites to pressure victims, and long-term exploitation of stolen data.
Sources
Recent Ransomware Attacks
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