Ransomware Hits German Youth Hostels DJH Jugendherberge
Incident Date:
September 18, 2024
Overview
Title
Ransomware Hits German Youth Hostels DJH Jugendherberge
Victim
DJH Jugendherberge
Attacker
Hunters International
Location
First Reported
September 18, 2024
Ransomware Attack on DJH Jugendherberge by Hunters International
DJH Jugendherberge, part of the German Youth Hostel Association (DJH), has fallen victim to a ransomware attack orchestrated by the Hunters International group. The attackers claim to have exfiltrated 29.2 GB of data from the organization, which operates a network of over 400 youth hostels across Germany.
About DJH Jugendherberge
DJH Jugendherberge, officially known as Deutsches Jugendherbergswerk e.V., is a prominent non-profit organization established in 1919. It aims to provide affordable and safe accommodation primarily for young travelers, including students, families, and groups. The organization operates approximately 450 youth hostels across Germany, making it the largest provider of such accommodations in the country. DJH stands out for its extensive network of hostels that cater not only to youth but also to families and individuals seeking budget-friendly lodging. It emphasizes educational programs and outdoor activities, aligning with its mission to promote tolerance and international understanding among young people.
Attack Overview
The ransomware attack on DJH Jugendherberge was claimed by Hunters International via their dark web leak site. The group asserts that they have exfiltrated 29.2 GB of sensitive data from the organization. The attack has potentially compromised personal information of guests, operational data, and other critical information. The exact method of penetration remains unclear, but it is likely that the attackers exploited vulnerabilities in the organization's cybersecurity infrastructure.
About Hunters International
Hunters International is a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) group that emerged in Q3 of 2023, shortly after the disruption of the notorious Hive ransomware group by law enforcement agencies. The group's ransomware code contains approximately 60% overlap with samples of Hive ransomware, indicating a shared technical lineage. Hunters International's primary objective is to exfiltrate target data and subsequently extort victims with a ransom demand in exchange for the return of the stolen data. The group has been detected targeting victims across various regions, including the US, UK, Germany, and Namibia, without a specific focus on particular industries.
Potential Vulnerabilities
DJH Jugendherberge's extensive network and large membership base make it an attractive target for ransomware groups. The organization's focus on providing affordable accommodations and educational programs means that it handles a significant amount of personal and operational data, which can be lucrative for cybercriminals. Additionally, as a non-profit entity, DJH may have limited resources to invest in advanced cybersecurity measures, making it more vulnerable to sophisticated attacks.
Sources
Recent Ransomware Attacks
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