Repligen Corporation Hit by Ransomware Attack: 500GB Data Breach by INC Ransom
Incident Date:
July 9, 2024
Overview
Title
Repligen Corporation Hit by Ransomware Attack: 500GB Data Breach by INC Ransom
Victim
Repligen Corporation
Attacker
Inc Ransom
Location
First Reported
July 9, 2024
Repligen Corporation Targeted in Ransomware Attack by INC Ransom Group
Overview of Repligen Corporation
Repligen Corporation, headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, is a leading bioprocessing company specializing in the development, manufacture, and commercialization of products essential for the production of biological drugs. The company’s offerings are integral to various stages of the bioproduction workflow, including filtration, chromatography, and protein synthesis. Repligen's product portfolio includes highly specialized items such as OPUS® Pre-packed Chromatography Columns and XCell™ ATF Systems, which are widely used in clinical and commercial manufacturing. The company operates globally, with a presence in countries like Sweden, Germany, China, and Japan, and employs 1,783 people.
Details of the Ransomware Attack
On July 15, 2024, Repligen Corporation disclosed a ransomware attack by the INC Ransom group in an SEC 8-K filing. The attackers reportedly exfiltrated 500 GB of sensitive data, including contracts, confidential documents, customer and financial data, and HR information. Following the attack, fraudulent activities were reported where individuals posing as Repligen representatives contacted job seekers using fake email addresses. This incident has raised significant concerns about data security and the integrity of communication from Repligen.
About INC Ransom Group
INC Ransom is a sophisticated cybercriminal group known for its targeted ransomware attacks on corporate and organizational networks. The group employs advanced techniques such as spear-phishing campaigns and exploiting vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-3519 in Citrix NetScaler. INC Ransom's attacks involve double extortion, where they not only encrypt data but also steal it and threaten to release it publicly to increase pressure on victims to comply with ransom demands. The group has targeted various industries, including healthcare, education, government entities, and technology companies.
Potential Vulnerabilities and Penetration Methods
Repligen's extensive global operations and reliance on digital systems for bioprocessing make it a lucrative target for cybercriminals. The INC Ransom group could have penetrated Repligen's systems through spear-phishing campaigns, exploiting software vulnerabilities, or using legitimate system tools for reconnaissance and lateral movement within the network. The exfiltration of 500 GB of sensitive data indicates a well-coordinated and sophisticated attack, highlighting the evolving nature of cyber threats.
Sources
Recent Ransomware Attacks
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