Lazio & BlackMatter Bring Ransomware Into the Spotlight…Again
2 minute read | Last updated 4-Aug-2021 | 
Cybercrime Security
The region of Lazio was hit by a ransomware attack and is struggling to recover. The criminals have yet to be identified or claim responsibility for this attack on critical infrastructure.
At the same time, we see a new ransomware supergroup called BlackMatter emerge with a pledge not to attack critical infrastructure like this.
What does this mean for ransomware? For you?
More in this short…
Transcript
The Lazio region of Italy was hit by a ransomware attack that has locked out some of the regions critical IT systems, including its COVID-19 vaccination booking system.
Now, the region is working through an incident response process and trying to recover, but there’s no ETA on when the systems would be restored.
[00:00:16]
This is a risky move by the cyber criminals involved.
The large public pressure can lead to a faster payout, but it brings increased scrutiny and law enforcement attention.
[00:00:26]
This is exactly why new ransomware super-group BlackMatter has publicly stated that they won’t go after healthcare critical infrastructure and other sensitive targets.
Ransomware as a crime is a balancing act, hitting enough victims to make a profit while not drawing undue attention and getting shut down.
[00:00:42]
The key takeaway here is that ransomware is a profit motivated crime and it’s run like a business.
Defend yourselves accordingly.