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CiphBit Ransomware

Under attack by ransomware or suffering a cyber breach?

Speed is critical when facing a live cyber attack. If you believe you’ve been compromised, by the CiphBit ransomware group or another threat actor - contact us immediately.

About CiphBit ransomware group

CiphBit is a financially motivated ransomware group that surfaced in mid-2023, known for targeting small to mid-sized businesses with highly customised attacks.

A CiphBit ransomware infection will initially encrypt local files and network shares, followed by a note demanding ransom payment, typically in bitcoin, for data recovery. Victims are urged not to pay, as doing so funds further cyber crime activity.

What we can help with:

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If your organisation has been infected with ransomware contact us immediately.

How CiphBit operators work

CiphBit is an emerging ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) group that first founded its operations in April 2023. Though relatively new, it has rapidly evolved into a notable company operating within the cyber crime ecosystem, offering services and tools to affiliate attackers. These affiliates launch targeted campaigns across multiple industries, including Healthcare, Manufacturing, Legal/Insurance, and even Therma Seal Insulation Systems.

One high-profile case includes a German telecommunications company, iptelecom GmbH, which reportedly fallen victim to a CiphBit ransomware breach, raising serious concerns about the increasing reach of such operations. Another example involves a German telecommunications company offering broadband and VoIP services that had sensitive details exposed online following a CiphBit ransomware breach.

The company’s infrastructure leverages advanced anonymisation tactics, like TOR and Telegram communication, often associated with Russian-speaking or Eastern European cyber groups. These techniques make attribution difficult, especially when AI-generated content and phishing tactics are used to initiate infection.

We are equipped to deal with an attack from any ransomware group.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you are under attack from a ransomware group not listed above. 

Recognising a CiphBit attack

CiphBit relies on double extortion, a growing trend where attackers exfiltrate data before encrypting files. Victims then face the threat of having their posts, documents, or internal records published on the group’s TOR-based leak site. The importance of understanding this tactic cannot be overstated, especially for organisations handling sensitive client details.

Since first being identified in mid-2023, CiphBit has been linked to 28 attacks, mostly affecting targets across the UK, Europe, and North America. Victims range from small law firms to mid-sized manufacturers. These incidents are happening people, and not just in theory – real companies, real damage.

Why you must not interfere with your ransomware environment

If you discover a physical break-in at your offices, your first instinct would be to call the police; touch nothing and let them search for clues. Then, your focus would shift to restoring business operations.

A cyber-attack requires the same approach. Your digital environment is a CRIME SCENE. It is crucial to leave the environment untouched to allow for a forensic investigation.

This is not a task for your IT team or MSP. Digital Forensic specialists are available 24/7 to assist you, just like in a physical crime.

description Sector Date Discovered Attack Date Country Screenshot
[AI generated] N/A Not Found 10/02/2026 06:18 PM 10/02/2026 06:18 PM -
[AI generated] N/A Not Found 10/02/2026 04:47 PM 10/02/2026 04:46 PM -
[AI generated] N/A Healthcare 02/12/2025 01:11 AM 02/12/2025 01:11 AM PA -
[AI generated] The Church of the Ascension Anglican is a faith-based organization part of the Anglican Communion. They focus on the teachings of Jesus Christ and rely on the Book of Common Prayer for worship. The church is a welcoming and accepting community, offering regular mass, youth programmes, community outreach and service initiatives. Their mission is to grow the body of Christ by ministering to their congregation and their local community. Not Found 26/11/2025 02:12 PM 26/11/2025 02:12 PM US -
[AI generated] N/A Not Found 28/10/2025 05:11 AM 28/10/2025 05:11 AM ES -
[AI generated] "Peppermint Properties" is a company engaged in real estate and property management services. They primarily focus on providing an easy and hassle-free property renting, buying and selling experience to clients. Offering a diverse portfolio, their services include property investment, residential letting, consulting, refurbishing properties and ensuring the property’s maintenance and safety regulations. Business Services 20/10/2025 01:42 PM 20/10/2025 01:42 PM UK -
[AI generated] N/A Agriculture and Food Production 20/10/2025 01:41 PM 20/10/2025 01:41 PM FR -
[AI generated] Bader Gruppe is a Germany-based company engaged in the supply of automotive components. The company produces premium leather interiors and components for automobile manufacturers worldwide. Bader is one of the leading manufacturers in this field. Products include vehicle seats, headrests, armrests, door panels, and steering wheels. The company also offers product development and logistics services. Manufacturing 29/09/2025 02:40 PM 29/09/2025 02:40 PM DE -
[AI generated] N/A Not Found 24/09/2025 11:49 PM 24/09/2025 11:49 PM PT -
[AI generated] N/A Not Found 24/09/2025 11:49 PM 24/09/2025 11:49 PM BR -
[AI generated] iptelecom GmbH is a German telecommunications company offering a wide range of services, including call-by-call, pre-selection, fixed network connections, internet connections, service numbers and value-added services. It was founded in 1998 and is known for making telecommunications simple, affordable and accessible. The company has developed innovative technologies and services to meet the unique needs of both businesses and consumers. Telecommunication 27/05/2025 02:48 PM 27/05/2025 12:00 AM DE -
[AI generated] Therma Seal Insulation Systems is a leading company in the field of insulation, specializing in providing high-quality interior and exterior insulation solutions. Headquartered in the United States, the company offers state-of-the-art products for residential, commercial and industrial applications. Their services include energy-assessment, insulation installation and retrofitting, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. Construction 12/02/2025 07:17 PM 12/02/2025 07:17 PM US -
[AI generated] Kitevuc - Equipamentos E Veículos Utilitários E Comerciais is a company specializing in the sale and rental of utility and commercial vehicles and equipment. They offer a range of products tailored to meet the needs of businesses requiring reliable transportation and machinery solutions. The company is known for its commitment to quality and customer service, ensuring clients receive suitable and efficient solutions. Manufacturing 01/01/2025 03:16 PM 01/01/2025 03:16 PM PT -
[AI generated] António Belém & António Gonçalves is a company specializing in high-quality artisanal products. Known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, the company offers a range of handmade goods, emphasizing sustainability and traditional techniques. With a commitment to excellence, it serves a discerning clientele seeking unique and authentic items, blending heritage with contemporary design. Financial Services 13/12/2024 05:53 PM 13/12/2024 05:53 PM PT -
[AI generated] AXEON 360 is a company specializing in providing energy-efficient solutions, particularly in the realm of renewable energy. It focuses on innovative technologies for solar power and energy management systems. The company aims to deliver sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions to businesses and consumers, promoting environmental responsibility and energy independence. Energy 13/11/2024 04:46 PM 13/11/2024 04:46 PM FR -
CopySmart LLC is a dynamic company specializing in providing innovative document management solutions and printing services. Known for its customer-centric approach, CopySmart offers a range of services including high-quality printing, copying, and scanning. The company is committed to sustainability and efficiency, leveraging advanced technology to meet the diverse needs of its clients across various industries. Business Services 04/10/2024 02:58 PM 04/10/2024 02:58 PM US -
Southern Fire Sprinkler is a specialized company dedicated to the design, installation, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems. They offer comprehensive fire protection solutions for both residential and commercial properties, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. With a team of experienced professionals, they focus on high-quality service, reliability, and customer satisfaction to safeguard lives and property. Business Services 28/09/2024 03:02 PM 28/09/2024 03:02 PM US -
Luigi Convertini is a distinguished fashion brand known for its high-quality, stylish designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. The company specializes in producing elegant men's and women's clothing, featuring exquisite tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Their collections often emphasize Italian heritage, offering sophisticated and timeless pieces for discerning customers. Business Services 21/08/2024 01:52 PM 21/08/2024 01:52 PM IT -
Keios Development Consulting is a specialized firm offering professional services in urban development, planning, and project management. The company focuses on sustainable development, providing innovative solutions for city planning, infrastructure projects, and environmental management. Keios aims to enhance urban living through strategic consulting, leveraging extensive expertise to address complex development challenges. Business Services 16/08/2024 08:58 PM 16/08/2024 08:58 PM IT -
FD S.R.L is a dynamic company specializing in innovative solutions across various industries. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, they offer a diverse range of products and services tailored to meet specific client needs. Leveraging advanced technologies and a skilled workforce, FD S.R.L excels in delivering efficient, reliable, and sustainable solutions. Their commitment to excellence makes them a trusted partner in their field. Technology 15/08/2024 09:24 PM 15/08/2024 09:24 PM IT -
Business Services 17/04/2024 02:34 PM 17/04/2024 02:34 PM US -
Founded in Florence in 1952 by Marcello and Alma Macuz, the company represents a historic pillar for the production in the Italian fashion industry, which over the years has been able to grow and consolidate following a philosophy based on strong territorial roots, craftsmanship and the highest quality of its productions. Thanks to the acquisition, Eurmoda will enrich its customer base and strengthen an already complete structure of technologies, skills and plants, which offers the full range of materials required by the high fashion segment, through a vertical service and a fully integrated supply chain. The Macuz family will reinvest in the Group and remain actively involved in the operational management of the companies. Over the past 25 years, Auro Macuz and his family, have transformed the artisan firm into an industry consisting of 3 companies, with over 160 employees and more than 7000 square metres of premises, while maintaining the initial idea and artisanship with which the company was founded and grew. The very high quality of its production is determined by the professionalism of its staff and the constant renewal of its machinery - with pantographs and CNC lathes and state-of-the-art laser engraving and welding machines - without overlooking the passion and attention with which the company supports its clients, starting from an idea or a design up to the delivery of accessories worldwide. Consumer Services 09/04/2024 07:43 AM 09/04/2024 07:43 AM IT -
Termoplastic is a company that designs and manufactures plastic and cartoplastic articles. Its products include envelopes and pockets, cases, exhibitors, folders, name badges, key rings, and more. The company also offers design, engineering, installation, delivery, prototyping, and fittings services. Termoplastic caters to automotive, communication, pharmaceutical, telephony, and other sectors. Since the year 1951, we have been dedicated to the design and production of plastic items. Over the course of 70 years of activity, we have expanded our research and innovation sector, paying particular attention to the evolution of materials. At the moment, we are a solidly structured company, capable of managing each project in all its phases: customer consultancy, creation of the prototype and creation of the finished product, with a focus on cost optimization without neglecting creativity and functionality. Over time, we have collaborated with the most prestigious Italian companies, who have appreciated our finished product and our ability to combine quality and costs Manufacturing 06/04/2024 05:51 AM 06/04/2024 05:51 AM IT -
At Commerce Dental Group, we have extensive experience in all aspects of modern dentistry. We offer Comprehensive Dental Care, including everything from the Preventive Education & Routine Hygiene that help to reduce dental problems to expert Cosmetic & Restorative solutions for the dental issues our patients face. Commerce Dental Group is a team of caring, experienced dental professionals who use only the most advanced technologies, materials & procedures & whose primary focus is on comfortable, health-centered dentistry. At our community-focused practice, your comfort & satisfaction come first. We look forward to meeting you soon & developing a relationship with you to build the bridge toward long-term trust & successful dental care. Commerce Dental Group invites you to see why our patients can’t stop smiling. Our dedication to the community goes beyond just caring for teeth. We view ourselves as part of a vital network of practitioners who look after the health & well-being of our friends & neighbors in Commerce & the surrounding communities. Commerce Dental Group is locally owned & part of a tradition of exceptional dentistry. Healthcare 05/04/2024 04:22 AM 05/04/2024 04:22 AM US -
Pot O’ Gold was founded by Larry Jones in 1986 with the dream of providing the very best coffee, equipment and service to the office environment. Since then, we’ve grown to become the largest independent office coffee service in Washington state, expanding to include more than just coffee. Whatever you need for your office breakroom, whether it’s carbonated water coolers or delicious snacks, we’re able to supply you with it. Regardless of the size and demands of your office, we have a uniquely-suited program to meet it. We champion our customers’ needs, maintain quality relationships, and supply personal service recommendations uniquely suited to each individual client. We install commercial coffee brewing equipment (fresh brew, thermal, single cup, semi-auto espresso and fully-auto espresso equipment) in offices throughout the Puget Sound region. We provide routine cleaning and maintenance to this equipment while checking inventory and delivering quality coffee and related products. Over the years, we’ve gained considerable knowledge in the storing, brewing, serving and presentation of high-end coffees for an office environment. Everyone at Pot O’ Gold Coffee Service accepts the responsibilities involved with offering high-quality coffees on an institutional level. Our genuine commitment to provide true value and quality is supported by our investment in futuristic brewing designs and our comprehensive service programs Business Services 25/02/2024 07:18 PM 25/02/2024 07:18 PM US -
MPM Medical Supply is a state of the art medical distributor. Recognized for Superior service, low prices and innovative value-added solutions – MPM Medical Supply is dedicated to helping our customers practice high-quality healthcare. From hospitals and surgery centers to physician offices we are dedicated to serving your needs. As the healthcare industry is faced with the challenges of having to do more with less – we are committed to helping you reduce costs without sacrificing the quality of care. Our relationships with Industry leading healthcare manufacturers are an important part of our success. We only partner with manufacturers who have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with the quality products, superior service and innovative solutions you deserve. At MPM Medical Supply, we are dedicated to helping our customers manage cost and practice high-quality healthcare without cutting care. We do this through superior service, low prices, and innovative value added solutions. We're a trusted medical distributor serving hospitals, surgery centers and physician offices for 20+ years. Healthcare 02/01/2024 01:08 AM 02/01/2024 01:08 AM US -
NeoDomos, a broker specializing in real estate insurance for over a decade, has been trusted by more than 500 property management clients in the field of unpaid rent insurance in the Marseille, Aix en Provence and regional sectors. PACA and at the national level. Our added value lies in the negotiation of guarantees, solvency and the rate of your unpaid rent contract as well as services linked to other types of lessor protection that we offer. Real Estate Insurance Broker in Aix en Provence, this is the profession whose values ​​we are proud to have carried for many years, in our brokerage firm on a human scale. Ideally located near Aix city center and motorway access, more than 10 years of experience have allowed us to guarantee our clients professional brokerage solutions for the world of Real Estate. We are in fact able to negotiate the best guarantees with numerous French and international insurance companies. Our status as a broker allows us in particular to place ourselves on the client side, in order to analyze all of your needs and determine among all the market offers, those which will best meet your situation. Business Services 08/11/2023 12:57 AM 08/11/2023 12:57 AM FR -
A.P.E.R.S is a 1901 law association agreed with the Ministry of Justice and authorized by the judicial courts of Aix en Provence and Tarascon. It is developing geographically across the entire extent of these two jurisdictions for the victim support service and within the jurisdiction of the Aix-en-Provence TJ for the judicial activity service. The association is responsible for caring for victims in 97 municipalities that make up the 119 municipalities of Bouches-du-Rhône, or approximately more than 900,000 inhabitants. It began operating exclusively with volunteers for the execution of judicial mandates (judicial checks and personality investigations). The necessary professionalization of the workers subsequently led it to hire socio-judicial workers, social workers, victim receptionists and clinical psychologists. In 1991, the victim support service and the criminal mediation service were created. The A.P.E.R.S is authorized by the Ministry of Justice and operates within the jurisdiction of the judicial courts of Aix en Provence (since 1980) and Tarascon (since 1997). Helping victims is today one of the priorities of judicial policies. These now give victims a set of rights. The A.P.E.R.S victim assistance service supports all victims of criminal offenses, natural disasters, collective accidents or attacks and all victims of particularly traumatic violent situations. Public Sector 03/11/2023 11:34 PM 03/11/2023 11:34 PM -
Transterra Polska Sp. z o.o. is a dynamic international transport company, which is specialized in international trucking. In 2004 we started our activities and each year we realize a steady pace of growth. In the meantime we have grown until a fleet of 82 units and there are still lots off perspectives and challenges for further development in the future. Raymond Stolk started the company with a fleet existing of five trucks. The focus was on long-distance trailer transport between ports and train terminals throughout Europe and Scandinavia. In 2010 we reached the number of 30 running trucks, In 2015 we started our activities in ADR bulk and foodstuffs with the first five ADR equiped trucks with compressors. In the following years we will grow this new service We are experiencing steady growth and this year our fleet consists of 65 trucks of the brands MAN, VOLVO, IVECO and MERCEDES with an average age of 3 years and EURO 6 certification. Transportation/Logistics 16/09/2023 05:33 PM 16/09/2023 05:33 PM NL -
Decades of experience have made MARSTON-DOMSEL a household name in the industry. We will continue to aim for the continuous optimisation of our product range in the future so that we can continue to set standards for functionality and performance. Problems are solved in collaboration with competent technicians, not just in Germany but also worldwide. All internationally acquired experience is incorporated together with research results to the benefit of the customer. The manufacturing facilities fulfil all relevant international standards. Due to optimised manufacturing processes, MARSTON-DOMSEL can pass on the benefits of costeffective production to the customer. We have our own laboratory in which we perform customer-specific tests such as resistance tests, elasticity measurements, tension measurements, temperature tests and viscosity measurements. Manufacturing 16/09/2023 02:54 PM 16/09/2023 02:54 PM DE -
Harmonic Accounting, Tax & Financial Services brings many years of public practice experience to the table. Harmonic Accounting, Tax & Financial Services is committed to the highest level of integrity, quality and professionalism. We have had privilege of serving clients in many different industries and types of businesses. One of our key goals is to provide a wide array and depth of service to all of our clients. There are many services and areas of expertise we are able to provide. We look forward to discussing these in more depth with you. Harmonic Accounting is a progressively growing accounting firm. We continue to grow due to the referrals we receive through word of mouth from our existing clients. If you are in the market for an accountant in Thornhill, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, and Markham or anywhere in the GTA, we are very excited to speak with you and hope to have the chance to serve you in the near future. Please do not hesitate to call or e-mail us with any questions you might have regarding your tax or accounting situation, or anything else. To our existing clients, we would like to thank you for choosing us for your accounting and tax needs. Financial Services 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM -
we are the company operating in the area of transportation and logistics by offering such services in the Republic of Moldova, Romania, the entire Europe, USA and Central Asia. Due to this, we have the possibility to offer transportation services in any moment to or from any area of Europe, USA or Central Asia. We have the cooperation contracts signed with the companies from the specified areas; in any time, we can offer an optimal solution for fast, safe and supervised transportation at affordable price. We use our network to help our clients to manage their goods in the most efficient way in any supply networks. As the companies address to IMPERADOR for transportation solutions, we authorize our employees to render our services to the clients by applying our information technologies. Today, IMPERADOR is radar in any industry that requires transportation or logistics. We work in close cooperation with our clients; analyse their distribution network, from the point of origin to the final consumer to identify the opportunities. Transportation/Logistics 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM RO -
OUR FAMILY CARING FOR YOURS, SINCE 1958. For over 60 years the Zlepnig family has served the greater Ottawa community dating back to the humble beginnings of the Southway Motel in 1958 when first generation Canadians, Peter and Theresia Zlepnig built a modest 7 unit motel. As Ottawa grew so did the Zlepnig family business. Bill (son) and Louisa Zlepnig guided the property through a series of expansions that culminated in a full service Hotel with 170 guest rooms, Shallows Restaurant, meeting rooms & banquet facilities. Enter the third generation. Bill & Louisa have now passed down the Southway legacy to their sons, Fred & Stephen and their respective wives, Karen & Leslie. Together, they are transforming the Southway into their Waterford brand of seniors' residences. Since 1996 they have been creating and developing innovative and industry leading residences. Inspired by the loss of Karen's mother to Alzheimer's disease the Waterford brand has evolved into a full continuum of care residence ensuring that a broad range of care needs can be met. To this end, the Waterford Ottawa is the only seniors residence in North America with a fully enclosed, climate-controlled atrium and a retractable roof. This remarkable and innovative courtyard is designed as comfortable outdoor living space that will be enjoyed year round inside. Hospitality and Tourism 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM -
Shelley's was founded by Peter Shelley in the 1960's. Steady growth led to incorporation in 1979 and in 2006 when Peter retired, the company was taken over by two of his daughters. It has grown every year since then to become a leader in its field. We repeat business with many of our customers and receive new business mainly through referral. Shelley's are known by its customers for "delivering an end to end metalwork service for bespoke design and manufacture" . We offer build and installation for projects, with top to tail project management. Our workshop facilities include the latest design, construction and finishing technologies, delivering unrivalled quality and projects delivered on time and on budget. Manufacturing 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM GB -
You can count on RSV Centrale in Herselt for installation, maintenance, inspections and repairs of sanitary and heating installations, both for renovation and new construction projects. RSV Centrale helps you with all your plumbing, water pipes, taps and other sanitary appliances and parts. Is your tap leaking? Is your drain or pipe clogged? Do you have moisture problems or odor nuisance? Does the water stay in the sink? Whether it concerns a large, small or urgent plumbing problem, RSV Centrale will visit you as soon as possible to solve the problem. Do you no longer have hot water? Your radiators feel cold? Your underfloor heating is defective or your thermostat no longer works? Do you want a new heating installation or do you want to have your old boiler repaired? RSV Centrale assists you in making the most interesting choice in terms of quality, costs and efficiency. Are you a private individual, do you have a company or are you a contractor? Anyone can contact RSV Centrale for all kinds of central heating services, ranging from advice and purchase to installation, maintenance and repairs. Construction 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM BE -
Since 1987, the EURISOLE Group which includes the companies: SOPROVISE , NORMANDIE ECHAFAUDAGES and DONGISOL and EUROMAT has been working in the scaffolding and insulation trades . During these years, our companies have evolved in different sectors such as industry, construction, nuclear and historical monuments... We can respond to scaffolding and thermal insulation markets, on national territory, thanks to our geographical network and the strength of our Group. We intervene more regularly on industrial sites and in the construction and renovation of large buildings and historic monuments. The values ​​of a company constitute the base of this one, it is for us our DNA. They are important because they convey the company's image and culture. The EURISOLE group and the people who represent it share the same values. The strengths of the Group's teams that are recognized by our customers during our satisfaction surveys are listening to the customer – responsiveness – quality – safety as well as professionalism. Construction 14/09/2023 04:00 PM 14/09/2023 04:00 PM FR -

Post breach actions

  • Call a NCSC Cyber Incident Response approved supplier Some NCSC providers will fund up to 48 hours of investigation into your incident.
  • Report the incident to Report Fraud
  • Locate your business continuity plan Work out what you can do without access to your systems and data.
  • Identify your business insurance contact details
Business woman contacting a Zensec ransomware recovery service

Who are we and what experience do we have in responding to cyber incidents?

We are accredited to ISO 27001 and recognised by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

We provide comprehensive cyber risk management services, with a core focus on Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR). Our capabilities are driven by a 24/7 Security Operations Centre and a dedicated in-house intelligence team that delivers timely, actionable threat reporting.

With decades of collective cyber security experience, we have the expertise to assume operational ownership of your entire IT security architecture – simplifying and strengthening cyber security across your business.

As an Assured Service Provider for Cyber Incident Response (CIR) at the Standard Level. This accreditation demonstrates our ability to deliver high-assurance, effective support in response to a wide range of cyber threats.

Your NCSC-approved supplier is a specialist crime scene investigator who will:

  1. Isolate and preserve your environment for forensic investigation.
  2.  Identify where the data has been duplicated and issue a legal takedown order.
  3. Identify your data, application and systems restore points. These might be at different points in time and will need to be carefully restored and reconstructed in a pristine environment.
  4.  Liaise with your business insurance company and if needed, with the Police.
  5. Advise you on notifying your customers of your situation.
  6. Rebuild your systems, restore your data and get you back to full operation. Note: This process can take between 2 weeks – 2 months.

 

Working with us

Our response process

Our team are ransomware recovery specialists with a proven, streamlined approach to resolving incidents quickly and effectively.

Step 1: Triage

We deploy our incident response team the same day. From the first call, we begin onboarding, introduce key stakeholders, set communication schedules, and start gathering critical information to guide the response.

Step 2: Investigation

DFIR (Digital Forensic Incident Response) teams investigate breaches to identify vulnerabilities, attack vectors, and system impacts from ransomware such as Data Loss (PII). We deliver clear forensic insights to guide mitigation.

Step 3: Contain

Our onsite and remote teams act fast to stop the attack in its tracks. That includes isolating affected systems, removing malicious code, and putting protections in place to prevent further spread or damage.

Step 4: Remediate & Eradicate

Once contained, we work to fully eliminate the threat. This includes fixing exploited vulnerabilities, restoring systems to a secure state, and ensuring no traces of the attack remain.

Step 5: Recover

Our incident response teams help get your business back to normal. We restore access to systems, recover data, and ensure services are safe, stable, and functioning, with minimal downtime.

Step 6: Post Incident

We conduct a full review of the incident response and recovery efforts. Together we assess what happened, what worked, and what can be improved, helping you build stronger defences for the future.

Forensic analysis to drive recovery

Our process includes a thorough digital forensic analysis from step two where the output becomes a central component of business recovery. This is because understanding the attack is of critical importance:

  • Informing an initial infection date

  • The extent and spread of infection

  • Data exfiltration having an impact on regulatory positions

  • Ensuring that the attacker and any tooling or artefacts they leave behind are eradicated

It is critical that the analysis of digital evidence is carried out to an agreed plan.

Maximising early root cause discovery and legal leverage

The process is purpose-built to uncover the root cause as early as possible, which is essential to inform remediation / eradication and recovery as well as supporting a legal take-down case if this is applicable. A legal take-down means we can assist in the legal enforcement that stops the criminals from publishing the data, thus undermining the ransom notice.

Our Digital Forensic and Incident Response (DFIR) teams maintain consistent communication throughout. Dedicated Incident Managers and technical engineering leads provide updates during the Cyber Incident Response journey, utilising risk registers and working within change management processes, all from triage through to post-incident, delivering successful business recovery.

Key take aways

  • You will not be able to access your systems or data.
  • It is advised to disconnect from the internet and shut down your systems, including PCs, to prevent further infections.
  • Your Office 365 system might also be compromised, allowing the attackers to monitor your responses. Avoid communicating with individuals through your primary email or team systems.
  • Threat actors typically infiltrate your system at least 2-4 weeks before you become aware of the attack. Your data will have already been exfiltrated. If your system is encrypted, this was not an overnight event.
  • Ransom demands in the UK typically range from £500,000 to £3 million, with some sectors, like education, facing demands that exceed £5 million
  • Paying the ransom may violate financial sanctions, which is a criminal offence and could result in a custodial sentence or further financial penalties.
  • If your data is sold or published online, it puts your customers and staff at risk, potentially implicating you in a Data Protection breach.
  • You will need to submit a data takedown request to the initial location where the data was transferred.
  • Do not overwrite the encrypted data. It is crucial to determine when the infection began and where the data was sent.
  • Avoid rebuilding from the latest backup, as it is likely to be infected.

Why should I trust Zensec to do this work rather than my IT team?

A forensic analysis needs to be meticulous and a clean restore and recovery requires a wealth of experience not normally available in an in-house team who must provide a broader range of IT support skills:

Internal IT teams don’t have the necessary skill set to resolve security encryption issues themselves. 

IT teams may recover to the same position with indicators of compromise ready to do it again… which can lead to another breach.

Internal teams are pressured to restore business operations and may recover before forensic analysis even begins, potentially destroying the crime scene before completion.

We can help

Frequently asked questions

Key information when you’re under pressure.

Yes, CiphBit operates a ransomware platform using the RaaS model. They allow affiliates to licence and customise payloads for specific victims, sometimes even tailoring their demands based on perceived ability to pay. Victims often miss early warning signs, such as phishing emails or malicious scripts, which makes reloading systems after an incident all the more difficult.

The average cost of ransomware breaches hover around £500K, while smaller email data breaches typically incur expenses of around £50K. A critical decision emerges between preserving the environment for forensic analysis or opting for swift recovery to minimise business disruption. Delays in identifying and resolving breaches only exacerbate costs.

Cyber security insurance claims entail a multifaceted process, encompassing reasonable expenditures for investigation and remediation, alongside coverage for legal, business interruption, criminal liability, employment liability, and ransom policies. While the insurance industry plays a pivotal role in facilitating business recovery, cyber insurance is perceived as volatile within the sector, and many policies require meticulous validation.

Facing genuine pressure, there's a crucial decision to make - one that could rescue your organisation from weeks of operational standstill, reputation damage, and client data loss. Yet, the probability of a favourable outcome remains slim, emphasising the importance of engaging a specialised ransomware incident response team. They are your most viable recourse for navigating a ransomware incident. 

The NCSC have documented the deliberations for paying ransomware: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/ransomware/home 

Important Reminder: It is a criminal offense to pay money to people who are subject to financial sanctions. The list of who is subject to financial sanctions is constantly changing. 

The latest iteration can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/financial-sanctions-consolidated-list-of-targets 

The NCSC is the UK National Cyber Security Centre. They provide cyber security guidance and support, helping to make the UK the safest place to live and work online. They have defined a Cyber Incident Response procedure and they have approved and accredited suppliers to provide this service.

https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/

As a recognised Assured Service Provider by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Zensec provide comprehensive cyber risk management services that are designed to Protect, Detect & Mitigate cyber security threats across the UK.

Report Fraud is the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Whether you have been scammed, defrauded, or experienced cybercrime in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, Report Fraud offers a central point of contact for information on fraud and financially motivated cybercrime.

https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

A ransomware attack presents the most significant threat to your business by: 

  • Disabling your access to systems, which could hinder machinery operation or impede progress through your business processes. 
  • Blocking access to critical data concerning suppliers, shipments, customers, orders, or steps in your business workflow. 

In the event of a business interruption, identifying your position in the supply chain and sustaining operations can be challenging. If the disruption continues, maintaining business continuity becomes critical. Once systems and data are restored, addressing backlogs and establishing future operational protocols are essential. 

Ransomware ranks only behind receivership in terms of its capacity to incapacitate a business. 

Yes. There's a possibility that some of the lost data contains "Personal Data" belonging to your customers. Safeguarding such data is a legal requirement, so it's important to consider notifying the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) about this incident, as well as your customers. https://ico.org.uk/

Your insurer or legal counsel will provide guidance on the necessary steps and how to proceed in this matter. However, Zenzero has experience collaborating with insurers and legal representatives and can offer assistance in managing these relationships during this challenging period.

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