'Akira' Ransomware Group Behind Bucks County Ransomware Attack

At Cigent Software Security, we closely monitor incidents like the recent ransomware attack in Bucks County. This attack, perpetrated by the "Akira" ransomware group, disrupted the county's Emergency Communications Department's computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system. While emergency services like 911 were not directly affected, the attack underscores the growing threat landscape in the digital age.

At Cigent, we understand that ransomware attacks, like the one in Bucks County, are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting not only large corporations but also small-to-medium-sized businesses as well as state and local governments. The Akira group, active since March 2023, exemplifies this threat with their targeting strategy and ransom demands ranging from $200,000 to $4 million. Their method of leveraging compromised credentials and exploiting vulnerabilities in VPNs, especially those without multi-factor authentication, is a tactic we see frequently in today's cyber threats.

To combat such threats, Cigent offers a suite of advanced cybersecurity solutions and data defense designed to protect enterprises from ransomware and other cyber attacks. Our approach includes:

• Prevention without detection: Cigent Data Defense always-on security protects sensitive data, even from threats that go undetected by existing detection measures. 
• Robust Data Encryption: We ensure that sensitive endpoint information is encrypted and secure, minimizing the risk of data breaches and leaks, even if the device is compromised or stolen.
• Strict Access Controls: Cigent's solutions enforce stringent data access controls, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to protected content. 
• Automated Threat Response: We enable centrally managed Shields Up data protection to instantly lock down protected data during a security event. 

In light of the escalating ransomware threat, we at Cigent encourage businesses to take a proactive stance on cybersecurity to stop ransomware attacks. By employing comprehensive solutions like ours, enterprises can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to such attacks. We invite you to explore our range of security solutions and services or protect your enterprise from cyber threats and contact us today.