Top Cybersecurity Breakthroughs and Unprecedented Cyberattacks of 2023: A Powerful Analysis

2023 was a rollercoaster of a year for cybersecurity, with high-profile cyberattacks, data breaches, and the emergence of new threat groups. We’ve gathered a list of the most impactful cybersecurity stories that caught our 22 million readers’ attention.

14. The 23andMe data breach

Genetic testing provider 23andMe fell victim to a major data breach, exposing the data of 6.9 million users. The attackers managed to scrape millions of individuals’ data and attempted to sell it. When they couldn’t find buyers, they leaked the data on a hacking forum. This breach led to multiple class action lawsuits against the company for not adequately protecting data.

13. Hosting firm loses all customer data after ransomware attack

Two Danish hosting providers were forced to shut down after a ransomware attack encrypted most of their customer data, and data restoration failed. This incident highlighted the devastating impact of ransomware attacks on businesses and their customers.

12. Anonymous Sudan’s DDoS attacks impact the largest tech firms

Hacktivist group Anonymous Sudan made headlines when their DDoS attacks took down the websites and services of some of the largest tech firms in the world, including Microsoft’s Outlook, OneDrive, and Azure portal. The group later targeted other websites, showcasing the power of DDoS attacks in disrupting services.

11. New acoustic attack steals data from keystrokes with 95% accuracy

Researchers from British universities trained a deep learning model to steal data from keyboard keystrokes recorded using a microphone with an accuracy of 95%. This discovery raised concerns about the security of remote work and the potential for new types of cyberattacks.

10. PayPal accounts breached in large-scale credential stuffing attack

PayPal suffered a credential stuffing attack that allowed attackers to access 34,942 accounts. The hackers had access to account holders’ personal information, illustrating the dangers of credential stuffing attacks on online services.

9. Dish Network goes offline after likely cyberattack, employees cut off

American TV giant DISH Network went offline for days after a ransomware attack by the Black Basta ransomware gang. The attack compromised the company’s Windows domain controllers and encrypted VMware ESXi servers and backups, leading to data theft and operational disruptions.

8. GoDaddy: Hackers stole source code, installed malware in multi-year breach

Web hosting giant GoDaddy disclosed a multi-year breach where unknown attackers stole source code and installed malware on its servers. The breach affected 1.2 million Managed WordPress customers and was used to redirect websites to other domains. The attackers behind the breach remain unknown.

7. MGM Resorts cyberattack shuts down IT systems

MGM Resorts International experienced a massive cyberattack that impacted numerous systems, including its main website, online reservations, and in-casino services. The BlackCat ransomware operation claimed the attack, encrypting over 100 ESXi hypervisors during the incident. This attack also brought attention to the loose-knit group of hackers known as Scattered Spider.

6. Hackers compromise 3CX desktop app in a supply chain attack

North Korean hacking group Lazarus breached 3CX, a VoIP IPBX software development company, to push malware through a supply chain attack using the company’s desktop client. The attackers stole corporate credentials and breached the network, installing information-stealing malware to steal data and credentials from users’ browser profiles.

5. Barracuda says hacked ESG appliances must be replaced immediately

Barracuda disclosed that some of their Email Security Gateway (ESG) appliances were hacked using a zero-day vulnerability to install malware and steal data. The company warned customers that they must replace their ESG appliances, an unusual request that suggested a low-level compromise of the devices.

4. Massive ESXiArgs ransomware attack targets VMware ESXi servers worldwide

A massive ransomware campaign targeted exposed VMware ESXi servers worldwide, quickly encrypting the virtual machines for thousands of companies. The ransomware, dubbed ESXiArgs, demanded a ransom of approximately $49,000 in bitcoin to decrypt the affected files.

3. Brazil seizing Flipper Zero shipments to prevent use in crime

The Brazilian National Telecommunications Agency seized incoming Flipper Zero purchases for their potential to be used in criminal activity. The device was flagged as a tool used for criminal purposes, raising concerns about the misuse of technology.

2. The Operation Triangulation iPhone attacks

Researchers from Kaspersky disclosed a new zero-click iOS attack called “Operation Triangulation” used to install the TriangleDB spyware on iPhones. The attacks chained together four zero-day iOS vulnerabilities to install the spyware, showcasing the sophistication of these attacks and the potential for government-sponsored hacking groups to be behind them.

1. The MOVEit Transfer data theft attacks

A widespread data-theft attack exploited a zero-day vulnerability in the MOVEit Transfer secure file transfer platform. The attackers breached MOVEit Transfer servers and downloaded the stored data. The attacks were claimed by the Clop ransomware gang, who had previously launched similar attacks through other zero-day vulnerabilities. The breach affected 2,706 organizations and exposed the personal data of over 93 million people.

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for businesses and individuals to stay informed and vigilant. Keep coming back to our IT Services for the latest news and resources to help you stay protected in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity.