The Brain Cipher ransomware group is a relatively new threat actor that has built a reputation for its aggressive tactics and high-profile targets. In June 2024, Bleeping Computer reported that the group was behind an attack on Indonesia’s temporary National Data Center, disrupting critical government services.
That attack was notable be
cause many ransomware gangs intentionally avoid targeting essential public services — not for ethical reasons, but to avoid serious investigations. Brain Cipher had no such qualms, and the group continues to escalate its tactics.
Datarecovery.com provides ransomware recovery, penetration (PEN) testing, and related solutions for organizations of all sizes. To learn more, call 1-800-237-4200 or read on for an overview of Brain Cipher’s current capabilities.
Dissecting Brain Cipher’s Arsenal
Brain Cipher distinguishes itself through its sophisticated techniques and multi-pronged extortion strategy:
- LockBit 3.0 Lineage: Analysis of Brain Cipher’s ransomware payloads reveals a strong connection to the notorious LockBit 3.0 ransomware. This suggests potential code sharing, collaboration, or inspiration from existing ransomware frameworks.
- Multi-pronged Extortion: Brain Cipher doesn’t just encrypt files; they steal sensitive data before deploying the ransomware. The “double extortion” tactic increases pressure on victims, forcing them to pay to regain access to their data and prevent its public release on the group’s dark web leak site
- TOR-based Data Leak Site: Brain Cipher operates a dedicated leak site on the TOR network, where they name and shame victims who refuse to pay the ransom.
- Evolving Tactics: Brain Cipher continuously refines its tactics to bypass security measures and maximize its impact. This includes employing advanced obfuscation techniques to evade detection, utilizing various malware delivery mechanisms, and actively exploiting vulnerabilities in software and systems.1
A Proactive Approach to Ransomware
Brain Cipher’s targets are carefully chosen to maximize their potential for financial gain and disruptive impact. Unlike other groups, they have no issue with targeting healthcare, education, and other critical infrastructure.
Their recent claim of a 1TB data breach at Deloitte UK, though disputed by Deloitte, highlights their ambition to target high-profile entities for increased notoriety and potential ransom payouts.
Given the severity of the Brain Cipher threat, organizations must adopt a proactive security posture:
- Regularly educate employees on evolving phishing techniques, social engineering tactics, and best practices for identifying suspicious emails and links.
- Prioritize patching known vulnerabilities and implement a comprehensive vulnerability management program to identify and address weaknesses in systems and software.
- Maintain offline, encrypted backups of critical data and regularly test the restoration process to ensure business continuity in case of an attack.
- Develop and regularly rehearse an incident response plan to ensure a swift and coordinated response in the event of a ransomware attack.
Datarecovery.com provides professional ransomware recovery resources for organizations of all sizes. From penetration (PEN) testing and ransomware data recovery to dark web monitoring, we help institutions fight back against cybercrime — and prevent an isolated incident from becoming a trend.
To learn more, call 1-800-237-4200 to speak with an expert.
