In this week's Neeve issue, we're unpacking the surge of RDP-based ransomware that's making headlines. CISA just released their Red Team playbook (and it's revealing), while weak VPN credentials continue fueling the ransomware fire.

Coming up this week:

• 🛡️ Ransomware Surge via RDP Exploits

• 🔴 CISA Unveils Red Team TTPs

• 👾 Weak VPN Credentials Drive Ransomware

• 🗞️ Further Alerts & Insights

🛡️ Ransomware Surge via RDP Exploits

Elpaco ransomware is exploiting weak Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) setups to deploy payloads.

• Attackers use brute force to bypass credentials and gain full network access.

• Systems without multi-factor authentication (MFA) or with exposed RDP ports are primary targets.

• Elpaco’s payload encrypts critical data, demanding payments in cryptocurrency.

🤔 The Bigger Picture:

RDP remains a top attack vector for ransomware campaigns, yet many organizations fail to secure it adequately. Implementing MFA and restricting RDP access to trusted IPs can significantly lower risk. A proactive approach to securing remote access is critical for hybrid or fully remote workforces.

🔴 CISA Unveils Red Team TTPs

CISA released a detailed report on tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by its red teams during security assessments.

• The report focuses on common vulnerabilities, including phishing, misconfigured networks, and unpatched systems.

• Guidance includes defensive measures such as network segmentation, monitoring for lateral movement, and improving incident response.

🤔 The Bigger Picture:

By revealing red team TTPs, CISA equips organizations with actionable insights to strengthen their defenses. This transparency helps security teams identify and address weak points in their networks before attackers exploit them. Incorporating these learnings into regular security drills can significantly improve resilience.

👾 Weak VPN Credentials Drive Ransomware

Attackers are exploiting weak VPN credentials to breach corporate networks, targeting two critical vulnerabilities (CVE-2024-5921 and CVE-2024-29014).

• Poor password policies and lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA) leave VPNs open to brute-force attacks.

• These breaches have led to ransomware deployment, data exfiltration, and extended downtime for victims.

🤔 The Bigger Picture:

Remote work relies heavily on VPNs, but their security vulnerabilities make them a target for attacks. Enforcing MFA, strong password policies, and prompt patching of vulnerabilities is crucial for organizations. Boosting VPN security helps to avoid costly breaches and ransomware attacks.

Further Alerts & Insights