Source URL: https://it.slashdot.org/story/25/05/14/224205/aggressive-hackers-of-uk-retailers-are-now-targeting-us-stores-says-google?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: ‘Aggressive’ Hackers of UK Retailers Are Now Targeting US Stores, Says Google
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Summary: Google has issued a warning about the hacker group “Scattered Spider,” which has recently targeted UK retailer Marks & Spencer and is now shifting its focus to U.S. retailers. The group’s attacks are characterized by their sophistication and ability to bypass established security measures.
Detailed Description: The recent alert from Google highlights the emergence of the hacker group Scattered Spider as a significant threat to the retail sector in the U.S., following its disruptive attacks on UK retailers. Key points of interest include:
– **Target Identification**: Scattered Spider has been actively disrupting retail operations, recently impacting Marks & Spencer, which has faced operational paralysis since April 25 due to a hack. This indicates a focused approach to targeting specific sectors, which in this case is retail.
– **Sophisticated Attack Methods**: According to Google cybersecurity analyst John Hultquist, the group demonstrates aggressive tactics and creativity, making them particularly adept at overcoming mature security programs. Their ability to adapt and innovate in their attacks is a point of concern for cybersecurity professionals.
– **Data Breach Details**: The breach at Marks & Spencer resulted in unauthorized access to customer data, specifically names, addresses, and order histories. Importantly, no sensitive payment information or account passwords were compromised, although the invasion of personal data remains a privacy concern.
– **Wider Impact**: Scattered Spider’s activities are not isolated; they have a track record of significant attacks, including high-profile hacks involving major casino operators like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment. This trend indicates a broader strategy to infiltrate various sectors and exploit vulnerabilities in a sophisticated manner.
– **Law Enforcement Challenges**: Law enforcement agencies are facing difficulties in addressing the threats posed by Scattered Spider, attributed to factors such as the youth of the hackers, their fluid membership structure, and limited cooperation from cybercrime victims.
For security and compliance professionals, this serves as a timely reminder to enhance security protocols, particularly in sectors like retail that may be vulnerable to targeted attacks. Given Scattered Spider’s proven capability to exploit weaknesses, organizations are urged to prioritize the sophistication of their security measures, potentially adopting frameworks like Zero Trust to mitigate risks effectively.