Toronto Zoo hit by ransomware - but don't worry, all the animals are fine

Date:
Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:58:38 +0000

Description:
Toronto zoo doesn't store payment data, it says, but it's not known if other information was taken.

FULL STORY ======================================================================

Toronto Zoo, the largest in Canada, has suffered a ransomware attack, the organization has confirmed, stating that everyday activities dont seem to be disrupted, although a wider investigation is ongoing.

The organization was keen to stress that its animals are not impacted by the incident, and normal zoo operations continue. The website is also not impacted, and visitors can purchase tickets on the zoos website as usual.

But the company is still investigating to see if any other systems are impacted, and whether or not the attack will affect its guests, members, or donors. We can confirm we do not currently store any credit card information, the press release reads. Once we have more information we will share it broadly. Missing key details

The Toronto Zoo also notified the City of Torontos Chief Information Security Office, and has retained a third-party cybersecurity expert to resolve the situation. The Toronto Police Services have also been notified.

Unfortunately, there are many details missing from the announcement. We dont know who the threat actors are, or how they managed to infiltrate the Zoos IT infrastructure. We also dont know if they managed to steal any sensitive information, and if so - how much, and from whom.

Finally, we dont know what their demands are, and if their plan is to release the data on the dark web any time soon. We have asked the Zoos media representatives for further clarification and will update the article accordingly.

Ransomware operators usually do two things: steal sensitive data, and encrypt the endpoints. Then, they ask for money - in cryptocurrency - in exchange for the decryption key, and for keeping the stolen data private. Most cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies agree that victims should not pay the ransom demand. More from TechRadar Pro This brand new type of malware is out to target Windows machines, so watch out Here's a list of the best firewalls around today These are the best endpoint protection services right now



======================================================================
Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/toronto-zoo-hit-by-ransomware-but-dont- worry-all-the-animals-are-fine


--- Mystic BBS v1.12 A47 (Linux/64)
* Origin: tqwNet Technology News (1337:1/100)