Cactus attacks Asbury Automotive Group

Incident Date: Jan 12, 2024

Attack Overview
VICTIM
Asbury Automotive Group
INDUSTRY
Retail
LOCATION
USA
ATTACKER
Cactus
FIRST REPORTED
January 12, 2024

Cactus Ransomware Group's Attack on Asbury Automotive Group

Cactus ransomware group claimed an attack against Asbury Automotive Group. The group has exfiltrated 62 GB of data, including certificates, passport applications, and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) documents. Asbury Automotive Group is a company based in Atlanta that operates auto dealerships in various parts of the United States.

Cactus's Operation Tactics

Cactus has been in operation since at least March 2023. Cactus has been observed employing known vulnerabilities within VPN appliances to initiate an initial breach. Once gaining entry to the network, Cactus operators engage in activities such as enumerating local and network user accounts and identifying accessible endpoints. They then proceed to generate new user accounts and utilize custom scripts for the automated rollout and activation of the ransomware encryptor through scheduled tasks.

Unique Characteristics of the Ransomware

It is noteworthy that the ransomware encryptor utilized by Cactus exhibits a unique characteristic – it necessitates a decryption key for the execution of the binary, likely implemented to evade detection by anti-virus software. This decryption key is concealed within a file containing random text named ntuser.dat, which is loaded through a scheduled task.

Disclaimer

The Halcyon Attacks Lookout Database is compiled using publicly available information based on the hosting choices of real-world threat actors and data from a variety of trackers. This information is provided in accordance with principles of fair use. Halcyon has made reasonable efforts to sanitize and verify the data; however, we do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Updates to the database are made as new source data becomes available from reputable sources.  By accessing, viewing, or using the information within the Halcyon Attacks Lookout Database, you acknowledge and agree to do so entirely at your own risk. No reliance should be placed upon the information for decision-making, and Halcyon disclaims all liability for any inaccuracies or omissions in the data.

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