Ransomware Group 8Base Attacks GPI Corporate

Background

Ransomware group 8Base has attacked GPI Corporate, a fully integrated promotional marketing solution provider based in Australia with an office in Hong Kong. GPI Corporate delivers fresh ideas, creative products, and solutions to enhance efficiencies and promote growth.

8Base Ransomware Gang

The 8Base ransomware gang emerged in March of 2022 and has become one of the most active groups today, showing a "massive spike in activity" in the second half of 2023. About half of 8Base targets are in business services, manufacturing, and construction sectors.

Connection to Ransomhouse

8Base is believed to be an offshoot of experienced RaaS operators, possibly connected to Ransomhouse, a data extortion group that first appeared in December of 2021. Other researchers suggest a link to the leaked Babuk builder.

Operational Tactics

8Base engages in data exfiltration for double extortion and uses advanced security evasion techniques, such as modifying Windows Defender Firewall for bypass. They utilize a variety of ransomware payloads and loaders, including customized Phobos with SmokeLoader, and wipe Volume Shadow Copies (VSS) to prevent encryption rollback.

Targeted Sectors

8Base primarily targets organizations in business services, manufacturing, financial, and information technology sectors. They focus on Windows systems and use a "name and shame" tactic via their leaks site to compel ransom payment.