The 8Base Ransomware Gang's Attack on J.T. Cullen

The 8Base ransomware gang has attacked J.T. Cullen. J.T. Cullen is a custom metal fabrication company headquartered in Fulton, Illinois, USA. 8Base posted J.T. Cullen to its data leak site on September 25th, claiming to have stolen “invoice, receipts, accounting documents, personal data, certificates, employment contracts”, threatening that information by October 2nd if the organization fails to pay an unspecified ransom.

Despite a significant increase in activity during the summer of 2023, the 8Base ransomware group has managed to maintain a relatively low profile. This group employs encryption techniques alongside "name-and-shame" tactics to pressure their victims into paying ransoms. 8Base demonstrates an opportunistic approach, targeting victims from diverse industries. However, crucial details regarding their identities, methods, and motivations remain shrouded in mystery.

The swift and efficient operations of 8Base suggest that this group is not newly formed but rather an established and mature organization. Based on available information, certain aspects of their current operations bear a striking resemblance to past ransomware activities.

The Emergence and Operations of 8Base

The 8Base ransomware group emerged in March 2022, but it experienced a significant surge in activity in June 2023. Describing themselves as "simple pen testers," they operate a leak site that provides victim information through Frequently Asked Questions and Rules sections, along with multiple contact options. Notably, 8Base's communication style shares similarities with another known group called RansomHouse.