Brookson One Suffers Ransomware Attack by ALPHV Group

Brookson One, a provider of specialist accountancy services for contractors, has been targeted by the ALPHV ransomware group. The attack was announced on the group's dark web leak site, and the victim's website is Brookson One. Operating in the Business Services sector, Brookson One has been offering accountancy services to contractors for over two decades.

Company Size and Unique Features

Brookson One has assisted more than 90,000 contractors and freelancers in managing their businesses, providing all-inclusive services that ensure compliance with regulations and offer peace of mind for clients. The company's distinctive offerings include an all-inclusive service model, a variety of optional support and advice services, and a comprehensive accountancy portal named Brookson Connect, which enables users to manage their accounts remotely.

Vulnerabilities and Targeting

The ALPHV ransomware group, known for its prolific attacks, targets a wide range of victims including government facilities, emergency services, defense industrial base companies, critical manufacturing, healthcare and public health facilities, and other corporations. Utilizing a ransomware-as-a-service model, the group's developers create and update the ransomware, while affiliates focus on identifying and attacking high-value victim institutions.

Previous Cyber Attacks

Brookson One has previously been the target of cyber attacks, with contractors experiencing delayed wage payments and disrupted communications. Similarly, Parasol, another umbrella company, faced a suspected ransomware attack, impacting both firms' ability to pay their contractors.

Mitigation and Response

The Justice Department has taken steps to disrupt the ALPHV/Blackcat ransomware variant, aiding victims in recovering from the attacks and strengthening their digital defenses. Victims of Blackcat ransomware are advised to seek assistance from their local FBI field office.

The attack on Brookson One by the ALPHV ransomware group underscores the continuous evolution of cyber threats and emphasizes the importance for organizations to stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their systems. Despite Brookson One's comprehensive services and dedication to compliance, these characteristics may have rendered it susceptible to ransomware attacks.

Sources

• Brookson One Website: https://www.brooksonone.co.uk/
• Justice Department Disrupts Prolific ALPHV/Blackcat Ransomware Variant: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-disrupts-prolific-alphvblackcat-ransomware-variant
• Brookson and Parasol cyber attacks: Contractor complaints about delayed payments continue: https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252512871/Brookson-and-Parasol-cyber-attacks-Contractor-complaints-about-delayed-payments-continue