Anderson Insurance Associates Suffers Ransomware Attack

Overview of the Incident

Anderson Insurance Associates, a Charleston-based independent insurance agency, has recently fallen victim to a ransomware attack perpetrated by the group known as Bianlian. This incident was disclosed on the group's dark web leak site. Operating since 1981, Anderson Insurance Associates has established itself within the insurance sector, boasting four locations across South Carolina.

The agency is celebrated for its exceptional customer service, having been recognized with the Best Practices Award for over a decade. This accolade celebrates the company's commitment to customer service, growth, stability, and financial management. Anderson Insurance Associates offers a comprehensive suite of insurance products and services, including personal, business, life, and health insurance, supported by a dedicated team of professionals.

Notably, the company's approach to customer service includes extended working hours and round-the-clock emergency support, underscoring its dedication to fostering long-term client relationships and effectively managing their risks.

Implications of the Attack

Despite the company's strengths and its robust approach to customer service, it has become the latest target of ransomware attackers. The details regarding the specific vulnerabilities exploited in this attack remain undisclosed. Nonetheless, this incident highlights the critical need for stringent cybersecurity measures within the insurance sector, especially given the sensitivity of customer data handled by these entities.

As of now, the Bianlian group has not provided additional information about the attack or any ransom demands. Similarly, Anderson Insurance Associates has yet to make a public statement regarding their response to the incident.

Sources

• Anderson Insurance Associates. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://www.aiasc.com/about-us/
• CISecurity.org. (2020). Cyber Insurance Price Increases Highlight Ransomware Defense. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://www.cisecurity.org/insights/blog/cyber-insurance-price-increases-highlight-ransomware-defense
• IAPP.org. (2024). Health Insurance Company Allegedly Paid $22M to Recover Data After Ransomware Attack. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://iapp.org/news/a/health-insurance-company-allegedly-paid-22m-to-recover-data-after-ransomware-attack/
• Nexus Connect. (2023). Ransomware Insurance Claim Valid War Exclusion. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://nexusconnect.io/articles/merck-ransomware-insurance-ruling-helps-clear-fog-of-cyberwar
• CISA MS-ISAC. (2020). CISA MS-ISAC Ransomware Guide. Retrieved April 10, 2024, from https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/publications/CISA_MS-ISAC_Ransomware%20Guide_S508C.pdf