Bolton, a Full-Service Consulting Firm, Suffers Ransomware Attack

Bolton, a comprehensive employee benefits, actuarial, investment, compensation, and HR consulting firm, has recently fallen victim to a ransomware attack orchestrated by the Clop ransomware group. With a history spanning 40 years, Bolton has offered its consulting services to a wide array of clients, including those in the Public and Corporate Sectors, Multiemployer Groups, Nonprofit Organizations, and the Federal Government. The firm's website provides a window into its extensive expertise and services, encompassing Pension & Retirement, Health & Benefits, Investment, Rewards & Compensation, and HR Consulting.

While the exact size of Bolton remains unspecified, its long-standing operation and diverse clientele indicate a substantial footprint in the consulting industry. Over the years, Bolton has cultivated a reputation for integrity and excellence, positioning itself as a distinguished entity in the consulting realm.

Details of the Ransomware Attack

The specific vulnerability exploited in the ransomware attack on Bolton has not been detailed. Nonetheless, it is evident that the Clop ransomware group, responsible for the attack, has been actively targeting various organizations. This includes a notable attack on Victoria's court system in December 2023. The assault on Bolton is a continuation of Clop's aggressive campaign, characterized by an uptick in victimization and heightened activity as 2023 draws to a close.

Clop is infamous for its double extortion strategy, which involves not only the encryption of a victim's data but also its exfiltration. The group demands ransom for both a decryption tool and the assurance that the stolen data will not be released, even after the ransom is paid. Typically, Clop infiltrates a victim's network via phishing emails that contain malicious links, subsequently moving laterally within the infrastructure to encrypt critical data.

As of this writing, Bolton has not issued a public statement concerning the ransomware attack or disclosed any countermeasures being implemented to address the incident. Furthermore, there is no available information on the company's website regarding its cybersecurity protocols or any recent updates pertinent to the attack.

Sources

• "Clop Ransomware Group: Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures" - A comprehensive analysis of the Clop ransomware group's modus operandi. URL not available.
• "The Rise of Double Extortion in Ransomware Attacks" - An exploration of the increasing prevalence of double extortion tactics in ransomware campaigns. URL not available.