Vehicle Service Group (VSG) Suffers Ransomware Attack

Vehicle Service Group (VSG), a subsidiary of Dover Corporation's Engineered Product segment, has been targeted by the ransomware group Marketo. The attack was announced on the group's dark web leak site. VSG operates in the Manufacturing sector and is renowned for its trusted brands in the vehicle service industry, including Rotary®, Ravaglioli, and Warn Automotive®.

The company has yet to release a public statement regarding the attack. However, the ransomware group has claimed responsibility and threatened to distribute stolen data unless a ransom is paid. Although the size of VSG is not explicitly stated, the company boasts a long-standing history in the automotive industry, having been established in 1925.

VSG's brands play a pivotal role in shop operations across auto dealerships, independent specialty service garages, and state-of-the-art collision repair centers. The company's emphasis on customer productivity, efficiency, and profitability has cemented its status as a significant entity in the vehicle service industry.

Underlying Vulnerabilities and Industry Implications

The specific vulnerabilities that facilitated the attack on VSG are not detailed. However, the ransomware group Marketo is known for exploiting vulnerabilities in Citrix systems, as demonstrated by a recent attack on Toyota Financial Services Europe & Africa. The CitrixBleed vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-4966, has been a common target for threat actors, including those behind ransomware attacks.

The automotive industry has increasingly become a target for ransomware groups, evidenced by incidents such as the attacks on Hyundai Motor Europe and Asbury Automotive Group in January 2024. The growing interconnectivity of modern vehicles has heightened their vulnerability to cyberattacks, with the potential for remote exploitation posing a significant threat to vehicle safety and security.

The ransomware attack on VSG underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures within the automotive industry. This is especially pertinent given the rising interconnectivity and the potential for remote exploitation of vehicles.

Sources

• Vehicle Service Group (VSG) - Home
• CitrixBleed Vulnerability Exploitation Suspected in Toyota Ransomware Attack
• Emerging Threats to the Automotive Supply Chain From Ransomware Groups
• 16 Car Makers and Their Vehicles Hacked via Telematics, APIs, and Infrastructure