Qilin Ransomware Group Targets F. J. O’Hara & Sons

Qilin ransomware group claimed an attack on F. J. O’Hara & Sons. The group did not disclose any further information on the compromised data. F. J. O’Hara & Sons, Inc. wholesales and distributes seafood. Qilin, a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) operation, uses a Rust-based ransomware to carry out targeted attacks on its victims.

How Qilin Operates

Each Qilin ransomware attack employs tactics such as altering the filename extensions of encrypted files and terminating specific processes and services. The utilization of Rust as the ransomware's foundation proves particularly effective due to its evasive nature and inherent complexity, allowing for seamless customization across various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and others. Notably, the Qilin ransomware group can generate samples for both Windows and ESXi versions.

Qilin’s Dark Web Presence

Qilin promotes its ransomware on the dark web, utilizing a proprietary DLS (Dedicated Leak Site) that contains distinctive company identifiers and leaked account information, as uncovered by experts from Group-IB Threat Intelligence.

Double Extortion Technique

The operators behind Qilin employ a double extortion technique, whereby they not only encrypt a victim's sensitive data but also exfiltrate it. Subsequently, they demand payment for a decryptor and insist on the non-disclosure of stolen data even after the ransom has been paid. Qilin ransomware features multiple encryption modes, all under the control of the operator.