Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Targeted by RansomHouse

The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) has recently become a target of the ransomware group RansomHouse, which has openly claimed responsibility for the cyberattack on their website. The SLGA, a pivotal entity within the Government sector, plays a crucial role in regulating alcohol, cannabis, and gaming across Saskatchewan, operating approximately 35 liquor stores in 24 communities.

This incident marks another cybersecurity challenge for the SLGA, following a December 2021 cybersecurity incident that significantly impacted their computer systems. This previous attack led to the temporary shutdown of certain systems and applications, with subsequent investigations revealing that a critical vulnerability had been left unpatched, thereby facilitating the breach.

RansomHouse, a group known for exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to target networks, has been active since December 2021. The group often criticizes the security measures of its targets, pointing out the inadequacy of security flaw disclosure rewards. Besides the SLGA, RansomHouse has targeted various organizations, including a German airline support service provider.

While the full extent of the damage from the RansomHouse attack on the SLGA remains undisclosed, efforts are underway to restore the affected systems and evaluate the operational impact. This incident underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity defenses and constant vigilance against evolving cyber threats.

Sources

• Cyber Security Incident at SLGA | News and Media | Government of Saskatchewan
• Novel RansomHouse cybercrime operation detailed | SC Media
• Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority joins growing list of organizations facing cyberattacks | CBC News
• SLGA investigation states cybersecurity attack compromised 40,000 people | Globalnews.ca