RansomHub Targets CENERGICA in Major Ransomware Attack
RansomHub Ransomware Attack on CENERGICA: A Detailed Analysis
On November 8, CENERGICA, a prominent energy company in El Salvador, became the latest victim of a ransomware attack by the notorious RansomHub group. This incident underscores the growing threat of ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure sectors, particularly those involved in energy production and distribution.
About CENERGICA
CENERGICA, also known as Nejapa Power, is a key player in El Salvador's energy sector. Established in 1994, the company operates the 140 MW Nejapa power plant and is involved in electricity generation, fuel oil sales, and renewable energy projects. With a workforce of 51 to 250 employees and an estimated revenue between $10 million and $50 million, CENERGICA is strategically positioned to contribute significantly to the region's energy needs. The company's commitment to sustainable energy solutions, including green hydrogen production and natural gas distribution, distinguishes it in the industry.
RansomHub: A Formidable Threat
RansomHub, a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) group, emerged in February and quickly established itself as a major player in the ransomware landscape. Known for its aggressive affiliate model and double extortion tactics, RansomHub targets high-value sectors such as healthcare, financial services, and government. The group employs advanced techniques, including intermittent encryption and Curve 25519 elliptic curve encryption, to maximize impact and evade detection.
Attack Overview
The attack on CENERGICA resulted in the compromise of approximately 215GB of sensitive data. RansomHub's modus operandi typically involves exploiting vulnerabilities in unpatched systems and using phishing campaigns to gain initial access. Once inside, the group conducts network reconnaissance, escalates privileges, and exfiltrates data before encrypting files. The breach poses significant risks to CENERGICA's operations and reputation, given the sensitive nature of the data involved.
Potential Vulnerabilities
CENERGICA's involvement in critical energy infrastructure makes it an attractive target for ransomware groups like RansomHub. The company's reliance on digital systems for energy production and distribution, coupled with the potential for operational disruption, increases its vulnerability to cyberattacks. The incident highlights the need for effective cybersecurity measures to protect against sophisticated threat actors.
Sources:
See Halcyon in action
Interested in getting a demo?
Fill out the form to meet with a Halcyon Anti-Ransomware Expert!