Ransomware Attack Hits C3 Brand Marketing by Play Group
Ransomware Attack on C3 Brand Marketing by Play Ransomware Group
C3 Brand Marketing, a specialized marketing and design agency based in Overland Park, Kansas, has recently fallen victim to a ransomware attack orchestrated by the notorious Play ransomware group. This incident underscores the persistent threat posed by cybercriminals to businesses across various sectors, particularly those handling sensitive client information.
About C3 Brand Marketing
Founded in 1987, C3 Brand Marketing, also known as Creative Consumer Concepts, is a marketing agency with a unique dual expertise in both advertising and manufacturing. With approximately 45 employees and an estimated annual revenue of $10 million, the company focuses on creating innovative consumer activation strategies for brands in the restaurant, hospitality, and service industries. Their standout feature is their ability to manage end-to-end processes from concept development through production and distribution, ensuring seamless integration and operational feasibility.
Vulnerabilities and Targeting
As a company that emphasizes data-driven insights and handles extensive client data, C3 Brand Marketing is inherently vulnerable to cyberattacks. The agency's focus on creating engaging promotional items and interactive experiences for well-known brands like SONIC® and Texas Roadhouse® involves managing sensitive information, making them an attractive target for ransomware groups like Play.
Attack Overview
The Play ransomware group, active since June 2022, has claimed responsibility for the attack on C3 Brand Marketing via their dark web leak site. Known for their aggressive tactics, the group typically encrypts critical data and demands a ransom for its release. The attack on C3 Brand Marketing highlights the group's ability to penetrate systems, potentially exploiting vulnerabilities in remote desktop protocols, VPN accounts, or Microsoft Exchange servers.
About Play Ransomware Group
The Play ransomware group, also known as PlayCrypt, has distinguished itself by targeting a diverse range of industries, including IT, transportation, and government entities. Their methods often involve exploiting known vulnerabilities and using custom tools to maintain persistence and evade detection. Unlike typical ransomware groups, Play does not include an initial ransom demand in their notes, instead directing victims to contact them via email.
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