Ransomware Breach Exposes Youngs Timber's Critical Data
Ransomware Attack on Youngs Timber & Builders Merchants by Meow Group
Youngs Timber & Builders Merchants, a key player in the UK construction industry, recently suffered a ransomware attack by the Meow ransomware group. This breach led to the exposure of 64 GB of critical data, encompassing personal employee details, contracts, and financial records.
About Youngs Timber & Builders Merchants
Established in 1937, Youngs Timber & Builders Merchants, officially known as J H Young Limited, is a family-owned business operating in Kent, England. With locations in Biddenden, Dymchurch, and Folkestone, the company employs between 50 to 100 staff members. Renowned for its premium timber products and tailored customer service, Youngs Timber serves both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Their in-house sawmill provides custom cutting services, positioning them as a vital resource for construction and renovation projects.
Attack Overview
The Meow ransomware group asserts that they have accessed a substantial amount of sensitive data from Youngs Timber, including personal employee information like birth dates and driver's license scans, alongside contracts, financial documents, and logistics agreements. The compromised data is being touted as a valuable asset for construction industry professionals. This incident underscores the digital vulnerabilities that even established companies face today.
About Meow Ransomware Group
Emerging in late 2022, the Meow Ransomware group is linked to the Conti v2 ransomware variant. They are notorious for targeting sectors with sensitive data, utilizing various infection techniques such as phishing emails and exploiting Remote Desktop Protocol vulnerabilities. Meow Ransomware encrypts files using a blend of the ChaCha20 and RSA-4096 algorithms, leaving a ransom note that directs victims to contact them for decryption. The group is distinct in maintaining a data leak site where they list victims who have not complied with ransom demands.
Potential Vulnerabilities
Youngs Timber's dependence on digital systems for managing contracts, financial records, and employee data may have rendered them vulnerable to this attack. The construction sector, with its heavy reliance on sensitive data, is an appealing target for ransomware groups like Meow. This attack highlights the critical need for effective cybersecurity measures to defend against such threats.
Sources
See Halcyon in action
Interested in getting a demo?
Fill out the form to meet with a Halcyon Anti-Ransomware Expert!