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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Anthony Cuthbertson

Cyber criminals ‘posing as IT support staff to hack company computer systems’

  • The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has warned that cyber criminals are posing as IT support staff to gain physical access to critical computer systems.
  • A hacking collective known as Silent Ransom Group (SRG) has been turning up at US offices, impersonating IT workers to install malware and steal sensitive data for ransom.
  • SRG, active since 2022, has recently shifted from remote cyber attacks to these in-person hacks, primarily targeting law firms, with medical and insurance sectors also at risk.
  • This trend demonstrates how criminals are resorting to surprisingly low-tech methods, such as plugging in storage devices, to bypass advanced AI-powered cyber defence systems.
  • Cyber security experts emphasise that robust, layered security, including physical security and employee verification, is crucial, as simple social engineering can lead to significant breaches despite advanced technological defences.

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