A new data extortion group known as Mad Liberator has emerged, primarily targeting users of the AnyDesk remote access application. This operation, which began in July, employs deceptive tactics by presenting a fake Microsoft Windows update screen to distract victims while they exfiltrate sensitive data. Cybersecurity researchers from Sophos have reported that, although Mad Liberator claims to use AES/RSA algorithms for file encryption, no incidents involving data encryption have been observed during the attacks. Instead, the group’s primary focus appears to be on stealing data from compromised systems.
The modus operandi of Mad Liberator involves initiating unsolicited connections to target computers using AnyDesk, a popular tool among IT teams for managing corporate environments. While the precise method for selecting targets remains unclear, it is speculated that the group may try various AnyDesk connection IDs until a connection request is accepted. Once the victim approves the request, the attackers deploy a binary disguised as a Microsoft Windows update, which effectively distracts the user during the data theft process.
During the attack, the fake update screen renders the victim’s keyboard inactive, preventing any attempts to disrupt the data exfiltration. Sophos noted that these attacks have typically lasted around four hours without any reported instances of data encryption in the aftermath. However, ransom notes are left in shared network directories to maximize visibility within corporate environments, indicating the group’s intention to extort money from the victims post-attack.
In terms of the extortion strategy, Mad Liberator reaches out to breached companies after the attack, offering to assist them in resolving security issues and recovering stolen files, but only if their monetary demands are met. If a company fails to respond within 24 hours, its name is published on the group’s extortion portal, giving them a week to contact the attackers. Should the company not pay the ransom after an additional five days, the stolen files are made publicly available on the Mad Liberator website, which has already listed nine victims as of the latest report.
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