Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/27/microsoft_storm_0501/
Source: The Register
Title: Ransomware gang using stolen Microsoft Entra ID creds to bust into the cloud
Feedly Summary: Defenders beware: Ransomware, data theft, extortion, and backdoors on Storm-0501’s agenda
Microsoft’s latest threat intelligence blog issues a warning to all organizations about Storm-0501’s recent shift in tactics, targeting, and backdooring hybrid cloud environments.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: Microsoft’s threat intelligence blog alerts organizations about the evolving tactics of the Storm-0501 hacking group, which has recently targeted hybrid cloud environments. The group employs various techniques to gain control over networks, including the use of compromised credentials and ransomware deployment, particularly focusing on exploiting vulnerabilities in cloud environments.
Detailed Description:
The text discusses the threat posed by the Storm-0501 group, which is viewed as an emerging threat actor targeting hybrid cloud infrastructures. Here are the major points outlined:
– **Background on Storm-0501**:
– Active since 2021, classified as an emerging group by Microsoft.
– Engaged in ransomware attacks as part of various high-profile ransomware affiliate programs, including LockBit and ALPHV.
– **Tactics and Methodologies**:
– The group begins by compromising on-premises environments before pivoting to cloud infrastructures.
– Initial access often facilitated by using Initial Access Brokers (IABs) and exploiting vulnerabilities in public-facing servers.
– They target over-privileged accounts, particularly focusing on Domain Admin accounts, to leverage greater control over network resources.
– **Credential Harvesting**:
– Use of Impacket’s SecretsDump for credential scanning and harvesting, creating a cycle of privilege escalation.
– Specific mention of Storm-0501’s ability to compromise Microsoft Entra ID through Entra Connect Sync service accounts.
– **Cloud Attack Vector**:
– Ability to pivot to cloud environments by compromising on-premises accounts that lack adequate security, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA).
– The text highlights the importance of MFA in mitigating risks and complicating the attackers’ strategies, emphasizing that unprotected accounts pose significant risks.
– **Deployment of Ransomware**:
– The group typically uses Embargo’s ransomware payload aligned with a double extortion model.
– There is a noted variance in operations—some attacks may establish a backdoor without subsequent ransomware deployment.
– **Security Implications**:
– The article suggests heightened awareness and vigilance for organizations that utilize hybrid cloud environments, particularly around the management and protection of privileged accounts.
– Microsoft provides threat-hunting tips and indicators of compromise, emphasizing the need for proactive security measures in cloud configurations.
Overall, this text serves as a crucial alert for security and compliance professionals, urging them to reconsider their security postures and implement stronger access controls and monitoring to safeguard against the evolving tactics of groups like Storm-0501.