Institute of Space Technology hit with ransomware attack

The hacker group Medusa has targeted the Institute of Space Technology (IST), a public university in Islamabad, with a ransomware attack. The group has stolen sensitive data from the university and is demanding a ransom of up to $500,000 in exchange for the decryption key needed to unlock it. This incident is just one of many similar attacks that ransomware groups have carried out against organizations of all sizes and types in recent years.

The Medusa ransomware is notorious for encrypting victims’ data and then demanding payment for the decryption key. Soon the hackers uploaded proof of the data, including passports, paystubs, analysis information, and other sensitive data to their demands in the case of IST. They have given the university seven days to comply and pay the ransom; otherwise, they will leak the data onto the dark web. The hackers have also demanded an extra $10,000 if the university wants an extra day before the data is released.

Ransomware groups are becoming more sophisticated in their tactics, and it is crucial for organizations to implement security protocols, conduct regular backups, and educate their staff on cybersecurity best practices to safeguard their data.

This attack highlights the importance of organizations taking proactive measures to protect their data from ransomware attacks.