The REvil ransom gang has found a fresh target. BleepingComputer and Bloomberg According to the report, the group threatens Apple after one of the most important MacBook suppliers of the technology giant, Quanta, refused to pay a ransom of 50 million dollars following a hack targeting its systems. The attackers unveiled their efforts alongside Apple’s spring event, after Quanta signaled that it would not pay by the April 27 deadline and revealed what appeared to be the component schemes for a March MacBook design.
REvil said it would increase demand to $ 100 million if Quanta did not pay by the specified date. He claimed to have “all the local network data” from the contract manufacturer, although it is not clear how much he really has.
In a statement to Bloomberg, Quanta acknowledged hacks targeting a “small number” of servers and said it was in contact with data protection agencies and law enforcement. The company added that there was “no material impact” on the business, although it did not say whether or not it intends to pay the ransom. Apple declined to comment.
The hacking team targeted Travelex’s money transfer service in early 2020 and recently tried to extort $ 50 million from Acer in a similar ransomware campaign. He also attacked companies such as Asteelflash and Pierre Fabre for smaller sums, exceeding “only” $ 25 million. High demands can be a negotiating tactic, the researchers said BleepingComputer – REvil can still leave with huge sums if it agrees to a lower payment.
Whether Apple and Quanta agree or not, the incident illustrates the growing ambitions of ransomware groups. In addition to the profile companies, they supported city governments for ransom and let the organizations fight either to pay millions or to risk significant damage. Nor do you expect the perpetrators to be caught soon. In addition to covering up its tracks (such as operating on the dark web), it frequently operates in Russia (as does REvil) or in other countries that do not always prevent hackers targeting foreign entities.
All Engadget recommended products are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.