What's Happening?
Organizations are being urged to update their defenses against the Scattered Spider hacking collective, which has been deploying novel and effective techniques to compromise high-profile targets. During the Gartner Security & Risk Management Summit 2025, experts highlighted the need for improved identity tools, security processes, and third-party risk management. Scattered Spider, affiliated with The Com online criminal network, has targeted various sectors, including retail, insurance, and transportation, using social engineering and threats of physical violence. The group's activity has decreased due to law enforcement actions and internal conflicts, but similar tactics are being used by other groups like ShinyHunters.
Why It's Important?
The tactics employed by Scattered Spider pose significant risks to organizations across multiple industries, potentially leading to data breaches and ransomware attacks. The emphasis on identity-based protection and response highlights the vulnerability of traditional security measures, such as passwords and multifactor authentication. Organizations that fail to update their defenses may face severe financial and reputational damage. The collaboration between criminal groups suggests a growing threat landscape, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information and maintain operational integrity.
What's Next?
Organizations are advised to focus on identity-based protection, update processes to counter social engineering, and enhance third-party risk management. This includes implementing more mature identity protection measures, such as number matching MFA codes, and fostering close relationships with technology vendors to quickly address potential incidents. Monitoring disclosed incidents and adapting defenses accordingly will be crucial in staying ahead of evolving threats. The ongoing collaboration between criminal groups may lead to new attack strategies, requiring continuous vigilance and adaptation.
