The Matrix

Last week, the Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a private industry notification warning that “ransomware actors are very likely using significant financial events, such as mergers and acquisitions, to target and leverage victim companies for ransomware infections.” The FBI cautioned that ransomware attackers research publicly available information and target companies involved in significant, time-sensitive financial dealings such as M&A and other transactions. This initial reconnaissance, according to the FBI, is later followed by a ransomware attack and a subsequent threat that unless the victim pays the ransom, the attackers will disclose the information publicly, causing potential investor backlash and affecting the victim’s stock value.