Wave of Cyberattacks Hits Greece’s Land Registry: Data Breach and Defense Measures

Introduction

Greece’s Land Registry agency recently experienced a limited-scope data breach amidst a wave of 400 cyberattacks targeting its IT infrastructure. Despite the large number of attacks, the breach has been contained, and no personal data of citizens has been compromised. This incident underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and proactive defense strategies.

Overview of the Cyberattack

Over the past week, the Land Registry agency faced a barrage of 400 cyberattacks. Hackers succeeded in compromising employee terminals and stole 1.2 GB of data, which constitutes approximately 0.0006% of the agency’s total data. The stolen information mainly includes administrative documents, and its exposure is not expected to significantly impact the agency’s operations.

Failed Infiltration Attempts

The attackers tried to create a malicious user account to infiltrate the central database but were unsuccessful. They did manage to access one of the daily-updated backups. However, their attempt to exfiltrate data to an external server was thwarted, showcasing the effectiveness of the agency's defensive measures.

Investigative and Preventive Actions

Internal Investigation

An internal investigation, supported by the Cybersecurity Directorate of the General Staff of National Defense, found no evidence of ransomware. This comprehensive investigation ensured that the breach's scope was limited and helped identify potential vulnerabilities.

Enhanced Security Measures

In response to the breach, emergency actions were implemented to mitigate ransomware risks. These measures included terminating all VPN access to block potential malicious users. Additionally, all employees’ passwords were reset, and two-factor authentication was mandated to enhance account security. These steps are vital in preventing further unauthorized access and protecting the integrity of the system.

Continuation of Services

Despite the attacks, the agency’s digital services have continued to operate normally, and transactions with citizens remain secure. The last recorded attack occurred early on July 19, 2024, and was successfully thwarted. It is currently unclear if the attacks are ongoing, but the agency remains vigilant.

Historical Context of Cyber Threats in Greece

This incident follows other significant cyberattacks in Greece. In 2022, the state-owned postal service provider, ELTA, suffered a ransomware attack causing widespread disruption. Additionally, Ragnar Locker ransomware targeted DESFA, the country’s largest natural gas distributor, resulting in compromised data and IT system outages. These events highlight the ongoing threat landscape faced by critical infrastructure in Greece.

Conclusion

The recent cyberattacks on Greece’s Land Registry agency highlight the persistent and evolving threat landscape faced by critical infrastructure. Even though the breach was kept under control with little impact, it’s a clear reminder of how crucial it is to stay alert and use strong cybersecurity measures. Employing tactics such as stolen credentials detection, darknet monitoring services, and digital footprint analysis can significantly reduce risks and enhance overall security. Proactive measures and user awareness are paramount in defending against such sophisticated cyber threats.

By staying informed and prepared, organizations can better protect their digital assets and maintain operational resilience in the face of cyber threats.

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