Continued Emotet Attacks Highlight 2023 Malware Dangers


Emotet Attacks

In January 2021 the FBI partnered with global law enforcement agencies and private companies to take down the Emotet malware. However, just eleven months later, Emotet continues to attack and evolve, emphasizing the need for organizations to prioritize cyber security in the new year.

A NYC area cyber security consultant and managed services provider (MSP) considers a recent wave of Emotet attacks in a new article. The informative article first confirms the return of the dangerous malware 11 months after law enforcement and cyber security experts from around the world celebrated its demise.

Describing it as the Botnet that refuses to die, the author describes how Emotet attacks work by using phishing campaigns to trick organizations into infecting themselves with malicious software. He then offers steps to mitigate the dangers of Emotet attacks, including disabling Microsoft Office macros, updating email filters, and security awareness training.

“In January 2021 the FBI partnered with global law enforcement agencies and private companies to take down the Emotet malware,” stated Almi Dumi, CISO, eMazzanti Technologies. “However, just eleven months later, Emotet continues to attack and evolve, emphasizing the need for organizations to prioritize cyber security in the new year.”

Below are a few excerpts from the article, “Continued Emotet Attacks Highlight 2023 Malware Dangers.”

The Botnet that Refuses to Die

“Emotet first emerged in 2014 as a simple banking trojan. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most dangerous botnet operations in the threat landscape. Two years ago, a combined effort of law enforcement and cyber security experts from around the world celebrated its demise. But Emotet re-appeared after months, stronger than ever.”

“Emotet attacks use phishing campaigns to trick organizations into infecting themselves with malicious software. Typically, the phishing emails include attached Microsoft files that contain dangerous macros. When executed, the macros spread the Emotet infection throughout a network of connected devices, creating a robot network or botnet.”

Steps to Mitigate the Danger of Emotet Attacks

“Organizations should take deliberate steps to reduce the risk of a successful attack. For instance, since Emotet typically uses macros in attached Microsoft Office files, companies should consider disabling macros unless they are signed.”

“Additionally, Emotet and other malware families commonly use email as a delivery device. Consequently, organizations should periodically review and update their email filters. And they should conduct regular security awareness training and phishing simulations. End users may prove the most important defense.”

Strengthen Cyber Defenses with Expert Help

Organizations cannot afford to leave critical digital assets under-protected. At the same time, the economic downturn and the cyber security skills gap make it difficult for companies to mount an effective defense. Partnering with cyber security experts can help.

eMazzanti Technologies provides a full range of cyber security services, from risk assessments and penetration testing to continuous monitoring and email defense. The company’s consultants work with organizations to tailor a security strategy to various needs and budgets.

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About eMazzanti Technologies

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