LockBit Ransomware Gang Hacked: Crime Doesn’t Pay, But Database Dumps Do!

Hot Take:

When even ransomware gangs are getting hacked, you know the cyber world has truly turned into a plot twist that even Hollywood couldn’t script. Looks like LockBit is in need of some serious “locksmith” services now! Who knew “crime doesn’t pay” would be so literal?

Key Points:

• LockBit’s dark web affiliate panels were defaced and linked to a MySQL database dump.
• The database dump includes bitcoin addresses, build configurations, negotiation chats, and user passwords.
• The breach seems linked to a vulnerability in PHP 8.1.2, allowing remote code execution.
• Previous law enforcement actions have already hampered LockBit’s operations.
• Other ransomware groups like Conti, Black Basta, and Everest have faced similar leaks.

LockBit’s Awkward Moment: Crime Doesn’t Pay

In a classic case of “the hunter becomes the hunted,” LockBit, the notorious ransomware gang, has been on the receiving end of a cyber prank. Their dark web admin panels were defaced, and instead of the usual sinister messages, visitors were greeted with a cheeky reminder that “crime is bad.” This was accompanied by a link to download a MySQL database dump, leaving us wondering if their next move is to hire a cybersecurity consultant.

Database Dump: The Plot Thickens

The dumped database is a treasure trove, or a Pandora’s box, depending on how you look at it. It contains 75 admin and affiliate users’ passwords written in plaintext—because apparently, even cybercriminals need a lesson in password management. Also included are almost 60,000 bitcoin addresses and a ‘chats’ table with thousands of negotiation messages between the ransomware operators and their victims. It’s like reading the diary of a criminal mastermind who forgot to lock his journal.

PHP Woes: The Vulnerability That Keeps Giving

Turns out, the heist was likely enabled by a vulnerability in PHP 8.1.2. This vulnerability (CVE-2024-4577) has been a gift that keeps on giving, allowing remote code execution on servers. Looks like LockBit’s choice of tech stack was as flawed as their moral compass. Maybe they should have invested more in security patches than in malware development.

Operation Cronos: The Prequel

In 2024, Operation Cronos took a massive swing at LockBit by taking down their infrastructure, including 34 servers. Despite this, LockBit managed to limp back into action, proving that you can’t keep a bad guy down for long. However, this latest breach might just be the metaphorical banana peel that makes them slip again. With their reputation already on shaky ground, the real question is whether this is the final curtain call for LockBit.

Crime Syndicates: Not So Invincible After All

LockBit isn’t the only gang to have its dirty laundry aired in public. Other ransomware groups like Conti, Black Basta, and Everest have also found themselves in similarly embarrassing situations. It’s almost as if the ransomware scene has turned into an episode of “Cyber Criminals: Exposed.” As they say, there’s no honor among thieves, and apparently, no security either.