Earlier this month, the FBI released a Private Industry Notification (PIN), warning about the Silent Ransom Group (SRG), also known as Luna Moth, Chatty Spider, and UNC3753. These attacks use social engineering strategies to bypass the traditional security measures. Their tactics are a reminder that in cybersecurity, the human element is often the most vulnerable.

The Impact

Law firms hold private and valuable information, including legal strategies, client data, corporate documents, and more. This makes them very high-value targets. SRG understands that many firms are willing to pay to avoid reputational damage or legal consequences.

What’s different about SRG is how personal their attack feels. It is social engineering at its finest. They don’t just rely on links in emails. They make actual phone calls, sometimes even pretending to be your IT team and convince staff to hand over access.

What This Group Does

SRG does not use ransomware to lock your files. Instead, they:

• Send phishing emails that look like subscription charges for services (such as antivirus, software tools).
• Ask the target to call a number if they want to cancel.
• During the call, the victim speaks with someone pretending to be a customer support representative, who then asks them to install remote access software, such as AnyDesk or Zoho Assist.

Once inside the system, SRG moves fast. They steal files using tools like WinSCP or Rclone. Then they demand a ransom by threatening to leak sensitive information publicly.

Signs That You May Have Been Targeted

Awareness is the first line of defense. Be alert if you notice:

• A staff member installing remote access tools such as Zoho Assist, Syncro, AnyDesk, Splashtop, or Atera.
• WinSCP or Rclone connection is being made to some external IP address.
• Large file transfers to unknown locations.
• Unfamiliar calls or emails claiming to be from IT or customer service.
• Instructions that are unusual or require immediate attention are exempt from routine procedures.

What you can do

To prevent any such attacks and safeguard your firm :

• Implement multi-factor authentication
• Regularly update and patch systems
• Train staff to recognize phishing attempts
• Establish clear IT communication protocols
• Maintain secure backups of all critical data

How Forensic CyberTech can Protect Your Firm

At Forensic CyberTech, we understand how critical security is for law firms. When sensitive client data and confidential case information are at risk, you need a partner who understands these threats thoroughly and can respond quickly.

Here’s how we support you:

• Digital Forensics and Investigation:
  If your firm experiences a breach or some suspicious activity, we can conduct a thorough digital forensic analysis. Our experts trace how attackers gained access, what data was affected, and whether any backdoors remain. This detailed investigation helps you understand the scope of the attack and supports legal or regulatory requirements.
• Rapid Incident Response:
  Time is crucial when facing data theft or extortion. Our incident response team quickly contains threats, blocks attacker access, and guides your staff through the steps to limit damage. We help you recover lost data, restore normal operations, and prepare for any follow-up actions.
• Security Assessments and Risk Management:
  As we know, prevention is better than a cure. We evaluate your current cybersecurity controls, identify gaps, and recommend improvements tailored to your firm’s specific needs. This includes reviewing access policies, network security, endpoint protection, and employee awareness.
• Employee Training and Awareness Programs:
  Attackers like the SRG rely heavily on human error. Our customized training helps your team recognize phishing attempts, social engineering calls, and other tactics. We provide practical advice on verifying unexpected requests and reporting suspicious activities promptly.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Support:
  Cybersecurity is not a one-time project. We offer continuous monitoring services that provide real-time alerts for unusual activities. Our support team is available to answer questions and provide guidance whenever you need it.

By partnering with Forensic CyberTech, your law firm gains a trusted ally dedicated to protecting your reputation and safeguarding your data. We focus on combining advanced technology with hands-on expertise to create strong defences against evolving cyber threats.

Final Note

These cybercriminals are getting more creative, and not every threat is digital. Sometimes, the voice on the other end of the phone is the start of a major breach. Stay cautious. Stay informed.

For more information or to review your firm’s security setup, reach out to Forensic CyberTech.