Silk Typhoon: Unmasking the Cyber Espionage Threat Targeting the U.S. Supply Chain
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News, Vulnerabilities
Risk Level
Hackers are setting their sights on the IT supply chain, and your data is the prize. Meet Silk Typhoon—the latest cyber threat you need to know about.
If you’re part of the US’ IT supply chain, you know there’s no shortage of malicious actors trying to break into your networks and steal your proprietary information. The supply chain tends to be a big target for Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) - individuals or groups supported by a foreign government that have funding, sophisticated methods of stealing your data, and intel to make their efforts more effective. Let’s dive into one of the more recently active threats - Silk Typhoon.
“Who is Silk Typhoon?”
Silk Typhoon is the code-name assigned by Microsoft to a Chinese state-sponsored APT group, also known as "Hafnium." This group has been active since at least 2021, and is primarily involved in cyber espionage and data theft activities targeting various sectors, but most notably targeting the U.S. IT supply chain.
Silk Typhoon is known for its sophisticated techniques, such as taking advantage of unknown software vulnerabilities (zero-days) and deploying tools like the China Chopper web shell to stay hidden and steal data. Their attacks involve thorough research on targets, stealing sensitive information, and moving through networks undetected.
Watch our “APT 101” episode of Hive Live to learn more about APT codenames.
“What did Silk Typhoon do recently?”
In December 2024, hackers leveraged a stolen API key from BeyondTrust, a third-party cybersecurity provider, to infiltrate the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). They stole data from OFAC’s computers, potentially uncovering critical details about upcoming sanctions and other confidential documents.
“How can I protect my company from APTs like Silk Typhoon?”
It is critical for companies to take a well-rounded approach to security. This includes:
Keeping software up to date;
Dividing networks into secure sections;
Constantly monitoring for suspicious activity; and,
Training employees to spot phishing scams and other cyber threats.
Not sure where to start? Our experts at Hive Systems are here to strengthen your organization’s security posture from every angle! Whether you need help crafting robust policies, implementing technical solutions, or providing security training to your workforce, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today and let’s enhance your security together!
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