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In a rapidly evolving threat landscape, attackers are increasingly exploiting third-party tools to breach systems and deploy ransomware. One such incident has brought to light the dangers lurking in remote monitoring and management (RMM) software. A recent cyber-attack compromised a managed service provider (MSP) using the SimpleHelp RMM tool, leading to widespread ransomware infections and data theft across multiple client networks. At the center of the operation is DragonForce, a rising ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) group known for its aggressive tactics and cartel-like structure.
This article unpacks how the attack unfolded, what vulnerabilities were leveraged, who was affected, and how threat intelligence and managed detection played a critical role in containment. For cybersecurity professionals, businesses relying on MSPs, and anyone following the evolution of ransomware groups, this case serves as a sobering example of the importance of proactive defense and layered security strategies.
A Breakdown of the Incident
A coordinated cyber-attack on a managed service provider has exposed serious flaws in RMM software security. Threat actors exploited the SimpleHelp tool, widely used for remote access and IT support, to gain unauthorized control over multiple client networks. Once inside, they deployed a malicious installer, which helped spread the infection across different endpoints.
Sophos, a leading cybersecurity firm, detected and partially contained the breach through its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service. The attack was traced to the DragonForce ransomware group, known for offering ransomware-as-a-service and operating under a distributed affiliate model. The hackers used the access gained through SimpleHelp to deploy ransomware and exfiltrate sensitive client data, leveraging a double extortion tactic—encrypting systems while threatening to leak stolen information.
The breach was made possible by exploiting three known vulnerabilities in SimpleHelp:
CVE-2024-57727: A path traversal bug
CVE-2024-57728: Arbitrary file upload flaw
CVE-2024-57726: Privilege escalation vulnerability
With this combination, attackers could navigate through system directories, upload malicious payloads, and elevate their privileges to execute commands with administrative rights. They quickly harvested information like device names, user credentials, and network configurations.
Sophos reported that at least one client enrolled in their XDR and MDR services was completely protected, as behavioral detection flagged suspicious activity early. However, other clients not covered by these services suffered significant losses due to ransomware encryption and data breaches. Sophos Rapid Response has since been deployed to support the MSP in post-breach forensics and damage control.
DragonForce’s evolution has been notable. Emerging in 2023, the group now promotes itself as a cartel, aiming to attract more affiliate hackers. Its recent claim of hijacking RansomHub’s infrastructure shows its growing ambitions. Moreover, some high-profile affiliates, including the infamous Scattered Spider group, have reportedly joined forces with DragonForce in recent campaigns targeting retailers in the UK and US.
What Undercode Say:
This breach exemplifies the dangerous trend of cybercriminals exploiting trusted IT tools to launch devastating ransomware attacks. MSPs, which serve as the backbone for IT operations in countless businesses, are becoming increasingly attractive targets due to their centralized access to client systems.
SimpleHelp, like many RMM tools, provides broad and deep access—ideal for remote troubleshooting, but also perfect for cybercriminals once they find a way in. The three vulnerabilities exploited in this case reflect how critical it is for software vendors to not only patch vulnerabilities swiftly but also to communicate risk transparently to their user base.
DragonForce’s tactics are also worth noting. The adoption of a cartel model with distributed affiliates mimics trends seen in organized crime—decentralized yet coordinated, making attribution and containment more challenging. Their takeover of RansomHub’s infrastructure and alliance with seasoned groups like Scattered Spider could mark a shift in ransomware dominance. If accurate, this signals a potential rise in high-impact, high-profile attacks in the months ahead.
Sophos’s successful interception of one client’s breach attempts reinforces the value of MDR and behavioral detection. Signature-based tools are often blind to novel exploits, while behavioral analysis can flag suspicious actions, even when traditional indicators are missing.
The divide between clients with and without MDR coverage also highlights the widening gap in organizational cyber resilience. Many businesses still underestimate the severity of supply chain risks, especially from third-party service providers.
Moreover, DragonForce’s double extortion tactic has become the new norm. Encrypting data alone is no longer the endgame; the real damage comes from the public leak of sensitive information. This not only increases pressure on victims to pay but also amplifies reputational damage.
The question isn’t just about having backups anymore. It’s about having active threat monitoring, zero-trust access models, regular vulnerability assessments, and a response plan that can kick in within minutes.
This incident also puts a spotlight on vulnerability disclosure timelines. The fact that all three exploited flaws were already known (and presumably patchable) raises concerns about patch adoption rates among MSPs. Either the MSP failed to update SimpleHelp, or the patch wasn’t effective. Either way, it’s a wake-up call for organizations to enforce stricter SLAs with their service providers regarding timely security updates.
The reality is that threat actors are not just getting smarter—they’re getting organized. And if security strategies don’t evolve at the same pace, more breaches like this will become inevitable.
Fact Checker Results ✅
DragonForce has publicly claimed involvement in recent ransomware campaigns targeting MSPs 🧠
CVEs used in the attack were disclosed in 2024 and are verified vulnerabilities 📂
Sophos’ report on behavioral defense efficacy is consistent with past documented success in threat interception 🚨
Prediction 🔮
Expect DragonForce to accelerate its affiliate recruitment, likely leading to a surge in ransomware campaigns throughout Q3 and Q4 of 2025. RMM tools will become a major focal point for attackers, and businesses that fail to harden their remote access infrastructures or skip MDR services may face devastating consequences. Additionally, vendors of IT management tools will likely come under increased scrutiny from regulators and cybersecurity watchdogs.
References:
Reported By: www.infosecurity-magazine.com
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