Google TAG issues a warning about ARCHIPELAGO cyberattacks linked to North Korea

In recent years, cyberattacks have become an increasingly common problem, with hackers constantly seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. One group that has been particularly active in this regard is North Korea, which has been linked to a number of high-profile cyberattacks in recent years.

Now, Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG) has issued a warning about a new wave of attacks that it believes are linked to North Korea and which are designed to target businesses in the United States and other countries.

The attacks which are being carried out by a group known as ARCHIPELAGO, are believed to be part of a broader campaign by North Korea to steal sensitive information from businesses and governments around the world.

According to Google, the ARCHIPELAGO group has been active since at least 2021, and has been using a range of tactics to target its victims. These include spear-phishing attacks, in which the hackers send targeted emails to specific individuals in order to gain access to their computer systems or networks, as well as more general phishing attacks, in which they attempt to trick people into revealing their login credentials or other sensitive information.

One of the key features of the ARCHIPELAGO attacks is their use of so-called "watering hole" attacks. In this type of attack, the hackers target a website that they know their intended victims are likely to visit, and then infect that website with malware or other malicious code. When the victim visits the site, they unwittingly download the malware onto their own computer or device, giving the hackers access to their data and systems.

Google's TAG has warned that the ARCHIPELAGO attacks are particularly sophisticated and that the hackers behind them are using a range of advanced techniques to evade detection and maintain their access to their victims' systems.

For example, they are using custom malware that is specifically designed to avoid detection by security software, as well as sophisticated encryption techniques to protect their communications and data.

Despite the sophistication of the ARCHIPELAGO attacks, there are steps that businesses and individuals can take to protect themselves. One of the most important is to be vigilant for signs of phishing or other types of cyberattacks, and to be wary of any unexpected or suspicious emails, messages or requests. In addition, businesses should ensure that their computer systems and networks are properly secured, with up-to-date anti-virus and anti-malware software, firewalls, and other security measures in place.

It is also important for businesses to educate their employees about the risks of cyberattacks, and to provide them with training and guidance on how to recognise and respond to potential threats. This might include regular security awareness training, as well as policies and procedures for responding to incidents and reporting suspicious activity.

Ultimately, the ARCHIPELAGO attacks are a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by cyberattacks, and the need for businesses and individuals to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves. By staying up-to-date with the latest security threats and implementing effective security measures, businesses can help to safeguard their data, systems and reputation, and reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.