FBI warning Gmail – FBI issues warning to all Gmail users

The FBI and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have issued a warning for users of popular email services like Gmail and Outlook, urging them to remain vigilant against a dangerous ransomware scheme.

According to a recently released advisory, the Medusa ransomware gang, which has been active since 2021, poses a significant threat. The group has now adopted an affiliate model while still maintaining central control over key operations, including ransom negotiations.

The advisory highlights that Medusa actors use a double extortion strategy, where they encrypt victims’ data and threaten to expose sensitive information if the ransom is not paid.

Medusa Ransomware Targets Multiple Sectors

More than 300 victims across various industries, including healthcare, education, legal, insurance, technology, and manufacturing, have been affected.

The gang primarily infiltrates systems through phishing campaigns, where fraudulent emails trick users into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information. They also exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software, locking users out of their own systems until a ransom is paid.

FBI and CISA Recommendations

To protect against Medusa ransomware, the FBI and CISA advise users to:

• Use long, unique passwords for all accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for webmail, VPNs, and critical systems.
• Regularly update operating systems, software, and firmware to patch security vulnerabilities.

With cyber threats on the rise, authorities stress the importance of staying alert and following best security practices to safeguard personal and business data.