GambleForce

By Ashwin Venugopal -

 







Overview

A previously unknown threat actor codenamed GambleForce has been discovered in 2023. It was tracked under the name EagleStrike GambleForce in Group IB's Threat Intelligence Platform. Since its emergence, it has targeted more than 20 gambling, government, retail, and travel websites of the countries like Australia, India, Canada, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, South Korea, Thailand, and Brazil. 

GambleForce make use of very basic yet sophisticated techniques, such as SQL injections and the exploitation of vulnerable website Content Management System (CMS), to steal sensitive information. Its name was also coined due its initial target interest in the gambling industry. 

Tactics & Techniques

The basic strategy of GambleForce rely on fundamental but effective techniques to exploit SQL vulnerabilities and weak spots in website CMS. They have precise target scope with the gambling, government, retail, and travel industries in their crosshairs.

However, the infamous SQL injection forms the core of their attack methodology. SQL injection is an old hacking technology that involves insertion of malicious SQL statements into entry fields, to manipulate database and enable unauthorized data access. 

Preventive Measures

In order to protect against SQL injection attacks, the companies must employ numerous best practices, including:
  1. Input validation through whitelisting.
  2. Parameterized queries leveraging secure programming languages.
  3. Use stored procedures along with the escaping techniques.
  4. Deploy web application firewalls to detect and block SQL injection attempts.
  5. Employ rigorous least privilege policies in database access.
  6. All components of the web application infrastructure must be updated regularly.
The above practices can not only deflect SQL injection attacks, but also offer protection against a broad spectrum of cyber threats.

Takeaway!

GambleForce is a stark reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Hence, otganizations should remain proactive, vigilant, and adaptive in their cybersecurity efforts. 






































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