Ransomware Remediation and Network Restoration for a Charity Organization

Overview

A charity organization recently experienced a severe ransomware attack, taking down its entire network, halting critical services, and exposing significant gaps in IT security and backup protocols. The incident highlighted vulnerabilities in the organization’s fragmented IT setup, where incomplete security measures and inadequate backup coverage left them susceptible to attacks. Following the breach, the charity sought immediate assistance from Logically to restore operations, address security gaps, and collaborate with their cyber insurance team to mitigate risks.

Client Background and Analysis of the Problem

• Type of Organization: Charity
• IT Infrastructure: Highly fragmented, managed by multiple vendors with no centralized oversight.

The charity’s IT infrastructure relied on multiple vendors with limited integration, resulting in constrained visibility and response capabilities. Logically provided monitoring and partial backup services, covering only 23 of the 50 servers. Additional security services—such as firewall management and endpoint protection—were managed by separate vendors, yet were inconsistently or incompletely deployed. This lack of coordination, coupled with outdated systems, increased the organization’s vulnerability to cyber threats and complicated their ability to recover from the attack.

Business Impact

A ransomware attack took down the charity’s entire network, leaving the organization unable to access essential systems and forcing it to use a temporary Gmail account for communication. The effects of the attack were severe, impacting not only operations but also HR and payroll, which were down for a week, causing widespread disruption. A month later, remote users were still unable to access portions of the network. Additionally, critical data was permanently lost on 22 servers due to insufficient backup coverage, adding to the organization’s challenges.

Key Challenges:

1. Complete Network Downtime: Entire operations were halted, and the organization relied on temporary email solutions.
2. Inadequate Security Coverage: Fragmented security efforts limited effective response to the attack.
3. Partial Backup Coverage: With only 23 out of 50 servers backed up, recovery efforts were incomplete, resulting in permanent data loss.
4. Outdated Systems: Legacy infrastructure slowed disaster recovery efforts and increased vulnerability.
5. Financial, Operational, and Reputational Risks: The attack led to costly downtime, disrupted payroll, data loss, potential increases in insurance premiums, and heightened concerns over reputational damage.

Solution and Actions Taken

To restore operations, Logically implemented an immediate, structured response plan, including a 150-hour support block for essential recovery tasks.

Response and Recovery Plan:

1. Data Preservation and Backups: Logically backed up all remaining accessible data to mitigate further losses.
2. Server and VM Rebuilds: Teams rebuilt compromised servers and VMs to restore essential services, configuring them to meet pre-attack standards.
3. Enhanced Monitoring and Visibility: Expanded monitoring and patching capabilities were implemented to gain a comprehensive view across the environment, improving coordination.
4. Collaboration with Insurance and Forensic Teams: Logically worked closely with insurance providers and forensic experts to investigate the source and extent of the attack, identifying critical areas needing security upgrades.

Financial and Operational Implications

The ransomware attack has led to substantial financial and operational setbacks, highlighting the risks of fragmented IT management. Beyond immediate recovery costs, the charity faces increased insurance premiums, prolonged downtime, and potential reputational damage, underscoring the need for centralized, resilient IT solutions.

• Immediate Costs: The organization incurred expenses for 24/7 support and server rebuilds to restore baseline functionality.
• Long-term Investments: Given the legacy nature of the IT infrastructure, substantial updates, including hardware and software upgrades, will be necessary to close security gaps.
• Ongoing Operational Costs: Prolonged downtime disrupted HR and payroll functions, creating operational strain. Critical data loss from 22 servers further impacts productivity and data continuity.
• Reputational and Insurance Impact: The organization faces potential reputational damage, which could affect donations and support. Insurance premiums are likely to rise, with additional security requirements anticipated post-investigation.

How Other Organizations Can Avoid Similar Incidents

1. Centralize IT and Security Management: Integrate security monitoring, endpoint protection, and firewall management with a single provider to streamline detection, response, and threat mitigation.
2. Implement Full Backup Solutions: Ensure backup coverage extends to all critical systems, enabling full environment recovery in case of an incident.
3. Modernize IT Infrastructure: Regularly assess and update legacy systems to reduce vulnerabilities and improve disaster recovery capabilities.
4. Conduct Regular Security Audits: Perform ongoing vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and address security gaps, protecting against ransomware and other cyber threats.

By adopting these best practices, organizations can build resilient, centralized IT environments that safeguard critical data, reduce vulnerabilities, and ensure quick response to cyber threats. This charity’s experience highlights the importance of a coordinated approach to cybersecurity in today’s increasingly complex threat landscape.