AI used in Aur0ra ransomware testing and execution


In May 2026, Counter Threat Unit™ (CTU) researchers published a report on an AI-orchestrated post-exploitation framework that tested the capabilities of multiple vendors’ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, including the Sophos agent. Following a testing phase, Sophos analysts observed the same infrastructure hosting Cobalt Strike in support of Aur0ra ransomware (also known as Aurora ransomware) operations. Sophos analysis has revealed that the GOLD OGRE cybercriminal group, which operates Aur0ra ransomware, extensively uses AI to conduct attacks. The tools and tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) observed by Sophos analysts align with third-party reporting of AI usage in similar compromises.

Read more…
Source:  Sophos


Sign up for the Cyber Security Review Newsletter
The latest cyber security news and insights delivered right to your inbox


Related:

  • Hackers scan for vulnerable devices minutes after bug disclosure

    May 19, 2021

    Every hour, a threat actor starts a new scan on the public web for vulnerable systems, moving at a quicker pace than global enterprises when trying to identify serious vulnerabilities on their networks. The adversaries’ efforts increase significantly when critical vulnerabilities emerge, with new internet-wide scans happening within minutes from the disclosure. Read more… Source: Bleeping Computer  

  • Qlocker ransomware shuts down after extorting hundreds of QNAP users

    May 19, 2021

    The Qlocker ransomware gang has shut down their operation after earning $350,000 in a month by exploiting vulnerabilities in QNAP NAS devices. Starting on April 19th, QNAP NAS device owners worldwide suddenly discovered that their device’s files were replaced by password-protected 7-zip archives. Read more… Source:  Bleeping Computer  

  • Stalkerware Apps Riddled with Security Bugs

    May 18, 2021

    Android stalkerware apps – used to surreptitiously track people’s movements and digital activities – turn out to themselves be rife with security holes that put victims in even danger. Stalkerware can track the GPS location of a victim’s device, record conversations, capture images and snoop on browser histories. And overall, according to ESET researcher Lukas Stefanko, ...

  • Ireland: ‘Wizard Spider’ cybercrime gang claim Health Service Executive attack

    May 18, 2021

    Hackers known as Wizard Spider are spinning a web of chaos since it launched a ransomware attack on the Health Service Executive last week. The Russian hackers have claimed responsibility for the most serious ever cyberattack on Ireland’s critical infrastructure. The group, who are seeking ransom of up to €20 million in cryptocurrency, are not motivated by ...

  • DarkSide Hits Toshiba; XSS Forum Bans Ransomware

    May 17, 2021

    For a ransomware gang whose servers were purportedly commandeered last week, DarkSide has had a server-fueled weekend, with a reported hit on Toshiba Business. Late on Thursday night came a post to the “Exploit” underground forum that looked, at least, to be from DarkSide. It described how the gang’s blog, payment processing and denial-of-service (DoS) servers ...

  • ‘We won’t pay ransom,’ says Ireland after attack on health service

    May 17, 2021

    Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) has ruled out giving in to hackers’ demands as the country’s healthcare and social services continue to deal with the disruption caused by a significant ransomware attack that occurred a few days ago. The HSE has now confirmed that a ransom has been sought by the attackers, although the exact amount ...