American Radio Relay League Details

    Organization Logo

    American Radio Relay League

    Newington, Connecticut • 50 employees • Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation

    Industry

    Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation

    Security Incidents

    1

    The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) is the national association for amateur radio operators in the United States, founded in 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim. It promotes and advances the art, science, and enjoyment of amateur radio through education, advocacy, and various programs, supporting over 150,000 members. ARRL provides resources for licensing, technical information, and emergency communications, fostering a community of radio enthusiasts and facilitating public service communication during disasters.

    Security Incidents

    American Radio Relay League Breach of May 2024
    Severity Score
    Significant to High

    Type

    Ransomware Attack

    Summary

    On May 14, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) experienced a cyberattack resulting in the encryption of their computer systems by a ransomware group, suspected to be the Embargo operation. The attack led to the compromise of personal data for approximately 150 employees, including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers. ARRL took immediate action by taking affected systems offline and enlisting external forensic experts for investigation.

    Despite the severity of the breach, there is no evidence of misuse of stolen personal information, and ARRL is providing affected individuals with...
    Show more

    Severity

    The ransomware attack on the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) led to the encryption of their computer systems and compromised personal data for approximately 150 employees, including sensitive details like Social Security numbers. The attackers deployed file-encrypting malware across various systems, prompting the ARRL to pay a $1 million ransom, with partial insurance coverage, to regain access to their data. Despite prompt action involving forensic experts, forming a crisis management team, and collaborating with federal law enforcement, the incident required taking several services offlin...
    Show more

    Impact

    The incident with the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) on May 14 involved a ransomware attack, specifically attributed to the Embargo operation. This resulted in the encryption of their computer systems, which compromised personal data for around 150 employees, including sensitive information such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers. The ARRL responded promptly by taking affected systems offline and partnering with external forensic experts to investigate the breach.

    The ransomware attack also deployed file-encrypting malware, impacting a range of systems from desktops and lapt...
    Show more

    KEEP YOUR ENVIRONMENT SECURE

    Weak credentials are the leading cause of breaches. Beyond Identity can help.

    See MFA exploits in action
    Watch how adversaries exploit companies in quick videos