--- title: What is BlackMatter Ransomware? description: BlackMatter ransomware is a growing threat to businesses as the group targets major corporations. Here are the basics that you need to know. image: https://blog.seedspark.com/hubfs/Blackmatter.png --- [![logo-white-2020](https://blog.seedspark.com/hs-fs/hubfs/logo-white-2020.png?width=80&height=80&name=logo-white-2020.png "logo-white-2020")](https://seedspark.com/) [![logo-square](https://blog.seedspark.com/hs-fs/hubfs/logo-square.png?width=55&height=54&name=logo-square.png "logo-square")](https://seedspark.com/) [![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1546797/3ad3da3a-9602-4c46-afb0-274659a1f959.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1546797/3ad3da3a-9602-4c46-afb0-274659a1f959) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&title=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?&description=BlackMatter%20ransomware%20is%20a%20growing%20threat%20to%20businesses%20as%20the%20group%20targets%20major%20corporations.%20Here%20are%20the%20basics%20that%20you%20need%20to%20know.) - [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&text=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?%20-%20https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware) - [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&title=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?&summary=BlackMatter%20ransomware%20is%20a%20growing%20threat%20to%20businesses%20as%20the%20group%20targets%20major%20corporations.%20Here%20are%20the%20basics%20that%20you%20need%20to%20know.) 23 September 2021 Thursday # What is BlackMatter Ransomware? By [Samuel Adams](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/samuel-adams) In: [cybersecurity](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/topic/cybersecurity) BlackMatter ransomware has made headlines in the last month as the string of cyberattacks that have defined a large part of 2021 continue. Discovered at the end of July, BlackMatter is a new ransomware that seems to have been developed by malicious developers associated with another group of cybercriminals, DarkSide. While BlackMatter's developers claim that they are entirely new, [McAfee's analysis](https://www.mcafee.com/blogs/enterprise/mcafee-enterprise-atr/blackmatter-ransomware-analysis-the-dark-side-returns/) of the malware shows eerie similarities between the two attacks that lead professionals to believe these attackers are one in the same.  ### NEW Cooperative's Ransomware Attack The latest BlackMatter ransomware attack targeted NEW Cooperative, Inc., an Iowa-based agriculture services provider, taking its operations offline and demanding a $5.9M ransom in return for a decryptor key. NEW Cooperative's technology powers 40 percent of grain production in addition to the feed schedules of 11 million farm animals across the country, posing a major threat to the country's core food production process.  ### BlackMatter's Mixed Messaging on "Critical Infrastructure" After going public with their attacks, BlackMatter has established a set of ground rules that they (supposedly) abide by that establish companies that are off-limits to attack. [Leaked screenshots](https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2021/09/5-9-million-ransomware-attack-on-farming-co-op-may-cause-food-shortage/) of a private chat reveal more information, sharing that the group will offer free decryption for hospitals, critical infrastructure facilities (nuclear power plants, power plants, water treatment facilities), oil and gas companies, defense industry, non-profit companies, and government organizations.  Unfortunately, it seems that these rules are either loosely followed or fabricated altogether as the group targets a major element in domestic food production and distribution that could impact the availability of goods across the U.S. if not handled appropriately. ### Ransomware Protection Tips for Small Businesses Between Colonial Pipeline, JBS Foods, and NEW Cooperative, ransomware attacks seem to be increasingly targeting operations that may often be out of the public eye, but that play a large role in upholding daily life behind the scenes. While ransomware attacks on large-scale companies are constantly peppering the headlines, it's important to remember that over half of ransomware attacks target small businesses. Here's what small business owners can do to stay prepared: ***Enable Multi-Factor Authentication **– *Multi-factor authentication, often known as MFA, is the first line of defense against an attack. By requiring an additional sign-on code from a second source, MFA immediately eliminates the overwhelming majority of phishing attacks and password theft. ***Use AI-Based Cyber Endpoint Protection*** – AI-powered cyber endpoint protection, used by our team at SeedSpark, creates a dynamic defense that learns to identify and eliminate the latest threats targeting every device on your network. ***Create a Backup and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) Plan ***– From regular hourly backups to cyber liability insurance, creating a comprehensive plan that helps your business address and recover from a cyberattack is key in making sure that your business is able to bounce back in the worst-case scenario. SeedSpark is a technology partner for SMBs, delivering AI-powered cybersecurity and ransomware protection for clients of all sizes. We partner with businesses to deliver antivirus software, anti-malware software, email security software, and training, all combined with daily data backups to provide protection and peace of mind. Contact our team today to learn more about our complete cybersecurity packages for small businesses. [![Learn More About SeedSpark Cybersecurity](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/1546797/626b2ef7-3ca4-4bb5-ad7f-fe80e234836f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/1546797/626b2ef7-3ca4-4bb5-ad7f-fe80e234836f)   **Tags:** [cybersecurity](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/topic/cybersecurity) Share: - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&title=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?&description=BlackMatter%20ransomware%20is%20a%20growing%20threat%20to%20businesses%20as%20the%20group%20targets%20major%20corporations.%20Here%20are%20the%20basics%20that%20you%20need%20to%20know.) - [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&text=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?%20-%20https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware) - [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware&title=What%20is%20BlackMatter%20Ransomware?&summary=BlackMatter%20ransomware%20is%20a%20growing%20threat%20to%20businesses%20as%20the%20group%20targets%20major%20corporations.%20Here%20are%20the%20basics%20that%20you%20need%20to%20know.) ### Written by [Samuel Adams](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/samuel-adams) As a lifelong fan of technology, Sam has always had a deep interest in learning about the latest innovations and how they are revolutionizing the worlds of business, marketing, and entertainment. As Social Media and Content Specialist at SeedSpark, he spends time chasing the newest trends and breakthroughs pushing the digital transformation in our personal and professional lives. - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-adams-717b42147/) PREVIOUS POST [** Construct by SeedSpark - Complete Construction Management Software ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/construct-by-seedspark) [**](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware#top) Next Post [What is Microsoft Viva? **](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-microsoft-viva) [Content Title](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/what-is-blackmatter-ransomware#) Description ### Search ### Recent Posts [ Building a Resilient Business: Strategies for Navigating Economic Uncertainty ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/building-a-resilient-business-strategies-for-navigating-economic-uncertainty) [Chad Jenkins](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/chad-jenkins) Feb 1, 2024 [ Harnessing Data for Business Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Data-Driven Decision-Making ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/harnessing-data-for-business-success-a-comprehensive-guide-to-data-driven-decision-making) [Chad Jenkins](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/chad-jenkins) Jan 8, 2024 [ Top Business Trends of 2024: Strategies for Growth and Success ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/top-business-trends-of-2024-strategies-for-growth-and-success) [Chad Jenkins](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/chad-jenkins) Jan 4, 2024 [ Empowering Organizations with CISA's Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023 Toolkit ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/empowering-organizations-with-cisas-cybersecurity-awareness-month-2023-toolkit) [Patrick Kinsley](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/patrick-kinsley) Oct 26, 2023 [ Four Essential Steps to Enhance Your Online Safety ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety) [Patrick Kinsley](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/patrick-kinsley) Oct 19, 2023 ### Popular Posts [ The 8 Best Productivity Tools Included with Microsoft 365 ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/meet_office365) [Samuel Adams](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/samuel-adams) - Apr 21, 2021 [ Bots Are Stealing MFA Codes and Accessing Accounts - The New Cyber Threat in 2021 ](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/mfa-code-stealing) [Samuel Adams](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/samuel-adams) - Nov 3, 2021 [ What is Windows 11 S Mode and Should You Use It? 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While the month might soon be over, cybersecurity issues and threats most certainly are not. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in partnership with the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA), has taken a significant step in this direction by unveiling the Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2023 Toolkit. This comprehensive resource is designed to empower organizations, IT professionals, and individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex world of cyber threats.   By [Patrick Kinsley](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/patrick-kinsley) In: [Technology](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/topic/technology) [**](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/empowering-organizations-with-cisas-cybersecurity-awareness-month-2023-toolkit) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety&title=Four%20Essential%20Steps%20to%20Enhance%20Your%20Online%20Safety&description=Whether%20you're%20an%20individual%20looking%20to%20protect%20your%20personal%20data%20or%20an%20IT%20professional%20tasked%20with%20safeguarding%20company%20information,%20there%20are%20fundamental%20steps%20you%20can%20take%20to%20enhance%20online%20safety.) - [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety&text=Four%20Essential%20Steps%20to%20Enhance%20Your%20Online%20Safety%20-%20https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety) - [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety&title=Four%20Essential%20Steps%20to%20Enhance%20Your%20Online%20Safety&summary=Whether%20you're%20an%20individual%20looking%20to%20protect%20your%20personal%20data%20or%20an%20IT%20professional%20tasked%20with%20safeguarding%20company%20information,%20there%20are%20fundamental%20steps%20you%20can%20take%20to%20enhance%20online%20safety.) ## [Four Essential Steps to Enhance Your Online Safety](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety) As cyber threats continue to evolve, both individuals and businesses must be proactive in their approach to cybersecurity. Whether you're an individual looking to protect your personal data or an IT professional tasked with safeguarding company information, there are fundamental steps you can take to enhance online safety. Here are four essential steps to consider:   By [Patrick Kinsley](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/patrick-kinsley) In: [Technology](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/topic/technology) [**](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/four-essential-steps-to-enhance-your-online-safety) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023&title=Secure%20Our%20World:%20The%20New%20Mantra%20for%20Cybersecurity%20in%202023%20and%20Beyond&description=As%20cyber%20threats%20continue%20to%20evolve,%20so%20must%20our%20approach%20to%20safeguarding%20our%20digital%20realm.%20Enter) - [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023&text=Secure%20Our%20World:%20The%20New%20Mantra%20for%20Cybersecurity%20in%202023%20and%20Beyond%20-%20https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023) - [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023&title=Secure%20Our%20World:%20The%20New%20Mantra%20for%20Cybersecurity%20in%202023%20and%20Beyond&summary=As%20cyber%20threats%20continue%20to%20evolve,%20so%20must%20our%20approach%20to%20safeguarding%20our%20digital%20realm.%20Enter) ## [Secure Our World: The New Mantra for Cybersecurity in 2023 and Beyond](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023) As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must our approach to safeguarding our digital realm. Enter "Secure Our World" – the groundbreaking cybersecurity awareness program launched by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). As we delve into 2023 and look towards the future, this initiative promises to redefine our understanding and approach to cybersecurity.   By [Patrick Kinsley](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/author/patrick-kinsley) In: [Technology](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/topic/technology) [**](https://blog.seedspark.com/blog/secure-our-world-the-new-mantra-for-cybersecurity-in-2023) ## Growth Is Just One Click Away Want to chat? Just share some project details and a member of our sales team will be in touch to learn more about your vision and how we can help!   ##### How can we grow together? 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