TeamViewer Hack - What you need to know

TL;DR

TeamViewer detected a breach in its internal corporate IT network on  the 26th of June 2024, unrelated to its customer-facing services. While the incident did not affect user data or software functionality, it prompted immediate response and collaboration with cybersecurity experts globally. Reports suggest the involvement of an Advanced Persistent Threat group APT29, also known as CozyBear. Actions on are:

• Change your TeamViewer password without delay and activate two-factor authentication to enhance security.
• Ensure the installation of the most recent TeamViewer version, which incorporates the latest security updates.
• Keep a close watch on your TeamViewer account for any signs of unauthorized access or unusual activities.
• Exercise caution with emails from unknown sources, particularly those containing links or attachments, to prevent phishing attacks.

Was TeamViewer hacked? Again?

The news about the TeamViewer hack is gaining attention this week, and I anticipdate that the coverage will intensify. For information on their last breach earlier this year, check out our insights article. This latest breach of the digital perimeter was discovered in TeamViewer's internal corporate IT systems on the 26th of June 2024. TeamViewer's software is crucial for remote access for millions of users worldwide, with a strong use in the Logistics, Technology and Finance sectors. Any breach raises significant concerns about data security and operational integrity.

Let us delve into how the breach was detected, what steps TeamViewer is taking to minimize the impact, and what you and your business can do to protect themselves in the wake of this cybersecurity incident.

TeamViewer, a well-known remote access software provider, has reported a breach through its Trust Center. TeamViewer emphasized that the perimeter breach occurred in the internal corporate IT environment, which is separate from its customer-facing product environment. This differentiation is crucial since it implies that although TeamViewer's internal systems were compromised, there is no evidence to suggest a direct impact on the functionality of its remote access software or the security of customer data.

Upon discovering the breach, TeamViewer promptly activated its response team and collaborated with external experts to conduct investigations and implement remedial actions.

Our Villian du jour: APT29

Reports suggest the Advanced Persistent Threat group APT29, also known as CozyBear, may have conducted the TeamViewer data breach. While TeamViewer has not disclosed specific details about the attackers' identities or motives, this is a significant compromise of TeamViewer by a possible national state actor which who the majority of the western world are current stepping around the issue of war with. Such groups are typically associated with sophisticated cyber espionage activities, targeting valuable intellectual property, financial data, or other sensitive information.

What does the TeamViewer data breach mean?

TeamViewer has confirmed that the recent data breach did not compromise the software used by its customers. This is a significant statement to make, and may lead people into beleiving that TeamViewer is safe. While we have no doubt this is true, you have to ask yourself that if a Russian state backed APT group got into the corporate network, how easily could they have pivotted their attack to gain access to the client networks?

Either way, it serves as a reminder of companies' critical importance in safeguarding their internal systems from potential cyber threats. TeamViewer has assured its users that there is no immediate cause for concern, but it would be prudent to be aware.

In response to the breach, cybersecurity organizations such as the Dutch Digital Trust Center and Health-ISAC have issued alerts, expressing worries about the possibility of threat actors exploiting TeamViewer services.

What has TeamViewer done to Counter the Breach?

In the wake of the breach, TeamViewer has implemented several strategies to contain the damage and avert future incidents. These measures encompass:    

• Credential revocation: Immediate invalidation of the compromised credentials and the introduction of heightened security protocols to safeguard the company’s infrastructure.
• In-depth analusis: Collaboration with cybersecurity experts to conduct an exhaustive probe into the breach and pinpoint any latent vulnerabilities.
• Security fortification: Deployment of advanced security safeguards to fortify the protection of the company’s systems and data, including the reinforcement of access controls and surveillance mechanisms.
• Communication: Proactive engagement with the user community, providing regular updates on the ongoing investigation and the corrective steps being taken.

What can you do now?

If you are worried about the recent TeamViewer data breach or cybersecurity in general, here are steps you can take to enhance your security:

1. Update credentials: Change your TeamViewer password without delay and activate two-factor authentication to enhance security.
2. Review access logs: Regularly check access logs for any unauthorized or suspicious remote access attempts.
3. Software ipdates: Ensure the installation of the most recent TeamViewer version, which incorporates the latest security updates.
4. Review access locations: Check the source location of any remote connections, or better still set up an alert to alert you to out-of-the-ordinary connection locations.
5. Monitor accounts: Look for unusual activity on your TeamViewer or other remote access accounts.
6. Update security measures: Ensure your antivirus software, firewalls, and other security tools are current.
7. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
8. Stay informed: Stay updated with news from TeamViewer and other cybersecurity sources for the latest developments and best practices.
9. Be Vigulant: Exercise caution with emails from unknown sources, particularly those containing links or attachments, to prevent phishing attacks.

Following these steps can help reduce risks and strengthen cybersecurity in light of incidents like the TeamViewer hack.

Need more help?

If you need more assistance or are concerned, then give us a call or send us an email. Our SOC365 team are always happy to discuss how we can help with our completed managed SOC and Cyber Defence service.