Massive Data Breach Hits WideOpenWest, Hackers Claim Control and Leak Customer Data
In a concerning escalation of cybersecurity threats targeting major service providers, a previously unknown ransomware group named Arkana Security has claimed responsibility for a substantial security breach at WideOpenWest (WoW), one of America’s largest cable operators and internet service providers.
The attackers boasted complete backend control, going so far as to release a video demonstrating their unrestricted access to WoW’s internal systems. According to threat intelligence specialists at Hudson Rock, the breach began with an infostealer malware infection on a WoW employee’s device in September 2024, subsequently propagating across critical infrastructure systems.
Arkana Security did not mince words in their announcement posted on a dark web leak site, stating, “Your infrastructure is a complete disaster – your security is non-existent. The systems are so poorly protected that it’s clear no real effort has been made to secure anything. It’s a huge failure on your part, and the consequences will be severe.”
The hackers claim to have extracted sensitive information, including detailed records of approximately 403,000 user accounts containing emails, passwords, and other personal information. Additionally, they allege possession of another file containing a staggering 2.2 million records, encompassing customer names, phone numbers, addresses, and devices.
Cybersecurity industry leaders have responded strongly to this alarming incident. Yogita Parulekar, CEO of secure cloud infrastructure firm Invi Grid, highlighted discrepancies between WoW’s publicly disclosed cybersecurity governance in its SEC filings and the grim reality exposed by the attackers. Parulekar commented, “Their cybersecurity risk management and governance disclosure in their annual 10K, as required by the SEC, is in stark contrast to the malicious actor’s characterization of the security program as a ‘complete disaster. ‘ There is one indicator, though. If one reads the disclosure closely. From the description, it appears that the Security team is buried deep down in the organization’s hierarchy. All investors and other readers of such a description should immediately question the efficacy of such a program and ability to exert influence and implement a strong cybersecurity posture and governance.”
She further cautioned about the broader business implications: “This hack will have serious business consequences and a direct impact to the public company that is trying to get acquired and go private as it will erode shareholder value. Boards of Directors of all companies should take note as to how inadequate governance and funding of cybersecurity programs can have a direct business consequence. Only then we, the consumers, the people will be safe.”
Lawrence Pingree, Vice President at Dispersive and a recognized expert in zero-trust cyber defense strategies, offered insights into the nature of modern ransomware attacks. “The thing about most of these more recent Ransom attacks is that it’s important to note that threat actors so far want to keep milking organizations out of their funds, so although threat actors often can be more destructive, they don’t kill the sacred cows that they keep milking. Some countries have tried to cut off the proverbial milk by outlawing ransom payments – this seems to have helped in Australia,” Pingree explained.
He underscored the urgent need for improved security strategies, emphasizing, “This is yet another reminder that hyper-connected organizations of all kinds, including ISPs, should be pivoting their programs to Zero Trust Preemptive Cyber Defense, not just detection and response strategies—since detection and response is a fallback position, and this attack again shows that active defense and preemptive maneuvers against threats is essential.”
As the story unfolds, businesses and cybersecurity experts alike watch closely, considering the evolving nature of digital threats and the ongoing importance of robust, proactive security measures.
For additional details:
- Invi Grid: https://www.invigrid.com/
- Dispersive: https://dispersive.io/
Infostealers research: https://www.infostealers.com/article/arkana-ransomware-group-hacks-wideopenwest-using-data-from-an-infostealer-infection/
Steven Bowcut is an award-winning journalist covering cyber and physical security. He is an editor and writer for Brilliance Security Magazine as well as other security and non-security online publications. Follow and connect with Steve on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.