News

#StopRansomware Advisory: Interlock Ransomware Threats and Mitigation

Luciano Ferrari

02 Jan 2026 — 2 min read

Friday, January 2, 2026

Top 5 Cybersecurity Stories You Should Know

#StopRansomware Advisory: Interlock Ransomware Threats and Mitigation — tl;dr: The CISA, FBI, and other agencies have issued a joint advisory on Interlock ransomware, first identified in September 2024, which targets businesses and critical infrastructure in North America and Europe. This ransomware employs a double extortion model, encrypting data after exfiltration and using social engineering techniques for initial access. Organizations are urged to implement robust cybersecurity measures, including DNS filtering, network segmentation, and multifactor authentication, to mitigate risks. For detailed tactics, techniques, and indicators of compromise, refer to the advisory and consider downloading the associated resources.
↪ https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/cybersecurity-advisories/aa25-203a
DHS Allocates Over $100 Million for Community Cybersecurity Grants — tl;dr: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and FEMA, has announced over $100 million in grant funding to enhance community cybersecurity. This includes $91.7 million for state and local governments under the Fiscal Year 2025 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) and $12.1 million for tribal governments through the Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program (TCGP). These grants aim to bolster cybersecurity defenses, reduce risks, and empower local entities to improve their digital infrastructure. Interested parties can find application resources at CISA.gov.
↪ https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/dhs-launches-over-100-million-funding-strengthen-communities-cyber-defenses
CISA Cybersecurity Best Practices: Essential Measures for Individuals and Organizations — tl;dr: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) outlines crucial cybersecurity best practices aimed at enhancing online safety for individuals and organizations. Key recommendations include using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and staying vigilant against suspicious links. As cyber threats continue to evolve, CISA emphasizes the importance of tailored cybersecurity plans to protect critical infrastructure and maintain operational resilience. By implementing these practices, both government and private entities can mitigate risks and strengthen their defenses against potential cyber incidents.
↪ https://www.cisa.gov/topics/cybersecurity-best-practices
DHS Strengthens National Cybersecurity Resilience Through CISA Initiatives — tl;dr: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plays a pivotal role in enhancing cybersecurity resilience across the United States through its Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). CISA leads federal cybersecurity efforts, collaborates with state and local governments, and coordinates critical infrastructure protection. Key initiatives include securing election infrastructure and addressing vulnerabilities, such as those highlighted in the Cyber Safety Review Board's report on the Log4j software flaw. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with CISA for resources and guidance to fortify their cybersecurity measures and protect against evolving threats.
↪ https://www.dhs.gov/topics/cybersecurity
CISA Offers Comprehensive Cybersecurity Training and Exercises for All Levels — tl;dr: The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) provides extensive no-cost cybersecurity training and exercises aimed at federal employees, private-sector professionals, and the general public. Through its CISA Learning platform, users can access a variety of online courses covering topics like cloud security, ethical hacking, and incident response. CISA also conducts cybersecurity exercises to enhance critical infrastructure resilience. Stakeholders are encouraged to utilize these resources to improve their cybersecurity skills and preparedness against potential threats.
↪ https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-training-exercises