UNC4899, also known as Slow Pisces, TraderTraitor, and Jade Sleet, is a threat actor group that has been identified as a significant cybersecurity concern. This group has primarily targeted companies operating in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, deploying sophisticated spear-phishing attacks to compromise their systems. UNC4899 has been linked to several high-profile cyber-attacks, including the infamous JumpCloud hack that occurred in late June 2023. The group's activities are not confined to a single geographical region or industry, making it a global threat to digital security.
The group has been traced back to North Korea's Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB), according to investigations conducted by Google's Mandiant. Mandiant's findings suggest with high confidence that UNC4899 operates under the auspices of the RGB, aligning its activities with the strategic interests of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). This connection signifies a state-sponsored element to the group's operations, adding an additional layer of complexity and seriousness to the threats posed by UNC4899.
Despite the various aliases used by this group, there seems to be a consensus among cybersecurity experts about the nature of the threat posed by UNC4899. The group's focus on blockchain and cryptocurrency companies indicates a potential interest in financial gain or disruption of these burgeoning industries. As the group's tactics and capabilities become more apparent, it is crucial for organizations, particularly those in targeted sectors, to take proactive measures to protect themselves from potential attacks.
Description last updated: 2024-09-10T03:19:49.592Z