Primal Wear Hit By Ransomware

Summary

Cycling apparel brand Primal Wear suffered a ransomware attack impacting over 10,000 files. The attack, attributed to the RansomHub group, compromised company financials, employee data, and sales information. Currently, there’s no evidence of customer data being affected.

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** Main Story**

Ransomware Attack Targets Cycling Apparel Giant Primal Wear

Primal Wear, a Denver-based cycling apparel company known for its vibrant and often outlandish designs, fell victim to a ransomware attack in late December 2024. The attack, publicized by ransomware tracking website RansomLook on January 11, 2025, involved the theft of over 17 gigabytes of data, encompassing more than 10,000 files. The notorious RansomHub group, a prominent player in the ransomware-as-a-service landscape, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Scope of the Breach and Ransomware Group’s Tactics

Evidence suggests the compromised data includes sensitive information related to Primal Wear’s financials, employee records, and sales data. Screenshots shared by RansomHub reveal folders labeled “Invoices,” “Employees,” and “Financials,” along with a directory listing of PDFs, images, and spreadsheets. Ironically, among the stolen files was a CyberRisk Application form from Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America, presumably for ransomware insurance. While the specific ransom demands remain undisclosed, typical RansomHub attacks involve encrypting stolen data and demanding payment to prevent its public release. As of today, June 12, 2025, there are no public reports indicating whether Primal Wear paid the ransom or if any data has been leaked.

Primal Wear’s Response and Wider Implications

Primal Wear has not officially commented on the attack. Several attempts by media outlets to reach the company have been unsuccessful. This silence is not unusual in such situations, as companies often grapple with the legal and public relations ramifications of a data breach. The incident underscores the increasing threat of ransomware attacks against businesses of all sizes. While large corporations and healthcare institutions are frequent targets, smaller companies like Primal Wear are equally vulnerable. The relatively low cost and ease of deploying ransomware-as-a-service kits have significantly lowered the barrier to entry for cybercriminals.

Data Breaches in the Cycling Industry

This is not the first time a cycling-related company has faced a ransomware attack. In late 2023, Shimano, a major player in the cycling components industry, suffered a significant data breach orchestrated by the LockBit 3.0 ransomware group. In that instance, 4.5 terabytes of data were stolen. Shimano refused to pay the ransom, resulting in the public release of the stolen information, including sensitive employee data. These incidents highlight the urgent need for companies to prioritize cybersecurity measures and invest in robust data protection strategies. Regular data backups, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and employee cybersecurity training are essential steps in mitigating the risk of ransomware attacks.

Ransomware Attacks: A Growing Epidemic

The healthcare sector has been particularly hard hit by ransomware attacks in recent years. Hospitals and medical establishments are attractive targets for cybercriminals due to the sensitivity of patient data and the potential for disrupting critical services. A successful attack can cripple a hospital’s operations, putting patient lives at risk. The financial cost of these attacks can be immense, including ransom payments, data recovery expenses, and the cost of addressing regulatory fines and lawsuits. Furthermore, the reputational damage can be substantial, eroding patient trust and impacting the hospital’s long-term viability.

Combating the Ransomware Threat

Addressing the ransomware epidemic requires a multi-pronged approach. Law enforcement agencies around the world are collaborating to disrupt ransomware groups, but the decentralized and often anonymous nature of these groups makes it challenging to bring perpetrators to justice. Governments are also exploring policy options, such as stricter regulations on cryptocurrency transactions, which are often used for ransom payments. At the individual and organizational level, vigilance and proactive cybersecurity measures are crucial. Staying informed about the latest ransomware threats, implementing robust security protocols, and educating employees about best practices can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.