Ransomware Gangs Exploit Unpatched SimpleHelp Flaws in Double Extortion Attacks

Introduction

Cybercriminals are targeting a newly discovered vulnerability in SimpleHelp, a widely used Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) software. The flaw—CVE-2024-57727—has been exploited since early 2025, allowing ransomware gangs like DragonForce and Play to infiltrate IT environments, steal data, and lock systems with double extortion tactics.

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued a high-severity alert, urging businesses to patch affected systems immediately.

What Is SimpleHelp and Why It’s a Prime Target?

SimpleHelp is a remote support tool used by IT teams, managed service providers (MSPs), and internal IT departments to remotely manage client systems.

Because it provides direct access to multiple networks, an exploit in SimpleHelp becomes a gateway for attackers to:

• Access sensitive systems remotely
• Move laterally across environments
• Deploy ransomware and exfiltrate data

About CVE-2024-57727: A Critical Path Traversal Vulnerability

In June 2025, CISA added CVE-2024-57727 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. The flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication and run commands remotely—without any user interaction.

If SimpleHelp is running an unpatched version (5.5.7 or earlier), your system could be exposed right now.

How the Ransomware Attacks Work

Several ransomware groups have actively weaponized this vulnerability:

• DragonForce and Play ransomware are known to be using the exploit
• Targets include utility billing providers, government vendors, and SMBs
• Attackers exfiltrate sensitive data, then deploy encryption
• Victims receive a ransom note demanding payment—or risk public data exposure

This is a classic double extortion scheme: pay once to unlock your systems, and again to prevent data leaks.

How to Protect Your Business from the SimpleHelp Ransomware Exploit

1. Update SimpleHelp Immediately

Check your SimpleHelp version and update to the latest release. Any version below 5.5.8 is considered vulnerable.

2. Hunt for Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Look for red flags such as:

• Unusual remote login activity
• Suspicious executables or scripts
• Unexpected data transfers or backups

🔌 3. Isolate Infected Systems and Rebuild from Clean Backups

If compromised, disconnect affected systems immediately. Rebuild from verified, offline backups.

4. Restrict Remote Access Exposure

• Disable unnecessary remote ports (RDP, SSH)
• Use strong authentication and VPNs
• Monitor all exposed services

5. Follow CISA Guidance

CISA provides real-time alerts, mitigation steps, and KEV updates. Subscribe to CISA alerts to stay ahead of threats.

Final Thoughts

This wave of ransomware attacks exploiting SimpleHelp is a wake-up call. IT and cybersecurity leaders must prioritize patch management and reduce remote access risks. One overlooked update can open the door to catastrophic breaches.