Threat Actors Use Stolen RDP Credentials to Deploy Cephalus Ransomware

A new ransomware group, Cephalus, has emerged in the cybersecurity threat landscape, targeting organizations through compromised Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) accounts.

First detected in mid-June 2025, this group represents a growing threat to businesses that have not implemented proper security measures on their remote access systems.

How Cephalus Operates

The Cephalus ransomware group employs a sophisticated attack strategy that begins with stealing credentials from RDP accounts lacking multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Once inside a victim’s network, the threat actors deploy their customized ransomware designed to target specific organizations.

Their attack chain involves breaching the system, stealing sensitive data, and then encrypting it to maximize pressure on victims.

The group has openly stated they are motivated entirely by financial gain, making them a purely profit-driven cybercriminal operation.

What sets Cephalus apart from other ransomware groups is its tailored approach to each victim. Rather than using generic ransomware ...