Summary: The Bahrain National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has warned of a renewed campaign by the APT34 (OilRig) group targeting the GCC energy and logistics sectors. The group is deploying a new wiper malware called “DrillBit,” designed to disrupt Operational Technology (OT) networks by deleting safety configuration files.
Business Impact: High Regional Threat. This is a targeted “Cyber-Kinetic” attack aimed at causing physical disruption to oil and gas operations. For clients in the industrial sector, this moves the threat from “Data Theft” to “Operational Shutdown.”
Why It Happened: Geopolitical tensions in the region have escalated cyber-sabotage efforts. The malware is delivered via highly targeted spear-phishing emails disguised as “Supply Chain Invoices” from known local vendors.
Recommended Executive Action: Activate “Heightened Alert” for your OT Security Operations Center. Isolate the IT/OT bridge and verify offline backups for all SCADA configuration files. Brief procurement teams on the specific phishing lures (fake invoices).
Hashtags: #Bahrain #NCSC #OilRig #APT34 #OTSecurity #EnergySector #DrillBit