Russian Hackers Attack US Broadcaster in Major Data Breach

A Russian ransomware group has claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on a US broadcaster that exposed passports and financial data of 800+ employees.

The Termite ransomware group posted on their dark web site claiming responsibility for breaching News-Press & Gazette Company (NPG), an American media broadcaster.

This cyber gang follows typical ransomware tactics by posting stolen data samples online to pressure victims into paying ransom demands.

A report from Cybernews verified the claims and found alarming evidence supporting the breach. The exposed information creates serious risks for NPG’s workforce and business operations.

What Data Was Stolen

The hackers claim to have accessed highly sensitive information including:

• Revenue reports and financial statements
• US passport photos of company executives
• Tax documentation and budget spreadsheets
• Employee personal contact details and home addresses
• Internal corporate documents

The breach affects more than 800 NPG employees who now face increased risks of identity theft, financial fraud, and targeted phishing attacks. Company executives are particularly vulnerable due to passport exposure.

NPG operates as a family-owned media company based in St. Joseph, Missouri. Their broadcast network serves audiences through major network affiliates including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, CW, Telemundo, Azteca, and MyNetwork. The company generates an estimated $108.4 million in annual revenue.

The Termite Ransomware Gang

Termite emerged in late 2024 as another offshoot of the leaked Babuk ransomware code from 2021. This group has targeted at least 23 organizations over the past year according to dark web monitoring.

Their most high-profile attack hit Blue Yonder supply chain systems, forcing major retailers like Starbucks to track employee hours manually with pen and paper. Security experts believe Termite may have connections to other Russian cybercrime groups like Cl0p.

Final Thoughts

This breach highlights the ongoing threat foreign ransomware groups pose to American businesses.

NPG’s situation shows how family-owned companies can become targets for international cybercrime groups seeking financial gain through data theft and extortion tactics.

For more details on this story, refer to the original report from Cybernews.

We want to know your thoughts. What do you think about this story? Let us know in the comment section below!

Be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest streaming news, reviews, tips, and more by following the TROYPOINT Advisor with updates weekly.