By Shahzaib • Sat Oct 04 2025
Alphabet-owned Google has raised alarms over a surge in cyberattacks aimed at executives across multiple companies. According to the tech giant, hackers are sending out mass email campaigns, claiming they have stolen confidential business data from Oracle’s E-Business Suite.
The attackers, who allege links to the ransomware group Cl0p, are demanding massive ransom payments in exchange for not leaking the information. Reported demands have ranged from millions to as high as $50 million.
Google, however, clarified that it does not yet have enough evidence to confirm whether the claims of stolen data are true.
Cybersecurity experts say the threat appears to mirror tactics commonly used by ransomware groups. Cynthia Kaiser, head of Halcyon’s Ransomware Research Centre, explained that while there is debate over whether the hackers are truly tied to Cl0p, the techniques suggest overlap with known ransomware networks and possible copycat operations.
Kaiser also stressed that more details will likely emerge soon, helping to determine the group’s identity and intentions.
Neither Oracle nor Cl0p responded to requests for comment. Google described the campaign as “high-volume” but chose not to disclose additional details.
The latest alert highlights growing risks faced by business leaders as cybercriminals increasingly target corporate systems and executives with high-stakes extortion attempts.