Brinztech Alert: The Alleged Database of Onda Sul FM is Leaked

Dark Web News Analysis

The dark web news reports a data breach involving Onda Sul FM, a Brazilian radio broadcaster operating via radioondasul.com.br. A threat actor on a hacker forum has leaked a database allegedly containing the site’s wp_users table. This specific table is the core of any WordPress installation, storing all registered user information. The compromised fields reportedly include user_login (usernames), user_pass (hashed passwords), user_email, and other metadata. The exposure of the administrative backend poses a direct threat to the integrity of the station’s news and broadcast operations.

Key Cybersecurity Insights

Breaches of media outlets via WordPress vulnerabilities are common but highly damaging due to the potential for disinformation:

• WordPress Core Vulnerability: The leak of the wp_users table is a classic signature of an SQL Injection (SQLi) attack. This usually occurs through an outdated plugin or theme that fails to sanitize user inputs, allowing attackers to “dump” the database contents.
• Content Manipulation: If the leak contains administrator credentials, attackers can crack the hashes and log in to the WordPress dashboard. They could then deface the website, post fake news stories, or inject malware that infects the devices of radio listeners who visit the site.
• Credential Cracking: WordPress passwords are typically hashed using MD5 or phpass. While robust, older or weak passwords can still be cracked. If the admins reused these passwords on other corporate systems (like email or social media accounts), the breach could spread laterally.
• LGPD Compliance: As a Brazilian entity, Onda Sul FM is subject to the Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD). The exposure of listener or employee emails requires mandatory notification to the ANPD (National Data Protection Authority) and the affected individuals.

Mitigation Strategies

To secure the website and protect user data, the following strategies are recommended:

• Urgent Password Reset: Immediately force a password reset for every user in the wp_users table. Ensure that all Administrator and Editor accounts set strong, unique passwords.
• Plugin Audit & Patching: Conduct a thorough audit of all installed plugins and themes. Remove any that are deprecated or haven’t been updated in the last 6 months, as these are the most likely entry points for the SQL injection.
• Web Application Firewall (WAF): Implement a WAF (like Wordfence or Cloudflare) to block malicious SQL injection attempts and virtual patching for known vulnerabilities.
• Change Login URL: Move the default WordPress login page from /wp-admin to a custom URL to reduce the noise from automated botnets trying to brute-force the leaked usernames.

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