Unhackable Backup Storage Could Have Helped in the M&S Hack Case

In a recent ransomware attack, Major UK retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) was left reeling from the disruption of internal systems and the loss of critical files. The incident is part of a broader trend of cybercriminals targeting large organizations with ransomware attacks, demanding payment in exchange for restoring access to sensitive data. But what if this could have been prevented? The answer lies in isolated backups – an approach that could have protected M&S's data from hackers, but comes with its own financial burdens.

The Need for Physical Isolation

HyperBUNKER, a Zagreb-based spinoff of InfoLAB, is promoting its diode-based offline vault as a safeguard against such breaches. This system uses data diode technology, which creates a strictly one-way "data-in" channel. The backups are stored on SSDs or disk drives in a rack-shelf chassis, disconnected entirely from external networks. This approach has rarely been seen in everyday enterprise data protection.

A Last-Resort Protection

The idea behind HyperBUNKER's vault is familiar in nuclear facilities and military installations – it's an offline backup system designed to protect critical data. According to Matt Peterman, investor and advisor at Blocksandfiles, the frustration with traditional backups led Nino Eškić, InfoLAB's CEO, to design this offline protection that preserves the most critical data.

Patented Optical Isolation

HyperBUNKER claims its patented optical isolation and "butlering logic" – introduced in October 2024 – avoids vulnerabilities tied to network protocols or handshake exploits that have plagued earlier diode-based systems. However, this approach raises concerns because traditional backups have collapsed or been bypassed in the past.

Offline Storage: Not a Magic Shield

Distributing units and encrypting stored data can reduce risk, but it multiplies logistical and financial demands. Enterprises already juggling multiple backup solutions might hesitate to invest in a secondary "backup of backups." While the device is marketed as simple, its effectiveness depends on careful handling and secure locations.

The Cost-Benefit Analysis

Businesses weighing this approach must consider whether the costs, logistics, and potential for physical theft outweigh the protection offered. Can the benefits of an unhackable backup storage system justify the added expenses? The answer is not straightforward.

About the Author

Efosa has been writing about technology for over 7 years, initially driven by curiosity but now fueled by a strong passion for the field. He holds both a Master's and a PhD in sciences, which provided him with a solid foundation in analytical thinking. Efosa developed a keen interest in technology policy, specifically exploring the intersection of privacy, security, and politics.

Contact Information

Efosa can be contacted at this email: udinmwenefosa@gmail.com