26th August 2025 Cyber Update: Wine Works Australia Hit by Direwolf Ransomware

Direwolf has claimed responsibility for an alleged ransomware attack on Wine Works Australia, stating it stole 22GB of data including financial and customer records. The claims remain unverified with no response from Wine Works. CNC will provide updates as more details emerge.

26th August 2025 Cyber Update: Wine Works Australia Hit by Direwolf Ransomware
Photo by Hermes Rivera / Unsplash
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Today’s Cyber Update
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Cyber News Centre's cyber update for 26th August 2025: Wine Works Australia, a premium logistics and warehousing provider, has been named in public claims by the ransomware group Direwolf, which alleges it exfiltrated 22GB of data. These claims remain unverified, with no official response from Wine Works at this stage.

Wine Works Australia Alleged Ransomware Attack

Wine Works Australia is a key player in the Australian wine export industry, providing temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics services to both local and international wineries. The company’s facilities and distribution network are central to maintaining the quality and reliability of Australia’s premium wine exports, which contribute significantly to the national economy.

The Update and Why It Matters

Update: Yesterday, the ransomware collective Direwolf, publicly claimed responsibility for an alleged attack on Wine Works Australia. According to their statement, they obtained 22GB of data, including financial records, sales information, and customer data. These claims remain unverified, with no response from Wine Works at this time. Cyber News Centre will provide further updates as more information becomes available. The allegations also form part of a wider pattern in which Direwolf has named multiple victims across several countries since May 2025. The group is known for its double-extortion model and use of sophisticated anti-forensic techniques, often aiming to pressure victims through public exposure before any official disclosure is made.

Why it Matters: If substantiated, the exposure of 22GB of corporate and client data could have serious implications for Wine Works and the wider export supply chain. Sensitive commercial information, including contracts, client details, and financial data, may be at risk of misuse, reputational damage, and financial loss.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of Australia’s export industries to ransomware campaigns, especially those run by groups with advanced capabilities and high ransom demands. With Australian regulators, including APRA, warning of an increasingly hostile cyber environment amid global geopolitical tensions, the Direwolf claims serve as a timely reminder of the urgent need for strong cybersecurity measures, robust backup strategies, and proactive risk management.

Screenshot of Dire Wolf's claims


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