The Dark Web’s Interest in ERP Data: Why Attackers Target Your Permissions

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems serve as the backbone of modern businesses, managing sensitive financial data, supply chain logistics, customer records, and employee information. Given the vast amount of valuable data stored in platforms like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365FO), SAP, and Oracle ERP, it’s no surprise that cybercriminals are actively targeting ERP systems.

But while businesses focus on perimeter security—firewalls, endpoint protection, and intrusion detection—the real risk lies elsewhere: misconfigured or over-permissioned user roles. Attackers don’t need to brute force their way in when they can simply compromise user credentials or exploit excessive permissions to access critical business data.

The Dark Web and the Growing Black Market for ERP Access

Stolen ERP credentials and access permissions are in high demand on the Dark Web, with cybercriminals selling login details for major ERP systems. Reports from cybersecurity firms indicate that ERP credentials can sell for anywhere between $500 and $10,000, depending on the level of access and the organization involved.

This raises critical questions:

• Why are ERP permissions a primary target for cybercriminals?

• How do attackers exploit mismanaged access controls?

• What can businesses do to protect their ERP data from falling into the wrong hands?

Why Attackers Target ERP Permissions

1. ERP Systems Hold Highly Valuable Data

Attackers prioritize ERP systems because they store:

• Financial data (banking transactions, payroll, revenue reports)

• Supply chain and logistics data (inventory, procurement orders)

• Customer & vendor details (contact information, invoices, payment records)

• Intellectual property (product designs, trade secrets)

For cybercriminals, this data represents multiple opportunities: financial fraud, identity theft, corporate espionage, and ransomware attacks.

Case Study: The 2020 SAP Exploit

In 2020, cybersecurity researchers discovered that thousands of SAP ERP instances were exposed online with misconfigured user roles. Attackers were actively exploiting these vulnerabilities to access financial and employee records. The breach impacted several multinational corporations, exposing sensitive financial transactions.

2. Privilege Escalation and Misconfigured Roles Make Exploitation Easy

Many organizations fail to regularly review and update their ERP roles, leading to:

• Over-permissioned accounts – Users granted excessive access beyond their job requirements.

• Orphaned accounts – Former employees or contractors still having active credentials.

• Weakly enforced segregation of privileges (SoP) – Users having conflicting permissions (e.g., creating and approving payments).

Hackers buy stolen credentials on the Dark Web, log into ERP systems, and escalate privileges to gain administrator-level access.

Real-World Example: The 2023 LockBit Ransomware Attack on a U.S. Manufacturer

In 2023, a U.S. manufacturing company suffered a ransomware attack that started with a compromised ERP user account. The attackers exploited an old employee’s credentials and moved laterally within the system, escalating privileges until they gained full control over financial and operational data.

3. The Rise of AI-Powered Cybercrime

Attackers are increasingly using AI-driven tools to automate ERP system exploitation. AI-powered malware can:

• Scan ERP systems for weak permissions

• Identify users with excessive access rights

• Generate phishing emails that mimic real business communications

Microsoft’s Copilot and other AI-driven automation tools are being integrated into ERP systems to improve productivity, but if not properly secured, these AI assistants can be exploited by cybercriminals.

4. The Dark Web Marketplace for ERP Access

Cybercriminals don’t always launch attacks themselves—instead, they sell stolen credentials to the highest bidder. Reports from security firms show that:

• Administrator access to an ERP system has been sold for as high as $10,000 on underground forums.

• Bundles of ERP user credentials (with varying access levels) are sold in bulk for $500 to $2,000.

• Ransomware groups actively purchase ERP credentials to launch targeted extortion attacks.

How Attackers Exploit Stolen ERP Permissions

Step 1: Buying or Stealing Credentials

Attackers obtain credentials through:

• Phishing emails that trick employees into revealing login details.

• Dark Web marketplaces where hackers sell stolen ERP login information.

• Malware and keyloggers that capture user credentials.

Step 2: Gaining Initial Access

With valid login credentials, attackers bypass perimeter security and enter the ERP system undetected.

Step 3: Privilege Escalation

Once inside, attackers:

• Look for misconfigured role-based access controls (RBAC).

• Exploit excessive permissions to elevate their access to administrator levels.

Step 4: Data Theft, Ransomware, or Fraud

At this stage, attackers either:

• Steal financial records and sell them.

• Inject ransomware into the system and demand payment.

• Commit financial fraud by creating fake vendor invoices and initiating payments.

How to Protect ERP Systems from Dark Web Exploits

1. Implement Strict Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC)

RBAC is the first line of defense against unauthorized access. However, many organizations implement RBAC incorrectly by:

• Assigning users excessive permissions.

• Failing to enforce Segregation of Privileges (SoP).

Best Practice:

• Use tools like NoirSoft D365RoleSecure to audit and fine-tune role permissions dynamically.

• Implement a least-privilege model, ensuring that users only have access to what they need.

2. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for ERP Logins

MFA adds an extra layer of security, preventing attackers from accessing ERP accounts even if credentials are stolen.

3. Regularly Audit and Remove Inactive User Accounts

Orphaned accounts (old employee logins) are one of the biggest security risks. Organizations should:

• Automatically disable inactive accounts after a set period.

• Conduct quarterly audits of user roles and permissions.

4. Monitor ERP Access with AI-Powered Anomaly Detection

Since attackers exploit stolen credentials, businesses must focus on detecting unusual login activity. AI-driven security solutions can:

• Flag logins from unfamiliar locations.

• Detect privilege escalation attempts in real time.

• Identify suspicious transaction patterns that indicate fraud.

NoirSoft’s security solutions are designed to help businesses proactively detect and mitigate access risks before attackers strike.

5. Train Employees on Phishing and Credential Security

Since most ERP breaches begin with phishing attacks, regular cybersecurity training can reduce risk. Employees should be trained to:

• Recognize suspicious emails.

• Avoid clicking on unknown links.

• Use unique, strong passwords for ERP accounts.

The Battle for ERP Security is Just Beginning

The Dark Web marketplace for ERP access is growing, and attackers are shifting their focus to exploiting permissions rather than breaking firewalls. Businesses must take proactive security measures to protect their ERP data from cybercriminals.

The key takeaway? RBAC alone isn’t enough—ERP security must be an ongoing process that includes:

• Regular role audits

• AI-driven anomaly detection

• Strict access control policies

• Continuous user training

NoirSoft is at the forefront of ERP security, providing innovative solutions to help businesses stay ahead of emerging threats. The question isn’t if cybercriminals will target your ERP system, but when and whether your security is strong enough to stop them.