Ransomware

Adobe Ransomware, also known as the Adobe virus, is a type of malicious software that belongs to the Dharma ransomware family. This cyber threat predominantly targets Windows operating systems, aiming to encrypt sensitive user files, rendering them inaccessible. Once the system is compromised, Adobe Ransomware appends specific file extensions to the affected files, most commonly .adobe or .adobee, in addition to a unique identifier and an email address of the attackers. As a sophisticated ransomware variant, it typically employs robust encryption methods, often relying on asymmetric encryption algorithms. This means that files are locked with a unique key that is stored on a remote server controlled by the attackers, making unauthorized decryption without their intervention nearly impossible. The attackers usually emphasize the importance of contacting them for decryption, creating a daunting scenario for victims. Upon successful encryption, victims are presented with a ransom note contained within a text file labeled FILES ENCRYPTED.txt, which is generated during the attack. This note includes a message indicating that all files have been locked due to a security issue and instructs victims to contact the cybercriminals at a specified email address to negotiate a ransom payment, typically demanded in Bitcoin.

FridayBoycrazy Ransomware is a significant threat that has emerged recently, designed to encrypt files on infected systems and extort ransom payments from victims. This variant, based on the Chaos ransomware, exhibits a severe level of damage by actively encrypting various file types and making them inaccessible without a decryption key. Once this malicious software is executed, it meticulously renames encrypted files by appending a string of random characters to their original extensions. For example, a file named 1.jpg may be altered to 1.jpg.j3y4, making recovery efforts more challenging for victims. Upon completion of the encryption process, it generates a ransom note named Warning.txt, which is typically placed on the desktop and informs users that their files have been compromised. The perpetrators claim that decryption without their assistance is impossible, thereby fueling fear and urgency in their victims to pay the ransom.

Pomoch Ransomware is a recent variant belonging to the MedusaLocker ransomware family, primarily targeting corporate networks rather than individual users. Once it infiltrates a system, it encrypts various file types and appends a unique extension to the filenames, specifically .pomoch45. The encryption process involves the use of advanced cryptographic algorithms, including RSA and AES, rendering files inaccessible without the decryption key possessed by the attackers. Following the encryption, the ransomware generates a ransom note named How_to_back_files.html, which is dropped on the infected system to notify victims of the attack and provide further instructions. The note emphasizes the seriousness of the breach, stating that sensitive data has been exfiltrated, and threatens to leak this information unless the ransom is paid.

Blue Ransomware is a malicious program that belongs to the Phobos ransomware family, notorious for encrypting victims’ files and demanding a ransom for their release. Upon infection, it affects various file types by appending the .blue extension to them, rendering them inaccessible to the user. The encryption mechanism employed by Blue Ransomware is advanced and employs strong algorithms, which make it nearly impossible to decrypt files without the unique decryption key held by the attackers. As part of its modus operandi, the ransomware creates ransom notes in the form of info.hta and info.txt files. These notes typically appear in multiple locations on the infected system, aiming to ensure that the victim has multiple opportunities to read the demands made by the cybercriminals. Recommended best practices include avoiding contact with the attackers and refraining from paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee a recovery of the encrypted files. Regrettably, currently available public decryption tools do not support the decryption of files encrypted by the Blue Ransomware, making recovery exceedingly challenging without the payment of a ransom. However, victims are encouraged to check resources like the No More Ransom Project for updates on potential decryption tools and assistance. In the event that no decryption tools are available, users can attempt file recovery using specialized software, although this may not restore all files, particularly if they have been fully overwritten. Long-term prevention strategies, such as regular backups and maintaining an updated antivirus solution, could mitigate the devastating impact of ransomware infections, ensuring that data loss is minimized.

Rorschach Ransomware, also known as BabLock, is a sophisticated strain of ransomware that specifically targets small and medium-sized businesses, as well as industrial companies. Upon infection, it encrypts various file types and appends a unique identifier to the filenames, which is a random string of characters followed by a two-digit number ranging from 00 to 98. For example, a file such as report.docx might be altered to report.docx.yhdbgt.23. This nefarious ransomware employs a highly effective hybrid cryptography scheme that combines the curve25519 and eSTREAM cipher hc-128 algorithms. Such an encryption process not only makes the files inaccessible but also ensures that it is incredibly challenging for victims to recover their data without assistance. Victims receive a _r_e_a_d_m_e.txt ransom note, typically found in the same directories as the encrypted files, that outlines the situation, threatens further attack, and provides contact information for cybercriminals.

ReturnBack Ransomware represents a recent and menacing addition to the landscape of malicious software designed to encrypt users' files and demand a ransom for their release. This ransomware employs a combination of algorithms to efficiently encrypt personal files, rendering them inaccessible to users unless they pay the ransom. Upon infection, the ransomware appends a random file extension to encrypted files, such as .lGiKf865, which can complicate recovery efforts. Victims encounter a ransom note titled README.txt, which appears in various locations on the infected system, including the desktop and user folders. The note sternly informs users that all their essential files—documents, photos, and databases—have been encrypted and asserts that the only way to recover them is by obtaining a decryptor from the attackers. It includes specific instructions that discourage victims from renaming files or attempting to use third-party software for decryption, as this could lead to permanent data loss.

Superlock Ransomware is a malicious software that targets users' files, encrypting them in a manner that renders them inaccessible unless a ransom is paid to the attackers. This ransomware often infiltrates systems through phishing emails, malicious downloads, or exploit kits, causing significant disruption for individuals and organizations alike. Once activated, it systematically scans the victim's computer for files to encrypt, including documents, images, and databases. The encryption process typically involves a strong algorithm that ensures files cannot be easily decrypted without the right key. After the encryption is successfully executed, the ransomware appends the .superlock file extension to the names of the encrypted files, making them instantly recognizable to the victim. The main method of communication from the attackers is through a ransom note named Superlock_Readme.txt, which is usually placed within the directories of the affected files. The note serves to inform victims about the situation and outlines the payment process and the consequences of non-compliance.

Zola Ransomware represents a significant threat within the landscape of cybercrime, emerging as a rebranded variant from the Proton family first seen in March 2023. This ransomware is engineered to encrypt a victim's files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Upon infection, Zola appends the .zola extension to encrypted files, making it clear which files have been compromised. The encryption utilizes a sophisticated combination of ChaCha20 and elliptic curve cryptography for secure key exchange, ensuring that victims cannot easily recover their data without the decryption key. The ransom note, named #Read-for-recovery.txt, is generated in each affected directory, outlining the steps victims must take to recover their files, typically involving communication with the attackers via specific email addresses. This ransomware operates stealthily, employing methods to disable security measures on infected systems and often targeting multiple file types across the user's system.