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Cipher (Proton) Ransomware is a notorious cyber threat that belongs to the Proton ransomware family, which primarily targets users by encrypting their valuable data and demanding ransom for decryption. Upon infection, this malware appends the .cipher extension to the filenames of encrypted files, marking them distinctly. For example, a file initially named document.jpg would be modified to document.jpg.[watchdogs20@tuta.io].cipher, highlighting the attacker's contact email. Using asymmetric encryption, Cipher (Proton) employs sophisticated cryptographic algorithms that render files unusable without a decryption key that only the attackers possess. Once encryption completes, the ransomware generates ransom notes in multiple forms: a full-screen message before the log-in screen, desktop wallpaper alterations, and text files named #Read-for-recovery.txt. These notes evade detailing the encryption process and solely urge victims to contact the cyber criminals via email for further instructions.

Terminator Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed specifically to encrypt data on the victim’s computer and subsequently demand a ransom for decryption. Upon infecting a system, it renames encrypted files by appending the string .terminator to the file names, along with the attacker's email address. For instance, a file named 1.jpg would be renamed to 1.jpg.decryptboss@gmail.com.terminator. This ransomware utilizes advanced cryptographic algorithms that make manual decryption almost impossible without the correct decryption key, which is only provided by the cybercriminals. After the encryption process is complete, a ransom note titled ----Read-Me-----.txt is dropped into various folders containing the encrypted data. This note contains instructions on how to contact the attackers and the payment requirements for the decryption key.

Bixi Ransomware is a malicious program designed to encrypt files on the victim's system, rendering them inaccessible and demanding a ransom for their decryption. It specifically targets various file types, appending a unique .bixi extension to the original filenames, such as transforming 1.jpg into 1.jpg.bixi and 2.png into 2.png.bixi. The ransomware employs advanced cryptographic algorithms, making it exceptionally challenging to decrypt the files without the actual decryption key, which is held by the attackers. After successful encryption, !_INFO.txt, a ransom note, is automatically generated and placed in numerous directories, including the desktop, to notify the victim of the breach and instruct them on how to pay the ransom, typically in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. The note usually warns against using third-party decryption tools or attempting to rename the encrypted files, as these actions could lead to permanent data loss.

Originating in the summer of 2024, Cicada 3301 Ransomware is a formidable cyber threat designed to encrypt data and extort victims for payment. Written in the Rust programming language, it is a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), meaning it is available for use by other cybercriminals through a subscription model. Once activated on a victim’s system, this ransomware employs the ChaCha20 cryptographic algorithm, known for its swift and robust symmetric encryption, making decryption without the correct key an insurmountable challenge. The ransomware appends affected files with a seven-character random extension, drastically altering their original names and rendering them inaccessible. For example, a file named 1.jpg may appear as 1.jpg.f11a46a1 post-encryption. Upon completion of the encryption process, the malware drops a ransom note named RESTORE-[file_extension]-DATA.txt on the victim's system, detailing the attack and outlining the ransom demand.

Rothschild Foundation email spam refers to deceptive messages claiming that recipients have been awarded a substantial sum of money from a fictitious philanthropic organization. These emails often instruct recipients to provide personal information, such as their full name, address, and contact details, under the guise of processing a supposed payment. Such spam campaigns typically infect computers by enticing users to click on links or open attachments that contain malicious software. Cybercriminals cleverly disguise these emails to appear legitimate, often mimicking well-known organizations, which can lead unsuspecting users to download harmful files. Once activated, this malware can steal sensitive information, disrupt system performance, or facilitate further attacks, making it essential for users to exercise caution with unfamiliar emails. By employing tactics like urgency and promises of large sums of money, scammers increase the likelihood of users falling victim to their schemes. Regularly updating antivirus software and being vigilant about email authenticity can help protect against these pervasive threats.

Discovered during an investigation of new submissions to VirusTotal, BlackZluk Ransomware is a potent ransomware variant that encrypts victims' files and demands a ransom for their decryption. The malware appends an additional extension, .blackZluk, to the filenames of the encrypted files, renaming files such as document.docx to document.docx.blackZluk. The ransomware employs sophisticated encryption algorithms, typically a mix of symmetric and asymmetric encryption to complicate the decryption process without the necessary decryption key. Once the files are encrypted, the ransomware generates a ransom note, titled #RECOVERY#.txt, usually placed in directories containing encrypted files and often displayed on the victim's desktop. This note informs victims of their predicament, detailing how their data has been encrypted and extorted for privacy or financial leverage.

ScRansom Ransomware, designed to encrypt files on its victim's systems, primarily targets small and medium-sized businesses. It operates using sophisticated algorithms to lock data, ultimately extorting victims for money in exchange for decryption keys. This malicious software appends the .Encrypted extension to the filenames of affected documents, pictures, and other essential files, making them inaccessible to their owners. During the encryption process, files like 1.jpg are renamed to 1.jpg.Encrypted, obfuscating the contents and causing significant operational disruption. In addition to encrypting files, ScRansom leaves a ransom note named HOW TO RECOVERY FILES.TXT in the infected directories.

Colony Ransomware is a type of malware designed to encrypt data on the victim's computer and demand a ransom for its decryption. It first surfaced on VirusTotal, where researchers discovered its modus operandi. Once infiltrated, the malware encrypts files and appends a unique file extension, such as including the attackers' email address and a variable string, most commonly seen as .colony96. For instance, a file initially named photo.jpg may be renamed to photo.jpg.[support2022@cock.li].colony96. These extensions can vary based on the specific variant of the ransomware. Upon completing the encryption process, Colony Ransomware creates and displays ransom notes through various visible means: a full-screen message preceding the user login screen, desktop wallpaper, and a text file labeled #Read-for-recovery.txt. These notes urge the victim to contact the attackers for decryption instructions, laying out specific communication steps to avoid their message getting lost.