What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that encrypts files on a victim’s computer or network, rendering them inaccessible. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim to restore access to the data upon payment. Ransomware can target individuals, businesses, and governmental organizations, causing significant disruption and financial loss. So if you have heard of kidnapper before, then this a filenapper.

Origin of Ransomware

Ransomware has been around in various forms for decades. The first known ransomware attack, the “AIDS Trojan” or “PC Cyborg,” occurred in 1989. This early form of ransomware was distributed via floppy disks and encrypted files on the victim’s computer, demanding a ransom sent to a post office box.

Evolution and Key Milestones:

1. 1989 – AIDS Trojan (PC Cyborg):
   • Distributed via floppy disks. It encrypted filenames and demanded a ransom sent to a P.O. box in Panama.
2. 2005 – Gpcode:
   • A more advanced form of ransomware that used stronger encryption algorithms.
3. 2013 – CryptoLocker:
   • Marked a significant escalation in ransomware attacks. Spread through email attachments, it used robust encryption and demanded payment in Bitcoin.
4. 2017 – WannaCry:
   • A global ransomware attack that exploited a vulnerability in Windows. It affected hundreds of thousands of computers across 150 countries, causing widespread damage and disruption.
5. 2017 – NotPetya:
   • Initially appeared as ransomware but was later identified as a wiper malware aimed at causing destruction rather than financial gain.

How Ransomware Works

1. Infection Vector:
   • Phishing Emails: The most common method. Victims receive emails with malicious attachments or links.
   • Malvertising: Attackers use online advertisements to distribute malware.
   • Exploiting Vulnerabilities: Exploiting security vulnerabilities in software, operating systems, or network devices.
   • Drive-by Downloads: Malware is downloaded when a victim visits a compromised or malicious website.
2. Execution:
   • Once the ransomware is on the system, it typically executes and starts encrypting files. It targets a wide range of file types, including documents, images, videos, and databases.
3. Encryption:
   • Ransomware uses strong encryption algorithms, such as RSA, AES, or a combination of both, to encrypt files. The decryption key is stored on the attacker’s server.
4. Ransom Note:
   • After encryption, the ransomware displays a ransom note. This note provides instructions on how to pay the ransom, usually in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, to obtain the decryption key.
5. Payment:
   • Victims are typically given a deadline to pay the ransom. Failure to pay within the specified time may result in the ransom amount increasing or the decryption key being destroyed.
6. Decryption:
   • If the victim pays the ransom, they may (but are not guaranteed to) receive the decryption key. Using this key, they can decrypt and regain access to their files.

Common Ransomware Types

1. Crypto Ransomware:
   • Encrypts files and demands a ransom for the decryption key.
2. Locker Ransomware:
   • Locks the victim out of their system entirely, demanding a ransom to unlock it.
3. Scareware:
   • Displays fake warnings and claims to have encrypted files or locked the system, prompting the victim to pay a ransom even though no actual damage is done.
4. Doxware (Leakware):
   • Threatens to publish sensitive or personal information unless a ransom is paid.

Understanding the nature, origin, and workings of ransomware can help in developing strategies to prevent, detect, and respond to such attacks effectively.

Global Impact

Ransomware has had significant and widespread impacts over the years. Here are some key statistics and trends that highlight the effects of ransomware:

1. Financial Cost:
   • The global cost of ransomware damage was estimated to reach $20 billion by 2021, up from $8 billion in 2018 .
   • In 2020, the average ransom payment increased by 171%, reaching $312,493 .
2. Frequency of Attacks:
   • In 2021, a new organization fell victim to ransomware every 11 seconds .
   • The number of ransomware attacks increased by 151% in the first half of 2021 compared to the same period in 2020 .
3. Business Impact:
   • 56% of organizations surveyed reported a ransomware attack in the last year .
   • 34% of businesses hit by ransomware took a week or more to regain access to their data .

Preventive Measures

1. Regular Backups:
   • Maintain regular backups of your important data. Store these backups offline or in a cloud service with versioning features to protect against encryption by ransomware.
2. Update and Patch Systems:
   • Keep your operating system, software, and applications up to date with the latest patches and security updates. Many ransomware attacks exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software.
3. Use Security Software:
   • Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software. Enable real-time scanning and automatic updates to ensure you have the latest protection.
4. Email Security:
   • Be cautious with email attachments and links. Do not open attachments or click on links from unknown or untrusted sources. Implement email filtering to block malicious emails.
5. Web Browsing Safety:
   • Avoid visiting suspicious websites or downloading software from untrusted sources. Use a secure browser and consider browser extensions that block malicious content.
6. Employee Training:
   • Educate employees and users about ransomware and phishing attacks. Awareness is a crucial defense against social engineering tactics.
7. Network Segmentation:
   • Segment your network to limit the spread of ransomware. Use firewalls and network access controls to isolate critical systems.

Detection and Response

1. Monitor Systems:
   • Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual activity and potential ransomware threats.
2. Incident Response Plan:
   • Develop and regularly update an incident response plan. Ensure that all employees know the steps to take if a ransomware attack occurs.
3. Limit User Privileges:
   • Restrict administrative privileges to essential personnel. Users with fewer privileges are less likely to inadvertently execute ransomware.
4. Disable Macros:
   • Disable macros in office files by default. Ransomware often uses malicious macros in documents to execute the attack.

Recovery and Remediation

1. Isolate Infected Systems:
   • If ransomware is detected, immediately isolate the infected system from the network to prevent the spread of the malware.
2. Restore from Backup:
   • Use your backups to restore encrypted files. Ensure that the backup used is clean and free from ransomware.
3. Contact Authorities:
   • Report the ransomware attack to the appropriate authorities and cybersecurity organizations. They can provide assistance and help track ransomware activities.
4. Avoid Paying Ransom:
   • Paying the ransom does not guarantee that you will regain access to your files. It also encourages the ransomware industry. Exhaust all other options before considering payment.

Additional Resources

• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA): CISA Ransomware Guidance
• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): NCSC Ransomware Guidance

By implementing these preventive, detection, and recovery measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to ransomware and protect your online assets.