Following the rising circulation of Hitler-ransomware as reported by Bleeping Computer, Thomas Pore, Director of IT at cyber security firm Plixer, commented below the reason this variant does not actually encrypt files, why he thinks we’ll see a mature version of this soon and what users can do to avoid being hit.
Thomas Pore, Director of IT at Plixer:
“Ransomware, or ‘Ransonware’ in this case, is not going away any time soon. Why? Because it’s very successful. Users love to click on URLs and open attachments. A German string found in the malware “echo Das ist ein Test”, translates to “This is a test”. With other indicators of an early product, the lock screen showing the misspelling “Ransonware” suggests that we will likely see a more mature version popping up shortly.
“It’s interesting that this variant does not actually encrypt the files, possibly for detection avoidance. However the approach to delete all of the files upon reboot after initiating an OS crash leaves users few alternatives. This is why users will likely continue to pay the ransom. The FBI is taking a firm stance on not paying ransoms, however each case is different.
“A routine off-site or off-network backup is the only sure-fire way to recover from ransomware. User training to identify phishing attacks is also paramount. Users just love clicking on URLs in email. Implementing software white-list or restriction policy could potentially stop the malware from running as well.”
ISBuzz Team embodies the collaborative efforts of the dedicated staff at Information Security Buzz, converging a wide range of skills and viewpoints to present a unified, engaging voice in the information security realm. This entity isn't tied to a single individual; instead, it's a dynamic embodiment of a team diligently working behind the scenes to keep you updated and secure. When you read a post from ISBuzz Team, you're receiving the most relevant and actionable insights, curated and crafted by professionals tuned in to the pulse of the cybersecurity world. ISBuzz Team - your reliable compass in the fast-evolving landscape of information security
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.