Ransomware is a dangerous type of malware that infiltrates the systems of individuals, companies and government organizations and restricts access to the system or critical files. This type of attack is usually done by encrypting or locking files and data. These attacks were first known in Russia, but now they have spread all over the world and entered various geographical areas of the world.
What is Ransomware?
The functionality of these ransomware is similar to each other in most cases. Attackers usually infiltrate a person’s system through deceptive and attractive links such as email, SMS or website. Most of the people click on infected links due to lack of awareness and allow hackers to penetrate their system.
Types of ransomware
- Scareware: This type of ransomware is designed to scare the user. It usually forces the user to take certain actions by displaying scary and threatening messages. The attacker contacts the user through pop-ups or emails and tries to deceive him by creating fear.
- Screen lockers: In this type of attacks, the attacker locks the user’s screen and displays a warning message. This message usually states that the user’s access to the system has been blocked due to illegal content, and that a penalty must be paid to unlock it.
- Encryption ransomware: This type of ransomware locks the user’s files encrypted and demands a ransom to unlock them. The most important feature of these ransomware is that after paying the ransom, there is no guarantee of getting the decryption key of the files.
Introducing the most important malicious ransomware
- WastedLocker: This ransomware was created by a group of cyber attackers called evil corp and attacks companies and organizations. The ransom of this ransomware is much bigger compared to other ransomware. For example, Garmin was one of the famous victims of these attacks and a huge ransom was demanded.
- DoppelPaymer: This ransomware is designed to encrypt the victim’s files and is used for targeted attacks on companies. This ransomware appends the “.locked” extension to the name of every encrypted file and demands a large ransom from its victims.
- Pony Final: This ransomware usually attacks hospitals and healthcare institutions and uses vulnerabilities in weak systems. By encrypting files, it extorts ransom from its victims.
- REvil: This ransomware uses various methods to infect victim systems and is used to encrypt critical business systems. If the ransom is not paid, the attackers threaten to release the stolen data to pressure the victims.
How to protect digital currency wallet from ransomware
Limit the amount of assets in the exchange wallet: If you have a lot of assets, you can keep some of your digital currencies in the exchange wallet and keep only the amount you intend to trade. To keep the rest of the asset, the best way is to transfer it to a hardware wallet.
Avoid invitation links without research: When creating a cryptocurrency wallet and receiving rewards, do not open invitation links without research. Many of these links are the prey of hackers and may infect your wallet with ransomware.
Use trusted browsers: If your cryptocurrency wallet is online, use trusted and secure browsers to access it and avoid anonymous browsers.
Download wallet from reliable sources: Download your digital currency wallet only from its official website and reliable sources and avoid downloading and installing it from other sites. Some links may contain fake wallet designed by hackers.
Buy a hardware wallet from reliable sources: If you use a hardware wallet, pay attention to security tips when buying it. For example, buying a second-hand wallet may come with risks, so it is important to pay attention to this point.
