Hi Readers! Cybersecurity professionals are watching closely as ransomware attacks continue to evolve each year. Recently, cybersecurity professionals around the world have focused on a new ransomware called “VolkLocker.” Different cyber security portals characterized this ransomware in a complete report detailing how it operates, along with its tools and techniques used to commit attacks, as well as its vulnerabilities and flaws.
Parents, teachers, and anyone who uses a computer need to be informed about VolkLocker. Understanding the threat will allow businesses, schools, and individuals to prepare themselves and develop plans to mitigate the impact of a ransomware attack. IEMLabs is a CERT-IN certified cybersecurity lab and as pointed out, the best means to defend against this type of threat is to be aware of the threat and take steps to develop an alert and proactive strategy.
In this post, we break down the details of VolkLocker in layman’s terms so users can grasp what the threat looks like, how it functions, and what actions they can take to minimize their exposure to the threat.
What Exactly is VolkLocker Ransomware?
VolkLocker ransomware is a harmful (malicious) software application that encrypts someone’s data (files) and then demands payment in return for the decryption key. VolkLocker ransomware is like many other similar products and has two target audiences, including individuals and large and small companies (organizations). It predominantly targets systems with weak security measures.
How VolkLocker Ransomware Was Exposed
According to recent research regarding the VolkLocker ransomware, it functions as a part of an organized (or more extensive) cybercriminal group. It uses ancient techniques such as phishing emails (emails with harmful attachments), malicious downloads (programs that impersonate legitimate applications), and taking advantage of unpatched computer systems to obtain its initial access to a computer network.
Upon gaining entry onto a computer network, the VolkLocker ransomware does the following:
- Scans for sensitive information
- Gets rid of critical documents by encrypting them so they cannot be opened
- Provides the victim with a notice indicating they now must pay for the release of their critical data (documents).
- Includes a threat of losing or leaking your data if the payment is not made.
How was VolkLocker Ransomware found?
Security experts shared recently on their websites, an analysis of the VolkLocker ransomware that has uncovered significant information about its inner workings. By analyzing the backend systems used by the VolkLocker ransomware, they were able to determine how the malware communicates with its command and control servers through the use of what are known as TOR (The Onion Router) networks.
This information has allowed security professionals to:
- Determine weaknesses in the infrastructure used to create the ransomware.
- Keep track of how the ransomware communicates with its command and control servers.
- Understand how the ransomware does encryptions.
- Improved the capabilities to detect and respond to this ransomware.
While the exposure is excellent news for those responsible for protecting users from intermediaries, it should not be misunderstood to assume that the VolkLocker ransomware does not pose a risk to those responsible for protecting them. Cybercriminals frequently alter their tools quickly to stay out of sight.
Ways VolkLocker Ransomware Attacks Users
Cybersecurity experts indicate that VolkLocker ransomware usually arrives via phishing emails that include dangerous item(s), dubious sources of program updates, hacked/opened web pages, out-of-date operating systems, and poor password choices / worst-case reuse of weak passwords. If you are conscious of these attack vectors, you can take significant steps toward implementing good cyber security (hygiene) practice. The reason why Volklocker Ransomware is dangerous.
Cybersecurity-wise, VolkLocker ransomware is very harmful:
1. Information Cryptography and Business Interruption
Crippling Business operations can be a total halt to a business due to the losses incurred in the form of downtime caused by encrypted files.
2. Financial Extortion
Attackers will require ransom, which may be paid in cryptocurrency; they are also not guaranteed to save the data.
3. Data Leakage Threats
Contemporary ransomware, such as VolkLocker ransomware, can steal information prior to encryption and threat to publish.
4. Reputational Damage
To the organizations, a ransomware attack may ruin customer trust and brand name.
Ransomware Attack Vectors that are commonly used by VolkLocker
Cybersecurity specialists state that VolkLocker ransomware is distributed in the most common way:
- Spam emails containing corrupt attachments.
- Fake software updates
- Compromised websites
- Misuse of the old operating systems.
- Weak or reused passwords
These attack vectors point out why a basic cybersecurity hygiene remains one of the most effective defenses.
Cybersecurity Precautions Recommended by IEMLabs – Prevention is Better than Recovery
According to IEMLabs’ certified cybersecurity research lab, in order to avoid damage done after an attack, be proactive and take measures to prevent issues before they arise. To implement precautions against VolkLocker Ransomware or any risk, follow these recommendations from IEMLabs and DSCI.
1. Regular Software Updates
Ensure your operating systems, applications, anti-malware applications, and backup versions are regularly and immediately updated. Vulnerable versions of these programs can be used to carry out a ransomware attack.
2. Email Security—Strong Training
Train employees and others who use email for business purposes to be able to properly identify phishing emails. Do not click on links that appear to come from an untrusted source or download unknown email attachments.
3. Protect Endpoints
Implement advanced antimalware/antivirus solutions in conjunction with endpoint detection and response solutions to identify abnormal or suspicious behaviour.
4. Isolate Networks
Restrict access to essential systems from standard user networks in order to limit the propagation of the attack.
5. Frequent Data Backups
Store offline copies of sensitive data in a secured location. This reduces reliance upon an attacker for restoring lost records.
6. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implement MFA for any critical recognised account to limit unauthorised access.
7. Develop Incident Response Procedure
Organizations should create procedures for rapid response when a ransomware incident occurs.
What to do if victimized by VolkLocker ransomware?
If an infected system is detected, it is advised by industry professionals that:
- Dire underscore out immediately.
- Notify the appropriate IT/security person as soon as possible.
- Avoid bribing when it can be avoided.
- Maintain evidence for investigative purposes.
- Report the event to the authorities and CERT-In.
The Importance of Being Cyber Security Aware
The recent occurrence of VolkLocker ransomware demonstrates the significance of Cyber Security Awareness in the present age. Cyber criminals take advantage of people’s inability to follow the necessary safety procedures when handling technological devices. In order to prevent becoming a victim of a ransomware attack, an individual or organization must be educated about the nature of ransomware; the way that it functions; and the best practices that will assist with mitigating the risk associated with it.
The Threat Continues…
The release of the VolkLocker ransomware reminds everyone that cyber threats like this one are continually being developed. Although some researchers have discovered some components of the way that this ransomware operates, the threat is still very much alive and present. Following cyber security best practices that have been developed by IEMLabs, a CERT-IN accredited lab, can serve to minimize the risk of falling victim to a Cyber Attack.
Being educated, maintaining strong security practices, and preparing for an incident are the three best means of safeguarding yourself and your organization from a future ransomware attack such as the VolkLocker.
