Crypto Ransomware: Why This Threat Is Increasing and How to prevent?

Bittime -Ransomware is one of the most detrimental and rapidly growing types of malware in the cyber world. Crypto ransomware attacks are causing huge financial losses and loss of critical data for many companies, making it one of the most dangerous and fast-growing types of malware in cyberspace. 

In this article, we will discuss in detail how crypto ransomware works, from infection techniques, encryption processes to ransom payments and how to prevent crypto ransomware.

Ransomware Infection Methods

Malware known as ransomware aims to encrypt a victim's files and then demands a ransom payment in exchange for decrypting those files. Some commonly used infection methods are:

• Email Phishing: Phishing emails use social engineering to trick recipients into installing a ransomware virus. Emails may contain infected malware attachments or malicious links leading to infected web pages.
• Malicious Websites: Websites where visitors can download malware. This usually includes trojan horses, which are malware that pretend to be genuine software but infect users' computers.
• Compromised Accounts: Ransomware operators can spread malware by using compromised user accounts. Attackers can log in via RDP or VPN to plant their malware in corporate systems by guessing or stealing passwords.

Ransomware Encryption Methods

• Enkripsi Simetris: Because it is so effective, ransomware uses it to encrypt files and deny their owners access.
• Asymmetric Encryption: Used to protect symmetric encryption keys. Ransomware encrypts the symmetric key using the public key and stores it with the encrypted file. After the victim pays the ransom, the attacker keeps the private key, which can be used to decrypt the symmetric key.

Additionally, there are some versions of ransomware that only partially encrypt files, which speeds up the process and reduces the chance of tampering.

Notes and Ransom Claims

The ransomware will show a ransom note to the victim once the encryption process is complete. The note usually stated that their system was infected with ransomware and that their important files had been encrypted. 

Additionally, there are detailed instructions on how to obtain the decryption key and pay the ransom. Instructions often include how to buy cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and transfer them to addresses set by the attacker. Notes may also include additional threats, such as payment deadlines or threats to permanently delete files if demands are not met.

Cryptocurrencies for Ransom Payments for Ransomware Attacks

Due to the high level of anonymity and difficulty for authorities to monitor payments, many cybercriminals choose cryptocurrencies as ransom payments. Except for exchanges that require KYC, cryptocurrency transactions are not directly connected to a user's real-world identity. 

As a result, attackers are more difficult to track. In addition, the cryptocurrency's decentralized system allows the rapid transfer of funds around the world without central bank intervention, which greatly helps attackers maintain secrets and avoid detection.

Contoh Ransomware Crypto

LockBit, Alphv/BlackCat, CL0P, Black Basta, Play, Royal, 8Base, BianLian, Medusa, and NoEscape are some of the largest cybercrime groups currently distributing ransomware. They often target organizations for large ransom payments and are known for their sophisticated attack methods.

How to Prevent Crypto Ransomware Attacks

Some best practices for preventing crypto ransomware attacks include:

1. User Education: Educate users about cybersecurity and how to identify phishing attacks.
2. Data Backup: Have good data backup so that in the event of a ransomware attack, the organization can recover data without paying a ransom.
3. System Patching: Regularly patching and updating software to fix vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware.
4. Strong Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of user accounts being compromised.
5. Anti-Ransomware Solution: Use security solutions that can detect and block ransomware before it reaches an organization's systems.

Ransomware is a big threat to businesses because it allows data loss and money loss. Knowing how crypto ransomware viruses work and implementing the best prevention methods can help companies protect themselves from cyberattacks. Companies or organizations can reduce the risk of being hit by a crypto ransomware attack by providing user education, data backup, system patching, strong authentication, and anti-ransomware solutions.

How to Buy Crypto di Bittime

You can buy and sell crypto assets in an easy and safe way via over. Bittime is one of the best crypto applications in Indonesia which is officially registered with Bappebti. 

To be able to buy crypto assets at over, make sure you have registered and completed identity verification. Apart from that, also make sure that you have sufficient balance by depositing some funds into your wallet. For your information, the minimum purchase of assets on Bittime is IDR 10,000. After that, you can purchase crypto assets in the application. Study Complete Guide How to Buy Crypto on Bittime. 

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