Ransomware has been the largest cybersecurity threat in the world for over a year now. Over that time we've seen a number of massive attacks. The WannaCry variant that occurred earlier this year in May was extremely nasty, locking up hundreds of thousands of computers in over 150 countries.

One of the first known ransomware attacks to hit the scene was dubbed Locky, but it hasn't been prevalent in a while. Until now. A new Locky ransomware variant is spreading and you need to know what to watch for.

Researchers at Comodo Threat Intelligence Lab recently discovered a new Locky variant dubbed IKARUSdilapidated. It is being distributed through phishing emails that contain little to no content. The email does, however, have a malicious file attached to it.

The attachment is either a Word document, PDF, archive zip file, or image file. If the recipient executes the attachment, it infects their gadget with IKARUSdilapidated ransomware.

A Comodo spokesperson said, "When the user opens the attached document, it appears to be full of garbage, and it includes the phrase 'Enable macro if data encoding is incorrect' - a social engineering technique used in this type of phishing attack. If the user does as instructed, the macros then save and run a binary file that downloads the actual encryption Trojan."

Here is an example of what the email looks like:

Once the victim's gadget is infected with the ransomware, a message appears instructing them to download the Tor browser. Then, a ransom of up to $1,200 is demanded that the victim is told to pay using bitcoin.

So far, there have been tens of thousands of these phishing emails delivered. The cybercriminals are using botnets to send the malicious emails.

(Note:A botnet is a group of gadgetsthat hackers have taken over without the owner's knowledge. The hackers seize control of unwitting gadgetswith a virus, and then use the network of infected computersto perform large-scale hacks or scams.)

As you can see, this is a very elaborate scam. Phishing emails, botnets, and ransomware are all used in this attack to scam people out of money. That's why you really need to know how to avoid falling victim to this attack.

The best way to defeat a ransomware attack is to takeprecautionary steps. Here are suggestions that will help:

Backing up your critical data is an important safety precaution in the fight against ransomware. It's the best way to recover your files without paying a ransom.

We recommend using our sponsorIDrive. You can backup all your PCs, Macs and mobile devices into ONE account for one low cost! Be sureand use promo codeKimto receive an exclusive offer.

Click here to receive a special discount from IDrive using promo code Kim.

How to spot disguised malicious files before they infect your computer

5 good habits that immensely improve your online security

Scammers targeting job hunters with new phishing attack

Please share this information with everyone. Just click on any of these social media buttons.

Previous Happening Now

Random Happening Now

Read the original here:

Nasty Locky ransomware is back, and now it's worse than ever - Komando