Categories: NewsSecurity

Security Researchers Concerned Over new VirLocker Ransomware Campaign

As if the ransomware threat is not dire enough already, it looks like a long-lost version is making the rounds once again. Security researchers came across a new distribution campaign for the VirLocker ransomware. Considering how this malware is capable of copying itself into any infected files, the ransomware can easily spread to other people or be copied onto a removable drive.

VirLocker Is A Nasty Piece of Work

In most cases, ransomware victims can bypass paying a Bitcoin fee by restoring a backup of their data. That is, assuming they made a recent backup not too long before the infection occurred. Unfortunately, that will not be the case when getting infected with VirLocker, as the ransomware strain makes it impossible to use backups. In fact, these backups will become infected as well, which creates a whole new set of problems.

Once a computer gets infected with the VirLocker ransomware, the malware will immediately copy itself into every file it comes across. Removable storage devices connected to the computer at that time – or in the future – have a high chance of receiving a copy of this ransomware as well. Since most cases store hard drive backups on USB sticks or DVDs, it is impossible to use this form of media in a secure manner.

Victims only have one viable option, which is making sure the computer is cleaned up entirely. Unfortunately, that will not be easy, as any downloaded tools will become infected as well. This is one of the primary reasons why security researchers have been so concerned about this

malware strain. Even detecting this malicious software is challenging, as VirLocker is more than capable of bypassing most antivirus and anti-malware detection programs.



Related Post

There is a lot more to VirLocker than just these threats. Its developers keep track of every machine infected and validate whether or not a payment was received from that victim in the past. Assuming that is the case, it will then decrypt and extract the original file embedded within the payload. Users who have not made a payment yet will be greeted with the ransomware message shortly after.

Users who have never dealt with a VirLocker infection before will not notice something is wrong right away. While this malware runs in the background, everything else will remain normal to the computer users. However, the ransomware can easily spread without the device owner ever noticing he or she got infected in the first place. Any activity from that point forward, including sending files to people through social media, will only aid the distribution of VirLocker on a global scale.

Thankfully, there is an easy trick to bypass the payment screen. As soon as victims enter any random 64-length string in the Transfer ID text box, the malware will assume a payment has been received. Afterward, users can decrypt their files one at a time. A very tedious process, to say the least, but it is still far better than paying a sum in Bitcoin. Once all files are decrypted, a fresh install of the operating system is mandatory.

If you liked this article, follow us on Twitter @themerklenews and make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest bitcoin, cryptocurrency, and technology news.

JP Buntinx

JP Buntinx is a FinTech and Bitcoin enthusiast living in Belgium. His passion for finance and technology made him one of the world's leading freelance Bitcoin writers, and he aims to achieve the same level of respect in the FinTech sector.

Share
Published by
JP Buntinx

Recent Posts

Best Altcoins to Invest in Today: Qubetics Sets the Stage for Blockchain’s Future as Bitcoin Hits $108K and Litecoin Soars

The cryptocurrency world has always been a hotbed of innovation, attracting both seasoned investors and…

8 hours ago

Dogecoin Millionaire Predicts This Undervalued Altcoin Could Match DOGE’s 2021 Gains

Dogecoin's 2021 rally was a historic one, turning ordinary investors into overnight millionaires. This magnificent…

8 hours ago

Qubetics Presale Skyrockets to $7.5M as XRP and Arbitrum Lead Best Altcoins for Exponential Returns

The crypto market is always evolving, with big names like Bitcoin and Ethereum leading the…

9 hours ago

Over 300K Users Actively Mine Crypto On BlockDAG’s X1 Miner App While BNB Bulls Eye $3K; What’s XRP’s Price Target?

The crypto market is ablaze with excitement as altcoins like XRP and BNB make major…

9 hours ago

Best Crypto Presale To Buy Now: Rollblock Delivers For Holders With New License, Record Sign Ups and 7000+ Games

Rollblock is quickly becoming the best crypto presale to buy, delivering unmatched value for its…

13 hours ago

Polkadot And Uniswap Gearing For Post-Christmas Jump As Rollblock Raises $7.4 Million in Presale

While Rollblock's continues its crypto presale, with its value increasing regularly, Polkadot (DOT) and Uniswap…

14 hours ago