According to a survey, ransomware is still a big problem in India, with RansomHub leading the way. It also stated that ransomware as a service, or RaaS, has quickly spread since changing its name from Knight ransomware and is currently affecting over 210 people worldwide. The survey also disclosed that the most common virus used to target organizations is called FakeUpdates.
This virus has affected 8% of global organizations, according to Check Point Software’s August 2024 Global Threat Index. It has affected 5% of global organizations globally, followed by AndroxghOst and Phorpiex.
How these malwares work and how to safeguard
FakeUpdates: This is a JavaScript downloader. It essentially poses as a software update, but inside is a hidden collection of malicious programs, or malware. It unpacks and installs those unwanted programs on your computer, causing all kinds of problems, after the user “accepts” this bogus update.
AndroxghOst: It is a botnet that preys on Linux, Mac, and Windows users. It gains access to computers by identifying flaws (vulnerabilities) in software that users may be utilizing. Once inside, it takes critical data, including email settings, cloud storage keys, and login credentials for other online services.
Phorpiex: A well-known botnet for using spam operations to spread other malware families by flooding recipients with unsolicited emails that contain malicious attachments or links. It’s also well-known for aiding in “sextortion” scams, in which cybercriminals attempt to coerce victims by threatening to divulge private information.
Most ‘targeted’ industries in India
According to the report, the government/military, education/research, and healthcare sectors in India continue to receive the greatest amount of targeted attention.
“Organisations in India are experiencing a significantly higher attack rate, averaging 3244 attacks per week in the past six months compared to the global average of 1657 attacks per organization,” the report added.
Additionally, according to Check Point, a new ransomware variant called Meow has switched its emphasis from encryption to data theft and extortion, advertising stolen data on leak marketplaces.
Also read: Unveiling the Ethical Imperatives: Navigating the Intersection of AI and Cybersecurity
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