What Are Some Major Ransomware Attacks of 2021

What are ransomware attacks?

Ransomware attacks are a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files and demands a ransom to decrypt them. This is because healthcare organizations typically have sensitive patient data that attackers can use to blackmail victims. In addition, healthcare organizations often lack the resources to quickly recover from these types of attacks.

Backing up data regularly can help ensure that critical information not lost. If an attack does occur are some steps organizations can take.

Ransomware attacks: Types

There are four types of ransomware attacks: encrypting, locking, ransom and crypto.

Encrypting ransomware attacks is the most common type. This type of attack is hard to recover from because even if you have a backup. You can’t access your files without the key.

Locking ransomware attack locks you out of your system by changing your password or taking control of computer’s security settings. The attacker then demands a ransom to give you back access to your system.

Ransomware is a serious threat because it can not only result in lost data or money. But also cause reputational damage if sensitive data leaked.

Crypto ransomware is a type of ransomware that encrypts your files with a strong encryption key. Making them inaccessible to you. Unless you pay the ransom demanded by the attacker. This type of attack is difficult to recover from, as even if you have a backup of your files. You will not be able to access them without the key.

Crypto ransomware is particularly damaging because it can affect not just an individual user’s files. But also an entire organization’s network of computers.

Attackers will send seemingly innocuous emails containing links or attachments. When clicked or downloaded, install ransomware onto the target system. Users must exercise caution when opening email attachments or clicking on links in messages from unknown senders.

What are the most used vectors for ransomware?

There are several different vectors that ransomware can use to infect a victim’s computer. The most popular and well-known types of ransomware include Cryptolocker, Locky, SamSam, Petya/NotPetya, Cerber, and Nemucod.

1. Cryptolocker is one of most popular ransomware strains and it uses strong encryption lock user’s files until a ransom paid.

2. Locky is another common ransomware that encrypts a victim’s files and then demands payment in Bitcoin to decrypt them.

3. SamSam is a type of ransomware that specifically targets servers, often shutting down entire organizations until a ransom paid.

4. Petya/NotPetya are variants of the same ransomware strain that saw a resurgence in 2017. This malware encrypted victims’ hard drives making it impossible to boot up their computers without paying a ransom first.

5. Cerber is another type of ransomware that has been gaining popularity in recent years.

6. Nemucod is another form of ransomware that has become increasingly common in recent times. This malware typically arrives via email attachment disguised as an invoice or other harmless filetypes such as .pdf or .jpg.

How many ransomware groups are there?

There is no one answer to this question as the number of ransomware groups is constantly changing. However, research from McAfee estimates that there are currently around 25 active ransomware gangs. This number likely gone up in recent years due to the growing popularity of ransomware as a means of cybercrime.

Different estimates put the number of active ransomware groups at anywhere from 25 to over 60. However, what we do know is that ransomware has become increasingly popular in recent years. To making it likely that the number of groups has gone up. No one knows.

What are the biggest ransomware attacks?

Attacks

Acer Ransomware Attack – One of the most recent large ransomware attacks. Took place in March 2021 affected the computer company Acer. This included information about military contracts, financial details, and personal data.

Dell Ransomware Attack In February 2021, the attackers demanded ransom of $50 million in Bitcoin, but Dell refused to pay. As a result, the attackers released sensitive data about Dell’s clients and employees. This included information about military contracts, financial details, and personal data.

Honda Ransomware Attack – In January 2021, Honda was hit by a ransomware attack that encrypted files on victims’ computers. And displayed a message demanding a payment of 0.05 Bitcoin (about $275 at the time) to restore access to them.

Hyundai Ransomware Attack – The Group was hit by ransomware attack in December 2020 that encrypted files on victim’s computer. And displayed a message demanding a payment of 0.05 Bitcoin (about $275 at the time) to restore access to them.

Apple Ransomware Attack – April 2021 The attack on Apple in April 2021 was notable for a few reasons. First, it was one of the first ransomware attacks to specifically target Mac computers. Second, the attackers used a new strain of ransomware called “EvilQuest”. Third, they were able to encrypt not only the files on victims computers but also their backups. As a result, victims had no way to recover their data unless they paid the ransom.

3 Ways to Avoid Ransomware Attacks

With the help of ExterNetworks Ransomware is a type of malicious software. That blocks access to your computer or its files until you pay a ransom. It’s important to know how to avoid ransomware attacks, as they can be costly and time-consuming to resolve.

One way to avoid ransomware attacks is to keep your computer and its software up-to-date. Outdated systems are more vulnerable to attack than those that are up-to-date. Make sure have latest security patches installed on your OS and other software, such as web browsers and email clients.

Another way to protect yourself from ransomware is to back up your data regularly. If you have a backup of your data, you can restore it if it’s encrypted by ransomware. Be sure to store backups offline, as online backups can also encrypted by ransomware.

Finally, use caution when opening email attachments and clicking on links in emails. As these common ways for ransomware to delivered. If you’re unsure about the source of an attachment or link, don’t open it. And be sure to have antivirus software installed on your computer that can detect and block malware, including ransomware.

If you worried about falling victim to a ransomware attack, consider using ExterNetworks ransomware services. This type of service protects against ransomware by backing up your data, keeping your system updated with latest security patches.