News

Linux Systems Targeted by New Ransomware

Ransomware is a particularly nasty piece of malware that has become even more popular in recent years. Initially, malware was designed to just disrupt or damage a person’s computers or files. Then came ransomware, designed to benefit the creator by either disturbing or denying access to their files the ransomware then offers to decrypt any nastily encrypted files using the only available key online by a set date if you pay them. It would seem that Linux users are the latest target with Linux.Encoder.1 targeting the operating system.

Targeted at a vulnerability in the Magneto CMS system, popular amongst e-commerce sites, and then once run with administrator-level privileges, will encrypt the user’s home directories and any files that could be associated with websites and hosting websites on the system. This is particularly lethal to stores which make their living through online selling, potentially knocking the site offline and costing them hundreds in one fell swoop.

After encrypting a directory, the system leaves a readme file, stating the terms for payment and offering a link to the Tor-protected gateway to make the payment of one bitcoin (a digital currency that comes in at around £250).

Once it has received the payment the malware will then decrypt the files, deleting both the readme file and the encrypted files during the process.

We would like to remind people to be careful when running any software or opening files sent or downloaded from the internet. Ransomware use is on the rise and we wish that our readers (and everyone else) never has to deal with being one of its victims.

Gareth Andrews

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Still Wakes the Deep 

LIVE THE HORROR: An immersive disaster story aboard a stunningly realised North Sea oil rig,…

4 hours ago

PHILIPS 275V8LA – 27 Inch QHD Monitor

The Philips VA LED display uses an advanced multi-domain vertical alignment technology that gives you…

4 hours ago

EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Gasket-mounted Mechanical Keyboard 

【TFT Screen: The Interactive Interface】This 75% mechanical keyboard comes equipped with a TFT Screen, serving…

4 hours ago

Funko Fusion

FANDOM FUSION Play as your favorite characters and wield their unique weapons and skills. Team…

4 hours ago

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Standard Edition

The Definitive Version of Shin Megami Tensei V - Fully evolved with stunning visuals for…

4 hours ago

Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack

【Unique Split Design】5200mAh hand warmers rechargeable together with double-sided heating function, split snap swivel design,…

4 hours ago