3AM Ransomware
The 3AM Ransomware stands out as a particularly nefarious and harmful threat. Known for its distinctive modus operandi, this ransomware has wreaked havoc on countless individuals and organizations.
The 3AM Ransomware is infamous for its encryption capabilities. Once it infiltrates a victim's system, it stealthily encrypts a wide range of files, rendering them inaccessible to the user. To mark its presence and assert control over the victim's data, it appends the ".threeamtime" file extension to the encrypted files. For example, a file originally named "document.docx" would be transformed into "document.docx.threeamtime." This distinctive extension signals to the victim that their files are now under the control of the ransomware operators.
Ransom Note: RECOVER-FILES.txt
To ensure that the victim is well aware of the dire situation, the 3AM Ransomware drops a ransom note on the compromised system. This note, typically named "RECOVER-FILES.txt," serves as a grim reminder of the data hostage situation. In the note, the perpetrators demand a ransom payment to get the decryption key required to regain access to the encrypted files.
In a bid to maintain anonymity and evade law enforcement, the 3AM Ransomware provides victims with a Tor website address within the ransom note. Tor, short for "The Onion Router," is a network designed to anonymize Web traffic, making it exceedingly difficult to trace the location and identity of users. Victims are instructed to access this website using the Tor Browser, where they can find further instructions on how to make the ransom payment and receive the decryption key. The use of Tor for communication underscores the sophisticated nature of the threat and the lengths to which cybercriminals are willing to go to maintain their anonymity.
Data Recovery Challenges: Shadow Volume Copy Deletion and Process Termination
One of the most insidious aspects of the 3AM Ransomware is its attempt to make data recovery exceedingly challenging for victims. To achieve this, it employs two key techniques:
a. Deletion of the Shadow Volume Copies: Windows operating systems maintain copies of files and data in a feature known as the Shadow Volume Copy. These copies can be used to restore files in case of data loss. However, the 3AM Ransomware actively attempts to delete these copies, ensuring that victims have no recourse for data recovery without paying the ransom.
b. Process Termination: In addition to deleting the Shadow Volume Copies, the ransomware also takes measures to halt certain critical processes. By stopping these processes, makes it even more difficult for victims to access tools or services that might aid in the recovery or removal of the ransomware.
The 3AM Ransomware is a formidable threat that combines advanced encryption techniques with the use of Tor for anonymous communication. It preys on the vulnerabilities of both individuals and organizations, leaving victims with a dire choice: pay the ransom or risk losing their data forever. Furthermore, its efforts to delete the Shadow Volume Copies and disrupt critical processes amplify the challenges victims face in recovering their files.
As ransomware attacks continue to evolve, it is imperative that individuals and organizations prioritize robust cybersecurity measures, including regular backups, system patching, and employee training, to recognize and mitigate these threats. Ultimately, proactive measures remain the best defense against the dark world of ransomware, including the insidious 3AM Ransomware.
The ransom note delivered by the 3AM Ransomware to its victims reads:
'Hello. "3 am" The time of mysticism, isn't it?
All your files are mysteriously encrypted, and the systems "show no signs of life", the backups disappeared. But we can correct this very quickly and return all your files and operation of the systems to original state.
All your attempts to restore data by himself will definitely lead to their damage and the impossibility of recovery. We are not recommended to you to do it on our own!!! (or do at your own peril and risk).
There is another important point: we stole a fairly large amount of sensitive data from your local network: financial documents; personal information of your employees, customers, partners; work documentation, postal correspondence and much more.
We prefer to keep it secret, we have no goal to destroy your business. Therefore can be no leakage on our part.
We propose to reach an agreement and conclude a deal.
Otherwise, your data will be sold to DarkNet/DarkWeb. One can only guess how they will be used.
Please contact us as soon as possible, using Tor-browser:
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Access key:'
