Alock Ransomware

New research has unveiled the Alock Ransomware program, which operates by encrypting files and affixing a '.alock' extension to their filenames. To illustrate this modification, a file that is initially named "1.jpg" would be transformed into '1.jpg.alock,' while '2.png' would become '2.png.alock.' This pattern extends across all files that have been encrypted by the threat.

Once the encryption process concludes, a ransom note labeled 'HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html' is created on the compromised device. Analysis of the content within the note reveals that Alock primarily focuses on targeting corporate entities rather than individual home users. By employing a dual extortion strategy, the ransomware perpetrators try to further push their victims into complying with their demands. Furthermore, the Alock Ransomware is associated with the MedusaLocker Ransomware family.

Victims of the Alock Ransomware Lose Access to Their Data

The message demanding a ransom, named 'HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html,' conveys critical information to the victim, outlining the extent of the security breach within their company network. It explains that vital files have undergone encryption, rendering them inaccessible, and additionally, sensitive personal and confidential data has been illicitly extracted.

The encryption process employed RSA and AES cryptographic algorithms, making it practically impossible to decrypt the files without intervention from the attackers. Victims are warned that any attempts to rename or modify the encrypted data or endeavors to restore it using third-party recovery software, may lead to irreversible damage.

The ransom note emphasizes that to regain access to the locked files, a ransom must be paid, and if communication with the cybercriminals isn't initiated within a span of 72 hours, the ransom amount will be increased. Victims are granted the option to test decryption on a limited subset of files before committing to payment. Conversely, a refusal to comply with the ransom demand will result in the exposure or sale of the collected data.

It's crucial to understand that decryption usually remains an unattainable goal without the involvement of the cybercriminals themselves. However, in numerous instances, victims who have paid the ransom have not received the promised decryption keys or tools, leading to an unfortunate loss of funds without successful data recovery. Therefore, it's highly advised to refrain from paying the ransom, as this not only fails to guarantee data recovery but also perpetuates the criminal activities of the attackers.

Taking steps to remove the Alock Ransomware from the operating system is imperative to halt any further data encryption. Regrettably, while removal can prevent the encryption of additional data, it doesn't hold the capacity to restore files that have already been compromised.

Users and Organizations Should Take the Security of Their Data and Devices Seriously

Users and organizations alike should prioritize the security of their data and devices due to the escalating risks posed by cyber threats and harmful activities. With the growing dependency on digital technology and the Internet, the potential for data breaches, unauthorized access and other cyberattacks has significantly increased.

Taking data and devices security seriously is essential for several reasons:

• Protection Against Data Breaches: Data breaches can result in the exposure of sensitive and confidential information, leading to financial losses, reputation damage and legal consequences. By implementing robust security measures, users and organizations can mitigate the likelihood of such breaches.
•  Prevention of Unauthorized Access: Unauthorized individuals gaining access to personal or proprietary information can lead to a multitude of problems, including identity theft, financial fraud, and corporate espionage. Strong security measures, such as strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and encryption, can deter unauthorized access attempts.
•  Mitigation of Financial Losses: Cyberattacks can result in financial losses through various means, including ransomware attacks, where users and organizations are forced to pay a ransom to regain access to their data. Taking security seriously helps minimize the potential financial impact of such attacks.
•  Maintenance of Privacy: Data privacy is a critical concern in today's digital landscape. Safeguarding sensitive and personal information from unauthorized access helps maintain individual and organizational privacy, ensuring compliance with relevant data protection regulations.
•  Preservation of Reputation: A security breach can severely damage an individual's or organization's reputation. Public trust and credibility can be eroded, affecting relationships with customers, clients, partners, and stakeholders.
•  Continuity of Operations: Cyberattacks can disrupt operations and services, leading to downtime and lost productivity. Adequate security measures can help ensure the continuity of business processes and prevent disruptions.
•  Prevention of Cyber Extortion: Cybercriminals often use tactics like ransomware to extort money from victims. By implementing strong security measures, users and organizations can lower the likelihood of falling victim to such extortion attempts.
•  Contribution to a Safer Digital Environment: When individuals and organizations prioritize security, they contribute to a safer overall digital environment. By taking steps to protect themselves, they collectively work towards reducing the success rates of cybercriminals and making the online space more secure for everyone.

In conclusion, the increasing complexity and frequency of cyber threats necessitate a proactive approach to data and device security. Users and organizations must recognize the potential consequences of lax security practices and make concerted efforts to put into practice strong security measures to protect their valuable data, privacy, and operations.

The full text of the ransom note delivered by Alock Ransomware is:

'YOUR PERSONAL ID:

/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!

Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)

ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.

No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.

We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..

We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.

You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.

Contact us for price and get decryption software.

qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion

Note that this server is available via Tor browser only

Follow the instructions to open the link:

• Type the addres "hxxps://www.torproject.org" in your Internet browser. It opens the Tor site.
• Press "Download Tor", then press "Download Tor Browser Bundle", install and run it.
• Now you have Tor browser. In the Tor Browser open qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion
• Start a chat and follow the further instructions.

If you can not use the above link, use the email:
ithelp02@securitymy.name
ithelp02@yousheltered.com

To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com

IF YOU DON'T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.'