Beast Ransomware

After analyzing the malware dubbed Beast, infosec researchers found that it functions as ransomware. Indeed, upon infiltration of the targeted devices, Beast encrypts numerous files on them, renames their original files, and presents a ransom note to the victims. The Beast Ransomware appends a string of random characters (possibly acting as a victim's ID) and the '.BEAST' extension to filenames. For example, it renames '1.png' to '1.png.{9FBBD051-18C1-DD7D-7970-05C896B83093}.BEAST,' '2.pdf' to '2.pdf.{9FBBD051-18C1-DD7D-7970-05C896B83093}.BEAST,' and so forth. The goal of the cybercriminals behind the threat is to use the locked data in order to extort their victims for money.

The Beast Ransomware May Lead to Significant Repercussions for Victims

The ransom note associated with the Beast Ransomware informs victims that their data and files are no longer accessible due to encryption. This encryption affects a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, databases, and other critical data essential for day-to-day operations.

The note strongly advises victims against modifying any files contained within zip archives, emphasizing that attempting to do so could further complicate the decryption process. It asserts that the only way to restore access to the encrypted data is by purchasing a unique decryptor provided exclusively by the attackers behind the ransomware.

Furthermore, the ransom note contains an offer to victims for the supposed decryption of one file free of charge, provided it is not deemed valuable, and the victim contacts the specified email address at 'wangteam@skiff.com.' However, the attackers warn against any attempts to rename or edit encrypted files, as well as against using third-party software or seeking decryption assistance from unauthorized sources, to avoid potential tactics or additional fees.

Research into ransomware infections has shown that decryption without the involvement of the specific cybercriminals responsible is typically impossible. Even if victims decide to pay the ransom, there is no guarantee that they will receive the necessary decryption keys or software, making payment a risky and ill-advised course of action.

It is important for victims to understand that while removing the ransomware from their systems can prevent further data encryption, it will not automatically restore files that have already been encrypted. Therefore, proactive measures to secure systems and data, along with regular backups, remain crucial in mitigating the impact of ransomware attacks.

Ensure that Your Data and Devices Have Sufficient Protection against Malware and Ransomware

Ensuring that data and devices have sufficient protection against malware and ransomware is essential in safeguarding against cyber threats. Here's how users can achieve this:

• Install Anti-malware Software: Utilize reputable anti-malware software on all devices to detect malware and remove harmful threats already on the system. Keep these programs updated regularly to defend against the latest threats.
• Enable Firewall Protection: Activate the firewall on devices to monitor the network traffic (incoming and outgoing) and block potentially harmful connections and malware 
• Regular Software Updates: Keep operating systems, applications, and any other software updated with the latest security patches and updates to fix potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware.
• Exercise Caution with Email and Web Browsing: Always be on the lookout when opening email attachments or clicking on links, especially from unverified or undisclosed sources, as they may contain malware or phishing attempts.
• Implement Security Measures for Network and Wi-Fi: Secure Wi-Fi networks with solid encryption (WPA2 or WPA3) and change default passwords on routers to prevent unauthorized access.
• Practice Safe Online Behavior: Avoid downloading any software or files from unfamiliar sources, and be cautious when visiting previously unknown websites. Be wary of pop-up advertisements and avoid clicking on them.
• Backup Data Regularly: Implement a routine backup strategy for essential files and data. Keep backups stored securely, either offline or in a separate, encrypted location, to facilitate recovery if suffering a ransomware attack or data loss.
• Enable Security Features on Devices: Utilize built-in safety features such as remote wipe capabilities, device encryption and biometric authentication to protect data and prevent unapproved access in case of theft or loss.
• Stay Informed: Stay always informed about the latest malware and ransomware trends, as well as best practices for prevention and mitigation, through reputable sources such as cybersecurity blogs, forums, and news outlets.

By following these proactive steps, users can enhance the protection of their data and devices against malware and ransomware threat significantly, reducing the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks.

Victims of the Beast Ransomware are left with the following ransom note:

'YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED

Your files, documents, photos, databases and other important files are encrypted.

If you found this document in a zip, do not modify the contents of that archive! Do not edit, add or remove files from it!

You are not able to decrypt it by yourself! The only method of recovering files is to purchase an unique decryptor.
Only we can give you this decryptor and only we can recover your files.

To be sure we have the decryptor and it works you can send an email: WangTeam@skiff.com
decrypt one file for free.
But this file should be of not valuable!

Do you really want to restore your files?
Write to email: WangTeam@skiff.com

Attention!

Do not rename or edit encrypted files and archives containing encrypted files.

Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.

Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.'