Hgjzitlxe Ransomware

The Hgjzitlxe Ransomware carries out file encryption as part of its malicious operations on the breached devices. The encryption process involves appending a distinct extension - '.hgjzitlxe,' to the original filenames of the targeted files. Furthermore, Hgjzitlxe follows the expected behavior observed in most ransomware attacks by generating a ransom note with demands for its victims. The ransom-demanding message of the threat is dropped as a text file named 'HOW TO RESTORE YOUR HGJZITLXE FILES.TXT.'

To provide a clearer illustration, when Hgjzitlxe modifies filenames, it substitutes the original file extension with its own extension. For instance, a file named '1.pdf' would be transformed into '1.pdf.hgjzitlxe,' while a file named '2.png' would become '2.png.hgjzitlxe.' This pattern is observed consistently across the files that Hgjzitlxe targets for encryption. Another significant fact that was discovered about the threat is that it is actually a variant belonging to the Snatch Ransomware family.

Victims Of Hgjzitlxe Ransomware Will Lose Access to Their Data

The ransom note delivered to the victims of the Hgjzitlxe Ransomware details the demands of the cybercriminals. The note is presented as a summary of the consequences of a network penetration test that has supposedly been carried out on their system. As a result of this test, the ransom note explains, the files on the victim's network have been encrypted, rendering them inaccessible. Additionally, the attackers claim to have downloaded an extensive amount of data, exceeding 100GB. This data includes various types of sensitive information, such as personal data, marketing data, confidential documents, accounting records, SQL databases, and copies of mailboxes.

To discourage victims from attempting to decrypt the files independently or utilizing third-party decryption tools, the note emphasizes that only the provided decryptor possesses the capability to restore the files properly. It explicitly warns against potential deception by intermediaries, emphasizing the importance of direct communication.

To initiate contact with the threat actors, victims are instructed to message the email addresses provided in the note - 'candice.wood@post.cz' or 'candice.wood@swisscows.email.' Alternatively, the note suggests using the Tox chat as an additional method of communication. These communication channels are intended for victims to present evidence of their situation, discuss potential solutions, and ultimately request the decryptor.

The ransom note concludes with a stern warning that failing to respond within three days will result in the cybercriminals making the encrypted files public. This is intended to exert additional pressure on the victims to comply with the demands.

It is crucial to understand that attempting to decrypt the files without paying the ransom to the threat actors is highly unlikely to succeed in the majority of cases. However, it is vital to recognize the significant risks associated with paying the ransom. There is no guarantee that the encrypted data will be restored, and there is a considerable possibility of incurring financial losses. As a result, it is strongly advised not to comply with the ransom demands. Furthermore, it is essential to take immediate action to remove the ransomware from the infected operating systems to prevent any further data loss through potential additional encryptions.

Protecting Your Data and Devices from Ransomware Threats is Crucial

Safeguarding data and devices from ransomware attacks requires implementing a comprehensive set of security measures. Here are the best practices users can follow to enhance their protection against ransomware:

• Regular Data Backups: Regularly backup all important data to an offline or cloud-based storage solution. This practice ensures that even if files are compromised, they can be restored from a clean backup.
•  Keep Software Updated: Promptly install software updates, including operating systems, applications, and security patches. Updates often contain crucial security fixes that address vulnerabilities exploited by ransomware.
•  Exercise Caution with Emails: Be cautious when handling email attachments and links. Avoid accessing attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Verify the legitimacy of emails before interacting with any embedded content.
•  Utilize Anti-Malware Software: Install reputable anti-malware software on all devices. Keep them updated to detect and block ransomware threats effectively.
•  Exercise Safe Browsing Habits: Only visit trusted websites and avoid accessing suspicious links or downloading files from unverified sources. Use browser extensions that block malicious content and provide safe browsing environments.
•  Stay Informed and Educated: Stay up to date on the latest ransomware trends, attack techniques, and preventive measures. Regularly educate yourself and your team on best practices for cybersecurity and safe online behavior.

By following these security measures, users can significantly enhance their defenses against ransomware attacks, reducing the risk of data loss and potential financial harm. Remember to regularly review and update security practices as new threats emerge to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

The full text of the ransom note dropped by the Hgjzitlxe Ransomware is:

'THE ENTIRE NETWORK IS ENCRYPTED YOUR BUSINESS IS LOSING MONEY!

Dear Management! We inform you that your network has undergone a penetration test, during which we encrypted
your files and downloaded more than 100GB of your data

Personal data
Marketing data
Confidentional documents
Accounting
SQL Databases
Copy of some mailboxes

Important! Do not try to decrypt the files yourself or using third-party utilities.
The only program that can decrypt them is our decryptor, which you can request from the contacts below.
Any other program will only damage files in such a way that it will be impossible to restore them.
Write to us directly, without resorting to intermediaries, they will deceive you.

You can get all the necessary evidence, discuss with us possible solutions to this problem and request a decryptor
by using the contacts below.
Please be advised that if we don't receive a response from you within 3 days, we reserve the right to publish files to the public.

Contact us:
candice.wood@post.cz or candice.wood@swisscows.email

Additional ways to communicate in tox chat
tox id:
83E6E3CFEC0E4C8E7F7B6E01F6E86CF70AE8D 4E75A59126A2C52FE9F568B4072CA78EF2B3C97'