Iowd Ransomware
Infosec researchers have identified a harmful malware threat tracked as the Iowd Ransomware. If successful in its infection attempt, the threat has the capabiliy to cause significant harm to compromised systems. The existence of the Iowd Ransomware indicates that cybercriminals are continuing to develop new variants based on the STOP/Djvu family. It is crucial for users to keep in mind that threats from this family are often accompanied by additional threatening payloads. Typically, the attackers drop infostealers like Vidar or RedLine on the breached devices.
The Iowd Ransomware operates by executing an encryption algorithm that leverages an uncrackable cryptographic algorithm to lock files stored on the targeted device. As a result, the files become inaccessible to the user. This ransomware adds a new extension, '.iowd,' to the original name of each encrypted file. In addition, the Iowd Ransomware drops a ransom note in the form of a text file named '_readme.txt,' which demands a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption of the affected files.
How the Iowd Ransomware Extorts Its Victims
The ransom note of Iowd Ransomware closely resembles the instructions given by other members of the STOP/Djvu family. The note informs victims that they must pay $980 as a ransom to receive the decryption key and tool from the hackers. However, there is an opportunity to reduce this amount by half. To do so, victims must contact the hackers via the email addresses provided within 72 hours of the Iowd Ransomware infection.
The email addresses listed in the note are 'support@freshmail.top' and 'datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.' To prove their ability to restore the victims' data, the hackers offer to unlock a single encrypted file for free, which victims can attach to their messages. However, the file should not contain any valuable information.
The Iowd Ransomware is not the only variant of the STOP/Djvu family to demand ransom in exchange for the decryption key and tool. Victims should exercise caution and avoid paying the ransom if possible, as there is no guarantee that the hackers will fulfill their end of the bargain.
The Attacks from Threats Like the Iowd Ransomware can be Devastating
A ransomware attack can have severe and far-reaching consequences for both individuals and organizations. The attack may cause the loss of valuable and sensitive data, including personal, financial and business-related information. This may result in financial losses, damage to reputation and potential legal liabilities.
Ransomware attacks also may disrupt the normal functioning of an organization, causing temporary or permanent loss of access to critical systems and data. This may lead to significant business disruptions, affecting customer relationships and ultimately resulting in revenue loss.
Moreover, ransomware attacks can be time-consuming and expensive to recover from, requiring specialized skills and expertise to remove the malware and restore the affected systems and data. Victims may be forced to pay the ransom demand, further fueling the cycle of cybercrime and funding the development of more advanced and sophisticated malware.
In addition to the immediate consequences, ransomware attacks can have long-term effects, including a loss of trust and confidence in the affected organization, decreased employee morale and increased regulatory scrutiny. Overall, ransomware attacks can have devastating effects on the victims, making it crucial to implement proactive measures to prevent and mitigate the impact of such attacks.
Iowd Ransomware's ransom note is:
'ATTENTION!
Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-vdhH9Qcpjj
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshmail.topReserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelp@airmail.ccYour personal ID:'
