JOKER (Chaos) Ransomware
Recently, a new strain of ransomware dubbed the JOKER (Chaos) has been identified, wreaking havoc on computers worldwide. This ransomware operates by encrypting files on the infected system and appending them with a unique extension consisting of four random characters, making file recovery without the decryption key nearly impossible. Victims of this threatening software are then presented with a ransom note requesting payment in exchange for the decryption key.
Ransom Note Details
The ransom note, named gaming_is_a_j0ke (Discord), instructs victims on how to pay the ransom to regain access to their files. Here are the key details from the ransom note:
- Ransom Amount: 1500 USD in Monero (XMR) cryptocurrency.
- Cryptocurrency Address: 48XxCcL849CiC17CqMQFeuB3NTzJ2X28tfRmWaPyPQgvoHVdCLsZ17CqMQFeuB3NTzJ2X28tfRmWaPyPQgvoHVUZQwjhXW (Monero wallet address).
- Contact Information: Victims are instructed to contact gaming_is_a_j0ke (Discord) for further details on how to make the ransom payment and receive the decryption key.
What to Do if Infected
If you find that your system has been infected by the JOKER (Chaos) Ransomware, it's crucial to act swiftly and follow these steps:
- Isolate the Infected System: Disconnect the infected device from any network to prevent the ransomware from spreading to other devices or compromising additional data.
- Assess the Damage: Identify which files have been encrypted. The JOKER (Chaos) typically encrypts documents, photos, videos and other user-generated content.
- Backup Encrypted Files: If possible, make a backup of the encrypted files. This can be useful for potential decryption solutions that may become available in the future.
- Do Not Pay the Ransom Immediately: While tempting, the ransom payment is not a guarantee that the decryption key will be provided or your files will be restored. Consider this as a last resort.
- Seek Professional Help: Contact a reputable cybersecurity expert or company specializing in ransomware recovery. They may have tools or expertise to help recuperate your files without ransom.
- Report the Incident: Notify your country's law enforcement agencies or cybersecurity authorities. Reporting such incidents can contribute to tracking and combating cybercrime.
The JOKER (Chaos) Ransomware poses a severe threat to individuals and organizations alike, emphasizing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and proactive backup strategies. Stay vigilant against suspicious emails, avoid downloading attachments or interacting with links from unknown sources, and keep your anti-malware software updated. By adopting these precautions, the risk of falling victim to ransomware attacks will be more negligible and you can minimize the impact on your digital life and business operations.
The JOKER (Chaos) Ransomware displays a detailed ransom note, which reads:
'JOKER is multi language ransomware. Translate your note to any language <----
All of your files have been encrypted
Your computer was infected with a ransomware virus. Your files have been encrypted and you won't
be able to decrypt them without our help.What can I do to get my files back?You can buy our special
decryption software, this software will allow you to recover all of your data and remove the
ransomware from your computer.The price for the software is $1,500 USD. Payment can be made in Crypto only.
How do I pay, where do I get Monero?
Purchasing Monero varies from country to country, you are best advised to do a quick google search
yourself to find out how to buy Monero.
Many of our customers have reported these sites to be fast and reliable:
Coinmama - hxxps://www.coinmama.com Bitpanda - hxxps://www.bitpanda.com - hxxps://www.kraken.com (Recommanded)' JOKER is multi language ransomware. Translate your note to any language <----
All of your files have been encrypted
Your computer was infected with a ransomware virus. Your files have been encrypted and you won't
be able to decrypt them without our help.What can I do to get my files back?You can buy our special
decryption software, this software will allow you to recover all of your data and remove the
ransomware from your computer.The price for the software is $1,500 USD. Payment can be made in Crypto only.
How do I pay, where do I get Monero?
Purchasing Monero varies from country to country, you are best advised to do a quick google search
yourself to find out how to buy Monero.
Many of our customers have reported these sites to be fast and reliable:
Coinmama - hxxps://www.coinmama.com Bitpanda - hxxps://www.bitpanda.com - hxxps://www.kraken.com (Recommanded)Proof of Payment Contact My Discord > gaming_is_a_j0ke
Payment informationAmount: 9.05 XMR
Monero Address: 48XxCcL849CiC17CqMQFeuB3NTzJ2X28tfRmWaPyPQgvoHVdCLsZ17CqMQFeuB3NTzJ2X28tfRmWaPyPQgvoHVUZQwjhXW'
