LUCKY (Makop) Ransomware

Protecting your devices from malware threats is crucial. Cybercriminals continually develop more sophisticated methods to infiltrate systems, harvest data and disrupt operations. One such threat is ransomware—a type of threatening software that enciphers your files, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Failing to protect your devices can result in significant data loss, financial costs, and potential long-term damage to your digital life.

Understanding the LUCKY Ransomware: A New and Harmful Threat

The LUCKY Ransomware, identified as part of the Makop Ransomware family, is a particularly harmful strain of malware designed to encrypt files on an infected system and demand payment in exchange for their decryption. Once a system is infected, LUCKY appends a unique ID, the attacker's email address, and the extension '.LUCKY' to the filenames. For instance, a file named "document.docx" might be renamed to 'document.docx.[2AF20FA3].[givebackdata@mail.ru].LUCKY.'

The Ransom Note

Upon completing the encryption process, the LUCKY Ransomware creates a ransom note titled '+README-WARNING+.txt.' This note informs the victim that their data has been encrypted and that payment is required to receive the decryption keys. The attackers offer a small concession, allowing victims to decrypt two files for free as proof that they can unlock the rest of the data. However, they also issued stern warnings against using third-party recovery tools or anti-malware software, claiming that such actions could render the encrypted files permanently inaccessible.

The Reality of Ransom Payments

While the ransom note may suggest that paying the ransom is the only way to recover encrypted files, cybersecurity experts strongly advise against it. Paying the demanded ransom is not a guarantee that you will receive the decryption keys, and it directly funds further criminal activities. Furthermore, it's worth noting that removing the ransomware from your system will not decrypt your files; it only stops further encryption.

How the LUCKY Ransomware Spreads: A Breakdown of Common Tactics

One of the primary methods LUCKY ransomware uses to infiltrate systems is through phishing and social engineering tactics. Cybercriminals often disguise malicious files as legitimate software, documents, or media files. These files can be delivered through email attachments, malicious links, or even fake software updates.

Common File Formats and Delivery Methods

LUCKY ransomware can be hidden within various file formats, including:

Archives: ZIP, RAR, and other compressed file formats.

Executables: Files with extensions like .exe, .run, etc.

Documents: Common document formats like Microsoft Office files, OneNote files, and PDFs.

Scripts: Malicious JavaScript and other script-based files.

Merely opening one of these files can trigger the ransomware installation process, often without the victim realizing it until it's too late.

Other Distribution Methods

Aside from phishing, LUCKY ransomware is spread through:

• Backdoor/Loader Trojans: These are programs that allow cybercriminals to introduce malware into a system covertly.
• Drive-By Downloads: These downloads happen automatically when a user visits a compromised website.
• Spam Emails: Containing fraudulent attachments or links that, when clicked, initiate the malware download.
• Dubious Download Channels: Such as freeware sites, third-party platforms, and Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networks.
• Illegal Software Activation Tools: These often contain hidden malware.
• Fake Updates: Designed to look like legitimate software updates, but in reality, they carry malware.

Additionally, some versions of the LUCKY Ransomware can spread through local networks and external storage devices like USB drives, making it a persistent threat.

Best Practices for Securing Your Devices against the LUCKY Ransomware

• Regular Data Backups: One of the most effective defenses against ransomware is maintaining regular backups of your data. Store these backups offline or in a secure cloud environment that is not directly accessible from your primary system. This ensures that even if your data is encrypted, you have an unaffected copy available.
• Use Strong and Up-to-Date Security Software: Invest in reputable anti-malware software and keep it up to date. These tools can uncover and block known ransomware strains before they can execute. Additionally, use firewalls to add an extra layer of defense against unauthorized access.
• Stay Vigilant with Email and Download Practices: Always be prudent when opening emails from unknown senders or downloading files from untrusted sources. Avoid accessing suspicious links or opening attachments without verifying the sender's authenticity. Implement email filters to reduce the risk of phishing emails reaching your inbox.
• Regular Software Updates: Ensure that all your applications, including the operating system, are up to date with the latest patches. Cybercrooks often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems.
• Disable Macros and Script Execution: Many ransomware variants, including LUCKY, exploit macros and scripts embedded in documents to execute lousy code. Disable macros and avoid enabling them unless absolutely necessary. Similarly, disable automatic script execution in your browser and document readers.
• Implement Network Security Measures: Secure your network by using strong passwords, enabling network encryption, and segmenting your network to put a brake on the spread of ransomware if a device is compromised. Additionally, restrict access to critical systems and data to only those who need it.

Conclusion: The Importance of Proactive Cybersecurity Measures

The LUCKY Ransomware is a potent threat that highlights the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures. While no single strategy can guarantee complete protection, combining regular backups, strong security software, cautious online behavior, and timely software updates will significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to ransomware. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your data and avoid becoming another statistic in the growing wave of ransomware attacks.

The complete ransom note generated by the LUCKY Ransomware reads:

'::: Greetings :::

Little FAQ:

.1.
Q: Whats Happen?
A: Your files have been encrypted. The file structure was not damaged, we did everything possible so that this could not happen.

.2.
Q: How to recover files?
A: If you wish to decrypt your files you will need to pay us.

.3.
Q: What about guarantees?
A: Its just a business. We absolutely do not care about you and your deals, except getting benefits. If we do not do our work and liabilities - nobody will cooperate with us. Its not in our interests.
To check the ability of returning files, you can send to us any 2 files with SIMPLE extensions(jpg,xls,doc, etc… not databases!) and low sizes(max 1 mb), we will decrypt them and send back to you. That is our guarantee.

.4.
Q: How to contact with you?
A: You can write us to our mailboxes: givebackdata@mail.ru or getmydata@inbox.ru

.5.
Q: How will the decryption process proceed after payment?
A: After payment we will send to you our scanner-decoder program and detailed instructions for use. With this program you will be able to decrypt all your encrypted files.

.6.
Q: If I don t want to pay bad people like you?
A: If you will not cooperate with our service - for us, its does not matter. But you will lose your time and data, cause only we have the private key. In practice - time is much more valuable than money.

:::BEWARE:::
DON'T try to change encrypted files by yourself!
If you will try to use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions - please make a backup for all encrypted files!
Any changes in encrypted files may entail damage of the private key and, as result, the loss all data.'