Mao Ransomware

When activated on an infected computer, the Mao Ransomware encrypts files and adds a unique victim ID, a 'sony.mao@techmail.info' email address, and '.mao' file extension to the filenames. For example, it renames a file named '1.png' to '1.jpg.id-9ECFA84E.[sony.mao@techmail.info].mao,' and so forth. Mao is a new variant of ransomware belonging to the Dharma family.

Once the files are encrypted, the Mao Ransomware delivers two ransom notes. The threat displays one as a pop-up window while also dropping an 'info.txt' file containing additional information about the ransom payment. The ransom notes demand that victims pay a certain amount of money to regain access to their files, typically in the form of a specific cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. In this case, the listed instructions mostly direct victims towards messaging the attacker's emails at 'sony.mao@techmail.info' and 'sony.mao@tuta.io.'

Mao is highly threatening and can cause significant financial losses for its victims if not adequately addressed. As such, it is essential that users take preventive measures to ensure their files are protected and backed up in case of a ransomware attack. Moreover, if you have been infected by Mao, do not pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee you will regain access to your data. Instead, contact a trusted security professional tool that can help you remove the ransomware and recover your files safely.

Consequences of a Ransomware Attack

Ransomware is a form of cyber attack where ill-minded actors lock down the victim's computer, demanding payment in exchange for relinquishing control. Ransomware attacks can be highly damaging, disrupting entire networks and leading to data loss and system damage. Here are some of the consequences of a ransomware attack that organizations should be aware of.

Data Loss or Corruption

One of the most serious consequences of a ransomware attack is the potential for permanent data loss or corruption. Attackers typically encrypt files on the infected systems, rendering them irrecoverable unless the victims pay the demanded ransom. Additionally, ransomware can sometimes corrupt the data stored on your devices, further increasing the risk of long-term data loss.

Costly Business Disruption

Ransomware attacks can paralyze businesses' most essential operations; victims often have to completely shut down their digitized workflows due to encryption and disruption caused by malware. This could mean damage to reputation since customers may lose trust if their orders cannot be fulfilled as usual or services do not function properly when a business is affected by a ransomware attack. Moreover, there also may be significant financial losses sustained due to IT system downtime and preventative measures taken to mitigate infection associated with recovery efforts after an attack.

Damage to Brand Reputation

Businesses that suffer from ransomware attacks can expect negative publicity too—many companies tend to think they need only worry about person-to-person customer trust once they've experienced an incident like this one; however, brand reputation plays a vital role in maintaining customer loyalties and demand for products/services too. As more people become aware of what happened during an attack on your organization, some may have second thoughts about working with you again – regardless of whether you made a full recovery afterward or offered compensation for damages incurred during it.

Compliance Issues

The impact of successful ransomware attacks does not just stop at a financial cost: beyond restoration fees and likely fines respective authorities might impose for noncompliance with the various security regulations currently in place (GDPR included), organizations also could face issues from stakeholders who require detailed evidence that adequate steps have been taken towards preventing such incidents from occurring in future — think regular filings with PCI-DSS or GDPR compliance audits being required post-attack (e.g., to continue dealing with customers). Companies' internal procedures might go through changes post-attack, as well in response to new requirements determined by standards bodies/regulators they subscribe to, which could lead to additional costs associated with training staff members, acquiring new technologies and software tools, etc.

Mao's ransom note shown as a pop-up window is:

'YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
sony.mao@techmail.info
sony.mao@tuta.io
Don't worry, you can return all your files!
If you want to restore them, write to the mail: sony.mao@techmail.info YOUR ID -
If you have not answered by mail within 12 hours, write to us by another mail:sony.mao@tuta.io
ATTENTION!
We recommend you contact us directly to avoid overpaying agents
Do not rename 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.

Mao Ransomware's text file contains the following message:

all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email sony.mao@techmail.info or sony.mao@tuta.io'