Newnet Ransomware

Another variant from the MedusaLocker Ransomware family has been detected in the wild. The threat is named Newnet Ransomware and it uses a strong encryption algorithm to lock the files of its victims. Any documents, databases, archives, images, photos, etc. stored on the compromised system will be locked and rendered unusable. The hackers then offer to provide the decryption key and the software tool required for the restoration of the data, but only after they are paid a hefty ransom.

As part of its encryption process, the threat will append '.newnet' to the names of the affected files as a new extension. When all targeted files on the system have been locked, Newnet will deliver a ransom-demanding message inside a file named 'HOW_TO_RECOVER_DATA.html.'

Newnet Ransomware's Demands

The ransom note of Newnet is virtually identical to the instructions delivered by the other MedusaLocker variants. Victims are told that highly sensitive information has been collected from their compromised systems and is now hosted on a private server. The attackers threaten to release the files to the public or sell them to interested parties. Furthermore, after 72 hours have passed, the amount of the demanded ransom will go up.

To reach the hackers, victims can visit a dedicated website hosted on the TOR network. Alternatively, they can message the two email addresses found in the ransom note - 'help_24_decr1@outlook.com' and 'help_24_decr2@outlook.com.' Up to 3 encrypted files can be sent to the attackers and they promise to unlock and return them for free.

The full text of Newnet Ransomware's note is:

'YOUR PERSONAL ID:

/!\ YOUR COMPANY NETWORK HAS BEEN PENETRATED /!\
All your important files have been encrypted!

Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)

ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.

No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.

We gathered highly confidential/personal data. These data are currently stored on
a private server. This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..

We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.

You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.

Contact us for price and get decryption software.

qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion

Note that this server is available via Tor browser only

Follow the instructions to open the link:Type the addres "hxxps://www.torproject.org" in your Internet browser. It opens the Tor site.

Press "Download Tor", then press "Download Tor Browser Bundle", install and run it.

Now you have Tor browser. In the Tor Browser open qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion

Start a chat and follow the further instructions.

If you can not use the above link, use the email:
help_24_decr1@outlook.com
help_24_decr2@outlook.com

To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com
IF YOU DON'T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.'