Skynetwork Ransomware

The Skynetwork Ransomware threat was discovered by researchers while investigating threatening cybercriminal tools. The Skynetwork Ransomware is designed specifically to encrypt data and demand ransom for decryption.

When a sample of Skynetwork was executed, it encrypted files and appended their titles with a '.skynetwork8' extension. For instance, a file named '1.doc' appeared as '1.doc.skynetwork8,' '2.pdf' as '2.pdf.skynetwork8,' and so on.

Subsequently, a ransom-demanding message called 'How_to_back_files.html' was dropped onto the desktop of the infected devices. Based on the message, it can be concluded that this ransomware targets companies rather than home users. Cybersecurity analysts also have confirmed that the Skynetwork Ransomware is a variant of the MedusaLocker malware family.

Victims of the Skynetwork Ransomware Lose Access to Their Data

According to the ransom note left by Skynetwork, the victim's company network was breached, and the files that are now inaccessible were encrypted using RSA and AES cryptographic algorithms. The message goes on to warn that attempting to rename or modify these files, or using third-party decryption software, will result in permanent corruption.

The ransom note provides a 72-hour window for victims to pay the ransom. After this period, the sum demanded will increase. Before paying the ransom, victims are given the option to test the decryption process free of charge. The note also states that highly sensitive data was collected from the network, and if the ransom is not paid, this data will be sold or leaked.

In the vast majority of ransomware attacks, decryption is not possible without the attackers' involvement. The only exceptions are when the ransomware is still in development or has major flaws.

In addition, there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide the promised decryption keys or software even after the ransom has been paid. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that victims do not pay the ransom, as data recovery is not guaranteed, and complying with the demands only supports this illegal activity.

Security Measures to Prevent Attacks from Threats like the Skynetwork Ransomware

One of the most effectual ways to prevent and minimize the damage caused by ransomware threats is to set up a robust backup and disaster recovery plan. This includes regularly backing up important data and storing it in a secure location that is isolated from the rest of the network. If a ransomware attack occurs, this can ensure that businesses can quickly recover their data and resume their operations.

Another vital security measure is to educate yourself or your employees about the risks associated with ransomware attacks and how to prevent them. This includes training employees on how to identify phishing emails, how to avoid clicking on suspicious links, and how to create strong passwords. By raising awareness among employees and encouraging them to be more vigilant, businesses can reduce the likelihood of a successful ransomware attack.

Finally, businesses and individual users also should implement strong security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems and security software. These tools can help prevent ransomware attacks by identifying and blocking malicious traffic before it can reach the network. They can also provide real-time alerts and notifications when an attack is detected.

The full text of the Skynetwork Ransomware 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:
ithelp02@decorous.cyou
ithelp02@wholeness.business

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.'