Earlier this year, the hacking group have decided to give away hacked tools and files for free. They took it to medium and shared the password to unlock the encrypted folder of files to the public. Well, the hacking tools that were stolen from the NSA can be used for hacking computers running on Microsoft windows. The malicious software WanaCryptor 2.0 which is also known as WCry is now being used to carry out one of the biggest ransomware attacks of its kind. Well, Dozens of countries have been affected by this ransomware attack. The attack locks up computers and holds users’ documents for ransom. The more shocking thing is, the ransomware is targeting multiple companies, government agencies, and even hospitals. Security researchers at Avast have recorded over 57,000 detections of WanaCryptor 2.0 ransomware in 99 countries. Let me tell you, after the attack, the ransom being demanded is $300 worth of bitcoins. Well, the attack displays a message which instructs how to pay the ransom, explanation of the attack and a timer. Here’s the message: According to Avast security blog “The ransomware is mainly being targeted to Russia, Ukraine, and Taiwan, but the ransomware has successfully infected major institutions, like hospitals across England and Spanish telecommunications company, Telefonica.” Here’s the map that shows the countries being targeted by WanaCryptor: Avast security blog says “We saw the first version of WanaCrypt0r in February and now the ransomware is available in 28 different languages, from languages like Bulgarian to Vietnamese.” This malware is spreading by exploiting a vulnerability called EternalBlue. The scam might be spreading because of phishing emails with malicious attachments that infect users computers when they click on them. Well, the official government says that not to pay those criminals behind such attacks. Well, Avast security blog reported that good antivirus program can detect all known version of WanaCryptor 2.0. However, they also recommended users to fully update their system with the latest available patches. So, what do you think about this? Share your views in the comment box below.
