Bad Rabbit Invades Europe – New Ransomware Attack

Posted by BulletVPN on 26 10 2017.

A new ransomware attack, dubbed Bad Rabbit, is spreading across Europe like wildfire. Germany, Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey have all been affected so far. Kaspersky Lab, a cyber-security firm, has compared the ransomware attack to WannaCry and Petya, two attacks that caused millions of dollars in losses earlier this year.

What is ‘Bad Rabbit’?

Bad Rabbit basically is a ransomware attack. The malware encrypts data on infected computers before hackers demand a payment of 0.05 bitcoin, approximately 280 Euros, for the decryption key. Bad Rabbit appears to have primarily hit Russian businesses. Interfax and Fontanka in Russia, as well as the Kiev Metro and Odessa Airport in Ukraine have all been affected. Interestingly, the malware code  contains many references to Grey Worm and Daenerys’ dragons,  the characters of the trending TV show Game of Thrones.

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a malicious software that allows hackers to encrypt files on your computer. This means you will not be able to access any of the files you had previously stored on your laptop. Cyber-criminals than demand money, a ransom, from victims in the promise that they will provide them with a decryption key that would allow them to recover the files on their PC again. The ransom is often demanded in Bitcoin cryptocurrency.

Useful Tips and Tricks

While even the most experienced Internet users can be tricked sometimes. Follow the steps below to increase your online security and privacy.

• Always keep your computer’s operating system up-to-date. Microsoft as well as Apple periodically release updates that include security patches. These patches are essential to fix any exploits hackers might use in order to access your computer.
• Use an anti-virus. The Internet is full of viruses and other malicious software. An update anti-virus program helps you stay safe from all these various hazards.
• Back-up all your important files. Just in case you do lose access to your computer, whether due to a virus or system malfunction, you will always be able to restore your critical files.
• Use VPN for extra security and privacy. Connecting to a virtual private network allows you to encrypt your Internet connection and hide your IP address when going online. This process gives you protection against Man-in-the-Middle attacks and other security threat.

Bad Rabbit Ransomware Attack – Final Thoughts

While Bad Rabbit is the latest ransomware attack to hit computer across Europe, it certainly won’t be the last. If you have been affected by Ransomware, it’s always best not to pay the hackers as there is absolutely no guarantee that they will ever hand you the decryption key which allows you to access your files again.