Lockbit Ransomware

By Ashwin Venugopal -

 






What is Lockbit Ransomware?

It is a dangerous software designed to block user access to computer systems. Formerly known as "ABCD" ransomware, Lockbit is a subclass of 'crypto virus' mostly interested in government organizations and enterprises rather than individuals. Its past targets includes India, USA, China, Indonesia, Ukraine, France, UK, and Germany. Presumably, it avoids attacking systems local to Russia or other countries within the Commonwealth of Independent States. This might be done to avoid prosecution in those areas. 

Lockbit also works as a ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS), where willing parties pay for hire attacks and profits under an affiliate framework. 

How Does Lockbit works?

Lockbit ransomware is considered to be a part of the "LockerGoga & MegaCortex" malware family because it shares some attributes of this malware group. Firstly, Lockbit exploits the weakness of a network via phishing email or brute force attack to get inside a network. Once inside, the ransomware gets ready to release its encrypted payload across every device. 

It infiltrate deeper into the network to complete the attack setup. At this point, the ransomware takes all the preparatory measures before deploying the encrypted portion. it includes disabling the security programs and any other infrastructure meant for system recovery. Their main goal is to make the unassisted recovery impossible or very slow. 

Once everything is done in favor of Lockbit, the ransomware starts to multiply itself within the network. The encryption portion will place a "lock" on all the system files that can only be unlocked via a decryption key provided by the Lockbit group. During the entire process, a ransom note also flashes on the victim's screen with instructions to restore their system and threatening blackmails. 

Now, everything is left upon the victim. However, it not advisable to give in to their demands, as the ransomware group may not even complete their end of bargain.

Protection Against Lockbit

Following steps might help in protecting a system against such ransomware attacks:
  • Implement strong passwords.
  • Activate Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
  • Simple user account permissions. 
  • Clear unused and outdated user accounts.
  • System configurations to strictly follow all security procedures.
  • Always have system backup in a remote configuration.
  • Have updated cybersecurity solution in place. 

 Conclusion

Lockbit is a dangerous ransomware laced with advanced tactics and methods. Hence, strict protective measures should be taken against such ransomwares to avoid their successful targeted attacks.















































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