Darkangels: Highly Targeted Ransomware Strikes With New Tactics

The emergence of DarkAngels ransomware has raised concerns due to its highly targeted nature and novel tactics. Cyble Research Labs has reported that this ransomware is specifically designed to attack particular targets, even going as far as naming its ransom note and TAs website after specific organizations. DarkAngels operates as a 32-bit GUI-based binary, utilizing the SetProcessShutdownParameters() API to modify process priority. Before encrypting the system, it terminates services and retrieves the names of running services. Additionally, DarkAngels exploits the SHEmptyRecycleBinA() API to empty the Recycle Bin. The ransom note, titled How_To_Restore_Your_Files.txt, provides instructions for victims to pay a ransom in order to regain access to their encrypted files. By appending the .crypt extension to encrypted files and leaving ransom notes, DarkAngels leaves a clear mark of its presence. To mitigate the risk of falling victim to such attacks, it is advised to adopt precautionary measures such as regular offline backups, automatic software updates, reputable antivirus software, cautious handling of email attachments and links, and isolation of infected and external storage devices.

Key Takeaways

• DarkAngels ransomware is a new form of highly targeted ransomware that has been identified by Cyble Research Labs and shows similarities with the Babuk ransomware.
• The ransomware is created specifically for targeted attacks and includes features such as changing process priority, terminating services before encryption, and emptying the Recycle Bin.
• The ransom note instructs victims to pay a ransom to unlock their files and encrypts data on victims‘ devices, appending the .crypt extension to encrypted files.
• To protect against ransomware attacks like DarkAngels, it is recommended to have regular offline backups, enable automatic software updates, use reputable antivirus software, and verify the authenticity of email attachments and links.

DarkAngels Overview

The DarkAngels ransomware, identified by Cyble Research Labs and bearing similarities to the Babuk ransomware, has been observed in highly targeted attacks, with its ransom note and TA website specifically tailored to individual organizations, indicating that it is designed for specific targets. DarkAngels demonstrates a unique target selection process, focusing on specific organizations rather than a wide-scale attack. This approach allows the threat actors behind DarkAngels to customize their ransom note and TA website to appear more legitimate and increase the chances of successful extortion. In terms of encryption methods, DarkAngels employs a 32-bit GUI-based binary that utilizes the SetProcessShutdownParameters() API to change process priority. Additionally, it terminates services before encrypting the system, retrieves names of running services, and employs the SHEmptyRecycleBinA() API to empty the Recycle Bin. These tactics indicate a sophisticated and deliberate approach to compromising and encrypting victims‘ data.

Technical Analysis

Utilizing a 32-bit GUI-based binary, the identified ransomware undergoes technical analysis to understand its characteristics and functionalities. Reverse engineering techniques are employed to dissect the ransomware’s code and uncover its inner workings. This process allows researchers to identify the specific encryption techniques employed by DarkAngels. By terminating services before encrypting the system and enumerating and retrieving names of running services, the ransomware ensures maximum impact on the victim’s device. Additionally, DarkAngels utilizes the SHEmptyRecycleBinA() API to empty the Recycle Bin, further hindering the victim’s ability to recover their files. Through this technical analysis, researchers gain insight into the methods employed by DarkAngels, aiding in the development of countermeasures and strategies to mitigate its impact.

Protection Recommendations

Researchers can provide protection recommendations to mitigate the impact of the identified ransomware by implementing various cybersecurity measures. These measures include:

1. Backup strategies: Regularly perform backups of important data and store them offline or in separate networks. This ensures that even if the system is compromised, the data can be restored from a secure backup.

2. Software vulnerabilities: Enable automatic software updates to patch vulnerabilities and protect against known exploits. Regularly updating software enhances system security and reduces the risk of malware infections.

3. Reputable antivirus software: Use reputable antivirus software to detect and prevent ransomware infections. This software can identify and block malicious files or activities, providing an additional layer of protection.

4. Email and link safety: Verify the authenticity of email attachments and links before opening them. Check the sender’s email address and domain, look for suspicious language or requests, and be cautious of unexpected or unsolicited emails. Using email filtering and spam detection tools can also help identify and block phishing attempts.

Identifying Suspicious Events

By reviewing system logs, monitoring network behavior, and analyzing file changes, suspicious events related to the identified ransomware can be identified. It is crucial to actively look for signs of compromise to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks. System logs should be thoroughly reviewed for any abnormal activity or unauthorized access attempts. Monitoring network traffic can help identify unusual patterns or communication with malicious domains. Additionally, analyzing file changes and deletions can reveal any unauthorized modifications made by the ransomware. To assist in this process, a table can be used to visually represent the steps involved in identifying suspicious events:

Implementing these measures can help organizations detect and respond to ransomware attacks promptly, minimizing the impact on their systems and data.

Importance of Cybersecurity

The significance of maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in safeguarding organizations against evolving threats and minimizing potential vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity measures are essential in protecting sensitive data, preventing unauthorized access, and mitigating the impact of cyberattacks. With the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats, staying updated with the latest security news is vital for organizations to identify emerging risks and adopt proactive measures to counter them. By following reputable sources for cybersecurity information, organizations can stay informed about new attack vectors, vulnerabilities, and best practices. This knowledge enables them to implement robust security measures, including regular software updates, network monitoring, employee training, and the use of reputable antivirus software. By prioritizing cybersecurity, organizations can effectively defend against threats like DarkAngels ransomware and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of their data.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can victims of DarkAngels ransomware decrypt their files without paying the ransom?

Victims of DarkAngels ransomware can explore alternative decryption methods to avoid paying the ransom. They can seek assistance from cybersecurity professionals or use ransomware removal tools and techniques to recover their files.

Is DarkAngels ransomware specifically designed to target individuals or organizations?

DarkAngels ransomware is not specifically designed to target individuals or organizations. It is linked to known cybercrime organizations. DarkAngels infiltrates victim’s systems through various methods, such as email attachments, malicious links, or exploiting software vulnerabilities.

What are the potential consequences of not following the recommended protection measures against DarkAngels ransomware?

Potential consequences of not following the recommended protection measures against DarkAngels ransomware include data loss, financial loss from ransom payments, compromised systems, disrupted operations, reputational damage, and increased vulnerability to future cyber attacks. Protection measures are crucial to mitigate these risks.

Can DarkAngels ransomware be spread through email attachments or links?

DarkAngels ransomware can potentially be spread through email attachments or links as part of alternative propagation methods. This method allows threat actors to target different industries, leading to potential financial losses, data breaches, and disruption of operations.

Are there any known cases of DarkAngels ransomware being used for nation-state cyber attacks?

There is no current information available regarding nation-state involvement or the impact of DarkAngels ransomware on critical infrastructure. Further research and analysis are needed to determine any known cases in this context.