Alock Ransomware Will Lock Your System

During a routine evaluation of fresh file sample submissions, our research group came across a type of ransomware known as Alock. This ransomware variant is linked to the MedusaLocker ransomware family.

In our testing environment, the Alock ransomware operated by encrypting files and modifying their filenames with a ".alock" extension. For instance, a file originally labeled as "1.jpg" became "1.jpg.alock" after encryption, and this pattern extended to all files that were locked.

Following the completion of the encryption procedure, a ransom note named "HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html" was generated. The contents of this message made it apparent that Alock primarily targets organizations rather than individual users. Moreover, this ransomware employs a strategy involving dual extortion.

The ransom note ("HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html") conveyed to the victim that their corporate network had been breached. Vital files had been encrypted, and sensitive or personal data had been stolen.

The encryption of the files employed cryptographic algorithms like RSA and AES, making it impossible to decrypt them without intervention from the attackers. The victim was cautioned that any alteration or renaming of the encrypted data, or any attempt to recover it using third-party software, would result in permanent decryption failure.

The note clarified that a ransom had to be paid to initiate decryption, and failure to contact the cybercriminals within 72 hours would lead to an escalation of the demanded amount. Before complying with the ransom demands, the victim had the option to test decryption on a couple of files. Should the victim decline to pay, the compromised information would either be exposed or put up for sale.

Alock Ransom Note Raises Ransom Demand Within Three Days

The full text of the Alock ransom note reads as follows:

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:

1. Type the addres "hxxps://www.torproject.org" in your Internet browser. It opens the Tor site.
2. Press "Download Tor", then press "Download Tor Browser Bundle", install and run it.
3. Now you have Tor browser. In the Tor Browser open qd7pcafncosqfqu3ha6fcx4h6sr7tzwagzpcdcnytiw3b6varaeqv5yd.onion
4. Start a chat and follow the further instructions.

If you can not use the above link, use the email:
ithelp02@securitymy.name
ithelp02@yousheltered.com

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.

How Can Ransomware Like Alock Infiltrate Your Computer?

Ransomware like Alock can infiltrate your computer through various methods and attack vectors. Here are some common ways ransomware can gain access to your system:

• Phishing Emails: One of the most prevalent methods is through phishing emails. Attackers send emails that appear legitimate, often masquerading as a trusted entity or containing enticing subject lines and attachments. These attachments might contain malicious payloads or links that, when clicked, download and execute the ransomware.
• Malicious Websites and Downloads: Visiting compromised or malicious websites can also lead to ransomware infection. Sometimes, attackers use exploit kits that take advantage of vulnerabilities in your browser or plugins to deliver the ransomware without your knowledge.
• Malvertising: Attackers can inject malicious code into legitimate online ads, redirecting users to websites hosting ransomware. Simply clicking on a compromised ad can trigger the download and execution of the ransomware.
• Infected Software Installers: Criminals can compromise legitimate software installers, bundling them with ransomware payloads. When users download and install these infected applications, the ransomware gets activated.
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Attacks: If your computer has RDP enabled and poorly secured, attackers can exploit weak passwords or vulnerabilities to gain remote access and install ransomware.
• Software Vulnerabilities: Ransomware can exploit known vulnerabilities in your operating system, software, or applications. Keeping your software up to date with the latest security patches can mitigate this risk.
• Social Engineering: Attackers might manipulate users into willingly downloading and executing ransomware. This could involve tricking them into installing what appears to be a legitimate software update or file.
• Malicious Email Attachments: Attachments in emails might contain macros or scripts that execute ransomware when the attachment is opened. This is a common method for distributing ransomware.