B-Panther Ransomware Addresses Victims in Portuguese
B-Panther is a type of ransomware that came to our attention during our examination of new file submissions. B-Panther belongs to the Xorist ransomware family. This malicious software encrypts files and demands a ransom for decryption.
On our test system, B-Panther encrypted files and added a ".B-Panther" extension to their original filenames. For instance, a file initially named "1.jpg" would now appear as "1.jpg.B-Panther," and the same pattern was applied to all affected files.
After completing the encryption process, B-Panther generated identical ransom messages in both a pop-up window and a text file named "HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt." The text within these messages was in Portuguese. According to a rough automated translation, these notes from B-Panther inform the victim that their data has been encrypted, and they are informed that the only way to recover their files is to purchase decryption keys and tools from the attackers.
The victim is also provided with a deadline for initiating communication, along with a warning not to modify or delete the encrypted files and to refrain from sharing information about this ransomware.
B-Panther Ransom Note Keeps it Brief
The full text of the short ransom note produced by B-Panther reads as follows:
Dados Criptografados (.B-Panther)
A unica forma de desbloquear os arquivos é
adquirir o Decryptor+Chave respectivo a este ID-647268905937
envie o id no email para contato: recoverybpanther@proton.meprazo max para o contato 22/08/2023 17:00 PM
N delete arquivos trancados
N não renomeie os arquivos trancados .B-Panther
N não poste esta mensagem em nenhum site
nem denuncie pois podem bloquear este email.
How Can You Protect Your Data from Ransomware Attacks?
Protecting your data from ransomware attacks is crucial to safeguard your personal and business information. Here are several strategies and best practices to help you prevent and mitigate the impact of ransomware:
Regularly Back Up Your Data:
Perform frequent backups of your important files and data to an offline or secure cloud storage solution.
Ensure that backups are automated and include all critical data.
Use Reliable Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
Install and keep antivirus and anti-malware software up to date to detect and block ransomware threats.
Keep Your Software Updated:
Regularly update your operating system, software, and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
Enable automatic updates whenever possible.
Exercise Caution with Email and Links:
Be wary of email attachments, especially from unknown or suspicious sources.
Avoid clicking on links or downloading files from unsolicited emails or unfamiliar websites.
Use Email Filtering and Anti-Phishing Tools:
Employ email filtering solutions to block phishing emails and malicious attachments.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for email accounts when available.
