Cicada 3301 Ransomware Attacks Several Operating Systems

New ransomware threats emerge regularly. One of the most potentially dangerous variants is Cicada 3301, a ransomware operation that has garnered attention for its sophisticated techniques and eerie connection to a cryptic online movement. First spotted in June 2024, Cicada 3301 Ransomware appears to be a formidable successor to previous ransomware groups like BlackCat (also known as ALPHV), inheriting and improving their methods.

What is Cicada 3301 Ransomware?

Cicada 3301 Ransomware is a new malware strain that targets small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by exploiting system vulnerabilities. Written in the Rust programming language, this ransomware is highly adaptable and capable of attacking Windows and Linux-based systems. It first emerged on underground forums, inviting affiliates to join its ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) platform. In this model, cybercriminals can lease out their ransomware to other attackers for a share of the profits.

A distinctive feature of Cicada 3301 Ransomware is its ability to embed the credentials of compromised users into its executable. This feature is crucial for spreading the ransomware within a network, as it leverages legitimate tools like PsExec, which allows for remote execution of programs on Windows systems. By doing so, the attackers can move laterally across a victim's network without raising suspicion.

How Does Ransomware Work?

Ransomware, including Cicada 3301, is designed to lock up a victim's files by encrypting them and then demand payment, typically in cryptocurrency, to restore access. The encryption process ensures that files are unusable until the victim pays the ransom or recovers the files through backups—if such backups exist and remain uncompromised. In many cases, ransomware also disables system recovery tools and deletes backups to prevent the victim from easily restoring their data.

Cicada 3301 Ransomware utilizes advanced encryption methods, notably the ChaCha20 encryption algorithm, which is highly efficient and difficult to break. This ransomware also targets specific file extensions like SQL, DOC, XLS, JPEG, and many others, locking up critical business documents, databases, and even personal media files.

Here's also the ransom note this infection drops:

** Welcome to Cicada3301 **

** What Happened? **

Your computers and servers are encrypted, your backups are deleted.
We use strong encryption algorithms, so you won't be able to decrypt your data.
You can recover everything by purchasing a special data recovery program from us.
This program will restore your entire network.

** Data Leak **

We have downloaded more than 1500 GB of your company data.
Contact us, or we will be forced to publish all your data on the Internet
and send it to all regulatory authorities in your country, as well as to your customers, partners, and competitors.

We are ready to:

• Provide you with proof that the data has been stolen;
• Delete all stolen data;
• Help you rebuild your infrastructure and prevent similar attacks in the future;

** What Guarantees? **

Our reputation is of paramount importance to us.
Failure to fulfill our obligations means not working with you, which is against our interests.
Rest assured, our decryption tools have been thoroughly tested and are guaranteed to unlock your data.
Should any problems arise, we are here to support you. As a goodwill gesture,
we are willing to decrypt one file for free.

** How to Contact us? **

Using TOR Browser:
1) You can download and install the TOR browser from this site: hxxps://torproject.org/

2) Open our website:

WARNING: DO NOT MODIFY or attempt to restore any files on your own. This can lead to their permanent loss.

What Does Cicada 3301 Want?

Like most ransomware programs, Cicada 3301's primary goal is financial gain. By encrypting a business's valuable data and halting its operations, attackers can demand hefty ransoms to restore access. Small—to medium-sized businesses are particularly vulnerable because they often lack the robust cybersecurity defenses of larger corporations and may be more inclined to pay the ransom to avoid prolonged downtime.

One aspect that makes Cicada 3301 especially dangerous is its potential collaboration with other cybercrime groups. Researchers have uncovered evidence suggesting that the operators behind Cicada 3301 may be working with the Brutus botnet group to gain initial access to enterprise networks. This suggests that the ransomware operation could be part of a larger, coordinated attack strategy, increasing its reach and effectiveness.

Advanced Techniques Used by Cicada 3301

Cicada 3301 ransomware shares many similarities with its predecessor, BlackCat, but with some key upgrades. It employs a variety of tactics to maximize damage and evade detection. For instance, it stops virtual machines (VMs) running on the target's systems to ensure that critical data, even those hosted in virtual environments, is encrypted. This technique has also been observed in other high-profile ransomware groups, such as Megazord and Yanluowang.

Additionally, Cicada 3301 takes steps to disable system recovery and backup services, making it more difficult for victims to recover their data without paying the ransom. It uses tools like bcdedit to manipulate system recovery settings and wevtutil to clear all event logs, effectively erasing its traces. This level of sophistication makes it challenging for security teams to detect and respond to the attack in real-time.

A Ransomware Built for Speed and Evasion

One of Cicada 3301's more innovative features is intermittent encryption. This method involves selectively encrypting parts of larger files, which reduces the time it takes to lock up massive amounts of data. By only encrypting files larger than 100 MB, Cicada 3301 can swiftly incapacitate large databases and other critical files, leaving businesses unable to function.

Another unique feature is the ability to continue encrypting files even while virtual machines run, using a parameter named "no_vm_ss." This approach allows the ransomware to encrypt data without needing to shut down the virtual machines, minimizing disruption to operations and helping the ransomware remain unnoticed for longer periods.

How to Protect Yourself from Cicada 3301

The emergence of Cicada 3301 Ransomware reinforces the need for businesses to maintain strong cybersecurity defenses. The first step in defending against ransomware is to ensure that all software, particularly operating systems and security tools, is up to date. Vulnerabilities in outdated software are among the most common entry points for ransomware attacks.

Additionally, organizations should implement a multi-layered security approach that includes:

• Regular Backups: Ensure data is backed up regularly and stored in locations isolated from the main network. This will allow businesses to recover their data without paying the ransom.
• Network Segmentation: By segmenting their networks, organizations can limit the spread of ransomware should it manage to infiltrate the system.
• Employee Training: Human error, such as clicking on a malicious link or downloading a suspicious attachment, remains a leading cause of ransomware infections. Regular training and phishing simulations can reduce this risk.
• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Advanced security solutions can detect and mitigate ransomware before it spreads throughout a network. Some ransomware, including Cicada 3301, attempt to bypass EDR tools, so it's crucial to use robust, up-to-date solutions.

The Unsettling Connection to the Cicada 3301 Puzzle

Cicada 3301 Ransomware shares its name with an enigmatic online movement known for creating complex cryptographic puzzles. However, the original Cicada 3301 group has publicly distanced itself from this ransomware operation, stating that it has no affiliation with the criminal activity. Whether this is an attempt by the ransomware creators to borrow from the mystique of the original group or a mere coincidence remains unclear.

Regardless, the arrival of Cicada 3301 ransomware marks a new chapter in the ongoing battle between cybercriminals and cybersecurity professionals. By understanding how this ransomware operates and taking proactive steps to defend against it, businesses can minimize their risk of becoming the next victim.