$EBC Ransomware Gives Victims 48 Hours
$EBC is a type of ransomware designed to block victims' access to their files. Once it infiltrates a system, $EBC encrypts files, adds the ".$EBC" extension to their filenames, and presents a full-screen ransom note. For example, it would change "1.jpg" to "1.jpg.$EBC", and "2.png" to "2.png.$EBC".
The ransom note delivers a severe message, declaring that the victim's files have been encrypted by ransomware. It demands a payment of 500 euros in BTC to a specified address within 48 hours in exchange for unlocking the files. Failure to comply within the given timeframe threatens permanent loss of the files.
Furthermore, the note advises against restarting the PC and warns against involving law enforcement, asserting that doing so would lead to permanent loss of files.
$EBC Ransom Note Attempts to Sound Professional
The full text of the $EBC ransom note reads as follows:
Attention! Your Files Have Been Encrypted!
Dear Client!
This PC/Laptop is infected by a malware so called ransomware. Which means that all your important files, videos, documents, pictures etc etc have been encrypted with a special encryption algorithm.
To unlock this pc you would need to pay us a ransom of 500 EU in btc in the following address (bc1qgr9t62pqdfr6c0rx3k6jlgnpua3ple2x64gesq) If you fail to compline within 48 hours this pc will reboot causing your files to be lost for ever!
TIME IS TICKING PAY QUICK! once paid emain the mentioned email address (ransom.hacker.contact@proton.me) with proof of payment and you will receive the key to unlock all your files!WARNING:
- DO NOT REBOOT THIS PC
- CONTACTING THE POLICE (IC3) WILL RESULT IN PERMENT LOSS OF FILES!
- ONCE 48 HOURS IS PASSED YOUR FILES WILL BE GONE
How Can You Protect Your Drives from Encryption by Ransomware?
Protecting your drives from encryption by ransomware requires a multi-layered approach that includes both preventive measures and proactive responses. Here are some effective strategies:
Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, software applications, and antivirus programs to patch security vulnerabilities. Many ransomware attacks exploit known vulnerabilities, so staying up-to-date helps mitigate these risks.
Install Reliable Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus or antimalware software and ensure it is regularly updated to detect and block ransomware infections. Consider using endpoint protection solutions that offer advanced threat detection capabilities.
Enable Firewall Protection: Activate and configure firewalls on your devices and network to monitor and control incoming and outgoing traffic, blocking unauthorized access and potentially malicious connections.
Exercise Caution with Email Attachments and Links: Be cautious when opening email attachments or clicking on links, especially if they are from unknown or suspicious senders. Verify the legitimacy of the sender and the content before taking any action.
Implement Email Filtering: Use email filtering and spam detection mechanisms to automatically identify and quarantine suspicious emails containing ransomware payloads or malicious links.
Backup Regularly: Maintain regular backups of your important files and data on external drives or cloud storage solutions. Ensure that backups are stored securely and are not directly accessible from the network to prevent ransomware from encrypting them.
