Kuiper Ransomware Locks Victim Systems
During our routine examination of recent file submissions, our researchers came across the Kuiper ransomware. This malicious software is specifically designed to encrypt data and then demand a ransom in exchange for decrypting it.
Upon executing a sample of Kuiper on our test system, it initiated the encryption process for files. The original filenames of the encrypted files were altered by appending a ".kuiper" extension. For example, a file originally named "1.jpg" would now appear as "1.jpg.kuiper," and "2.png" would become "2.png.kuiper," and so on. Subsequently, a ransom note was generated under the title "README_TO_DECRYPT.txt."
The ransom note associated with Kuiper conveys to the victim that their network has been compromised, and crucial files have been encrypted. It provides instructions to contact the attackers and make a ransom payment in order to obtain the decryption tool. Although the note does not specify the exact amount, it states that the payment must be made in Monero cryptocurrency, which is fixed, and that if paid in Bitcoins, the amount will be 20% higher.
Before making the payment, the victim is given the option to test the decryption process on a single file. The note cautions against renaming the affected files or utilizing third-party recovery tools, as doing so could result in permanent data loss.
Kuiper Ransom Note Promises Free Decryption of One File
The complete text of the Kuiper ransom note reads as follows:
Your network has been compromised! All your important data has been encrypted!
There is only one way to get your data back to normal:
- Contact us as soon as possible to avoid damages and losses from your business.
- Send to us any encrypted file of your choice and your personal key.
- We will decrypt 1 file for test (maximum file size = 1 MB), its guaranteed that we can decrypt your files.
- Pay the amount required in order to restore your network back to normal.
- We will then send you our software to decrypt and will guide you through the whole restoration of your network.
We prefer Monero (XMR) - FIXED PRICE
We accept Bitcoin (BTC) - 20% extra of total payment!WARNING!
Do not rename encrypted data.
Do not try to decrypt using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss not being able to recover.Contact information:
In order to contact us, download with the following software: hxxps://qtox.github.io or hxxps://tox.chat/download.html
Then just add us in TOX: D27A7B3711CD1442A8FAC19BB5780FF291101F6286A62AD21E5F7F08BD5F5F1B9803AAC6ECF9If there is any problems setting up TOX then just write to us at the following mail, it will only apply for problems setting up TOX and contacting us through TOX:
kuipersupport@onionmail.org
Your personal id: -
How Can Ransomware Like Kupier Infect Your System?
Ransomware like Kuiper can infect your system through various means, often exploiting vulnerabilities or tricking users into taking actions that facilitate the malware's entry. Here are common ways ransomware infections can occur:
Phishing Emails:
Cybercriminals send phishing emails with malicious attachments or links. When users open the attachments or click the links, the ransomware is downloaded and executed on their system.
Malicious Websites:
Visiting compromised or malicious websites can trigger drive-by downloads, where ransomware is silently downloaded and installed on your computer without your consent or knowledge.
Malvertisements:
Cybercriminals can place malicious advertisements on legitimate websites. Clicking on these ads can lead to ransomware infections.
Exploiting Software Vulnerabilities:
Ransomware can exploit known or zero-day vulnerabilities in your operating system or software. Keeping your system and applications up to date with security patches can mitigate this risk.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Attacks:
If RDP is enabled and inadequately secured, cybercriminals can use brute force attacks or stolen credentials to gain access to your system and deploy ransomware.
Malicious Downloads:
Downloading software or files from untrusted sources, such as torrents or unofficial websites, can expose your system to ransomware.
