What is the Medusa Ransomware?

MEDUSA is a type of ransomware that we came across during our examination of malware samples. It works by encrypting data and adding the ".MEDUSA" extension to the filenames, and it also drops a ransom note called "!!!READ_ME_MEDUSA!!!.txt" that informs the victim of the situation.

To give an example of how MEDUSA alters filenames, it changes "1.jpg" to "1.jpg.MEDUSA", "2.png" to "2.png.MEDUSA", and so on. According to the ransom note, the attackers behind MEDUSA have breached the network and copied all of the valuable data to a private cloud storage. They claim to have access to the entire network, including the backup system, and have encrypted all the files using a military-grade encryption algorithm. The victim is unable to decrypt the files without the attackers' assistance.

The attackers demand that the victim pays for the decryption tool and keys via live chat or the Tox Chat Program. They also offer instructions on how to contact them through their support email at medusa.serviceteam@protonmail.com. The ransom note warns that if the victim fails to pay the ransom within three days, all data will be made public.

It is essential to note that ransomware such as MEDUSA can cause significant damage to businesses and individuals alike by encrypting files and extorting money from victims. Therefore, it is crucial to take proactive measures such as having regular backups, keeping software updated, and being cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments.

The Medusa Ransom Note Uses ASCII Art

The full ransom note generated by the ransomware contains endearing ASCII art of the word MEDUSA, and the following text below it:

(MEDUSA ASCII art logo)

WHAT HAPPEND?

1. We have PENETRATE your network and COPIED data.

• We have penetrated entire network including backup system and researched all about your data.
• And we have extracted all of your important and valuable data and copied them to private cloud storage.

1. We have ENCRYPTED your files.
   While you are reading this message, it means all of your files and data has been ENCRYPTED by world's strongest ransomware.
   All files have encrypted with new military-grade encryption algorithm and you can not decrypt your files.
   But don't worry, we can decrypt your files.

There is only one possible way to get back your computers and servers - CONTACT us via LIVE CHAT and pay for the special
MEDUSA DECRYPTOR and DECRYPTION KEYs.
This MEDUSA DECRYPTOR will restore your entire network, This will take less than 1 business day.

WHAT GUARANTEES?

We can post your data to the public and send emails to your customers.
We have professional OSINTs and media team for leak data to telegram, facebook, twitter channels and top news websites.

You can suffer significant problems due disastrous consequences, leading to loss of valuable intellectual property and other sensitive information,
costly incident response efforts, information misuse/abuse, loss of customer trust, brand and reputational damage, legal and regulatory issues.

After paying for the data breach and decryption, we guarantee that your data will never be leaked and this is also for our reputation.

YOU should be AWARE!

We will speak only with an authorized person. It can be the CEO, top management, etc.
In case you ar not such a person - DON'T CONTACT US! Your decisions and action can result in serious harm to your company!
Inform your supervisors and stay calm!

If you do not contact us within 3 days, We will start publish your case to our official blog and everybody will start notice your incident!
--------------------[ Official blog tor address ]--------------------
Using TOR Browser(hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/):

-

CONTACT US!
----------------------[ Your company live chat address ]---------------------------
Using TOR Browser(hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/):

-

Or Use Tox Chat Program(hxxps://qtox.github.io/)
Add user with our tox ID : 4AE245548F2A225882951FB14E9BF87E E01A0C10AE159B99D1EA62620D91A372205227254A9F

Our support email: ( medusa.serviceteam@protonmail.com )

Company identification hash:

How Can You Protect Your System Against Ransomware Similar to Medusa?

Protecting your system from ransomware attacks like Medusa is critical to avoid the loss of your valuable data. Here are some tips to protect your system against ransomware:

• Use antivirus software: Install a reputable antivirus solution and keep it updated to protect your system from new and evolving threats.
• Keep your operating system and software up-to-date: Regularly install security updates and patches for your operating system, web browser, and other software applications to fix known vulnerabilities.
• Backup your data regularly: Regularly backup your data and store it in a separate location that is not connected to your system. This way, if your system is infected with ransomware, you can restore your data from a backup.
• Be cautious of suspicious emails and links: Do not open attachments or click on links in emails from unknown senders or suspicious sources. These may contain ransomware or other malware.
• Use strong passwords: Use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts and change them regularly.
• Disable macros: Disable macros in Microsoft Office files, as ransomware may use macros to spread.
• Use a firewall: Install and enable a firewall to block unauthorized access to your system.
• Educate yourself: Educate yourself on ransomware and other types of malware to help you identify and avoid them.