MEOW Ransomware is a Threat Despite Funny Name

MEOW operates as a type of ransomware, originating from the CONTI ransomware. It employs file encryption and appends the ".MEOW" extension to the filenames of the affected files. Additionally, the ransomware leaves behind a ransom note named "readme.txt." To illustrate the alteration made by MEOW, for instance, "1.jpg" would be renamed to "1.jpg.MEOW," and "2.png" to "2.png.MEOW."

The accompanying ransom note instructs victims to communicate with the threat actors for file decryption. It provides various email addresses, namely meowcorp2022@aol.com, meowcorp2022@proton.me, meowcorp@msgsafe.io, and meowcorp@onionmail.org. Additionally, two Telegram usernames, @meowcorp2022 and @meowcorp123, are supplied for reaching out to the attackers.

MEOW Produces Brief Ransom Note

The full text of the very brief ransom note generated by the MEOW ransomware goes as follows:

MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!

Your files has been encrypted!

Need decrypt? Write to e-mail:

meowcorp2022@aol.com
meowcorp2022@proton.me
meowcorp@msgsafe.io
meowcorp@onionmail.org

or Telegram:

@meowcorp2022
@meowcorp123

Uniq ID: -

How Can You Best Protect Your Data from Ransomware Attacks?

To effectively safeguard your data from ransomware attacks, consider implementing the following best practices:

Regular Backups:
Create regular backups of your important data and store them securely. This ensures you can restore your files without paying a ransom if they are compromised.

Offline Backups:
Keep at least one set of backups offline or in a separate, isolated network. This prevents ransomware from reaching and encrypting your backup files.

Update Software:
Keep your operating system, antivirus software, and all applications up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and block malicious programs. Keep these programs updated to ensure the latest threats are recognized.

Email Filtering:
Employ robust email filtering solutions to identify and block phishing emails. Many ransomware attacks begin with malicious email attachments or links.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible to add an extra layer of security. Even if login credentials are compromised, MFA provides an additional barrier.