What is S4b Ransomware?
In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, one of the latest additions to the malicious software arsenal is the S4b ransomware. Discovered by diligent researchers during an investigation into new malware submissions on the VirusTotal website, S4b has been identified as a member of the notorious Phobos ransomware family. This sinister program operates with a singular purpose: to encrypt your data and demand a hefty ransom for its safe decryption.
What does S4b Ransomware do to your computer?
When unleashed on a test machine, S4b exhibited its ruthless capabilities. It systematically encrypted files and left behind a digital trail of mayhem. Original file names were forcibly appended with a unique identification code, the malevolent cyber criminals' email address, and a menacing ".s4b" extension. For instance, a once-innocent file named "1.jpg" would morph into the ominous "1.jpg.id[9ECFA84E-3449].[submarine@cyberfear.com].s4b."
But the nightmare doesn't end there. Once the encryption process is complete, S4b doesn't miss the opportunity to taunt its victims. It deploys ransom notes in two forms: a conspicuous pop-up window ("info.hta") and a chilling text file ("info.txt"). These notes serve as the ominous heralds of the victim's predicament, informing them that their precious files are now locked away behind an impenetrable digital fortress.
In a heart-wrenching message, the text file implores the victim to initiate contact with the malefactors for the sole chance of recovering their cherished data. The pop-up message goes further, elucidating that this elusive salvation hinges on one thing - the payment of a ransom, albeit an unspecified amount, delivered exclusively in the cryptocurrency realm of Bitcoin.
S4b Ransomware ransom note
As a twisted act of assurance, the cyber criminals grant the victim an unsettling proposition - the opportunity to test the waters by sending up to five of their suffering files. However, there are caveats aplenty. These test files cannot be compressed or exceed a modest 4 MB in size, and they must not harbor any substantial or valuable information, such as databases, backups, or bulky Excel spreadsheets.
The message concludes with a grim warning. Modifying the locked files or attempting to rescue them with third-party decryption tools may result in rendering them permanently inaccessible. Seeking external help is not only discouraged but also poses a significant risk of increasing one's financial loss.
The ransom note reads like the following:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail submarine@cyberfear.com
Write this ID in the title of your message -
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to this e-mail:submarine2@cyberfear.com
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 4Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click 'Buy bitcoins', and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
Unfortunately, the harsh reality is that, based on extensive research into ransomware infections, the chances of decryption without the perpetrators' intervention are slim to none. Rare exceptions may exist, usually in cases of shoddy ransomware implementations, but pinning one's hopes on this is a perilous endeavor.
In light of these grim circumstances, a resounding piece of advice emerges - paying the ransom should be the absolute last resort. Not only does it fail to guarantee data recovery, but it also perpetuates the cycle of illegal activities by financially supporting the malevolent actors.
To safeguard your digital life against S4b and its ilk, it is imperative to eliminate the ransomware from your operating system. However, this is a bittersweet victory as removal does not magically restore your compromised files. Your only salvation lies in having comprehensive backups stored in multiple secure locations, such as remote servers and unplugged storage devices.
