Sato Ransomware Doubles Ransom Demand in Three Days

While analyzing new malware samples, our team encountered Sato ransomware, which is a member of the Djvu family. Sato is capable of encrypting files on a computer and appending the ".sato" extension to their filenames. Additionally, the ransomware generates a ransom note in the form of a text file named "_readme.txt". It is important to note that Sato may be distributed together with information stealers, such as RedLine or Vidar.

To give an example of how Sato renames files, it changes the filename of "1.jpg" to "1.jpg.sato" and "2.png" to "2.png.sato", among others. The ransom note created by Sato contains payment and contact information, urging victims to reach out to the attackers within 72 hours to obtain the decryption tools at a reduced rate of $490 instead of $980. The note stresses that the restoration of encrypted files is impossible without these tools.

Moreover, the ransom note indicates that victims can send one encrypted file to the attackers for free decryption. The "_readme.txt" file provides two email addresses (support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc) that victims can use to contact the attackers.

Sato Ransom Note Threatens to Increase Ransom

The full text of the Sato ransom note reads as follows:

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-iN0WoEcmv0
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshmail.top

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelp@airmail.cc

Your personal ID:

How Can You Protect Your System from Ransomware Like Sato?

To protect your system from ransomware like Sato, here are some steps you can take:

• Install and maintain up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software on your system. This will help detect and block any known or suspicious malware, including ransomware.
• Keep your operating system and other software up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. This helps to close any known vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit to gain access to your system.
• Be cautious when opening email attachments, especially if they are from unknown senders or contain suspicious subject lines. Ransomware can often spread through malicious email attachments.
• Avoid clicking on links or downloading software from untrusted or suspicious websites. Malicious ads or download links on such sites can lead to ransomware infections.
• Create and regularly update backups of your important files and data on an external hard drive or cloud storage. In case of a ransomware attack, you can restore your files from the backups.
• Use a reputable and reliable ad-blocker, which can help to prevent malvertising attacks that spread ransomware.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware like Sato infecting your system and avoid falling victim to ransomware attacks.