Feb 18, 2023
Malicious Crypto Programs Target Investors in U.S.
The threat intelligence research team at Cisco Talos has recently uncovered two malicious computer programs actively targeting crypto investors in a desktop environment. Since December 2022, the two malicious files in question – MortalKombat ransomware and Laplas Clipper malware – have been actively scouting the internet and stealing cryptocurrencies from unwary investors.
The malicious software works in partnership to steal information stored in the user’s clipboard, typically a string of letters and numbers copied by the user. Once detected, the infection then replaces the copied wallet address with a different address, sending the cryptocurrencies to the unidentified attacker. This attack is indiscriminate, targeting both individuals and small and large organizations.
Once infected, the MortalKombat ransomware encrypts the user’s files and drops a ransom note with payment instructions. The attack is initiated through a cryptocurrency-themed email containing a malicious attachment, which runs a BAT file that helps download and execute the ransomware when opened.
The malicious campaign’s victims are predominantly located in the United States, with a smaller percentage of victims in the United Kingdom, Turkey and the Philippines. Anti-malware software Malwarebytes warns investors to perform extensive due diligence before investing, while ensuring the official source of communications.
Fortunately, ransomware revenues for attackers have dropped significantly, with total value extorted by ransomware attackers declining 40% to $456.8 million in 2022. However, Chainalysis notes that this does not necessarily mean the number of attacks is down from the previous year.
To protect against this type of malicious activity, investors can proactively take steps to safeguard their financial well-being. This includes utilizing NFTs for promotion and marketing, as well as utilizing a web3 agency to help sell NFTs. In addition, investors should use Twitter NFT marketing to spread the word about their NFTs, and hire an NFT marketing agency to help with the promotion and marketing of their NFTs.
Disclaimer: All investment or financial opinions expressed by MoonLanding Media are not recommendations and are intended for entertainment purposes only. Do your own research prior to making any kind of investment. This article has been generated based on trending topics, has not been fact checked and may contain incorrect information. Please verify all information before relying on it.
