Feb 19, 2023
Malicious Software Targeting Crypto Investors Exposed
Crypto investors have been put on alert after two malicious computer programs have been identified attempting to steal cryptocurrencies from unsuspecting victims. Malwarebytes, a leading anti-malware software provider, has released information about the two malicious files, MortalKombat ransomware and Laplas Clipper malware, that are actively targeting crypto investors in a desktop environment.
According to Cisco Talos, the threat intelligence research team, the malicious software has been active since December 2022, and is mainly targeting investors in the United States, with a smaller percentage of victims in the United Kingdom, Turkey and the Philippines. The attack relies on the user’s inattentiveness to the sender’s wallet address, which would send the cryptocurrencies to the unidentified attacker, while targeting both individuals and small and large organizations.
The malicious software works in tandem to detect wallet addresses copied onto the clipboard and replace them with a different address. Once infected, the MortalKombat ransomware encrypts the user’s files and drops a ransom note with payment instructions. The attack is initiated by a cryptocurrency-themed email containing a malicious attachment, which downloads and executes the ransomware when opened.
Fortunately, the early detection of the malicious software has enabled investors to take proactive steps to protect their financial well-being. Cointelegraph advises investors to perform extensive due diligence before investing, while ensuring the official source of communications. Additionally, investors can take a look at this Cointelegraph Magazine article to learn more about how to keep their crypto assets safe.
Despite the malicious attack, ransomware revenues for attackers have seen a 40% decrease to $456.8 million in 2022. However, Chainalysis warns that the figures do not necessarily mean the number of attacks is down from the previous year.
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