NetWalker Ransomware nets $25 million since March

Based on research published by security firm McAfee has confirmed that the gang behind the NetWalker ransomware have established themselves as one of the most dangerous ransomware operators on the threat landscape. The research conducted by the firm reveals that the gang has potentially netted 25 million USD in ransomware payments since March 2020, proving the profitability of well organized and skilled ransomware gangs can generate as well as the danger posed by such gangs. While the 25 million USD figure is an estimate as it is not like these gangs have to report earnings to auditors or revenue services, it does mean that the gang ranks amongst some of the most successful gangs today including Dharma, Sodinokibi, and Ryuk. It is also noted by some that the figure of 25 million may be conservative due to the security firm’s limited view of the entire ransomware operation. NetWalker began its life initially ca...

Covid19 Warning Alert POP-UP Scam

"Covid19 Warning Alert" is a scam, promoted on deceptive websites. The scheme claims that users must contact tech support, as their devices have been infected with malware and with COVID-19 (which is not a computer virus but an infectious disease). Users should note that all of the information provided by "Covid19 Warning Alert" is false. Typically, deceptive sites are accessed via redirects caused by intrusive advertisements or by PUAs (Potentially Unwanted Applications), already infiltrated into the system. When a webpage running "Covid19 Warning Alert" is accessed, visitors are presented with a pop-up window. It warns users not to ignore this "critical alert", since if the page is closed - users' computers and families will be infected/linked with the Coronavirus (though, the pop-up does not elaborate on how this is possible). The device has already been compromised by spyware and other viruses, inclu...