CryptoLocker will always remain the most well-known form of Bitcoin ransomware ever to exist, which resulted in a fair amount of different strains based on this malware. Cryptlock is one of those examples, as it is a new breed of CryptoLocker that was first discovered on February 21, 2016. However, chances of getting infected with this malware are fairly slim for most users, as it only seems to target older operating systems.
Also read: Bitcoin Ransomware Education – Cryptorbit Cryptlock Is Less Of A Threat
What makes Cryptlock of particular interest is how this type of Bitcoin ransomware will only affect older versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system, except Windows 7. Windows NT, XP, Vista, and 2000 are all vulnerable to Cryptlock, making it a very low threat for companies such as Symantec.
Similar to CryptoLocker , Cryptlock spreads itself by hiding in email attachments, which are then downloaded onto a host computer. One way to circumvent this installation is by limiting user privileges, so they are unable to execute files on the computer or network. Additionally, read-only mode on most devices and computers might be a good idea as well.
Similar to nearly every other form of Bitcoin ransomware, Cryptlock will lock the computer’s screen and encrypts all of the necessary files. This type of malware will disguise itself as a legitimate message from local law enforcement, informing the user they have broken the law, yet can get away with it by paying a fee in Bitcoin.
However, not all of the Cryptlock versions rely on Bitcoin payments, as some other versions prefer more traditional and accessible payment solutions. This type of behavior was first displayed by Reveton, the “mother” of all Bitcoin ransomware types to exist in the past five years. MoneyGram, uKash, and MoneyPak are among […]
