Ransomware authors streamline attacks, infections rise

Ransomware authors continue improving file-encrypting programs and infection methods for Windows and Android, making these nightmarish attacks harder to avoid.

The biggest ransomware threat for Windows users is CryptoWall, a sophisticated malware program that encrypts a wide range of files and demands that victims pay a ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency to recover them.

CryptoWall uses uncrackable encryption algorithms and hides its control servers on the Tor and I2P anonymity networks, making it harder for security researchers and law enforcement to shut them down.

CryptoWall 3.0, the malicious program’s latest version, was launched in January after a two-month break by its creators. One notable change: it no longer bundles local privilege escalation exploits, according to Cisco Systems.

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Story added 10. February 2015, content source with full text you can find at link above.