Categories: Ransomware

Ransomware Back in Action-JAFF Distributed using malicious PDF documents

[jpshare]Ransomware JAFF Back in action this late April, circulating through malicious PDF files.Necurs, one of the biggest botnets, went disconnected amid the occasion time of 2016 and from May 11, Necurs began spreading another ransomware called JAFF.

Check Point’s global sensors have spotted as many as 40,000 emails in the last few hours, at an infection rate of approximately 10,000 emails sent per hour.

Ransomware is a kind of malware that keeps or cutoff user’s from getting their System, either by locking the system’s screen or by locking the user’s files unless a ransom is paid.     To read more about Ransomware.

This activity spotted in the Check point’s Global Sensor’s.

Ransomware JAFF Back in actionRansomware JAFF Back in action
                                              Ransom note JAFF  Source: Checkpoint

JAFF Infection

Checkpoint presume that JAFF may rapidly move to our list of their top malware as it was distributed by one of the Best Distributor Necurs which helped Locky and Dridex to attack a huge number of victims.

With this battle JAFF ransomware crusade, Necurs is sent through spam messages containing a PDF connection Which comprise of DOCM(Macro-Enabled Document record).

When casualty opens the document it brings about opening the inserted DOCM record which permits running macros in the DOCM file.

The DOCM then runs a macro which downloads an encrypted TXT file, which is then decrypted by the macros in the doc and transforms into a malicious EXE file which will execute the JAFF ransomware.

                                              Ransomware Infection  Source: Checkpoint
The same malicious files were spotted at several distinct clients email boxes and right now JAFF asked for payoff sum is 2.047 BTC (around $3,800 starting May 11).

Once the encryption completed a .jaff extension append to the encrypted files.

Common defenses against ransomware

1.Backup data.
2.Disable files running from AppData/LocalAppData folders.
3.Filter EXEs in the email.
4.Patch or Update your software.
5.Use the Cryptolocker Prevention Kit.
6.Use a reputable security suite.
7.CIA cycle(Confidentiality, integrity, and availability)
8.Utilize System Restore to recover the computer.
9.Disconnect Internet connection immediately.

Also read

Gurubaran

Gurubaran is a co-founder of Cyber Security News and GBHackers On Security. He has 10+ years of experience as a Security Consultant, Editor, and Analyst in cybersecurity, technology, and communications.

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