FBI seizes $2.4M in Bitcoin from new Chaos ransomware operation
Source: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/fbi-seizes-24m-in-bitcoin-from-new-chaos-ransomware-operation/
Scattered Spider Hijacks VMware ESXi to Deploy Ransomware on Critical U.S. Infrastructure
Source: https://thehackernews.com/2025/07/scattered-spider-hijacks-vmware-esxi-to.html
Operation Checkmate: BlackSuit Ransomware’s Dark Web Domains Seized
Source: https://hackread.com/operation-checkmate-dark-web-blacksuit-ransomware-seized/
A new Epsilon Red ransomware campaign has been discovered targeting users globally through fake ClickFix verification pages. Active since July 2025, the threat actors employ social engineering tactics and impersonate popular platforms like Discord, Twitch, and OnlyFans to trick users into executing malicious .HTA files via ActiveX. This method leads to silent payload downloads and ransomware deployment. The campaign uses a Clickfix-themed malware delivery site, urging victims to visit a secondary page where malicious shell commands are executed. The attackers also impersonate various streaming services and use romance-themed lures. Epsilon Red, first observed in 2021, shows some similarities to REvil ransomware in its ransom note styling but appears distinct in its tactics and infrastructure.
Storm-2603 Exploits SharePoint Flaws to Deploy Warlock Ransomware on Unpatched Systems
Source: https://thehackernews.com/2025/07/storm-2603-exploits-sharepoint-flaws-to.html
A new ransomware group called Gunra has emerged with a Dedicated Leak Site (DLS) in April 2025. Gunra's code shows similarities to the infamous Conti ransomware, suggesting it may be leveraging Conti's leaked source code. The group employs aggressive tactics, including a time-based pressure technique that forces victims to begin negotiations within five days. Gunra ransomware encrypts files using a combination of RSA and ChaCha20 algorithms, excludes certain folders and file types from encryption, and drops a ransom note named 'R3ADM3.txt'. The ransomware also deletes volume shadow copies to hinder recovery efforts. As the threat of DLS ransomware grows, organizations are advised to implement robust security measures, including regular updates, backups, and user education.
NailaoLocker, a new ransomware variant targeting Windows systems, uses AES-256-CBC encryption and uniquely incorporates SM2 cryptography with hard-coded keys. It employs DLL side-loading for execution and uses I/O Completion Ports for multi-threaded file processing. The ransomware includes both encryption and decryption modes, with a built-in SM2 key pair. However, testing revealed the embedded private key fails to decrypt files properly, suggesting it may be a trap or an incomplete build. NailaoLocker's use of Chinese SM2 standards for key protection marks a departure from typical ransomware practices. While the decryption logic functions correctly with valid key material, the variant's true intent remains unclear.
A new ransomware variant named Crux has been identified, claiming association with the BlackByte group. Observed in three separate incidents, Crux encrypts files with a .crux extension and leaves ransom notes. Initial access appears to involve Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) using valid credentials. The ransomware executable, with varying names and locations, follows a distinct process tree involving svchost.exe, cmd.exe, and bcdedit.exe. It disables system recovery to hinder restoration attempts. Data exfiltration using Rclone was observed in one incident. The threat actor demonstrates prior knowledge of targeted infrastructures and prefers using legitimate Windows processes. While claiming BlackByte affiliation, this hasn't been independently verified.
Authorities released free decryptor for Phobos and 8base ransomware
Source: https://securityaffairs.com/180108/malware/authorities-released-free-decryptor-for-phobos-and-8base-ransomware.html
Matanbuchus 3.0, a malware loader available as Malware-as-a-Service, has evolved with significant updates. It now employs sophisticated techniques including improved communication protocols, in-memory stealth capabilities, enhanced obfuscation, and support for WQL queries, CMD, and PowerShell reverse shells. The loader collects detailed system data, including information on EDR security controls, to tailor subsequent attacks. It can execute various commands through regsvr32, rundll32, msiexec, or process hollowing. The malware establishes persistence through scheduled tasks and registry modifications. Recent campaigns have targeted victims through external Microsoft Teams calls impersonating IT helpdesks, leading to potential ransomware compromises.
KAWA4096, a new ransomware that emerged in June 2025, has claimed at least 11 victims, primarily targeting the United States and Japan. The malware features a leak site mimicking the Akira ransomware group's style and a ransom note format similar to Qilin's. KAWA4096 employs multithreading, semaphores for synchronization, and can encrypt files on shared network drives. It terminates specific services and processes, deletes shadow copies, and utilizes a configuration loaded from its binary. The ransomware's encryption process involves file scanning, skipping certain files and directories, and using a shared queue for efficient processing. It also changes file icons and can modify the desktop wallpaper. The group's tactics appear to be aimed at boosting visibility and credibility by imitating established ransomware operations.
Stormous Ransomware gang targets North Country HealthCare
Source: https://securityaffairs.com/180057/data-breach/180057stormous-ransomware-gang-targets-north-country-healthcare-claims-600k-patient-data-stolen.html
