Ransomware attacks today have become increasingly prevalent and sophisticated. One such alarming trend is the surge in remote ransomware attacks, also known as malicious remote encryption. This attack vector involves using compromised endpoints to encrypt data on other devices within the same network. As per Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2023, around 60% of human-operated ransomware attacks now involve this method of attack. In this article, we will explore the concept of remote ransomware in more detail and discuss how SEQRITE Endpoint Protection can provide industry-leading protection against this growing threat. We will delve into the reasons why remote ransomware has become so prevalent and examine the unique features of SEQRITE that set it apart from other endpoint security solutions. Additionally, we will highlight the importance of identifying and securing unprotected devices within your network to mitigate the risk of remote ransomware attacks.
What is Remote Ransomware?
Remote ransomware, or malicious remote encryption, occurs when attackers compromise an endpoint and use it as a launching pad to encrypt data on other devices within the same network. In traditional ransomware attacks, adversaries often attempt to deploy ransomware directly onto their target machines. However, if their initial attempt is blocked by security technologies, they pivot to alternative methods, such as remote encryption.
Once attackers successfully infiltrate a system, they can exploit the organization’s domain architecture to encrypt data on other managed domain-joined machines. All malicious activities, such as ingress, payload execution, and encryption, occur on the compromised machine, eluding modern security stacks. The only indication of compromise is the transfer of documents to and from other machines.
A noteworthy factor fuelling the prevalence of remote ransomware is its scalability. A single unmanaged or inadequately protected endpoint has the potential to jeopardize an entire organization’s network through malicious remote encryption, irrespective of whether other devices are protected with advanced endpoint security solutions. This scalability makes remote ransomware attacks highly attractive to adversaries.
The Prevalence of Remote Ransomware
The widespread use of remote ransomware is driven by various factors, including its scalability and the wide range of ransomware variants that support this attack vector. Notably, popular ransomware families like Akira, BitPaymer, BlackCat, BlackMatter, Conti, Crytox, DarkSide, Dharma, LockBit, MedusaLocker, Phobos, Royal, Ryuk, and WannaCry all have capabilities for remote malicious encryption.
Most traditional endpoint security products are ineffective when it comes to combating remote ransomware attacks. These products mostly focus on detecting malicious ransomware files and processes on the protected endpoint. However, in remote encryption attacks, the malicious processes run on the compromised machine, making the endpoint protection blind to the malicious activity.
Introducing SEQRITE Endpoint Protection for Ransomware Protection
SEQRITE Endpoint Protection offers robust protection against remote ransomware attacks. Unlike other endpoint security solutions that solely rely on detecting malicious files and processes, the SEQRITE Endpoint Protection solution takes a unique approach by analyzing data files for signs of malicious encryption, regardless of where the processes are running. It actively examines the content of all documents as files are read and written to determine if they have been encrypted maliciously. This universal approach sets SEQRITE Endpoint security services apart from its competitors, enabling it to detect and stop all forms of ransomware, including remote malicious encryption and even previously unseen ransomware variants.
How SEQRITE Endpoint Protection Detects Malicious Encryption ?
Instead of detecting malicious code, it seeks out the rapid encryption of files carried by a single process. This is achieved through the analysis of the file’s malicious signature. This approach allows it to identify and block ransomware encryption attempts, even when the malicious process is not actively running on the victim’s device.
Automatic Quarantine of Malicious Encryption
When the endpoint security solution detects mass encryption, it automatically starts quarantining the files. For some of the analyzed malware, we do provide remediation as well.
Blocking Remote Devices
In a remote ransomware attack, the SEQRITE Endpoint security solution automatically blocks the IPv4 of the remote device attempting to encrypt files on the victim’s machine. This proactive measure helps prevent the spread of ransomware within the network and effectively neutralizes the attack.
Protecting the Master Boot Record (MBR)
SEQRITE Endpoint Protection solution also safeguards the device from ransomware attacks that target the master boot record (MBR), which can prevent the system from starting up. Additionally, it protects against a process attempting to wipe the hard disk, further safeguarding critical data.
Identifying Unprotected Devices with SEQRITE MDR
To ensure comprehensive protection against remote ransomware attacks, it is crucial to identify and secure all devices within your network. SEQRITE Managed Detection and Response (MDR) can play a vital role in this process. By monitoring network traffic for suspicious flows, SEQRITE MDR can identify unprotected devices in the network and rogue assets within your environment.
Conclusion
Remote ransomware attacks pose a significant threat to organizations of all sizes. With the rise of malicious remote encryption, it is essential to implement robust security measures to protect your valuable data. SEQRITE Endpoint Protection, with its industry-leading technology, offers comprehensive protection against remote ransomware attacks. Its unique approach ensures that organizations can effectively defend against both known and unknown ransomware variants.
By taking a proactive approach to network security, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to remote ransomware attacks. With SEQRITE Endpoint Protection, you can rest assured that your organization is well-protected against the evolving threat landscape.
Protect your organization today with SEQRITE Endpoint Protection and stay one step ahead of remote ransomware attackers.
