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What is WannaCry Ransomware? | Rapid7

7 months ago

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WannaCry is a notorious ransomware that made headlines in May 2017 due to its widespread and destructive impact.

Here are key details about WannaCry ransomware:

1. Propagation:

WannaCry spread rapidly through computer networks by exploiting a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows operating systems. It used an exploit called EternalBlue, which was believed to be developed by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) and was leaked by a hacker group.

2. Ransomware Functionality:

Once a system was infected, WannaCry encrypted the user's files, making them inaccessible. Victims received a ransom demand in Bitcoin in exchange for a decryption key to unlock their files.

3. Global Impact:

WannaCry had a global reach, affecting hundreds of thousands of computers in more than 150 countries. It targeted various organizations, including hospitals, businesses, and government agencies.

4. Double Kill Switch:

A unique feature of WannaCry was the presence of a "kill switch." Security researchers discovered a web domain mentioned in the ransomware's code. Registering this domain temporarily halted the ransomware's propagation, providing some respite.

5. Attribution:

Attribution for WannaCry pointed to North Korea as the likely source. It was believed to be the work of the Lazarus Group, a state-sponsored hacking group associated with North Korea.

6. Lessons Learned:

The WannaCry incident highlighted the importance of keeping software up to date, as the vulnerability it exploited had already been patched by Microsoft. It also underscored the need for organizations to have robust cybersecurity measures in place.

While the immediate impact of WannaCry was significant, it also served as a wake-up call for the importance of cybersecurity and the potential dangers of ransomware attacks on a global scale.

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