Ransomware

Scarab

Scarab

Scarab is a ransomware strain that encrypts files and locks access until a ransom is paid. Victims typically receive a text file with instructions on contacting the attackers, often requiring payment in Bitcoin. Without the decryption key, recovery is nearly impossible. Similar to ransomware families like ElmersGlue and GlobeImposter, Scarab demonstrates both widespread and targeted attack methods, constantly evolving to breach defenses.

Known Variants

Known Variants

Scarabey: A variant focused on Russian users, leveraging RDP attacks to infiltrate systems. ScRansom: Shares many characteristics with Scarab and is distributed through the Spacecolon toolkit. GlobeImposter: Exhibits similar encryption techniques and ransom delivery mechanisms.

Scarabey: A variant focused on Russian users, leveraging RDP attacks to infiltrate systems. ScRansom: Shares many characteristics with Scarab and is distributed through the Spacecolon toolkit. GlobeImposter: Exhibits similar encryption techniques and ransom delivery mechanisms.

Mitigation Strategies

Mitigation Strategies

Regularly update software and apply security patches to close vulnerabilities. Enforce strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication on all accounts. Maintain offline backups of critical systems and test recovery processes. Train employees to identify phishing emails and suspicious file attachments.

Targeted Industries or Sectors

Targeted Industries or Sectors

Healthcare: Hospitals and private practices are frequent targets. Government: Local, state, and national agencies face significant risks. Education: Universities and schools have been impacted by Scarab attacks. Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, and travel companies are often targeted. Insurance: Brokers and companies handling sensitive financial data.

Healthcare: Hospitals and private practices are frequent targets. Government: Local, state, and national agencies face significant risks. Education: Universities and schools have been impacted by Scarab attacks. Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, and travel companies are often targeted. Insurance: Brokers and companies handling sensitive financial data.

Associated Threat Actors

Associated Threat Actors

"CosmicBeetle: Operators using the Spacecolon toolkit for ransomware deployment. Scarab APT: Believed to be an advanced persistent threat group active since at least 2012."

"CosmicBeetle: Operators using the Spacecolon toolkit for ransomware deployment. Scarab APT: Believed to be an advanced persistent threat group active since at least 2012."

References