eCh0raix ransomware

Also known as: QNAPCrypt

Category: Malware

Type: Ransomware

Platform: Linux-based QNAP and Synology NAS devices

Variants: QNAPCrypt (the original form of eCh0raix) and SynoLocker. It has been linked to the CVE-2021-28799 vulnerability.

Damage potential: Data encryption, data theft, operational disruption, financial loss, reputational damage, and network compromise.

Overview

eCh0raix is a powerful ransomware threat that targets Linux-based QNAP and Synology NAS devices. Researchers first identified this malware in 2019, and it has evolved into a serious global threat. Cybercriminals use eCh0raix not only to encrypt files and demand a ransom for decryption but also to compromise devices and use them to target other organizations.

Unlike many ransomware strains that focus on traditional computers, eCh0raix specifically exploits vulnerabilities in network-attached storage (NAS) devices. Small offices and home offices (SOHO) often use them for file storage and backups.

Attackers easily target these devices when users fail to configure them properly. Since these devices function as network storage, users usually don’t install antivirus software. Configuring them correctly is crucial to prevent exploitation.

The attackers utilize brute-force attacks to break weak passwords, leverage vulnerabilities in outdated software, and exploit compromised credentials. Then, they infect the device with eCh0raix ransomware to encrypt system files and escalate the attack's impact.

Possible symptoms

You can recognize an eCh0raix infection by the following indicators of compromise:

• Files on your NAS get encrypted and show strange extensions, like “.encrypt.”
• Ransom notes appear in file folders, warning you that your data will be destroyed or leaked unless you pay a ransom.
• Your system starts using a lot more CPU or disk resources than usual.
• Your network shows unusual activity, such as large amounts of data leaving your system or connections to unfamiliar IP addresses.
• You notice unauthorized logins or unexpected changes in user permissions.
• Your system alerts you about suspicious activity, like attempts to move across the network without permission.

Sources of the infection

eCh0raix ransomware infections commonly occur via:

• Phishing emails, which contain malicious links or attachments that lead to malware deployment.
• Poor configuration, which occurs when devices have weak passwords, default credentials remain unchanged, or software is not updated or patched.
• Exploitation of vulnerabilities in internet-facing systems, which include VPNs, RDP, and other remote access technologies.
• Compromised credentials obtained from previous data breaches or bought on underground markets.
• Initial access brokers who provide footholds in target networks to the ransomware operators.

Protection

To protect against eCh0raix ransomware, consider these measures:

• Update all software. Regularly update your NAS device firmware and applications. Security fixes in updates often eliminate vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Weak passwords are a common entry point for ransomware attacks. Use strong, unique passwords combined with MFA to improve account security.
• Segment your network. Divide your network into smaller sections to limit how far ransomware can spread in case of an attack.
• Create offline backups. Back up critical data regularly and store it in offline or immutable storage. Test your backups to ensure they can effectively restore files.
• Train your team. To reduce human error, educate employees about phishing attacks, suspicious file attachments, and safe email practices.
• Deploy advanced detection tools. Use tools like endpoint detection and response (EDR) and network monitoring tools to detect early signs of intrusion.
• Create an incident response plan. Develop and test an incident response plan specifically designed for ransomware scenarios.
• Use tools like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™. This tool can block access to known malicious sites, adding a layer of protection while browsing online.

eCh0raix removal

If your system is compromised by eCh0raix ransomware, take immediate action to contain the threat and recover:

1. 1.Immediately isolate infected systems from the network to prevent further spread and data exfiltration.
2. 2.Lock or disable compromised user accounts and reset passwords.
3. 3.Use forensic tools to determine how the attackers gained initial access, whether data was exfiltrated, and which systems are impacted.
4. 4.Use updated antivirus software or endpoint protection tools to eliminate any ransomware or associated malware.
5. 5.Recover encrypted data using secure backups to avoid paying a ransom. Cybersecurity experts always recommend avoiding giving in to demands because it funds further criminal activity.
6. 6.Reinstall operating systems and applications on affected devices to ensure complete malware removal.
7. 7.Notify law enforcement or cybersecurity authorities to investigate the attack and help prevent future ransomware incidents.