Also known as: Egregor RaaS (ransomware as a service)
Category: Malware
Type: Ransomware, RaaS
Platform: Windows, Linux
Variants: Sekhmet
Damage potential: Credential theft, espionage, system control, unauthorized access, data exfiltration, data encryption, reputational damage, financial loss, intellectual property theft, and operational disruption.
Overview
Egregor is a highly sophisticated ransomware strain discovered in September 2020, initially attributed to a rebranding of the now-defunct Maze ransomware group. It operates under a ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) model, where affiliates launch attacks using the Egregor infrastructure in exchange for a share of the ransom. It’s also known for its double-extortion tactics, which involve encrypting a victim’s files as well as exfiltrating sensitive data and threatening to release it unless the ransom is paid.
Egregor targets both large corporations and high-profile organizations, leveraging phishing, remote desktop protocol (RDP) brute-forcing, and exploitation of unpatched vulnerabilities for initial access. Once it infiltrates a network, it encrypts critical files, demands a ransom in cryptocurrency, and creates a high-pressure environment by leaking stolen data. Egregor’s ability to evade detection and encrypt data quickly is what makes this ransomware a formidable threat.
Possible symptoms
The presence of Egregor ransomware on a system might manifest through several indicators, including:
- Sudden system slowdowns or unresponsive applications.
- Unexplained spikes in CPU or disk usage.
- Unfamiliar processes running in Task Manager or unexpected network activity.
- Files appearing with unfamiliar extensions, especially “.egregor.”
- Presence of ransom notes or unusual files in directories.
- Disrupted or disabled antivirus and security tools.
- Outbound connections to unknown or suspicious IP addresses.
Sources of the infection
Egregor commonly infiltrates systems via targeted phishing emails with malicious attachments, such as invoices, contracts, or HR documents. Once an unsuspecting user opens the attachment, the malware installs itself, often using social engineering to bypass initial defenses.
Other methods of infection may include exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software, brute-forcing RDP credentials, and bundling the ransomware with third-party software from unreliable sources. Additionally, Egregor may spread through compromised websites with malicious ads designed to trick users into downloading malware.
Protection
To protect your network from Egregor and similar threats, combine as many of the following tips as possible:
- Monitor network traffic. Set up firewalls and network monitoring tools to detect suspicious outbound connections.
- Train users: Educate employees to recognize phishing attempts and avoid clicking on unknown email attachments.
- Never open suspicious files in emails. Be wary of malicious attachments in emails from unfamiliar senders. Always double-check the sender’s email for misspelled addresses and click only click on email attachments that are safe to open.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA): Secure remote access and accounts with MFA to prevent unauthorized access.
- Only trust official sources. Never download software from pirated websites.
- Set up strong passwords. Create complex and unique passwords that contain upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Backup data: Maintain regular, offline backups to ensure that encrypted data can be restored without paying the ransom.
- Use Threat Protection Pro™. This NordVPN's advanced antivirus tool is designed to make browsing safer by blocking malicious ads and compromised websites and scanning your downloads for malware.
- Keep your systems updated. Regularly install updates for your Windows operating system and other software to patch against known vulnerabilities.
- Use endpoint security: Ensure robust endpoint protection with modern antivirus solutions that can detect and block ransomware behaviors.
Removal
If you suspect your device has been infected with Egregor, act immediately:
- 1.Disconnect from the internet and reboot your device in safe mode.
- 2.Open Task Manager, look for suspicious processes, and terminate them.
- 3.Locate and delete unknown files and registry entries related to Egregor.
- 4.Run a thorough system scan with reputable antivirus software and remove any detected threats.
- 5.Restore your files from a clean, uninfected backup (if available) and monitor your system to make sure the malware doesn't return.
- 6.Consider changing all your passwords in case hackers have stolen your credentials.
