Among all the security threats that we can find on the Internet, one of the most important and also dangerous is ransomware. Hackers aim to encrypt victims’ systems and devices and subsequently demand a ransom in return. In this article we talk about Maze , one of the many ransomware that exist. We will explain its most important points and also tips to avoid being victims.
Maze, a real threat to cybersecurity
Maze ransomware is designed to attack Windows operating systems. We already know that it is the most used in desktop computers, so many users can be potential victims. It is mainly distributed via email.
Hackers typically use baits to trap the victim. They pose as a legitimate and important message to make it open. This is what happens with this particular variety. It comes through an email in which the attacker sends an alleged invoice for something we have bought online or an order that has to arrive.
The user, the ultimate victim, opens that email and there they find an attachment that is actually the Maze ransomware. When you open it, what you do is run an exploitation kit . In this way, the computer becomes infected and ends up encrypting all the files.
The attacker will demand a ransom in exchange for the victim to regain control. It is usually a payment made in bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies. But, as happens many times with ransomware, just paying does not mean that we are going to regain the files or control over that device, since sometimes this is useless.
But if there is an important peculiarity of the Maze ransomware, it is that it has an affiliate system that operates through a network of developers who share the profits with different groups. A user can be part of that network and thus infect other computers and later take a commission.
They have used this ransomware to carry out major attacks on companies. A well-known case was that of Cognizant, in April 2020. It is one of the largest IT service providers in the world.
But the Maze ransomware is not only intended to encrypt systems and files, it is a double trouble as they threaten to leak the files they have stolen. In this way they also request money to avoid making the information public.
How to avoid falling victim to Maze ransomware
We can take into account certain essential tips to avoid being victims of Maze ransomware and others like it. Something fundamental is common sense . We must avoid making mistakes that could lead to the entry of threats. We have seen that in the case of this particular variety, it usually arrives through an attachment that we download from a received email.
Security programs will also be essential. Avoiding ransomware by installing a good antivirus, firewall, and other programs is very important. We must always keep our systems secure.
But something also essential is going to be the fact of having the latest versions . On many occasions, vulnerabilities arise that can be exploited by hackers to attack. We must install the patches that are available, as well as any security update.
All of this that we mention must be applied regardless of whether we are home users, a company or any organization. Ransomware is a problem that can affect everyone at any given time and we must be protected and minimize the risk when surfing the net.
