Unfortunately, hackers are always coming up with new ways to make money and exploit systems. Cyber is no different. The WannaCry ransomware breaks new ground in its reach, use of bitcoin, and success.
About this Ransomware
This ransomware attack on windows-based systems has been brutal for lot of people. It locks up all your files and then asks you for money to regain access.
The hackers are asking for payment in bitcoin, a cyber currency, which makes this ransomware attack unique. They can get real money in a direct, untraceable fashion. It’s a whole new frontier! Historically, it’s been very hard to directly obtain cold hard cash from a cyber-attack. This is one of the first and largest we have seen that gets cold hard cash.
This attack has taken place in Russia, Ukraine, and India, and is starting to spread through the rest of the world. It is suspected that it may have originated in North Korea.
Will it affect cameras?
Since there are not many cameras that use Windows as their operating system, it’s unlikely that this will affect cameras. However, VMS Systems and DVRs based on Windows are extremely vulnerable because this is a WORM. It spreads across computers that are on the same network or can be reached over the Internet. Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 are at such a high level of risk that Microsoft has taken an unusual step of releasing patches for their old operating systems. The transfer of the worm is via Microsoft SMB file sharing protocol – update your systems and make sure it’s disabled.
Key Takeaway
Cyber-attacks continue to morph and new ways of exploiting systems continue to be develop. There will be more and more clever ways to exploit systems. You need protect your equipment and keep it protected. Cameras, DVRs, and other equipment are all vulnerable.
Initial Countries Attacked by WannaCry
By User:Roke – File:BlankMap-World-v2.png, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=58863465
For more information, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WannaCry_ransomware_attack
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