Cuban Ransomware

The Cuban ransomware, also known as “Havana,” is a type of malware that targets Microsoft Exchange servers, encrypting the data stored on it and demanding a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. This type of malware has been used in targeted attacks against organisations, and it is important for them to understand how it spreads and what measures they can take to protect themselves.

The Cuban ransomware is typically spread through phishing emails or other means of social engineering. These emails may contain malicious attachments or links that, when clicked, infect the victim’s computer with the malware. Therefore, it is crucial for organisations to educate their employees about the dangers of phishing emails and to implement strict policies for handling suspicious emails.

Proof of Concepts:

• https://github.com/0x09AL/Havana-Ransomware-PoC
• https://github.com/xort/Ransomware-PoC

To protect against the Cuban ransomware, organisations should keep their software and security measures up-to-date. This includes patching any vulnerabilities in the Microsoft Exchange server, as well as installing and maintaining updated anti-virus and anti-malware software. Additionally, organisations should maintain regular backups of their data in case they do fall victim to a ransomware attack.

Another important measure to take is to restrict access to sensitive data. This can be done by implementing role-based access controls, which allow only specific users to access certain data. This limits the scope of any potential attack, as well as makes it more difficult for an attacker to gain access to sensitive data.

Finally, organisations should consider implementing a incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a ransomware attack. This plan should include procedures for containing the attack, identifying the cause of the infection, and restoring the affected systems.

The Cuban ransomware is a dangerous threat that targets Microsoft Exchange servers, encrypting the data stored on it and demanding a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. To protect against this type of attack, organisations should educate their employees about the dangers of phishing emails, keep their software and security measures up-to-date, maintain regular backups of their data, restrict access to sensitive data, and have a incident response plan in place.

References:

• https://www.zdnet.com/article/cuban-ransomware-gang-targets-us-organizations-with-new-strain-of-malware/
• https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/cuban-ransomware-gang-switches-to-new-file-encryption-scheme/
• https://www.darkreading.com/attacks-breaches/cuban-ransomware-gang-targets-us-organizations/d/d-id/1339410
• https://www.welivesecurity.com/2021/12/22/cuban-ransomware-gang-targets-us-organisations-new-strain-malware