*[email protected]*.everbe

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As a cybersecurity expert specializing in ransomware, I’ve compiled a detailed resource on the ransomware variant identified by the file extension *[email protected]*.everbe. This variant is typically associated with the GlobeImposter ransomware family, known for its various iterations and deceptive tactics.

Technical Breakdown:

1. File Extension & Renaming Patterns

  • Confirmation of File Extension: The exact file extension used by this variant is generally observed as [email protected]. This means that after encryption, a file originally named document.docx would become [email protected].
  • Renaming Convention: The ransomware appends this specific string to the end of the original filename. The pattern is [original_filename].[id]-[id][email protected] or sometimes simply [original_filename][email protected], where [id] might represent a unique victim ID generated by the ransomware. The inclusion of the email address [email protected] directly within the extension serves as a quick visual indicator of the specific threat actor or campaign and is often the primary contact method provided in the ransom note.

2. Detection & Outbreak Timeline

  • Approximate Start Date/Period: Variants using the [email protected] extension, belonging to the GlobeImposter family, were prominently observed emerging in late 2020 and continuing into 2021. GlobeImposter itself has been active since at least 2017, with new iterations and file extensions appearing regularly, reflecting continuous development and rebranding by its operators.

3. Primary Attack Vectors

GlobeImposter ransomware, including the *[email protected]*.everbe variant, primarily relies on the following propagation mechanisms:

  • Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Exploitation: A common method is brute-forcing weak or unsecured RDP credentials. Once access is gained, the attackers manually deploy the ransomware.
  • Phishing Campaigns: Malicious emails containing weaponized attachments (e.g., Word documents with macros, ZIP archives containing executables) or links to compromised websites are a frequent vector. When opened or clicked, these payloads initiate the infection process.
  • Software Vulnerabilities & Exploit Kits: While less common for GlobeImposter than for some other ransomware families, exploit kits leveraging vulnerabilities in outdated software (e.g., unpatched browsers, Flash, Java) can still be used to deliver the ransomware payload.
  • Software Cracks/Pirated Software: Users downloading pirated software, key generators, or software cracks from untrusted sources often inadvertently download ransomware disguised as legitimate installers.
  • Malvertising & Drive-by Downloads: Malicious advertisements or compromised legitimate websites can redirect users to landing pages that automatically download and execute the ransomware without user interaction (drive-by downloads).
  • Third-party Software Supply Chain: Less frequent but possible, the ransomware could be embedded within legitimate software updates or installers distributed through compromised third-party channels.

Remediation & Recovery Strategies:

1. Prevention

Proactive measures are crucial to prevent *[email protected]*.everbe and other ransomware infections:

  • Regular Data Backups: Implement a robust 3-2-1 backup strategy: at least three copies of your data, stored on two different media types, with one copy offsite or offline. Test backups regularly. This is the most critical recovery mechanism.
  • Patch Management: Keep operating systems, applications (especially web browsers, email clients, office suites, and security software), and firmware up-to-date with the latest security patches.
  • Strong RDP Security:
    • Disable RDP if not strictly necessary.
    • Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
    • Limit RDP access to a specific IP range via firewall rules.
    • Consider using a VPN for RDP access.
  • Email Security & User Training: Implement email filtering solutions to block malicious attachments and links. Educate users about phishing, social engineering, and the dangers of opening suspicious attachments or clicking unknown links.
  • Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)/Antivirus: Deploy reputable antivirus/anti-malware solutions with real-time protection and keep their definitions updated.
  • Network Segmentation: Isolate critical systems and sensitive data on separate network segments to limit lateral movement in case of a breach.
  • Disable Unnecessary Services: Turn off any services or protocols that are not essential for business operations (e.g., SMBv1, PowerShell remoting if not needed).
  • Principle of Least Privilege: Grant users and applications only the minimum necessary permissions to perform their tasks.

2. Removal

If an infection occurs, follow these steps to remove *[email protected]*.everbe:

  • Isolate Infected Systems: Immediately disconnect the infected computer from the network (unplug Ethernet cable, disable Wi-Fi) to prevent further spread.
  • Identify & Quarantining: Use reputable anti-malware software (e.g., Malwarebytes, ESET, Sophos, Microsoft Defender Offline) to scan the system thoroughly. Follow its instructions to quarantine or delete detected threats.
  • Terminate Malicious Processes: Use Task Manager (Windows) or process monitoring tools to identify and terminate any suspicious processes.
  • Remove Persistence Mechanisms: Check common persistence locations like:
    • Registry Run keys (HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run, HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run)
    • Startup folders (shell:startup, shell:common startup)
    • Scheduled Tasks (schtasks.exe)
    • WMI (Windows Management Instrumentation) for suspicious entries.
  • Delete Malicious Files: Manually delete any identified ransomware executables or associated files. Be cautious not to delete system files.
  • Change All Passwords: Assume all credentials on the infected network (and potentially user cloud accounts) have been compromised. Change passwords, starting with critical administrative accounts, and enable MFA wherever possible.
  • Forensic Analysis (Optional but Recommended): For organizations, conduct a post-incident forensic analysis to determine the initial access vector, lateral movement, and the full extent of the compromise.

3. File Decryption & Recovery

  • Recovery Feasibility: As of current knowledge, there is no universal free decryptor available for the [email protected] variant of GlobeImposter ransomware. GlobeImposter typically uses strong, modern encryption algorithms (like AES-256) with unique keys for each victim, making decryption without the attacker’s private key extremely difficult, if not impossible.
    • Caution: Do not pay the ransom. There is no guarantee that paying will result in file recovery, and it incentivizes further attacks.
  • Essential Tools/Patches:
    • For Recovery: Your backups are the only reliable method for file recovery. Restore data from clean, verified backups after the system has been thoroughly cleaned.
    • For Prevention & Remediation:
      • Reputable Antivirus/Anti-malware Suites: Keep them updated.
      • Operating System & Application Patches: Apply all critical security updates promptly.
      • Firewall: Properly configured firewalls (host-based and network) to restrict inbound/outbound connections.
      • Network Monitoring Tools: To detect unusual network activity or RDP brute-force attempts.

4. Other Critical Information

  • Additional Precautions: This variant, like other GlobeImposter iterations, often creates a ransom note file named something similar to HOW_TO_DECRYPT_FILES.hta or !_HOW_TO_DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES_!.hta in every folder containing encrypted files. This HTML Application file is designed to open in a browser and display the ransom instructions, often in multiple languages.
  • Broader Impact: The *[email protected]*.everbe variant contributes to the overall threat landscape posed by GlobeImposter, which has historically targeted a wide range of victims, from individuals to small businesses and even larger enterprises. Its broader impact includes:
    • Significant Data Loss: If backups are not available or are also compromised.
    • Operational Disruption: Downtime for affected systems, leading to financial losses and inability to provide services.
    • Reputational Damage: For businesses, a ransomware attack can erode customer trust and damage their public image.
    • Financial Costs: Beyond potential ransom payments, recovery efforts involve significant costs for IT remediation, forensic analysis, and potential legal fees.

Combating ransomware like *everbe@[email protected]*.everbe requires a multi-layered approach focusing heavily on prevention, robust backup strategies, and swift incident response.