In mid-2024, a new ransomware variant known as NailaoLocker began targeting organizations across Europe, notably within the healthcare sector. This malicious software encrypts victims’ files, appending a “.locked” extension to each compromised file. For instance, “document.pdf” becomes “document.pdf.locked”. Following encryption, NailaoLocker generates a ransom note demanding payment for file decryption.
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Origins and Distribution
NailaoLocker is written in C++ and has been observed in attacks exploiting a vulnerability in Check Point Security Gateways, specifically CVE-2024-24919. This flaw allows attackers to extract password hashes from vulnerable VPN appliances, facilitating unauthorized access using legitimate credentials. Once inside the network, threat actors deploy malware such as ShadowPad and PlugX, which are often associated with Chinese state-sponsored groups. The campaign, dubbed “Green Nailao,” was active between June and October 2024.
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Technical Characteristics
Despite its impact, NailaoLocker lacks certain sophisticated features commonly found in other ransomware strains. Notably, it does not possess anti-debugging capabilities nor does it terminate specific processes or services to avoid encrypting system-critical files. This oversight could render infected systems inoperable if essential files are encrypted. Additionally, while the ransomware attempts to exfiltrate information, its ransom note does not mention data theft, suggesting a primary focus on encryption-based extortion.
Ransom Note Details
Upon successful encryption, NailaoLocker presents victims with a ransom note containing the following message:
[1. Your important files are encrypted. If you want to decrypt your files, please follow the instructions.]
[2. Do you need file decryption service (restore your files to their original state)? If not, your files will be automatically deleted after one week.]
[3. If you need to purchase unlocking service, please contact us and we will tell you the amount (pay with BTC)]
[4. After you complete the payment using BTC, we will deliver the unlocking program within 24 hours. Once the program is run on the locked computer, all files will be unlocked.]
[5. BTC purchase website: hxxps://www.coinbase.com, hxxps://www.bitfinex.com, hxxps://www.binance.com]
[Contact us on [email protected]]
[Notice: Do not delete or move locked files without unlocking them first.]
[Notice: The encryption algorithm uses symmetric encryption, and the password is a string of characters with the same length as the Bitcoin private key. If you can crack Bitcoin, then congratulations, you can decrypt it yourself. Otherwise, please contact us to purchase our decryption tool. Don’t have illusions!!!]
Preventative Measures
To protect against threats like NailaoLocker:
- Regular Software Updates: Ensure all systems, especially VPN appliances, are updated to patch known vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-24919.
- Network Monitoring: Implement robust monitoring to detect unusual activities indicative of malware infiltration.
- Employee Training: Educate staff on recognizing phishing attempts and the dangers of downloading unsolicited attachments.
- Data Backups: Maintain regular, secure backups stored offline to facilitate data recovery without capitulating to ransom demands.
Recovering Files Encrypted by NailaoLocker: Can Phobos Decryptor Help?
If your system has fallen victim to NailaoLocker ransomware, and your files are now locked with the “.locked” extension, you might feel trapped by the demands of cybercriminals. Fortunately, there is a reliable solution to regain access to your encrypted data—Phobos Decryptor. Our advanced decryption tool is specifically designed to restore files compromised by ransomware strains like NailaoLocker, ensuring you can recover your valuable information safely and efficiently without paying any ransom.
How Our Phobos Decryptor Can Help With NailaoLocker Ransomware?
Phobos Decryptor is purpose-built to combat sophisticated ransomware threats, including NailaoLocker, which uses advanced encryption techniques to hold files hostage. By leveraging cutting-edge decryption algorithms, our tool is capable of unlocking files appended with the “.locked” extension, restoring them to their original state. Unlike other solutions, Phobos Decryptor directly targets the encryption methods used by NailaoLocker, allowing you to safely and swiftly regain access to your data.
Here’s why Phobos Decryptor is the best solution for recovering from a NailaoLocker ransomware attack:
- Specialized Decryption for NailaoLocker: Our tool is specifically engineered to address the unique encryption techniques employed by NailaoLocker. It effectively calculates the decryption keys needed to unlock your files, offering the best chance for complete data recovery.
- User-Friendly Interface: You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to use Phobos Decryptor. Designed with simplicity in mind, its intuitive interface allows even non-technical users to easily start the decryption process.
- Maintaining Data Integrity: One of the standout benefits of Phobos Decryptor is its commitment to preserving the integrity of your data. During decryption, your files remain intact without any risk of corruption, ensuring a secure and effective recovery process.
Steps to Use Phobos Decryptor for Files Encrypted by NailaoLocker
If your computer has been compromised by NailaoLocker ransomware and you’re ready to restore your files, follow these straightforward steps using Phobos Decryptor:
- Purchase the Tool: Purchase Phobos Decryptor from us, and you’ll get immediate access to the tool.
- Run the Decryptor: Launch the tool with administrative privileges on your infected system. Ensure your device is connected to the internet, as the decryptor will communicate with our secure servers to obtain the decryption keys.
- Connect to Our Secure Servers: The tool will automatically connect to our secure servers, which are essential for generating the specific keys needed to unlock your encrypted files.
- Input Your Victim ID: Locate the Victim ID, usually found in the ransom note or appended to your encrypted files (e.g., “document.pdf.locked”). Enter this ID into the tool to ensure accurate decryption.
- Begin Decryption: After entering the required information, click on the “Decrypt” button. Phobos Decryptor will systematically go through your encrypted files, restoring them to their original, functional state.
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Why Choose Phobos Decryptor?
- Proven Effectiveness Against NailaoLocker: Our tool has been rigorously tested and fine-tuned to work effectively against even the most complex variants of NailaoLocker, ensuring you have the best chance at full data recovery.
- Data Safety and Security: Unlike risky third-party solutions, Phobos Decryptor guarantees the safety of your data throughout the decryption process, maintaining its integrity and preventing any further damage.
- Dedicated Support Team: If you encounter any issues during the decryption process, our dedicated support team is ready to assist you, offering remote guidance to ensure a seamless and successful recovery.
Conclusion
NailaoLocker represents a significant threat, particularly to sectors like healthcare. Its emergence underscores the necessity for proactive cybersecurity measures, including timely software updates, vigilant network monitoring, and comprehensive employee education. By adopting these strategies, organizations can bolster their defenses against such ransomware attacks.
