Top 10 Prevalent and Potent Malware and Security Menaces in the Year 2023
In today's digital age, cybersecurity threats are evolving at an alarming rate, posing significant challenges for computer users and organisations alike. One of the most concerning developments is the rise of cryptojacking, a type of malware designed to mine cryptocurrencies, often targeting phones and computers.
This article will shed light on the top dangerous malware and security threats that have emerged since 2022, and provide practical advice on how to protect yourself.
Emerging Malware Threats
Ransomware Groups
Some of the most dangerous ransomware groups active today include Qilin, Inc. Ransom, Akira, and RedAlert/N13V. These groups deploy ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS), exploit Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), and use stealthy data-theft tactics.
- Qilin Ransomware Group is highly active since 2022, with Rust-based encryptors and affiliate-supported operations targeting broad sectors.
- Inc. Ransom primarily targets healthcare and education with Windows and Linux payloads, using a dual-site infrastructure for negotiations and leaks.
- Akira Ransomware is known for targeting Windows, Linux, and VMware ESXi systems, using selective encryption to evade detection.
- RedAlert/N13V specialises in non-Windows platforms, notably disrupting ESXi virtual machines.
InfoStealers and Ransomware-as-a-Service
Other notable threats include InfoStealers, which are silent malware that steals credentials, banking info, and cryptocurrency wallets, often unnoticed until misuse occurs. RansomHub and Lynx are other active RaaS groups, adding complexity and speed to attacks.
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APT groups like BlindEagle (APT-C-36) and China-linked cyberespionage campaigns like LapDogs ORB Network pose persistent nation-state threats.
Exploitation of CVEs
Many ransomware groups aggressively exploit publicly known vulnerabilities even after patches are available, increasing risk. For example, SimpleHelp vulnerabilities CVE-2024-57727 and CVE-2024-57728 have been exploited by ransomware groups.
Protecting Yourself from Cyber Threats
To safeguard yourself from these threats, it is essential to take proactive measures.
- Keep software and systems fully patched, especially for known CVEs exploited by ransomware.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure accounts against credential theft from InfoStealers.
- Employ advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools that can detect suspicious ransomware activity and stop attacks before encryption.
- Backup data regularly and keep offline copies to allow recovery from ransomware without paying ransom.
- Educate users to recognize phishing campaigns, a common initial infection vector for ransomware and InfoStealers.
- Implement network segmentation and least privilege access to limit lateral spread of malware.
- Deploy anti-phishing and email security controls to block malicious payloads and credential-stealing links.
- Stay informed on emerging threats from trusted cybersecurity sources for timely response.
Other Emerging Threats
News Malware Attacks, IoT Device Attacks, and AI Attacks are other potential security threats. It is crucial to study a comprehensive malware removal guide and learn how to protect oneself from new and emerging security threats.
With the right strategy, it is possible to beat the top 10 most dangerous new malware and security threats in 2022.
- The encyclopedia of top dangerous malware and security threats includes the Qilin Ransomware Group, known for its Rust-based encryptors and affiliate-supported operations that target multiple sectors.
- In data-and-cloud-computing, ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) groups like RansomHub and Lynx pose a significant risk, adding complexity and speed to attacks by stealing valuable data without detection.
- Social engineering, a common initial infection vector, remains a concern in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of encryption to secure sensitive information and protect oneself against cyber threats.
