Compal hit by ransomware with a huge request in Bitcoin
2 min read
The Compal IT company was hit by a ransomware attack with a ransom request in Bitcoin.
This is reported by Bleeding Computer. Compal is a Taiwanese company known for manufacturing components for some of the biggest computer brands including Apple, Asus, Sony, HP, Lenovo and others.
It suffered an attack called DoppelPaymer, a ransomware with a request for $17 million.
The company’s spokesman Lu Qingxiong spoke of a security incident, and not of blackmail by hackers.
Bleeding Computer, however, reports screenshots that would confirm the attack. In particular, the hackers allegedly encrypted files, backups and copies, pending payment of a ransom to decrypt the files.
The ransom request would be 1100 BTC, or 1065.5444 if paid within a very short period of time. Assuming the value of Bitcoin is $15,200, the amount of the ransom would be $16.7 million.
DoppelPaymer, the ransomware with a request in Bitcoin
DoppelPaymer is a ransomware usually targeting large companies. It works in the same way as other ransomware, i.e. it infects the computer, imposes a lock screen and asks the unfortunate victim not to turn off the device and to follow the instructions given.
The user is invited to download the Tor browser, copy and paste an address that clearly contains instructions for payment. If nothing happens within a limited number of days, the files will be lost forever, or at least this is the threat of the hackers.
Hackers who have developed DoppelPaymer among other things tend to share their successes on the network, although at the moment there would be no trace of the attack on Compal.
How to protect against hacker attacks
Unfortunately, in the last year and in particular due to Covid-19 and the increasing use of smart-working, cases of cyber attacks have increased.
For protection, it is always important to remember a few simple rules:
- Keep the device protected with up-to-date antivirus software;
- Pay close attention to the senders of the emails received;
- Never download or open suspicious files;
- Never click on suspicious links;
- Always make backup copies of the devices in order to limit losses in the event of an attack.
The post Compal hit by ransomware with a huge request in Bitcoin appeared first on The Cryptonomist.
