Police warn the public about the release of a new form of malware called "Dharma".
According to the data so far, this software encrypts all the files on the PC that it infects and the perpetrators of this malware seem to be exploiting the PCs that have the RDP (Remote desktop Protocol) enabled, such as p. χ. Teamviewer, ammy etc, which is used for remote connection to PC and then, request payment of ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency in a short time.
At this stage there is no data decryption solution as powerful RSA and AES encryption algorithms are used.
Therefore, the public is called upon to be especially careful and to take the following protective measures:
• The RDP protocol should be disabled where it is not needed. Also, the programs of the remote connection, it would be good not to activate if it is not needed.
• Use of 2FA (two-factor authentication) where applicable, ie second verification code.
• Operating systems should have all security upgrades.
• Antivirus software should be updated at very regular intervals.
• Always have backup copies of the data where they will be stored in a safe place (not connected to the host PC) and make sure that they work.
The public is requested, in such cases, not to send any amount of money and to make a relevant complaint to the Cybercrime Office of the Police Headquarters through the electronic complaint / information form for cybercrime issues, which is available on the Police website. address:
https://cybercrime.police.gov.cy/police/CyberCrime.nsf/subscribe_gr/subscribe_gr?OpenForm