A new ransomware variant known as PlayBoy Locker has emerged, targeting multiple operating systems including Windows, NAS, and ESXi.
First discovered in September 2024, this malware initially operated as a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) platform, offering cybercriminals a versatile tool for their malicious activities.
The ransomware’s impact has been significant, with its ability to encrypt user data and append the .PLBOY extension to locked files.
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In a typical ransomware fashion, PlayBoy Locker drops a text file named “INSTRUCTIONS.txt” on infected systems, providing victims with contact information for ransom demands and further instructions.
Broadcom analysts noted a troubling turn of events in November 2024 when reports surfaced that the full source code of PlayBoy Locker was being offered for sale on underground forums.
This development potentially allows other threat actors to acquire and modify the ransomware, raising concerns about its proliferation and evolution.
One of the most alarming aspects of PlayBoy Locker is its capability to delete Volume Shadow Copies on infected endpoints.
This feature significantly hampers recovery efforts, as it removes a crucial backup mechanism that victims might otherwise rely on to restore their data without paying the ransom.
The infection mechanism of PlayBoy Locker showcases the sophistication of modern ransomware.
Upon execution, the malware begins by scanning the system for valuable data files. It then employs a strong encryption algorithm to render these files inaccessible.
The encryption process is typically rapid, utilizing system resources efficiently to minimize the chance of detection before the operation is complete.
A key component of PlayBoy Locker’s infection routine is its ability to traverse network shares and encrypt data on connected devices.
This behavior is particularly dangerous in corporate environments, where a single infected machine can lead to widespread data loss across an organization’s infrastructure.
To evade detection, the ransomware employs various obfuscation techniques. These may include polymorphic code that changes its signature with each infection, making traditional signature-based detection less effective.
Moreover, the malware might use process injection to hide its activities within legitimate system processes, further complicating detection and analysis efforts.
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