Threat Intelligence Report July 16 - July 22 2024

Meow Ransomware

First detected in the wild around August 2022, Meow Ransomware quickly established itself as a cunning adversary in the cybercrime landscape. This feline-themed malware utilises a double extortion tactic, crippling victims by encrypting their data and threatening to leak it on the dark web if ransom demands aren't met. While the exact origins of Meow Ransomware remain shrouded in some mystery, security researchers believe it may be linked to a cybercriminal group previously operating under names like MeowCorp, MeowLeaks, or simply Meow. This group initially leveraged the LockBit ransomware strain, but Meow Ransomware itself appears to be a distinct evolution with its own set of characteristics.

Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs):    

Meow Ransomware doesn't rely on brute force alone. It possesses a diverse arsenal of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to infiltrate and compromise systems, showcasing a level of planning and strategy. Here's a glimpse into its malicious toolkit:

• Phishing Attacks: Deceptive emails designed to trick users into clicking malicious links or downloading infected attachments are a common entry point. These emails may appear to be playful or lighthearted, leveraging the "Meow" theme to disguise their malicious intent. They can appear to be from colleagues, delivery companies, or even greetings for special occasions.
  
  
• Exploiting Unpatched Vulnerabilities: Meow actively seeks out unpatched vulnerabilities in software and operating systems to gain unauthorised access to networks. This underscores the importance of keeping all software and systems updated with the latest security patches.
  
  
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Exploitation: Similar to other ransomware strains, Meow can exploit weaknesses in RDP configurations to gain access to a system. RDP allows remote access to a computer, and misconfigured settings can create a vulnerability for attackers.
  
  
• Living-off-the-Land Techniques: Like many malware strains, Meow can utilise legitimate system administration tools for malicious purposes. This makes detection more challenging as these tools may appear as normal system activity. Read more on LOTL Techniques.
  
  
• Data Exfiltration: Before encryption, Meow often exfiltrates sensitive data like financial records, personal information, and intellectual property. This stolen data serves as additional leverage in extortion attempts, putting pressure on victims to pay the ransom.
  
  
• Strong Encryption: The malware utilises robust encryption algorithms to render files inaccessible. Decrypting them without the attacker's key is extremely difficult, if not impossible. This effectively cripples a victim's operations until a decision is made.
  
  
• Data Leak Site: Meow maintains a data leak site on the dark web where they list victims who haven't paid the ransom. This serves as a public shaming tactic and adds pressure on compromised organisations.
  
  

A Global Reach with Focused Targets

Meow Ransomware demonstrates a global reach, targeting victims worldwide. Here are some examples of its operations and the impact it has caused:

• Focus on Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs): Security researchers have observed a trend of Meow targeting SMBs. These organisations may have less robust cybersecurity measures compared to larger enterprises, making them more vulnerable to attack.
  
  
• Critical Infrastructure Concerns: Despite its playful facade, there have been concerns about Meow targeting critical infrastructure sectors like power grids or transportation systems. A successful attack on such infrastructure could have devastating consequences.
  
  

Ransom Note: The encrypted files bore the “.MEOW” extension, and the ransom note was named “readme.txt.

The emergence of Meow Ransomware underscores the ever-evolving threat landscape of cybercrime. Its use of social engineering tactics with a playful theme, combined with its focus on data exfiltration and a dedicated data leak site, highlights the need for organisations to prioritise robust cybersecurity measures and user awareness training. Here are some crucial steps organisations can take to mitigate the risk of Meow Ransomware and similar threats:

• Security Awareness Training: Educate employees on identifying phishing attempts, particularly those that use social engineering tactics that may seem lighthearted or playful.
• Phishing Simulations: Conduct simulated phishing attacks to identify vulnerabilities in employee awareness and response.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA for all user accounts wherever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification factor beyond just a username and password.
• Endpoint Security Solutions: Deploy endpoint security solutions that can detect and prevent malware infections at the device level. These solutions can act as a first line of defence against Meow and other malware threats.

Kill Chain:

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)