Threat Intelligence Report September 3 - September 9 2024

Monti Ransomware

Monti ransomware, a formidable threat in the cybercrime landscape, first emerged in late 2021. This malicious software employs a double extortion tactic, encrypting victims' data and threatening to leak it on the dark web if ransom demands aren't met. While the exact origins of Monti remain shrouded in mystery, security researchers believe it may be linked to a cybercriminal group operating out of Eastern Europe. This group's previous activities suggest a level of sophistication in malware development and deployment, making Monti a particularly dangerous adversary.

TTPs:

Monti doesn't rely solely on brute force. It possesses a diverse arsenal of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to infiltrate and compromise systems stealthily. 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 often mimic legitimate business communications, making them more likely to be clicked.
  
  
• Exploiting Unpatched Vulnerabilities: Monti 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: Like other ransomware strains, Monti 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.
  
  
• Supply Chain Attacks: Monti has shown a preference for targeting supply chains, compromising vendors and suppliers to gain access to a wider network of victims. This tactic allows attackers to reach a larger number of victims with a single intrusion.
  
  
• Lateral Movement: Once a foothold is established on a single system, Monti can utilise various tools to move laterally across a network. This allows it to infect additional devices, escalate privileges, and potentially compromise critical systems.
  
  
• Data Exfiltration: Before encryption, Monti 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: Monti ransomware 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.

Figure 2: Screenshot of Leak Site used by Monti Ransomware

Ransom Note

Monti ransomware, a notorious cyber threat, employs a deceptive tactic in its ransom notes. Rather than demanding a ransom outright, it presents itself as a "bidon_readme.txt” or “readme.txt”.   This facade aims to manipulate victims into believing they have a chance to recover their encrypted data for a fee.

However, this is a deceptive ploy. Once a victim pays the ransom, there's no guarantee that their data will be decrypted. In many cases, victims are left with no option but to rebuild their systems and data from backups.

Figure 3: Screenshot of Ransom Note used by Monti Ransomware

A Global Reach with Focused Targets

Monti ransomware has demonstrated a global reach, targeting victims across various industries and geographies. Here are some examples of its operations and the impact it has caused:

• Healthcare Organisations: Hospitals and other healthcare providers have been frequent targets due to the sensitive nature of patient data and the potential disruption to critical services.
  
  
• Manufacturing Disruptions: Manufacturing companies worldwide have fallen victim to Monti, experiencing data breaches, operational disruptions, and potential production delays.
  
  
• Financial Institutions: The financial sector has also been targeted, with banks and credit unions facing potential data breaches and economic losses.

The emergence of Monti ransomware underscores the ever-evolving threat landscape of cybercrime. Its focus on supply chain attacks and the potential for significant disruptions highlights the need for organisations to prioritise robust cybersecurity measures.