Lucky (MedusaLocker) Ransomware

Lucky (MedusaLocker) ransomware is one of the latest threats affecting organizations and home users alike. As part of the MedusaLocker family, Lucky ransomware is designed to encrypt files on an infected machine and demand payment for their decryption.

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Threat Overview

Lucky (MedusaLocker) ransomware encrypts files by appending a “.lucky777” extension. Once the encryption process is complete, the ransomware changes the desktop wallpaper and drops a ransom note in an HTML file named READ_NOTE.html. The ransom note explains that the encryption has been carried out using RSA and AES cryptographic algorithms and warns that any attempt to modify or decrypt the files using third-party tools will result in permanent corruption. In addition to encrypting files, the attackers claim to have stolen confidential company data and personal client information, threatening to leak or auction off the data if the ransom is not paid within 72 hours.

Cybercriminals behind Lucky (MedusaLocker) provide contact details via email and Tor chat, and they offer a free decryption test for a few non-essential files to prove their capability to decrypt the locked files. However, paying the ransom does not guarantee that the decryption key or software will be provided, so it is strongly advised not to comply with these demands.

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Threat Summary Table

Below is a table summarizing the critical details of the Lucky (MedusaLocker) ransomware threat:

Characteristic	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, Files Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.lucky777
Ransom Note File Name	READ_NOTE.html
Associated Email Addresses	paul_letterman@zohomailcloud.ca, thomas_went@gmx.com
Detection Names	Avast (Win64:RansomX-gen [Ransom]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Tedy.670488), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win64/Filecoder.MedusaLock), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Generic), Microsoft (Ransom:Win64/MedusaLocker)
Symptoms of Infection	Files are encrypted (e.g., 1.jpg becomes 1.jpg.lucky777), desktop wallpaper change, a ransom note is displayed on the desktop, and attempts to open files result in errors.
Damage	All files on the system are encrypted and inaccessible without the decryption key. Additional password-stealing trojans or malware may be installed alongside the ransomware infection.
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments (macros), torrent websites, malicious ads, drive-by downloads, bundled software, fake updaters, and social engineering tactics.
Danger Level	High – The combination of file encryption, data theft, and ransom demands makes this a critical threat to both individuals and organizations.

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The Ransom Note – Full Text

Below is the complete text of the ransom note dropped by Lucky (MedusaLocker) ransomware:

YOUR PERSONAL ID:
-

Hello dear management,
All your important files have been encrypted!

Your files are safe! Only modified. (RSA+AES)

ANY ATTEMPT TO RESTORE YOUR FILES WITH THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE
WILL PERMANENTLY CORRUPT IT.
DO NOT MODIFY ENCRYPTED FILES.
DO NOT RENAME ENCRYPTED FILES.

No software available on internet can help you. We are the only ones able to
solve your problem.

From your file storage, we have downloaded a large amount of confidential data of your company and personal data of your clients.
Data leakage will entail great reputational risks for you, we would not like that.
In case you do not contact us, we will initiate an auction for the sale of personal and confidential data.

After the auction is over, we will place the data in public access on our blog.
The link is left at the bottom of the note.

This server will be immediately destroyed after your payment.
If you decide to not pay, we will release your data to public or re-seller.
So you can expect your data to be publicly available in the near future..

We only seek money and our goal is not to damage your reputation or prevent
your business from running.

You will can send us 2-3 non-important files and we will decrypt it for free
to prove we are able to give your files back.

Contact us for price and get decryption software.

email:
paul_letterman@zohomailcloud.ca
thomas_went@gmx.com

* To contact us, create a new free email account on the site: protonmail.com
IF YOU DON'T CONTACT US WITHIN 72 HOURS, PRICE WILL BE HIGHER.

This message is a typical ransom note that uses threats of data leakage and public exposure to pressure victims into paying a ransom. The attackers emphasize that any attempt to use third-party decryption software will permanently damage the encrypted files.

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How Lucky (MedusaLocker) Ransomware Works

Infection and Propagation

Lucky (MedusaLocker) typically gains access to a victim’s computer through:

• Phishing emails: Malicious attachments or embedded links in emails trick users into executing the payload.
• Malvertising: Ads that lead to drive-by downloads.
• Bundled Software/Cracks: Software downloads from untrusted sources may contain hidden ransomware.
• Social Engineering: Convincing users to install what appears to be legitimate software.

File Encryption Process

Once executed, the ransomware scans the system for valuable files. It then encrypts these files using robust cryptographic algorithms (RSA and AES). The process appends the “.lucky777” extension to each encrypted file. The encryption makes the files inaccessible without the decryption key, effectively locking the user out of their own data.

Display of the Ransom Note

After the encryption is completed, the ransomware:

• Changes the desktop wallpaper.
• Drops a ransom note in an HTML file named READ_NOTE.html.
• Displays the ransom note message on the screen, instructing the victim on how to contact the attackers for payment and potential decryption.

Threat of Data Leakage

A particularly alarming aspect of Lucky (MedusaLocker) is its claim to have exfiltrated sensitive data, which it threatens to publish or auction if the ransom is not paid within a specified timeframe (72 hours). This adds an extra layer of pressure on victims, making the threat multidimensional – it’s not just about file encryption, but also about potential data breaches.

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Removing Lucky (MedusaLocker)

While the decryption of files encrypted by Lucky (MedusaLocker) is generally impossible without the attacker’s decryption key, it is critical to remove the ransomware from your system to prevent further damage. One effective tool for this purpose is SpyHunter. Follow these steps to remove the ransomware using SpyHunter:

Step 1: Isolate Your Computer

• Disconnect from the Network: Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent further communication with the attackers’ command-and-control servers and to stop any additional data exfiltration.
• Disable Wi-Fi and Ethernet: Turn off any wireless connections or unplug Ethernet cables to fully isolate your system.

Step 2: Download and Install SpyHunter

• Obtain SpyHunter from a Trusted Source: Ensure you download the latest version of SpyHunter directly from the official website or another verified source.
• Run the Installer: Follow the on-screen instructions to install SpyHunter. If possible, perform the installation in Safe Mode to minimize interference from the malware.

Step 3: Update SpyHunter’s Database

• Ensure Latest Definitions: Before starting a scan, update SpyHunter’s threat database to ensure it recognizes the latest malware signatures, including those related to Lucky (MedusaLocker).

Step 4: Perform a Full System Scan

• Initiate a Comprehensive Scan: Launch SpyHunter and select the option for a full system scan. This scan will examine all files, registry entries, and processes for any traces of malware.
• Monitor the Scan: Keep an eye on the scan progress and note any detections, particularly those that mention MedusaLocker or suspicious encryption activities.

Step 5: Review and Remove Detected Threats

• Examine Scan Results: Once the scan is complete, review the list of detected items. SpyHunter should flag components associated with the Lucky ransomware.
• Quarantine or Remove: Follow SpyHunter’s recommendations to either quarantine or remove the detected threats. Quarantine is useful if you need to analyze files later; however, removal is essential to stop the ransomware from operating.
• Restart if Required: Some removals might require a system reboot. Make sure to save any work and then restart your computer.

Step 6: Verify System Integrity

• Run an Additional Scan: After rebooting, run another full system scan with SpyHunter or an alternative reputable antivirus tool to confirm that the threat has been completely eradicated.
• Check Critical Files: Verify that essential system files are intact and that there are no remaining suspicious processes or scheduled tasks that might trigger a reinfection.

Step 7: Backup and Recovery

• Backup Encrypted Files (If Needed): Although removal won’t decrypt your files, it’s advisable to back up the encrypted files in case a decryption solution becomes available in the future.
• Restore from Clean Backup: If you have a clean backup from before the infection, consider restoring your system and files from that backup after ensuring the threat has been completely removed.

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Preventive Methods to Avoid Future Infections

Preventing ransomware infections like Lucky (MedusaLocker) is crucial to safeguarding your data. Here are some best practices to reduce your risk:

1. Regular Backups:
   • Offline Backups: Maintain regular backups of your important files on external drives or offline storage devices.
   • Cloud Storage: Use reputable cloud services that offer versioning and backup features to restore files in case of an attack.
   • Multiple Backup Locations: Store backups in several different physical locations to ensure data redundancy.
2. Keep Software Up to Date:
   • Operating System Updates: Regularly update your operating system and install the latest security patches.
   • Application Updates: Ensure all software, including web browsers, office suites, and plugins, are kept up to date.
   • Security Software: Use and update antivirus and anti-malware tools frequently.
3. Exercise Caution with Email and Downloads:
   • Phishing Awareness: Be wary of unsolicited emails, especially those with attachments or links. Verify the sender’s email address and do not click on suspicious links.
   • Download from Trusted Sources: Only download software from reputable websites or official app stores.
   • Disable Macros: In Microsoft Office documents, disable macros unless absolutely necessary, as they are a common vector for ransomware.
4. Implement Network Security Measures:
   • Firewall Protection: Use a robust firewall to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic.
   • Segmentation: Divide your network into segments to contain potential infections and limit the lateral movement of malware.
   • Intrusion Detection: Employ intrusion detection systems (IDS) to detect and block suspicious activities on your network.
5. Educate Employees and Users:
   • Security Training: Provide regular training on cybersecurity best practices and how to recognize phishing attempts.
   • Incident Response Plan: Develop and maintain an incident response plan so that all users know what steps to take if an infection is suspected.
   • Access Controls: Enforce strict access controls and use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect sensitive accounts.
6. Utilize Advanced Security Tools:
   • SpyHunter and Similar Software: Regularly run trusted malware removal tools like SpyHunter to detect and eliminate threats before they cause significant harm.
   • Behavioral Analysis: Use tools that monitor the behavior of applications to detect anomalies such as unauthorized file encryption.

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Conclusion

Lucky (MedusaLocker) ransomware is a dangerous threat that can lead to severe data loss and reputational damage. Its ability to encrypt files, steal confidential information, and hold data hostage makes it a formidable challenge for both individuals and organizations. However, by understanding how this malware operates, employing robust removal tools like SpyHunter, and implementing strong preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection and mitigate potential damage.

Remember, while tools like SpyHunter can help remove the malware from your system, they cannot decrypt your files without the attacker’s key. The safest course of action is to maintain regular backups and follow cybersecurity best practices to avoid falling victim to such attacks in the first place.