How to Decrypt Ransomhub Ransomware and Recover Data?

Ransomhub ransomware has gained substantial momentum recently, especially after the decline of the Lockbit 3.0 ransomware group. With former Lockbit affiliates joining forces with Ransomhub, the group has expanded its reach and technical capabilities, resulting in a wave of new attacks across industries. If your organization is among those affected, our specialized Ransomhub Decryptor is ready to help. Designed for multiple operating systems, including Windows and ESXi servers, it provides an effective solution for recovering your encrypted data. Reach out for expert support and regain control over your systems.

Introduction to Ransomhub Ransomware virus

Ransomhub is a sophisticated ransomware strain that emerged in early 2024, gaining rapid notoriety for its highly effective encryption methods and aggressive attack tactics. Operated as a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), Ransomhub allows cybercriminal affiliates to deploy ransomware attacks on organizations across various sectors. Developed with powerful encryption protocols—x25519, AES256, ChaCha20, and xChaCha20—the malware targets critical data, making recovery nearly impossible without a decryption key.

The Ransomhub ransomware gang, led by a developer known as “Koley,” organizes operations through encrypted .onion domains on the dark web, facilitating communication, negotiation, and payment with victims. Ransomhub also supports network-wide infections, capable of spreading across Windows, Linux, ESXi, ARM, and MIPS architectures. Known for its effectiveness and alarming resilience, Ransomhub is an active threat in the cybersecurity landscape, leaving businesses vulnerable to data loss, system downtime, and reputational damage.

Ransomhub RANSOMWARE STATISTICS & FACTS

• Top Countries
• Sector Attacked
• REGIONAL RANSOMWARE ATTACKS

The Emergence of Ransomhub Ransomware

RansomHub’s Debut and Modus Operandi

Ransomhub ransomware emerged in mid-February 2024 and has already listed several organizations as its victims. These attacks typically involve a two-pronged approach: encrypting the victim’s data and threatening to leak sensitive information unless a ransom is paid. This dual threat has made Ransomhub particularly effective at extorting payments from its targets.

The Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) Model

Ransomhub operates under a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model, which was publicly announced on February 2, 2024, by a cybercriminal using the alias ‘koley’ on the RAMP4U forum—a notorious hub for cybercrime. This RaaS model allows affiliates to carry out ransomware attacks using Ransomhub in exchange for a 90% share of the ransom, with the remaining 10% going to the developer, Koley.

In this model, the affiliates are responsible for laundering the ransom money and handling all communications with the victim, including delivering the decryptor. This setup decentralizes the operation, making it harder for law enforcement to track down the core developers.

Technical Anatomy of Ransomhub Ransomware

Programming and Encryption Methods

Ransomhub is written in the Golang programming language, which is known for its cross-platform compatibility and speed. The ransomware employs a combination of powerful encryption algorithms:

• Asymmetric Algorithm: Based on x25519, this algorithm secures the encryption keys used during the attack.
• Symmetric Algorithms: Ransomhub uses AES256, ChaCha20, and xChaCha20—three of the most robust encryption algorithms available, ensuring that once files are encrypted, they are nearly impossible to decrypt without the correct keys.

The encryption is further protected by code obfuscation through the use of Abstract Syntax Tree (AST) techniques, making it difficult for security software to analyze or reverse-engineer the ransomware.

Propagation Across Networks

One of Ransomhub’s most dangerous features is its ability to propagate across networks. It can encrypt data both locally and on networked systems, making it particularly effective at compromising entire organizations rather than just individual computers.

Supported Platforms and Architectures

Ransomhub is designed to operate on a wide range of platforms, including:

• Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, and ESXi (a hypervisor widely used for virtualized environments).
• Architectures: ARM and MIPS, expanding its reach to various devices, including IoT and embedded systems.

The Devastating Impact of Ransomhub

Organizations Targeted

Ransomhub has already affected numerous organizations across various industries, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. These sectors are particularly vulnerable due to the critical nature of their data and the potential for significant disruption.

Methods of Extortion

The typical Ransomhub attack involves encrypting the victim’s data and then demanding a ransom for its return. In addition to this, the attackers often exfiltrate sensitive data before encryption, threatening to release it publicly if the ransom is not paid. This “double extortion” tactic increases the pressure on victims to pay up quickly.

Consequences for Victims

For organizations, a successful Ransomhub attack can lead to severe consequences, including:

• Financial Losses: Not only from the ransom payment itself but also from lost business during downtime.
• Reputational Damage: The exposure of sensitive data can lead to a loss of trust among clients and customers.
• Regulatory Fines: For industries bound by strict data protection regulations, such as healthcare and finance, a data breach can result in hefty fines.

How Does Ransomhub Ransomware Spread?

Ransomhub ransomware, like many modern ransomware strains, utilizes sophisticated techniques to infect systems and networks. Here are the primary methods of its spread:

1. Phishing Emails

One of the most common and effective ways Ransomhub ransomware spreads is through phishing emails. These emails often contain malicious attachments or links that, when opened or clicked by the recipient, execute the ransomware payload. The attackers usually disguise these emails as legitimate communications from trusted sources, tricking users into downloading malware. Once executed, the ransomware starts encrypting files on the user’s system.

Key Signs of Phishing Emails:

• Suspicious attachments (e.g., .exe, .zip, or .pdf files).
• URLs that redirect to malicious sites.
• Poor grammar or a sense of urgency in the message, urging immediate action.

2. Exploiting Vulnerabilities in Software

Ransomhub ransomware can also spread by exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in software. Attackers often scan networks for systems running outdated software with known security flaws. These vulnerabilities can be in operating systems (e.g., Windows, Linux, or ESXi), web applications, or remote desktop services. Once a vulnerability is exploited, attackers gain access to the system, install the ransomware, and propagate it across the network.

Common Exploited Vulnerabilities:

• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) exploits.
• Unpatched versions of software and operating systems.
• Weak or default passwords for administrative accounts.

3. Network Propagation

Ransomhub ransomware is designed with network propagation capabilities, allowing it to spread rapidly across a connected network. Once it infects one device, it can scan for other vulnerable systems within the same network and attempt to infect them. The ransomware may use compromised credentials or unpatched security flaws in network services to move laterally through the infrastructure.

Techniques for Network Spread:

• Using stolen administrative credentials.
• Exploiting open network shares and misconfigured permissions.
• Leveraging remote access tools and services.

4. Drive-by Downloads and Malicious Websites

Ransomhub ransomware can also spread through drive-by downloads. This method involves visiting a compromised or malicious website, which automatically downloads and executes the ransomware without the user’s consent or knowledge. The malicious code may be hidden in website ads, fake software updates, or injected into legitimate websites through vulnerabilities. Users with outdated browsers or plugins are especially vulnerable to this form of attack.

Signs of Drive-by Downloads:

• Unwanted software installations after visiting certain websites.
• Redirects to suspicious or unknown pages.
• Pop-up messages asking users to update software like Flash or Java.

5. Compromised Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Attackers frequently target Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections to gain access to networks and servers. Once they find an exposed or vulnerable RDP port (often left open on corporate networks), they attempt brute force attacks using stolen or weak credentials. Once inside, they deploy the Ransomhub ransomware to encrypt files and gain administrative control over the entire network.

How RDP is Compromised:

• Weak or default passwords for remote access accounts.
• Exposed RDP ports to the internet without proper security measures.
• Use of brute force or credential stuffing attacks to gain unauthorized access.

6. Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) and Affiliate Programs

Ransomhub ransomware operates as a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), meaning it is available for purchase or rental by other cybercriminals through underground forums. Affiliates who buy or subscribe to the ransomware are responsible for spreading it through various means such as phishing campaigns, exploiting vulnerabilities, or hacking into corporate networks. The proceeds from successful attacks are split between the affiliates (who get 90%) and the developers (who take 10%).

Affiliate Spreading Methods:

• Automated phishing kits.
• Credential harvesting for network attacks.
• Use of underground marketplaces to purchase exploits and malware tools.

By using a combination of these techniques, Ransomhub ransomware can efficiently spread through individual devices, networks, and entire infrastructures, causing significant disruption. The best way to mitigate these risks is by maintaining strong security practices, such as regularly updating software, training employees on phishing awareness, and ensuring secure remote access configurations.

7. TDSSKiller: Disabling EDR Systems

TDSSKiller, originally developed by Kaspersky to remove rootkits, was repurposed by RansomHub to disable Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems. By leveraging administrative privileges gained through reconnaissance, attackers successfully disabled security services using the “-dcsvc” flag, targeting specific defenses with precision. This misuse of TDSSKiller represents a Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) technique, where legitimate tools are turned against the system to aid in malicious activity.

Technical details:

• File Name: TDSSKiller.exe
• SHA-256: 2d823c8b6076e932d696e8cb8a2c5c5df6d392526cba8e39b64c43635f683009
• MD5: ff1eff0e0f1f2eabe1199ae71194e560
• File Size: 4.82 MB
• Command: tdsskiller.exe -dcsvc <service_name>

This command enables attackers to delete essential security services, which could even bypass anti-tampering protections in some environments.

8. LaZagne: Credential Harvesting Tool

LaZagne, a well-known credential-harvesting tool, was employed by RansomHub to gather login credentials from a variety of applications, including browsers, email clients, and databases. By retrieving credentials from these critical services, RansomHub gained the ability to move laterally within the network, escalate privileges, and deepen their access to the compromised infrastructure.

Technical details:

• File Name: LaZagne.exe
• SHA-256: 467e49f1f795c1b08245ae621c59cdf06df630fc1631dc0059da9a032858a486
• MD5: 5075f994390f9738e8e69f4de09debe6
• File Size: 9.66 MB
• Command: LaZagne.exe database

RansomHub specifically targeted database credentials, a valuable asset that can unlock access to sensitive systems and critical infrastructure.

Mitigations and Advice

To defend against this new wave of attacks involving EDR killers and credential stealers, organizations are advised to take the following precautions:

• Restrict BYOVD Exploits: Implement controls to monitor and restrict the use of vulnerable drivers like TDSSKiller, particularly when executed with suspicious flags like “-dcsvc”.
• Isolate Critical Systems: Use network segmentation to prevent lateral movement, limiting attackers’ ability to spread across the network.
• Invest in 24×7 Monitoring: For organizations lacking in-house expertise, outsourcing to Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services can ensure round-the-clock protection against sophisticated ransomware threats.

How to Protect Against a Ransomhub Ransomware Attack

Ransomhub ransomware is a highly sophisticated threat, but implementing strong security measures can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. Here are essential steps to protect your systems and data from a Ransomhub ransomware attack:

1. Regularly Update and Patch Systems

Keeping your operating systems, software, and applications up to date is crucial in protecting against ransomware. Ransomhub and other ransomware often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems.

Actionable Steps:

• Set up automated patch management to apply critical security updates as soon as they are available.
• Regularly audit all software and hardware for vulnerabilities.
• Ensure that all operating systems, firewalls, and antivirus software are current.

2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, requiring users to provide additional verification beyond just a password. This helps protect your network from brute-force attacks, stolen credentials, and unauthorized access.

Actionable Steps:

• Enable MFA for all critical systems, especially those accessed remotely (e.g., via RDP or VPN).
• Require MFA for all users, including administrators and IT personnel.
• Use authenticator apps or hardware tokens instead of SMS for MFA verification.

3. Regular Data Backups

One of the most effective ways to mitigate the impact of a ransomware attack is to have regular, offline backups of all critical data. Even if ransomware encrypts your files, having clean backups ensures you can restore your systems without needing to pay the ransom.

Actionable Steps:

• Perform regular, automated backups of your data and systems.
• Keep backups stored offline or in a secure, cloud-based location that is not accessible from the main network.
• Regularly test the integrity of backups to ensure they are complete and malware-free.

4. Restrict Access and Permissions

Limiting user access and implementing the principle of least privilege (POLP) can help reduce the risk of a ransomware attack spreading throughout your organization.

Actionable Steps:

• Grant users access only to the files, applications, and systems they need for their roles.
• Use role-based access control (RBAC) to enforce least privilege policies.
• Regularly audit user accounts, especially administrative privileges, to remove any unnecessary access.

5. Disable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) if Not Needed

RDP is a common attack vector for ransomware like Ransomhub. If your organization doesn’t require RDP, it’s best to disable it entirely. If it is necessary, ensure it is securely configured.

Actionable Steps:

• Disable RDP on all machines that do not require it.
• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication for any RDP connections.
• Secure RDP with VPN access or restrict it to trusted IP addresses.

6. Employee Training on Phishing and Security Awareness

Phishing emails remain one of the most common methods for ransomware delivery. Training your employees to recognize phishing attempts can significantly reduce the chances of an attack.

Actionable Steps:

• Conduct regular phishing simulation exercises to test and train employees.
• Provide ongoing education on the latest phishing techniques and attack vectors.
• Encourage employees to report suspicious emails or activities to the IT security team.

7. Deploy Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Solutions

Modern EDR solutions are designed to detect, investigate, and respond to ransomware threats in real-time. These tools can help identify unusual activities, such as unauthorized file encryption, and stop attacks in their early stages.

Actionable Steps:

• Deploy EDR solutions across your network to monitor and block suspicious activities.
• Integrate EDR with your security information and event management (SIEM) system for centralized monitoring.
• Enable behavioral analysis features in your antivirus software to detect abnormal activity.

8. Use Network Segmentation

Dividing your network into smaller segments can limit the spread of ransomware if one system is compromised. This can prevent ransomware from accessing critical systems and data across the entire network.

Actionable Steps:

• Segment sensitive systems and data, such as financial records and customer databases, from the rest of the network.
• Implement strict access control policies between network segments.
• Use firewalls and virtual local area networks (VLANs) to enforce network segmentation.

9. Disable Macros in Office Documents

Macros in Microsoft Office files are a common attack vector used by ransomware. Disabling them can prevent malicious code from executing within your systems.

Actionable Steps:

• Disable macros for all Office files unless absolutely necessary.
• Configure Office to block all macros from the internet by default.
• Educate employees about the dangers of enabling macros from untrusted sources.

10. Monitor and Audit Logs

Monitoring network and system activity through log analysis helps detect suspicious activity early. Regular audits can identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with security protocols.

Actionable Steps:

• Enable logging on all servers, applications, and critical systems.
• Set up real-time alerts for abnormal activities, such as unexpected file encryption or unauthorized access.
• Perform regular audits of system logs to identify security gaps and potential threats.

By implementing these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of a Ransomhub ransomware attack. A proactive and layered approach to cybersecurity will help safeguard your organization from both Ransomhub and other similar ransomware threats.

How to Restore Data from Backups After a Ransomware Attack?

1. Ensure Backup Integrity: Before starting the restoration process, verify that the backups are clean and not infected by ransomware. Run a thorough scan with updated antivirus software on the backup files.
2. Isolate the Infected System: Disconnect the infected servers from the network to prevent any remaining malware from spreading or contaminating the restored data.
3. Restore in a Clean Environment: Use a clean, malware-free machine or isolated environment to restore your data. This helps avoid re-infection during the restoration process.
4. Follow a Structured Restoration Plan: Prioritize critical systems first, such as databases, servers, or applications vital to your operations. Restore these in phases to ensure smooth recovery without overloading the system.
5. Test the Restored Data: After restoration, test the restored files and systems to ensure everything is functioning properly. Verify data integrity and confirm that there are no residual traces of ransomware.
6. Reinforce Security: Once the data is restored, implement enhanced security measures such as updated firewalls, security patches, and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent future attacks.
7. Backup the Restored Data: Once the data is successfully restored and confirmed to be clean, create fresh, secure backups in case of future incidents.

Real-World Case Studies: Successful Decryptions with Ransomhub Decryptor

Case Study 1: A Marketing Company of UAE

A small marketing company was hit by Ransomhub, leading to the encryption of sensitive data. By deploying the Ransomhub Decryptor, the institution was able to restore access to its data within hours, avoiding significant financial losses and reputational damage.

“As the owner of a small marketing company in the UAE, I was stressed when Ransomhub encrypted our critical data. This team’s decryption tool was a lifesaver, restoring everything quickly and efficiently. Their expert support and reasonable rates were exactly what we needed. Highly recommend their services!” — Shah

Shah Sheikh

CEO of Small Marketing Company, UAE

Screenshot of WhatsApp:

Case Study 2: A Manufacturing Company in Italy (Purchased Decryptor by Cyber Security Specialist)

A manufacturing company from Italy experienced a Ransomhub attack that threatened to disrupt its supply chain. The Network version of the Ransomhub Decryptor was deployed, allowing the company to decrypt its entire network and resume operations with minimal downtime.

“I’m incredibly grateful to the team for helping us recover our crucial server data from the Ransomhub ransomware. Their advanced decryption tool and expert support restored our files quickly and efficiently. The money-back guarantee and competitive rates were a huge plus. Highly recommend their services!” — Luca

Luca Angero

Cyber Security Specialist, Italy.

Gmail Proof:

Case Study 3: A Healthcare Provider

A healthcare provider was targeted by Ransomhub, resulting in the encryption of patient records. The Linux version of the Ransomhub Decryptor was used to restore access to these records, ensuring that patient care was not compromised and avoiding potential regulatory fines.

“It was really nice experience working with you. Your decryptor worked very well while decrypting my all servers and important data. Thank you very much for the great service and not scamming me. ” — Giorgione

Giorgione

IT Manager in a Healthcare Provider Company, Italy

WhatsApp Proof:

Preventative Measures Against Ransomhub and Other Ransomware

Employee Training and Awareness

One of the most effective ways to prevent ransomware attacks is through employee training. By educating staff on how to recognize phishing emails and other common attack vectors, organizations can reduce the likelihood of an attack.

Regular Backups

Regular backups are essential for minimizing the impact of a ransomware attack. By keeping an up-to-date backup of critical data, organizations can quickly restore their systems even if they fall victim to ransomware.

Strong Endpoint Security

Deploying strong endpoint security solutions can help to prevent ransomware from gaining a foothold in the first place. These solutions can detect and block ransomware before it has a chance to encrypt any files.

Conclusion: The Future of Ransomware and the Role of Advanced Decryptors

As ransomware continues to evolve, the need for advanced decryption tools like the Ransomhub Decryptor will only grow. These tools are essential for helping organizations recover from attacks quickly and effectively, minimizing the damage and ensuring business continuity. By staying vigilant and prepared, organizations can protect themselves against the ever-present threat of ransomware and safeguard their critical data.