Features

Global NotPetya Malware Attack Reaches Africa

Published

7 years ago

June 29, 2017

The “Petya” cyber attack has hit Africa, South Africa’s 702 Radio has reported. According to the media outlet, several companies in the country could have suffered from the attack that started in Ukraine earlier this week. The malware has hit several organisations in Europe and America, and is now being felt in Africa as well as in some parts of Asia.

How Petya Works

The ransomware targets networks belonging to large organisations and companies. In most cases, it attacks machines that run on Microsoft Windows. Just like WannaCry, Petya leverages the EternalBlue vulnerability in order to infect system files.

After rapidly infecting them, the malicious program starts to install. Then, it forces the machine to reboot and attacks Window’s vulnerabilities in order to encrypt all files. When it cannot compromise the computer through the weakness, Petya attacks Windows administrative tools. It then demands that victims pay $300 worth of bitcoin. The note on the dashboard has a Bitcoin address where victims are supposed to send the money. After settling the ransom, victims are required to send an email requesting a 12 character digital key for decryption.

Petya Reincarnate?

‘Petya’ is not the real name, because the ‘original Petya’ hit back in March 2016. After the first few reports, many users thought it was a reincarnation of the old version and thus named it ‘Petya’. Later, Kaspersky Lab redubbed it ‘NotPetya’. Other names that the malware has gained include Pneytna and Petna. Romanian’s security firm BitDefender named it Goldeneye. By then, the name ‘Petya’ had already gone viral. ‘NotPetya’ is the name widely used to refer to this attack.

Another WannaCry?

The NotPetya attack is barely two months after WannaCry hit several companies in Africa. After the NSA had warned that WannaCry was exploiting EternalBlue to attack Microsoft’s products, the company reiterated by announcing a fixing update for all Windows versions. But few users have updated their operating systems.

EternalBlue is a hacking weapon widely believed to have been created by the NSA. A secret group called the Shadow Brokers leaked it online in early 2017. According to Symantec, both WannaCry and NotPetya ransomware exploited the vulnerability. The agency traced the WannaCry attackers to North Korea.

But Maya Horowitz from the Threat Intelligence says

“Unlike other ransomware types, Petya does not encrypt files on infected machines one by one. Instead, it locks up the entire hard disk drive.”

Antivirus Response

Symantec and Kaspersky are some of the leading antivirus companies that claim to detect and protect devices against ‘Petya’ infections. The companies urge their users to update the security software for the new provision. Also, Microsoft in March fortified their Window’s security tools to patch the ExternalBlue vulnerability.

According to The Register Newspaper, some advanced Windows users have already discovered that the NotPetya outbreak looks for the C:\Windows\perfc.dat read-only file. It does not install on PCs where the file is present, but instead, it spreads out to other computers within the network.

Spreading Like Mushroom in Fall

As The Guardian quotes Proofpoint’s Ryan Kalember, the malware “has a better mechanism for spreading itself than WannaCry.”

Barely a few days after being reported in Ukraine, ‘NotPetya’ is moving fast to other parts of the world. It has disrupted large corporations in Europe and the United States. Companies such as WPP advertising company, Saint-Goban and Russia’s oil and steel leaders Rosneft and Evraz are some of the victims. Others include the DLA Piper law firm, Heritage Valley Health System and AP Moller-Maersk. It is also believed to have brought operations at Indias largest container port, JNPT, to a standstill.

On Wednesday, the ransomware was reported to have hit South African companies. The country’s Radio 702 announced that some local firms could have been infected.

What to Do If Affected

The NotPetya ransomware infects computers and then reboots to install it. During the installation, the malicious software starts to encrypt your files. Victims and researchers say that after the attack, the malware takes an hour before rebooting. So, @HackerFantastic on Twitter came up with a clever way of protecting files. The user tweeted;

‘If machine reboots and you see this message, power off immediately! This is the encryption process. If you do not power on, files are fine.’

If you switch off your computer while it is rebooting, you can stop the encryption process. Although the machine may still end up getting infected, your files will be safe.

If it is too late and the PC is already encrypted, then you will get a note demanding that you pay the ransom. There’s no need wasting your time and money paying the ransom. The attacker’s web provider has blocked the ‘support’ email address provided by the attackers. This means that you cannot contact them to send the key to unlock your files.

Instead, take the device offline, format the hard disk and then reinstall all your files from a previous backup. It is wise to back up files regularly to circumvent such attacks.

Who Is Behind NotPetya?

After the first few hits, pundits noted that the attack was too substandard to have come from expert criminals. In fact, some even claimed that the hacker could be an amateur trying to take advantage of a leaked cyber weapon.

The first indication was that the bitcoin address provided was the same for every victim. In other serious hacking encounters, hackers indicate customised addresses for each target. In addition, the malware has only one email address which serves as ‘customer care service’. The suspension of the email address by the provider shows how shoddily the attack had been planned.

But recent findings project to something bigger than just an attack from a cyber-criminal. In an interview with the Krebs on Security, online safety expert Nicholas Weaver said that Petya is a “deliberate, malicious, destructive attack or perhaps a test disguised as ransomware.” This is because the malware’s code has been modified to ensure that any changes made to a computer’s files are irreversible. This makes it different from regular ransomware.

Although it is not clear enough, security researchers say that the attack is a destructive malware that may be targeting Ukrainian government institutions, but masquerading as a mere ransomware. One of those who hold this view is pseudonymous researcher Grugq, who acknowledges that this malware is different from the old version of Petya. Grudg notes that Petya “was a criminal enterprise for making money.”

The pundit draws the difference between the old Petya and the new NotPetya. “The new is definitely not designed to make money. This is designed to spread fast and cause damage, with a plausibly deniable cover of ransomware,” he adds.

On his blog, Grudg also notes that the payment method was too unrealistic, and no serious hacker could code such a thoughtful malware only to blow up the payment plan. He points out that it would be careless for a malicious coder to indicate a single traceable payment address and lockable email address. The blogger also finds it stupid that the hacker requires victims to email them for the computer’s 60-character unlocking key. According to Grudg, this is the same as ‘send a personal cheque to Petya Payments, PO Box … ’

Why Ask Ransom in Bitcoins?

Most ransomware attacks demand payment in the form of bitcoins. The hackers result to the cryptocurrency due to its pseudo-anonymity. Cyber attackers are smart, and they understand that using their bank accounts or credit cards will get them arrested in no time. Hence, to remain unknown, Petya attackers demand that $300 be paid to their bitcoin address.

Like WannaCry before it, Petya is a wakeup call for African organisations to take cyber security seriously. A number of government authorities are already helping companies to stay safe. In a press statement, the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) outlines the online security measures that organisations and individuals ought to take. A similar statement has been issued by Nigerian authorities.

Related Topics:cyber attack notpetya petya

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Why Crypto’s Leading the Way in Africa’s Evolving Finance Landscape

Published

1 year ago

July 24, 2023

Guest Contributor

Cryptocurrency adoption is on the rise throughout Africa. According to Chainalysis, the African crypto market is one of the fastest growing in the world, with an estimated $20 billion worth of transactions taking place per month. Meanwhile Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa are positioned in bitcoin.com top 10 global countries by Cryptocurrency Adoption.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the appeal of decentralised currencies in Africa and discuss how they’re leading the way in the continent’s ever-evolving finance landscape.

The Global Crypto Era

For several years now, cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology have been having a transformative effect on various industries and markets across the globe. From the disruption of the gaming industry via the emergence of play-to-earn gaming and online casino with crypto deposit platforms to smart contracts that are being used everywhere, from healthcare to real estate, the impact is evident.

With the rise of the DeFi and GameFi sectors, it’s clear that the global crypto era is now in full swing, and it’s an industry that’s gaining noticeable traction across Africa. Approximately 1.2 million Africans now actively trade cryptocurrencies, with Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa leading the way. Decentralised crypto trading platforms like Paxful and LocalBitcoins bypass financial institutions and present new opportunities for residents to buy and sell crypto tokens.

In terms of which crypto tokens are leading the way in Africa, Bitcoin (BTC) holds the position of the most dominant digital currency, with a substantial user base and trading volume. BTC is accepted and used for various purposes, including remittances and as a store of value.

Altcoins, too, are becoming more widespread in the continent, particularly Ether (ETH) and Binance Coin (BNB). Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities have fuelled its growth in the region, providing a solution to developers for building DApps (decentralised applications) that address Africa-specific challenges.

Additionally, several homegrown cryptocurrencies have emerged in recent years that are tailored to the local needs of the region. The Akoin token (AKN), for example, was founded by musical artist and humanitarian Akon as a means of powering a digital financial ecosystem in those regions with limited access to traditional banking services.

The Appeal of Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies offer several unique advantages, which, coupled with the economic stagnation still present in the continent, makes them particularly appealing to Africans.

One of the key drivers behind the burgeoning popularity of crypto in Africa is the lack of access to traditional financial services that many Africans still face. Many residents stay either unbanked or underbanked, excluding them from taking part in the global economy.

Decentralised currencies are gaining increased acceptance among the financially marginalised, particularly the low-income population, who have often been excluded from the banking system or had to face disproportionally high transaction costs. By their very nature, cryptocurrencies remove the need for traditional intermediaries, instead offering a borderless alternative that enables individuals to send and receive secure financial transactions instantly.

Currencies in countries such as Kenya and Nigeria have been damaged by decades of inflation, contributing to a surge in both economic and political instability. Cryptos hold the power to remedy financial exclusion and present an alternative to weak domestic currencies.

Unlike the more established traditional banking options in Africa, decentralised finance enables anyone with an internet connection and compatible device — smartphones included — to engage in a variety of financial transactions, from sending remittances to making investments. Crypto investing allows Africans to purchase and hold assets that will not be impacted by financial turbulence, such as rapid depreciation and ever-increasing inflation.

As mentioned above, cryptocurrencies are typically cheaper, easier to use and faster than conventional methods. The blockchain technology that eases peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions exists outside established fiat currency institutions, supplying a far more accessible and user-friendly solution.

Traditional remittance services are often slow, expensive and largely inaccessible to a significant portion of the African population. Digital currencies allow for frictionless cross-border transactions, meaning that individuals can send and receive money globally in a matter of minutes. Not only does this benefit individual consumers, but it also empowers African businesses and entrepreneurs, easing economic growth in the process.

A Lasting Impact

Given that Africa’s crypto ecosystem is still in an evolutionary stage, the popularity of decentralised currencies and blockchain applications will vary between countries and regions. Regulatory environments, infrastructure development and specific social-economic conditions can all influence the popularity and success of a crypto project. However, there’s no denying that the emergence of this industry has sparked a wave of innovation throughout many African countries.

Several blockchain-based startups have found innovative ways to leverage the potential of the technology to address the most prevalent socio-economic challenges. BitPesa is transforming the cross-border payments sector, while other startups have used blockchain tech to make supply chain management more transparent and even improve voting processes. By leapfrogging traditional infrastructures, decentralised currencies and technologies are proving to be the key to sustainable, long-term economic growth in Africa.

Features

The Rise of Bitcoin in the Online Gaming World

Published

1 year ago

July 24, 2023

Guest Contributor

Cryptocurrencies have disrupted traditional financial systems in recent years, and Bitcoin profiled itself as the most famous crypto. It has already found its way to e-commerce and investment, but this crypto is also present in the world of online gaming. In this article, we will explore the growing influence of Bitcoin in the online gaming world.

Bitcoin and Online Casinos

Thanks to Bitcoin’s integration into online casinos, players and operators now have a vast range of possibilities. With the use of Bitcoin, online casinos create another level of advantage over traditional payment options. Most of all, if you perform transactions in Bitcoin, they will be quicker and more efficient.

You can deposit or withdraw the funds within seconds without the need for complex verification processes or intermediaries. This makes the gaming experience smoother and more seamless for any player. Additionally, Bitcoin offers a higher level of privacy and security. We have already experienced how much financial and personal information traditional payment methods require.

Nevertheless, unlike them, Bitcoin transactions are pseudonymous, which means they provide players with greater anonymity. This privacy feature particularly appeals to those who value their online security and wish to enjoy online gaming without revealing their identities. Integrating Bitcoin into online casinos has also resulted in innovative bonus structures and rewards.

Some Bitcoin casinos offer exclusive promotions and bonuses for players who use Bitcoin as their preferred payment method. The best Bitcoin casinos in the Philippines are safe to deposit at, according to this guide, and you can choose the one that appeals to you the most. That’s why more and more players turn to Bitcoin as their payment method, fostering its further adoption in the gaming industry.

Since Bitcoin is decentralized, transactions bypass the regular censorship and control that we can see involved with traditional payment methods. Thanks to this, players from regions with strict gambling regulations can participate in online gaming with fewer restrictions. Bitcoin-powered online casinos do not impose geographical limitations, opening their services to players worldwide.

Bitcoin and Esports Betting

Beyond online casinos, Bitcoin has made significant breakthroughs in esports betting. We could witness a skyrocketing rise of esports in recent years, which resulted in millions of enthusiasts and viewers worldwide. Thanks to Bitcoin’s integration into esports, players have a wider range of options to engage with their favorite games and gamers.

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has witnessed a meteoric rise in popularity, attracting millions of viewers and enthusiasts worldwide. Bitcoin’s integration into esports betting platforms has revolutionized how fans engage with their favorite games and players.

Bitcoin’s advantages, such as fast and secure transactions, align perfectly with the dynamic nature of esports betting. Users can easily deposit and withdraw funds, allowing for quick reactions to changing odds or game outcomes. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature also ensures that bettors from any location can participate, overcoming the obstacles of regional restrictions and currency exchange complications.

Moreover, Bitcoin’s integration into esports betting platforms has provided players with increased transparency and fairness. The technology behind Bitcoin, blockchain, allows for unalterable and auditable records of transactions, ensuring that betting outcomes are tamper-proof.

This transparency has fostered greater trust among players, operators, and regulators, further fueling the growth of Bitcoin-powered esports betting.

Bitcoin and In-Game Purchases

As the gaming industry evolves, it has also opened innovative ways for gamers to enhance their gaming experience. With the involvement of Bitcoin, players can use it for in-game purchases. Nowadays, many popular online games support cryptocurrencies for item purchases, upgrades, or other enhancements.

Since crypto transactions are more seamless, Bitcoin has become a better alternative compared to traditional in-game payment methods. Game developers have also benefited from introducing Bitcoin as a payment option. Now they can offer a more convenient way of purchasing in-game items, transaction fees are lower, and processing times have become faster.

Moreover, you, as a player, don’t need to disclose any sensitive information anymore. That way, Bitcoin usage in gaming reduces the risk of potential data breaches. The adoption of Bitcoin in in-game purchases has also opened up new possibilities for cross-platform transactions.

As Bitcoin operates globally, players can easily trade or transfer in-game assets across different games or platforms, fostering a vibrant secondary market for virtual goods. This flexibility enhances player engagement and allows for a more interconnected gaming experience.

The integration of Bitcoin into in-game purchases has also paved the way for blockchain-based gaming ecosystems. Some game developers have embraced blockchain technology to create decentralized gaming platforms where players truly own their in-game assets through blockchain-based tokens. This ownership empowers players and introduces concepts of shortage and value to virtual items.

Bitcoin in Online Gaming

Benefits of Using Bitcoin in Online Gaming

Players can enjoy multiple benefits from using Bitcoin in online gaming. The most obvious one is that traditional payment methods cannot match the level of Bitcoin’s security and anonymity. Due to cryptos’ decentralized nature, you don’t need to disclose your sensitive data. If you want to get started in the gaming world easily and quickly, there’s no more attractive option than Bitcoin.

Transactions are completed within seconds, and they are cheaper in terms of fees compared to other popular methods. Since Bitcoin has become more popular in the online gaming industry, gaming platforms recognized its benefits.

Therefore, they introduced it as a payment method, and nowadays, the world’s most popular online gaming platforms accept Bitcoin, including Steam, Xbox Live, and PlayStation Network.

Security Considerations When Using Bitcoin in Gaming

While Bitcoin offers many benefits for online gaming, such as fast and secure transactions, there are also some security considerations to keep in mind. Performing online financial transactions always brings a high risk of potential hacking and theft of Bitcoin wallets. That’s why you should use a secure and reputable digital wallet and keep your private keys safe and inaccessible to unauthorized persons.

Also, online gaming platforms that you use should have strong security features established to keep your financial and personal information away from the eyes of unauthorized third parties.

Conclusion

Bitcoin’s rise in online gaming has brought many benefits for all entities in this growing industry. From online casinos to esports betting and in-game purchases, Bitcoin’s unique characteristics have reshaped the gaming landscape, offering increased speed, privacy, security, and global accessibility. It shouldn’t take too long before cryptocurrencies gain mainstream acceptance since they are continuously evolving.

That’s why we believe the Bitcoin integration in the online gaming industry will continue. Ultimately, it should unlock new ways of innovation and interaction for gaming fans worldwide, leading to limitless possibilities for the future of online gaming.

Features

Unlock the Thrills of NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming

Published

1 year ago

July 15, 2023

Guest Contributor

Are you a passionate NHL fan who craves excitement both on and off the ice? Look no further! NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming bring a revolutionary experience to your fingertips. Witness the fusion of cutting-edge technology, crypto-powered wagers, and seamless live streaming that will take your NHL engagement to new heights.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of NHL Crypto Betting, explore the latest trends in NHL betting, and uncover the exhilaration of live streaming. Brace yourself for an unparalleled journey that combines heart-pounding action, lucrative opportunities, and the thrill of cheering for your favorite teams in real-time.

The Evolution of NHL Crypto Betting

With the rise of blockchain technology, NHL Crypto Betting has emerged as a game-changer in the sports betting landscape. Powered by cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, NHL Crypto Betting offers a secure, transparent, and decentralized platform for enthusiasts to engage with their favorite teams.

By leveraging blockchain’s immutability and smart contract capabilities, NHL Crypto Betting ensures fair and tamper-proof transactions, providing users with a sense of trust and integrity.

Moreover, NHL Crypto Betting introduces a new dimension to the traditional sports betting experience. Cryptocurrencies enable users to make instant deposits and withdrawals, eliminating the hassles associated with fiat currencies. This streamlined process enhances convenience and accessibility for bettors, empowering them to place wagers quickly and effortlessly.

Unleashing the Power of NHL Trends Betting

Keeping up with NHL trends is essential for successful betting. NHL Trends Betting allows users to analyze historical data, team performance, player statistics, and other crucial factors to make informed betting decisions. By identifying patterns, tendencies, and emerging trends, bettors can gain a competitive edge and increase their chances of winning.

Whether you’re an experienced bettor or new to the world of NHL betting, understanding and leveraging NHL trends is paramount. Stay ahead of the game by monitoring team form, home and away records, head-to-head matchups, injury reports, and other key indicators. NHL trends betting offers a strategic approach to maximize your chances of success and unlock profitable opportunities.

Immersive Live Streaming: Amplifying the NHL Experience

Live streaming has transformed the way sports fans engage with their favorite leagues, and the NHL is no exception. Experience the thrill of NHL games in real-time, no matter where you are, with seamless live streaming. Witness jaw-dropping goals, clutch saves, and heart-stopping moments as they happen, all from the comfort of your own device.

Thanks to advancements in technology, NHL live streaming offers impeccable video quality, multi-camera angles, and expert commentary, providing an immersive viewing experience.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, live streaming brings you closer to the action, making you a part of every exhilarating moment. Cheer for your team, revel in the intensity, and celebrate their victories as if you were right there in the arena.

Maximizing User Engagement: The NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming Advantage

Combining NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming amplifies user engagement to unprecedented levels. When you become a part of this dynamic ecosystem, you open doors to exhilarating possibilities. Here’s how NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming enhance your overall experience:

Real-Time Betting: Engage in fast-paced, live betting opportunities that align with the pulse of the game. React to game-changing moments and adapt your strategy instantly to seize the best odds and maximize your winnings.
Community Interaction: Connect with fellow NHL enthusiasts, discuss predictions, and share your excitement within the vibrant community. Joining forces with like-minded individuals adds another layer of enjoyment to your NHL journey.
Rewards and Bonuses: Benefit from exclusive rewards, loyalty programs, and enticing bonuses offered by NHL Crypto Betting platforms. From sign-up bonuses to seasonal promotions, these incentives boost your bankroll and heighten the thrill of your NHL experience.
Accessible Anywhere, Anytime: Never miss a moment of NHL action, whether you’re at home, on the go, or traveling. NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming platforms are designed to cater to your mobile lifestyle, ensuring you’re always connected to the games you love.

Ignite Your NHL Experience with Crypto Betting and Live Streaming

As an NHL fan, you deserve an extraordinary experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional engagement. NHL Crypto Betting and Live Streaming offer a gateway to a realm where exhilaration knows no bounds.

Dive into the electrifying world of NHL Crypto Betting, stay ahead of the game with NHL trends betting, and immerse yourself in the adrenaline of seamless live streaming. The perfect fusion of technology, sports, and entertainment awaits you. Join now and ignite your NHL experience like never before!