Medusa
Medusa ransomware is a sophisticated cyber threat known for its rapid encryption capabilities and unique deployment techniques, primarily targeting organizations across various sectors with the aim of extorting ransom payments.
The origin of Medusa ransomware
Medusa or MedusaBlog is a sophisticated ransomware group that has been actively targeting organizations since at least early 2023. The group has gained notoriety for its rapid encryption capabilities and unique techniques for spreading its malware and seems to be related to MedusaLocker. The name "Medusa" reflects the group's tendency to metaphorically "turn files to stone," rendering them unusable until a ransom is paid.
Source: Unit42 and OCD
Targets
Medusa's targets
Countries targeted by Medusa ransomware
The majority of Medusa's attacks have been concentrated in the United States, but significant incidents have also been reported in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. This distribution indicates a focus on developed nations with extensive digital infrastructures.
Source: Unit42
Industries targeted by Medusa ransomware
Medusa ransomware has impacted a wide range of industries. High-value targets include healthcare, manufacturing, education, and professional services, reflecting the group's strategy to attack sectors that handle critical and sensitive information.
Source: Unit42
Industries targeted by Medusa ransomware
Medusa ransomware has impacted a wide range of industries. High-value targets include healthcare, manufacturing, education, and professional services, reflecting the group's strategy to attack sectors that handle critical and sensitive information.
Source: Unit42
Medusa ransomware's victims
Medusa has targeted more than 235 victims since 2023.
Source: ransomware.live
Attack Method
Medusa ransomware's attack method
Medusa typically gains access through exploiting vulnerabilities in remote desktop protocols (RDP) and employing phishing campaigns. They also utilize compromised credentials acquired through various means.
Once inside a network, Medusa employs tools like PsExec to elevate privileges and establish a stronger foothold within the system.
The group disables security tools using PowerShell scripts and modifies registry settings to avoid detection. They also utilize string encryption techniques to obscure malicious code.
Medusa harvests credentials using various command-line tools and scripts, allowing them to move laterally across the network.
They perform extensive network reconnaissance using tools like Netscan to identify valuable targets and gather information on the network topology.
Medusa uses legitimate tools and protocols, such as RDP and SMB, to move laterally within the network, leveraging stolen credentials.
The ransomware collects sensitive data from the infected systems, preparing it for exfiltration.
The ransomware encrypts files using AES256 encryption, appending the ".medusa" extension to affected files.
Data is exfiltrated to remote servers controlled by the attackers. This data is then used to pressure victims into paying the ransom.
The final stage involves dropping a ransom note, typically named "!!read_me_medusa!!.txt," instructing victims on how to pay the ransom to decrypt their files. The group uses a mix of RSA and AES encryption to secure the ransom transactions.
Initial Access
Medusa typically gains access through exploiting vulnerabilities in remote desktop protocols (RDP) and employing phishing campaigns. They also utilize compromised credentials acquired through various means.
Privilege Escalation
Once inside a network, Medusa employs tools like PsExec to elevate privileges and establish a stronger foothold within the system.
Defense Evasion
The group disables security tools using PowerShell scripts and modifies registry settings to avoid detection. They also utilize string encryption techniques to obscure malicious code.
Credential Access
Medusa harvests credentials using various command-line tools and scripts, allowing them to move laterally across the network.
Discovery
They perform extensive network reconnaissance using tools like Netscan to identify valuable targets and gather information on the network topology.
Lateral Movement
Medusa uses legitimate tools and protocols, such as RDP and SMB, to move laterally within the network, leveraging stolen credentials.
Collection
The ransomware collects sensitive data from the infected systems, preparing it for exfiltration.
Execution
The ransomware encrypts files using AES256 encryption, appending the ".medusa" extension to affected files.
Exfiltration
Data is exfiltrated to remote servers controlled by the attackers. This data is then used to pressure victims into paying the ransom.
Impact
The final stage involves dropping a ransom note, typically named "!!read_me_medusa!!.txt," instructing victims on how to pay the ransom to decrypt their files. The group uses a mix of RSA and AES encryption to secure the ransom transactions.
MITRE ATT&CK Mapping
TTPs used by Medusa ransomware
Medusa ransomware employs various TTPs aligned with the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Some of the key TTPs include:
TA0001: Initial Access
T1566
Phishing
T1133
External Remote Services
T1078
Valid Accounts
TA0002: Execution
T1059
Command and Scripting Interpreter
TA0003: Persistence
T1098
Account Manipulation
T1078
Valid Accounts
TA0004: Privilege Escalation
T1078
Valid Accounts
TA0005: Defense Evasion
T1112
Modify Registry
T1027
Obfuscated Files or Information
T1070
Indicator Removal
T1562
Impair Defenses
T1078
Valid Accounts
TA0006: Credential Access
T1003
OS Credential Dumping
TA0007: Discovery
T1046
Network Service Discovery
T1018
Remote System Discovery
TA0008: Lateral Movement
T1021
Remote Services
TA0009: Collection
T1115
Clipboard Data
TA0011: Command and Control
T1105
Ingress Tool Transfer
TA0010: Exfiltration
T1041
Exfiltration Over C2 Channel
TA0040: Impact
T1486
Data Encrypted for Impact
Platform Detections
How to Detect Medusa ransomware with Vectra AI
FAQs
What is Medusa's primary method of initial access?
Medusa primarily exploits vulnerabilities in remote desktop protocols (RDP) and uses phishing campaigns to gain initial access.
How does Medusa ransomware evade detection?
They use PowerShell scripts and modify registry settings to disable security tools and avoid detection.
Which industries are most targeted by Medusa ransomware?
Healthcare, manufacturing, education, and professional services are among the most targeted industries.
What encryption methods does Medusa ransomware use?
Medusa uses a combination of RSA and AES256 encryption to secure their ransomware transactions and encrypt victim files.
How does Medusa ransomware exfiltrate data?
Data is exfiltrated to remote servers controlled by the attackers, typically over secure channels to avoid detection.
What is the typical ransom note name used by Medusa?
The ransom note is typically named "!!read_me_medusa!!.txt."
What tools does Medusa ransomware use for network discovery?
Medusa uses tools like Netscan for network reconnaissance and to identify valuable targets.
How does Medusa ransomware achieve lateral movement?
They utilize legitimate tools and protocols like RDP and SMB, leveraging stolen credentials to move laterally.
How can organizations protect against Medusa ransomware?
Implementing strong security measures, such as regular patching, using multi-factor authentication, and monitoring network traffic for unusual activity, can help protect against Medusa.
What role can XDR solutions play in defending against Medusa ransomware?
XDR solutions provide comprehensive visibility and automated response capabilities, detecting and mitigating suspicious activities across endpoints, networks, and cloud environments.