What is Vyia Ransomware?

Vyia ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts all the files on a computer until the user pays a ransom. Files encrypted by Vyia will have a .vyia extension appended to the end of the file name. Vyia is delivered through a Win32 EXE file and has been spotted inside the following files and processes: ['p6k3dql1t.dll', '9vui452vk.dll', 'file.exe', 'DDE9.exe']

What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a computer. The perpetrator then demands a ransom from the victim to provide them with the decryption key. If the victim doesn’t pay, their data is lost forever. Ransom demands have gone from thousands of dollars to millions, and even billions.

How Does ransomware Spread?

Ransomware spreads in a variety of ways, but the most common infection method is phishing. Cybercriminals send emails to users that trick them into opening an attachment or downloading a file. The attachment or file is actually a copy of the ransomware program. Another way ransomware spreads is through drive-by-download attacks. Hackers use vulnerabilities in software or plugins to infect a computer without the user’s knowledge.

Vyia ransomware Capabilities

Vyia ransomware uses a number of techniques to attack and infect systems, including File and Directory Discovery, the use of custom tools to gather information about a system, and the use of Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to achieve execution. WMI is a Windows administration feature that provides a uniform environment for local and remote access to Windows system components. It relies on the WMI service for local and remote access and the server message block (SMB) and Remote Procedure Call Service (RPCS) for remote access. RPCS operates over port 135. An adversary can use WMI to interact with local and remote systems and use it as a means to perform many tactic functions, such as gathering information for Discovery and remote Execution of files as part of Lateral Movement.

Mitigations Against Vyia Ransomware

To mitigate Vyia ransomware attacks, require signed binaries. This will help ensure that the binaries are legitimate and have not been tampered with. Additionally, organizations should employ comprehensive security awareness training to help them identify and avoid ransomware attacks.

To further mitigate the risk of Vyia infections, install a host-based intrusion detection system that will monitor all WMI traffic. Also, use application whitelisting to allow only approved applications to access WMI. 5. 

Lastly, it is essential to educate users on identifying phishing emails and avoid opening them. 

How to Remove Ransomware?

To remove ransomware, you have to first eliminate the ransomware infection. The removal steps will likely vary depending on the ransomware variant that you're dealing with. However, there are a few broad steps that you can follow to get rid of ransomware. These are: 1. Disconnect the affected device from the internet and any other networks. 2. Remove any malicious software (malware) that has been installed. 3. Restore any affected files from a backup, if possible. 4. Secure the device and any affected systems after the ransomware infection has been removed.

How to Protect Against Ransomware?

Hackers have evolved. They have become more cunning and are not just targeting computers anymore. They are targeting mobile devices, laptops, tablets and even servers. They have also become more sophisticated, using social engineering and other techniques to gain access to your computer.

• Keep your operating system, software, and hardware up to date. 
• Never open links or attachments in emails from unknown senders.
• Use strong passwords on your devices and change them regularly. 
• Install antivirus software and make sure it’s updated.
• Use a reliable and tested backup solution to protect your data.
• Never share your passwords with anyone.
• Never download software from untrusted sources.
• Never visit malicious websites.
• Never use USB sticks from unknown sources.