Identical Ransomware Code: HellCat & Morpheus Cyber Crime Comedy Unveiled
HellCat and Morpheus ransomware operations are using identical code, suggesting shared affiliates or tools. Despite law enforcement efforts, ransomware is thriving in a fragmented ecosystem. December 2024 saw a record 574 attacks, with newcomers like FunkSec shaking up the scene. As 2025 approaches, expect a turbulent threat landscape.
Hot Take:
Ah, the world of ransomware: where code is shared like a Netflix password, and affiliates are multiplying faster than rabbits in springtime! HellCat and Morpheus might be the latest players, but it seems they’re cribbing off the same cheat sheet. If only they channeled this teamwork into something more constructive, like curing world hunger or finding the perfect pizza recipe.
Key Points:
- HellCat and Morpheus ransomware share identical code for payloads, with differences only in victim data and contact details.
- Both ransomware types exclude certain file extensions and the WindowsSystem32 folder from encryption.
- The ransomware doesn’t alter file extensions, leaving metadata intact.
- Utilization of Windows Cryptographic API with BCrypt algorithm for encryption.
- Ransom notes mimic the template from the Underground Team, but structurally different payloads.
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