Faust ransomware is a variant of the Phobos family, a type of malware that encrypts files on the victim’s computer. It demands a ransom in exchange for providing a decryption key. This ransomware appends the “.faust” extension to each encrypted file and generates info.txt and info.hta within the directories housing the encrypted files.

Faust Ransomware Attack on ESXi

Faust Ransomware for ESXi is a malicious software designed to target VMware’s ESXi hypervisor, encrypting crucial data and rendering virtual environments inaccessible. This version is specifically designed to infiltrate ESXi servers, affecting entire virtual infrastructures.

Key Features and Modus Operandi ESXi Targeting

Faust Ransomware specifically targets VMware’s ESXi hypervisor, exploiting vulnerabilities to gain access to virtual machines and encrypt them. Encryption: It utilizes advanced encryption methods, often RSA or AES algorithms, to lock ESXi-hosted virtual machines, rendering them unusable until a ransom is paid. Extortion: Following the encryption process, the attackers demand a ransom in cryptocurrencies, threatening to delete the decryption keys if the ransom isn’t paid within a specified timeframe.

Risks and Impact on ESXi Environments

Faust Ransomware’s attack on ESXi environments can paralyze critical operations, potentially disrupting entire virtual environments and causing severe financial losses and operational downtime.

Protection Strategies for ESXi Against Faust Ransomware

To protect against Faust Ransomware attacks on ESXi environments:

• Regularly update ESXi hypervisors and associated software with the latest security patches to close known vulnerabilities.
• Implement robust access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to ESXi environments.
• Segment networks hosting ESXi servers to contain and limit the spread of any potential ransomware attack.
• Maintain regular, encrypted backups of ESXi virtual machines and data in secure, off-site locations.

Faust Ransomware Attack on Windows Servers

Faust ransomware is a variant of ransomware that specializes in infiltrating Windows-based servers. It employs sophisticated methods to encrypt critical data stored on these servers, holding it hostage until a ransom is paid.

Key Features and Modus Operandi Targeting Windows Servers

Faust Ransomware specifically focuses on exploiting vulnerabilities in Windows server environments, aiming to encrypt sensitive files and databases. Encryption: Utilizing potent encryption algorithms such as AES and RSA, it encrypts server data, rendering it inaccessible without the decryption key. Ransom Demand: Once the encryption process is complete, it prompts victims to pay a ransom, typically in cryptocurrencies, in exchange for the decryption key.

Risks and Impact on Windows Servers

Faust Ransomware’s attack on Windows servers can have dire consequences, causing significant disruption to business operations. The potential loss of critical data and operational downtime can lead to severe financial ramifications and reputational damage.

Protecting Windows Servers from Faust Ransomware

To protect against Faust Ransomware attacks on Windows servers:

• Regularly update Windows servers with the latest security patches to close known vulnerabilities.
• Employ robust endpoint security solutions to detect and prevent ransomware attacks targeting servers.
• Implement stringent access controls and monitor server activity to detect suspicious behavior promptly.
• Maintain regular, encrypted backups of critical server data stored in secure, off-site locations.

Using the Faust Decryptor Tool for Recovery

Our Decryptor tool operates by identifying the encryption algorithms used by Faust ransomware and applying appropriate decryption methods. It interacts with secure online servers to retrieve necessary keys or bypass certain encryption mechanisms based on its programming.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the tool:

1. Purchase the tool by contacting us via WhatsApp or email.
2. Launch the Faust Decryptor as an administrator for optimal performance. An internet connection is required as the tool connects to our secure servers.
3. Enter the Victim ID from the ransom note and enter it for precise decryption.
4. Initiate the decryption process and let the tool restore your files to their original state.

Why Choose the Faust Decryptor Tool?

• User-Friendly Interface: The tool is easy to use, even for those without extensive technical expertise.
• Efficient Decryption: It does not stress your system, as it uses dedicated servers over the internet to decrypt your data.
• Specifically Crafted: The tool is specifically designed to work against the Faust ransomware.
• Money-Back Guarantee: If the tool doesn’t work, we offer a money-back guarantee. Please contact our support team for assistance.

Identifying Faust Ransomware Attack

Detecting a Faust ransomware attack requires vigilance and familiarity with the following signs:

• Unusual File Extensions: Files are renamed with extensions like.Faust, or similar variants as.id-LF98D99G.[[email protected]].Faust.
• Sudden Ransom Notes: Files like “Read_me.txt” appear, detailing ransom demands and contact instructions.

Context of the ransom notes:

“

!!!All of your files are encrypted!!!

To decrypt them send e-mail to this address: [email protected].

If we don’t answer in 24h., send e-mail to this address: [email protected]

“

“

All your files have been encrypted!

All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail [email protected]
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to this e-mail:[email protected]
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the tool that will decrypt all your files.

Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 5 files for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 4Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)

How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/

Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.

“

“
Your data is encrypted and downloaded!

Unlocking your data is possible only with our software.

Important! An attempt to decrypt it yourself or decrypt it with third-party software will result in the loss of your data forever.

Contacting intermediary companies, recovery companies will create the risk of losing your data forever or being deceived by these companies. Being deceived is your responsibility! Learn the experience on the forums.

Downloaded data of your company

Data leakage is a serious violation of the law. Don’t worry, the incident will remain a secret, the data is protected.

After the transaction is completed, all data downloaded from you will be deleted from our resources. Government agencies, competitors, contractors and local media not aware of the incident.

Also, we guarantee that your company’s personal data will not be sold on DArkWeb resources and will not be used to attack your company, employees and counterparties in the future.

If you have not contacted within 2 days from the moment of the incident, we will consider the transaction not completed. Your data will be sent to all interested parties. This is your responsibility.

Contact us

Write us to the e-mail: [email protected]

In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to this e-mail:[email protected]

Write this ID in the title of your message –

If you have not contacted within 2 days from the moment of the incident, we will consider the transaction not completed. Your data will be sent to all interested parties. This is your responsibility.

Attention!

Do not rename encrypted files.

Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.

Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
“

• Performance Anomalies: Systems may exhibit slow performance or unusual CPU and disk usage due to the encryption process.
• Suspicious Network Activity: Malware often communicates with external command-and-control servers, which may show up as abnormal outbound network traffic.

Recent Threat Intelligence

Our team has recently discovered a new variant of the Faust ransomware, which utilizes a VBA script embedded in an Office document to propagate the malware. The attackers used the Gitea service to store several files encoded in Base64, each carrying a malicious binary. When these files are injected into a system’s memory, they initiate a file encryption attack.

Lessons Learned

• The threat actor gained initial access via a Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) port directly exposed to the Internet.
• The threat actor signed in using valid credentials to an unused and unattended account.
• Lateral movement was possible due to a flat network with no access-control and due to very little defense mechanisms on endpoints.
• The threat actor exfiltrated data to a file-sharing platform Mega.io.
• Defense mechanisms present on hosts were impaired, and users were affected.
• The threat actor spent less than 72 hours in the network between initial access and encryption.

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)

• File Detection: Ransomware/Win.Phobos.R363595 (2023.08.24.00)
• Behavior Detection: Ransom/MDP.Decoy.M1171
• Behavior Detection: Ransom/MDP.Command.M2255
• Known ransom note file name: info.hta
• Known ransom note file name: info.txt
• Known encrypted file extension:.faust

Faust ransomware represents a significant threat to individuals and organizations alike. Its ability to encrypt data and demand ransom has far-reaching consequences. However, with tools like the Faust Decryptor, safe and effective data recovery is possible. Prioritizing prevention and investing in cybersecurity can help defend against ransomware threats and recover swiftly if attacked.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Faust Ransomware? 

Faust ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files, demanding a ransom in exchange for the decryption key.

How Does Faust Ransomware Spread? 

Faust ransomware typically spreads through phishing emails, unsecured RDPs, and vulnerabilities in software and firmware.

What are the Consequences of a Faust Ransomware Attack? 

The consequences of a Faust Ransomware attack can include operational disruption, financial loss, and data breaches.

How can I Protect My Organization from Faust Ransomware? 

To protect your organization from Faust Ransomware, implement robust security practices, conduct employee training, maintain reliable backups, use advanced security solutions, and restrict network access.

What is the Faust Decryptor Tool? 

The Faust Decryptor tool is a software solution specifically designed to decrypt files encrypted by Faust ransomware, restoring access without a ransom payment.

How Does the Faust Decryptor Tool Work? 

The Faust Decryptor tool operates by identifying the encryption algorithms used by Faust ransomware and applying appropriate decryption methods. It interacts with secure online servers to retrieve necessary keys or bypass certain encryption mechanisms.

Is the Faust Decryptor Tool Safe to Use? 

Yes, the Faust Decryptor tool is safe to use. It does not stress your system, as it uses dedicated servers over the internet to decrypt your data efficiently.

Do I Need Technical Expertise to Use the Faust Decryptor Tool? 

No, the Faust Decryptor tool features a user-friendly interface, making it accessible to those without extensive technical expertise.

What If the Faust Decryptor Tool Doesn’t Work? 

We offer a money-back guarantee. Please contact our support team for assistance.

How Do I Purchase the Faust Decryptor Tool? 

You can purchase the Faust Decryptor tool by contacting us via WhatsApp or email. We will provide instructions on how to securely purchase and access the tool.

What Support Options Are Available for the Faust Decryptor Tool? 

We offer support via WhatsApp, email, and our website. Our support team is available to assist with any questions or issues you may encounter while using the Faust Decryptor tool.

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