Cyber Security

Nothing is more devastating than having your data irreparably damaged, let alone permanently lost! Unfortunately, wiper malware makes this nightmare possible.

Unlike some other malware that asks for ransom money to gain profit, this attack aims purely at destruction. Thus, it is widely used for geopolitical conflicts and hacktivism.

So, what do you need to do to prevent it from happening? Read our explanation below to learn more!

What is Wiper Malware?

Wiper malware is a malicious program that aims to wipe out data from targeted systems, leading to severe data loss. Unlike ransomware, which extorts victims for money, wiper malware mainly intends to delete or corrupt essential files. This makes recovery impossible.

This lethal malware often spreads through phishing attacks or as part of other types of malware.

One of the biggest phishing scams with a wiper attack involved Sony Pictures in 2014. Attackers posing as Apple tricked top executives into providing login credentials. This led to the theft of 100 terabytes of data and the deployment of Shamoon malware, a wiper that erased Sony’s computer systems.

This shows how a wiper malware attack can destroy businesses by destroying their data and disrupting operations. The impact can be catastrophic, with no option for recovery.

The Reasons for Using Wipers

Destruction of Evidence

Wipers are used to destroy data and erase evidence after a cyberattack. It targets the disk to wipe files, logs, and other traces, making it hard for forensic teams to trace the attackers.

Even if organizations have backups, the immediate data loss can delay recovery and conceal the full extent of the breach.

Sabotage

It disrupts operations by wiping essential data and destroying systems by directly targeting an organization’s core functions. With no chance of data recovery, this results in significant downtime, financial loss, and tarnished damage.

Cyberwar

As seen in attacks on Ukrainian organizations, wipers are often used in cyber warfare to destabilize opponents. State-sponsored actors deploy wipers to destroy data and incapacitate critical infrastructure, from government systems to public services.

How Do Wiper Attacks Work?

Wiper attacks are cyberattacks focused on data destruction. But how do they work? Let’s take a closer look.

First, they infect and exploit a system’s vulnerability to gain unauthorized access and then deploy malware designed to wipe files and corrupt data.

Once inside, wipers overwrite the disk sectors where data is stored, making recovery nearly impossible. These attacks often start with phishing emails or exploiting software flaws to infiltrate the network.

After spreading across systems, the wiper executes its destructive payload, erasing critical files, operating system components, and backups—total data destruction!

Wiper Techniques

Encrypting Files

One wiper technique involves encrypting files without providing a decryption key while destroying the original files. The result? Impossible recovery—even if the victim pays a ransom.

This leaves businesses with no option but to rebuild from scratch, which can lead to significant downtime and costs.

MFT Corruption

Wiper malware can corrupt a computer’s master file table (MFT), where the computer manages how files are stored and retrieved. They disrupt the entire file system, making it impossible for the OS to locate or access any files.

Fortunately, the files are still recoverable after the first attack, though the process is complex.

Overwriting Files

Another wiper technique is overwriting files, which ensures deleted data cannot be recovered. The malware overwrites files with random or null (0x00) data, making the original content irretrievable.

MBR Corruption

Wipers can also target the master boot record (MBR), the section of a drive that tells the computer how to load the OS. The malware renders the entire system unbootable, leading to complete operational paralysis. This technique prevents access to all files and data stored on the affected drives.

However, the files are recoverable. Often, the only way is to reformat the drive and reinstall the OS.

How to Prevent Wiper Malware Attacks

Backing Up Data

Store backups in multiple locations, including offline and cloud environments. In case of a data destruction attack, reliable backups allow quick recovery, minimizing downtime and data loss.

Segmenting Networks

Divide your network into smaller segments with strict access controls to limit malware spread. Use firewalls to control traffic between segments and restrict access to sensitive areas.

This reduces the impact of an attack by preventing malware from moving laterally across the network. 

Managing Software Security

Update and patch software regularly to close vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit. In addition, outdated applications that could serve as attack entry points should be removed.

On top of that, you can employ security measures like antivirus programs and intrusion detection to guard against malware.

Strengthening Email Security

Phishing emails are often used as an attack entry point. Therefore, we recommend using advanced email filters to block suspicious emails and attachments. To add extra layers, deploy anti-phishing tools, train employees, and implement multi-factor authentication.

Building Up Endpoint Security

Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor devices and detect threats. Also, ensure all endpoints have updated antivirus and anti-malware protection. Additionally, you can use application whitelisting to block unauthorized software. 

Monitoring

Constant monitoring helps detect unusual behavior sooner. To do it, you can use security information and event management (SIEM) systems to analyze logs and detect abnormal behavior. This includes unauthorized access or mass file deletion.

Responding to Incidents

Organizations must have an effective incident response to manage every urgent situation, including an attack. Create a response team with clear detection, containment, and recovery steps.

Once an attack is detected, isolate affected systems immediately to stop malware spread.

To test the strategy, conduct regular simulations to prepare for real attacks and refine procedures after each simulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

To conclude, knowing how to prevent wiper malware attacks is crucial for protecting your data and systems. These harmful cyberattacks can cause significant data loss, disrupt operations, and lead to financial setbacks. Steps like regular data backups, network segmentation, and consistent monitoring can lower the chances and effects of such attacks.

Are you ready to protect your organization from these threats? Contact Fluxgate for expert assistance in securing your business against wiper malware and other cyber threat lists.