CA Warns Kenya against Emotet [A Data Stealing Malware]

Emotet Malware Attack On Kenya

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) warned the public and local institutions of the country on the most destructive malware Emotet that is regularly targetting network systems.

According to CAK, 11 cases of the malware are already detected by the NCIRTC (National Computer Incident Response Team Coordination Centre). As a matter of fact, more cases will emerge as the virus will target local institutions, government organization and public governing bodies.

In a statement, CAK Director General Tom Olwero said that the malware, Emotet, is an advanced banking trojan which destructively hacks servers and effects network systems.

Emotet is so powerful that it avoids typical signature-based detection. Also, use several methods for maintaining the attacks on auto-start registry keys and services.

Olwero added that the Emotet malware spreads and distributes through links or malicious email attachments. For example, such attachment may come in the form of passwords, fake username, login Ids, bank account alerts, payment notifications, tax slips, invoices, etc.

The best way to fight against such attachments is by being aware of yourself in addition to using a robust antimalware tool like Malware Crusher.

The number of cyber attacks from banking trojan, malware, ransomware on the country has grown to 3.8 million this year, 2018, between July and September.

According to cybersecurity reports, Emotet is a banking trojan that was first discovered by security researchers in 2014. From then it has undergone through few iterations. Earlier versions were malicious javascript files.

However, the later versions evolved and used macro-enabled documents which are primarily spread through spam emails. Additionally, retrieves the virus payload from different command and control servers basically run by the attackers.

Also, Read: 4000% Increase in Crypto Mining Malware by Hackers

A few advices from CAK to decrease the probability of Emotet attacks and similar malware are as follows:

• immediately scan, isolate and try to repair the infected device
• clean up and cover the system
• consider upgrading all security measures for securing the network from future malware attacks
• strictly use cybersecurity best practices

This particular malware poses a great risk! It can result in a temporary or permanent loss of data, sensitive information and files from the servers of an organization. Furthermore, the malware is deadly as it can attack individuals of Kenya.

That’s the only possible reason why the CAK has urged the public, organizations and cybersecurity firms to look for the malware.

Director General Olwero also asked those organizations that suspect their machines to be infected with the malware must scan and isolate all infected computers from their servers and network. Following it, they should repair their systems.

All the Institutions, government bodies and organizations are also urged to install a protective and proactive software for combating emotet malware. Here we would recommend Malware Crusher that best practices in cybersecurity.

Tips to Prevent virus and malware from Infecting Your System: