Security researchers at Palo Alto Networks disclosed that an old ransomware family – Bucbi ransomware – has been just revived after 2 years of silence. The Bucbi threat was discovered in 2014, and it hasn’t been registered active since then. Not only it has been revived but it has also been updated. Above, you see the original ransom note used by Bucbi in 2014’s attacks.
Threat Summary
| Name | Bucbi Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | Bucbi ransomware was first spotted in 2014, but has been just revived. |
| Symptoms | The victim’s files are inaccessible and encrypted. |
| Distribution Method | Via brute-forcing RDP accounts. |
| Detection Tool |
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| User Experience | Join our forum to find a solution for Bucbi Ransomware. |
Bucbi Ransomware: Current Distribution
When it was first reported, Bucbi was spread via HTTP downloads and exploit kits. Now a new distribution technique has been adopted by its authors – delivery via brute-forcing RDP accounts on Internet-facing Windows servers. However, Bucbi’s code is also modified – it no longer needs Internet connection to propagate.
Learn More about Brute Force Attacks
Who Is Behind Bucbi Ransomware?
According to the ransom notes dropped by Bucbi, it’s operated by a far-right Ukrainian nationalist political party called Ukrainian Right Sector. According to Wikipedia, Right Sector has originated in 2014 as a paramilitary confederation at the Euromaidan revolt in Kiev. The group which opposes Russia became a political party on 22 March 2014. In 2014, Right Sector claimed to have approximately 10,000 members.
As for Bucbi’s recent attacks, it’s still not known whether the information about Right Sector provided in the ransom notes is accurate or falsified. However, multiple Russian identifiers have been discovered in the latest infections, which contradict to the ransomware authors’ claims of Ukrainian origin.
Bucbi Ransomware: Technical Overview
As already mentioned, Bucbi’s latest distribution depends on brute-forcing techniques and open RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) ports. Palo Alto researchers believe that the threat actors may have used a tool named RDP Brute (Coded by z668). This is a list of the IP addresses associated with Bucbi’s latest attacks at the end of March 2016:
- 184.197.69
- 44.191.251
- 117.151.236
- 161.40.11
- 101.31.126
Researchers also believe that the attackers first targeted PoS devices but later changed their tactics to monetize their malicious attempts. Palo Alto researchers have shared some of the usernames specific to PoS systems:
Some of the usernames specific to PoS systems include strings such as BPOS, FuturePoS, KahalaPoS, POS, SALES, Staff, and HelpAssistant.
More technical details of the attack find here: Palo Alto Networks Research Center
In conclusion, the latest variant of Bucbi ransomware implies to have been employed by Right Sector. If this claim is truthful, this would mean that the Ukranian far-right party has entered cybercrime, possibly to fund their cause, Palo Alto researchers write. However:
Attribution of this particular attack is difficult as there simply isn’t enough evidence to conclusively determine who is behind it. Various conflicting evidence make it impossible to say for sure. However, what is clear is that attackers are shifting tactics in how ransomware is deployed, and ensuring their malware is constantly being updated to deter defenders.
Bucbi Ransomware Removal & Decryption
Bucbi’s cryptography is still being investigated. More details will be available soon. It’s known that after the encryption process is finished, a README.txt will be placed on the user’s desktop:
The BitCoin address mentioned in the above screenshot has a single payment of 0.00896 BTC at the time of writing. This payment, being so low in value, was likely a test transaction used. The email address of ‘dopomoga.rs@gmail.com’ has ties with the Ukrainian Right Sector in a number of external publications […].
If you have been infected by Bucbi ransomware, consider following the steps below. However, since the threat is still being analyzed, there is no guarantee that encrypted files will be decrypted via any alternative methods.
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Step 1: Scan for Bucbi Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Bucbi Ransomware and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Bucbi Ransomware on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Bucbi Ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Bucbi Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Bucbi Ransomware.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Bucbi Ransomware aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Bucbi Ransomware-FAQ
What is Bucbi Ransomware Ransomware?
Bucbi Ransomware is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Bucbi Ransomware Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Bucbi Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Bucbi Ransomware Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Bucbi Ransomware is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Bucbi Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Bucbi Ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Bucbi Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Bucbi Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Bucbi Ransomware files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Bucbi Ransomware Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Bucbi Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Bucbi Ransomware files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Bucbi Ransomware Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Bucbi Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Bucbi Ransomware how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Bucbi Ransomware ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
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