According to Bleeping Computer, the ransomware is used in targeted attacks against unpatched Citrix servers. It excludes Russian and Chinese targets using the system's Language ID for filtering. It also tries to disable Windows Defender and has a number of UNIX filepath references in its strings. Encryption method is AES using a dynamically generated key, then bundling this key up via RSA. Known victims: 3 2 ransom note(s) on file
Objectives
Executive Summary
The Ragnarok ransomware group is a medium-sophistication criminal actor primarily motivated by organizational gain, conducting targeted attacks against unpatched Citrix servers for financial gain. Their ransomware operations utilize AES and RSA encryption methods to extort victims. Ragnarok has been active since at least March 2021, with a focus on excluding Russian and Chinese targets.
Goals & Targeting
Ragnarok's strategic objectives are centered around achieving financial gain through ransomware attacks, specifically targeting sectors and countries with presumably vulnerable Citrix server infrastructures. By excluding Russian and Chinese targets, the group may be attempting to avoid potential backlash or legal repercussions from these nations, suggesting a calculus of risk and reward in their targeting profile. Typical victims of Ragnarok are likely organizations with outdated or unsecured Citrix servers, which the group identifies and exploits for extortion purposes.
Enhanced Description
The group's decision to target unpatched Citrix servers specifically highlights an awareness of potential vulnerabilities in enterprise environments. This focus, combined with the exclusion of certain linguistic and potentially geopolitical targets, paints a picture of an actor who is discerning in their approach. The absence of reported activity beyond December 2021 may indicate a shift in tactics, a temporary cessation of operations, or an evolution in their modus operandi that has not yet been fully discerned.
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Campaigns & Victims
Ragnarok's campaign patterns are characterized by targeted attacks on unpatched Citrix servers, with a consistent approach to encryption and extortion. Their operational tempo, as observed from March 2021 to December 2021, suggests a steady stream of attacks against identified vulnerabilities. Notable past operations include the compromise of at least three known victims, with the actor leaving behind ransom notes as part of their extortion strategy. The temporary or permanent cessation of observed activity may signal a shift towards new tactics, technologies, or targets, necessitating continued vigilance from potential victims.
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Confidence Assessment
The confidence level in the available data on Ragnarok is moderate, based on observed activities and known victims. However, there are information gaps regarding the actor's full spectrum of capabilities, their exact motivations beyond financial gain, and the extent of their operational infrastructure. Continued monitoring and analysis of Ragnarok's activities are necessary to refine the understanding of this threat actor and to predict future campaigns.
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