China Cautions about Fresh Virus UIWIX having Ransomware Features

Chinese officials are cautioning PC users about one fresh cyber assault from malware resembling WannaCry ransomware which was recently detected as it impacted some 150 countries.

The malware, a PC virus is dubbed 'UIWIX' and its identifiers are AsiaInfo a software company and CVERC (National Computer Virus Emergency Response Centre). UIWIX's proliferation is similar as WannaCry's, reports Chinese news agency Xinhua.

It was on 18th May, 6 p.m. (Beijing time) that virus UIWIX was spotted. Similar as the infamous WannaCry, it makes use of the identical security flaws in Server Message Block for contaminating people's PCs. UIWIX encrypts files on the host computer followed with renaming them. Meanwhile, CVERC has started research and analysis of this fresh virus. Reportedly, no domestic user has complained of UIWIX's infection.

UIWIX's appearance is the latest instance about ransomware contaminating PCs globally. Previously on 12th May, the WannaCry ransomware reportedly contaminated over 230,000 PCs across countries. Ecns.cn posted this, May 18, 2017.

To spread itself, UIWIX virus exploits vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows the same ones which WannaCry used in its attacks on many thousand organizations. The two malware abuse security flaws within Windows operating system followed with encrypting files and renaming them so access to data-files or PCs by their owners is curtailed till they pay up money, so says Chen Jianmin, deputy head of CVERC.

UIWIX virus normally uses ".UIWIX" extension to rename encrypted files. And while no contamination has yet been detected within China, CVERC is being watchful.

According to Larson, China especially contracts malware quite easily as computer operators mostly in the country use pirated software. The authorities' alert of the virus is purposed for showing the public that they're diligently maintaining the Internet's safety and stability. On 1st June, a contentious bill on cyber-security will be implemented from the government's end to firm up limitations on liberty of speech on the Internet. Also new regulations will be imposed on Internet Service Providers.

However, 54 global trade groups put their joint signature on a letter May 15th suggesting China think again about the law as its enforcement was likely to build significant hurdles in international businesses.

» SPAMfighter News - 5/22/2017