[2016-04-12] NDTV: New Generation of Ransomware Is Emerging

[polynesia]

New Generation of Ransomware Is Emerging, Warn Researchers

http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/news/new-generation-of-ransomware-is-emerging-warn-researchers-824682

An unusual strain of virus-like hacker software that exploits computer server vulnerabilities without requiring human interaction is a leading example of a new generation of "ransomware," according to a new report by Cisco Systems Inc.

Hackers use such software to target large-scale networks and hold data hostage in exchange for bigger payments. Such a strain, known as Samas or samsam, hit the MedStar Health hospital chain in the US last month.

....
The ability to demand payment in bitcoin, a difficult-to-trace virtual currency not controlled by any country, was "basically the birth of ransomware" and has helped drive its success since the currency's introduction in 2009, said Craig Williams, a senior technical leader at Cisco's Talos security research group.