{
  "family": "wadhrama",
  "sample_count": 1,
  "category": "ransomware",
  "description": "<h3>Executive Summary</h3>\nWadhrama is a sophisticated, highly disruptive variant of ransomware characterized by its use of robust encryption algorithms and its tendency to target specific, high-value file types (such as databases and server configurations). It is designed to extort cryptocurrency from individuals and organizations by holding their critical data hostage.\n\n<h3>Infection Chain and Execution</h3>\nWadhrama is typically distributed via targeted spear-phishing campaigns containing malicious attachments or through the exploitation of vulnerable, internet-facing Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) servers. \n\nUpon gaining initial access, Wadhrama executes a rapid, automated attack sequence:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Privilege Escalation:</strong> It attempts to bypass User Account Control (UAC) or exploit local vulnerabilities to gain administrative or `SYSTEM` level privileges.</li>\n<li><strong>Defense Evasion:</strong> Before encrypting files, it actively attempts to terminate anti-malware processes and stops database services (e.g., MSSQL) to ensure database files are unlocked and available for encryption.</li>\n<li><strong>Encryption and Destruction:</strong> Wadhrama utilizes a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption (often AES and RSA) to lock files. It simultaneously executes commands (`vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet`) to destroy local volume shadow copies, preventing easy recovery.</li>\n<li><strong>Extortion:</strong> A ransom note is deposited in affected directories, instructing the victim on how to purchase the decryption key, usually demanding payment in Bitcoin.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3>Threat Impact</h3>\nA Wadhrama infection results in a catastrophic denial of access to critical business data. Without secure, offline backups, organizations face massive operational downtime, financial loss, and severe reputational damage. Paying the ransom is discouraged, as it offers no guarantee of data recovery and funds further criminal activity.\n\n<h3>Defense and Resilience Strategies</h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Offline, Immutable Backups:</strong> The only reliable defense against Wadhrama is a robust 3-2-1 backup strategy, ensuring that at least one copy of critical data is stored offline and is immutable (cannot be altered or deleted).</li>\n<li><strong>RDP Security:</strong> Secure all remote access points. RDP must be placed behind a VPN, secured with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and restricted via strict IP whitelisting.</li>\n<li><strong>Behavioral EDR:</strong> Deploy EDR solutions tuned to immediately block processes attempting mass file modifications or the unauthorized deletion of volume shadow copies.</li>\n</ul>",
  "cta": "Published by the SystemHelpdesk team.",
  "aliases": [
    "Ransomware.Wadhrama",
    "Win32/Wadhrama",
    "Trojan-Ransom.Wadhrama"
  ],
  "enrichment_level": "insufficient_information",
  "faq": [],
  "faq_count": 0,
  "mitre_attack": [
    "T1486",
    "T1490",
    "T1078",
    "T1562.001"
  ],
  "cisa_advisory": null,
  "last_updated": "2026-07-01T16:09:08Z",
  "type": "Ransomware",
  "target_industries": [
    "Global / Opportunistic"
  ],
  "motivation": "Opportunistic",
  "threat_actors": [
    "Unknown / Cybercriminal"
  ],
  "target_geographies": [
    "Global"
  ]
}