This new threat has two layers of encryption and encrypts the files and the hard drive, making it especially dangerous. Recall that Microsoft recently released updates to repair systems that could be vulnerable to the attack of WannaCry two months ago and that affected 200,000 machines. This time, GoldenEye takes advantage of another vulnerability and can spread through Office documents.
According to the experts, last week there were more than 38 million machines vulnerable because they did not have the latest patches installed, although it is estimated that the number could be even higher.
This attack has affected government agencies, companies and an electricity distributor in Ukraine, an oil exporter in Russia, the Merck Pharmaceutical Network and the Maersk carrier network, the 40-country DLA Piper law firm and the WPP systems, One of the largest advertising agencies in the world.
So far, the attackers have received $ 4,600, out of 19 payments, although security experts recommend that it not be paid.