Summary
ngCERT alerts stakeholders on M0yv malware infection detected in Nigeria’s cyberspace. M0yv is a sophisticated file-infector virus developed by Maze ransomware creators, which spreads by appending malicious code to executable files on infected systems and networks. The malware is often misidentified as Expiro by antivirus software and targets Windows environments, while enabling further attacks like ransomware deployment. The impacts range from file corruption to potential data loss, ransomware encryption, network-wide propagation and disruptions, as well as heightened risks of data exfiltration or persistent threats. Individuals and organisations are advised to take proactive steps to safeguard systems from the threats posed by M0yv malware.
Description & Consequence
M0yv is a file‑infector virus that targets Portable Executable (PE) files on Windows systems by adding its malicious code without initially altering system functionalities, thereby evading detection. The infection process begins with initial access through phishing emails, malicious downloads, or compromised networks, after which the malware executes and scans for other executables to infect. Once embedded, it spreads laterally across connected systems by infecting files, establishing a persistence that can be leveraged to deliver further payloads, such as ransomware from the Maze family. In advanced stages, the modular nature allows customization for specific exploits, including keylogging or data theft, with the source code publicly released by developers, thereby amplifying its proliferation
Successful infection of systems by M0yv malware could result to:
- Corruption of executable files leading to application failures and system instability.
- Lateral spread across networks, potentially infecting entire organizations, leading to downtime.
- Ransomware attacks.
- Financial losses.
- Data exfiltration.
- Identity theft.
- Corporate espionage.
Solution
To mitigate against M0yv malware, ngCERT recommends that organisations should:
- Deploy reputable antivirus software and keep same updated to detect and remove M0yv infections.
- Isolate infected systems immediately to prevent lateral movement and perform full scans.
- Enable regular backups to offline or cloud storage, ensuring quick recovery without paying ransoms.
- Educate users on safe browsing and email practices to avoid initial infection vectors.
Reference
Revision
