New ransomware is being used to target unpatched Microsoft Exchange servers

Attackers are using a new strain of ransomware to target unpatched Exchange servers.

What you need to know

• A strain of ransomware called DearCry is being used to target unpatched Exchange servers.
• Microsoft has released patches for Exchange servers, but some organizations have not patched systems yet.
• Check Point Research reports that exploitation attempts doubled every 2-3 hours over a recent 24-hour period.

While Microsoft has rolled out emergency patches to address vulnerabilities on its Exchange server software, many systems remain unpatched. Attackers are now increasingly going after unpatched systems. A strain of ransomware called DearCry is being utilized by attackers to target unpatched on-premises Exchange servers (via ZDNet).

Microsoft has detected and is now blocking the new family of ransomware, but it's still vital for organizations to patch their servers and take other security measures.

The Microsoft Security Intelligence Twitter account discussed the ransomware recently. A subsequent Tweet explains that Microsoft Defender customers utilizing automatic updates don't need to take any additional action.

Microsoft Defender customers utilizing automatic updates do not need to take additional action to receive these protections. On-premises Exchange Server customers should prioritize the security updates outlined here: https://t.co/DL1XWnitYO

— Microsoft Security Intelligence (@MsftSecIntel) March 12, 2021

According to Check Point Research (CPR), threat actors are increasing their attacks on vulnerable servers. Over 24 hours, CPR saw exploitation attempts on organizations double every 2-3 hours.

CPR states in its blog:

Since the recently disclosed vulnerabilities on Microsoft Exchange Servers, a full race has started amongst hackers and security professionals. Global experts are using massive preventative efforts to combat hackers who are working day-in and day-out to produce an exploit that can successfully leverage the remote code execution vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange.

CPR explains that if an attacker manages to utilize unpatched vulnerabilities, they can obtain corporate emails and place damaging code within organizations.