Limpopo

Limpopo is a form of malware, specifically ransomware, that once executed, encrypts files on the victim's computer or device. This particular variant is not considered complex, but it can still cause significant damage by disrupting operations and potentially holding data hostage for ransom. It targets specific file extensions and appends a ".LIMPOPO" extension to the filename once encrypted. While no other samples of Limpopo ransomware were found, there were similar ransom notes discovered that may have been used by variants of this ransomware. Potential variants include Akgum, Aktakyr, Bulanyk, Formosa, Hatartam, Monjukly, Sakgar, Sazanda, and Windows ransomware. An example of such a variant is the Socorta ransomware, which drops a similar ransom note. This edition of the Ransomware Roundup includes coverage of both the Shinra and Limpopo ransomware. Both of these threats are detected and blocked by FortiGuard Antivirus, indicating that defenses against these types of attacks are available and effective. However, the exact infection vector used by the Limpopo ransomware threat actor remains unknown, making it challenging to fully understand how the malware is distributed and infiltrates systems. Based on the locations where ransom notes likely used by the Limpopo ransomware family were submitted to publicly available scanning services, several countries were potentially affected. These include Chile, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Spain, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam. The global spread of this ransomware underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures across borders to protect against such threats.