North Korea gearing up to launch more cyber attacks after being linked to NHS blitz, security experts fear
The rogue state has hackers working on ransomware to get its hands on foreign cash
NORTH Korea is gearing up to launch more cyberattacks after being linked to the WannaCry NHS blitz, security experts fear.
The rogue state has hackers working on ransomware to get its hands on foreign cash, claimed Simon Choi from internet security firm Hauri.
He said: “I saw signs last year that the North was preparing ransomware attacks or even already beginning to do so.”
Researchers say the WannaCry bug contains portions of code seen in malware used by Lazarus, a North Korea-linked group blamed for the 2014 Sony Pictures hack.
Ransomware is a type of cyber attack that sees hackers take control of computers, tablets or mobile phones and demand a payment.
Often the hackers trick the user into downloading malicious software – using a dodgy email or app – and encrypt the victim’s information.
You can’t use the device while the hackers control it and if you don’t pay they threaten to increase the ransom or delete your files.
Usually the ransom amounts to a few hundred pounds and has to be paid on Bitcoins, a controversial digital currency.
As well as the NHS, hackers targeted thousands of organisations in as many as 99 countries but they can also be used against individuals.
Around 40 hospital trusts across Britain were forced to cancel operations and turn patients away on Friday.