A Comprehensive Analysis of WannaCry Ransomware
Dr Priya P Sajan1, Kartikey Vaishnav2, Manoj S Patil3, Priyanka S Kanade4, Sagar R Kale5, Bhagyashree Jadhav6
1 Dr Priya P Sajan Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
2Kartikey Vaishnav Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
3Manoj Shridhar Patil Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
4Priyanka S Kanade Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
5Sagar Raghunath Kale Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
6Bhagyashree Jadhav Cyber Security and Forensics, C-DAC, Thiruvananthapuram, India
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Abstract - WannaCry, a notorious ransomware strain that emerged in May 2017, quickly gained global attention due to its significant impact on both private and public sectors. This ransomware encrypted victims' files and demanded a Bitcoin ransom for their release, causing extensive disruption. Exploiting a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows' SMB protocol, known as "EternalBlue" (CVE-2017-0144), WannaCry spread rapidly across networks without user interaction. Notably, it severely affected the UK's National Health Service (NHS), disrupting healthcare services. The WannaCry attack highlighted critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for timely software updates and robust security measures to defend against evolving cyber threat
Notably, the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom was among the high-profile victims, with the attack impacting numerous healthcare facilities and services. The WannaCry incident highlighted critical vulnerabilities in cybersecurity practices and the importance of timely software updates and robust security measures. It served as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of cyber threats and the need for ongoing vigilance in the protection of digital assets.
Key Words: WannaCry, ransomware, encryption, files, SMB, EternalBlue, healthcare impact, Bitcoin ransom, cyber threats.
