EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

A new ransomware that goes beyond encrypting files to also alter the partition table and master boot record is furrowing brows. Called RedBoot, it appears to be dangerously capable of inflicting permanent damage. But other attributes are raising the question as to its real intent.

Given the possibility of irreparable encryption—and no indication of a command-and-control server or demand for bitcoin payment—some wonder if RedBoot is designed purely to cause damage, while others wonder if it’s just poorly coded.

As TechRepublic reports, the latter option is what Lawrence Abrams of Bleeping Computer believes. Meanwhile, RedBoot’s developer reached out to Abrams and said the current version is basically in Beta. The final version is expected in October—just in time for National Cyber Security Awareness Month!

Read the full story here.