One of the computers used in the project was attacked with ransomware in 2017 as construction was taking place on the Hong Zhuhai-Hong Kong Bridge. The ransomware attack allowed the perpetrators to lock project files and demanded ransom money to unlock them. Project managers informed authorities about the incident. The attackers then erased several files.

While the incident didn’t hinder the progress of the project (the bridge opened to traffic a year after the incident) however, it was a major news report. This is an incredibly frightening example of ransomware. The ransomware program locks users out of their files and requires them to pay hackers to unlock the files. This is a typical problem that could lead to huge financial losses.

AutoCAD is a tool to create it.

Cyberattacks only succeed if the victim is not aware of them. Auto CAD malware is created by hackers who disguise themselves as autocad files. They make these files by using the same software.

Instead of opening a project render the victim can execute the malware script and cause chaos within the server. Autoload is an issue with the program that allows attackers to write AutoLISP scripts that they have created themselves. To make the files appear more authentic they can also secure them.

It’s Self-Replicating

To increase the chance of malware-laden files being opened the attackers program the file in a way autocad  that it reproduces itself soon it is opened. The files execute the script in the exact manner despite their differing sizes.

After the replication process is completed the file becomes more intelligent. The file will try to retrieve the current time and date. The script will also use this data to alter registry values. This limit the amount of C2 connections to one per day.

It takes advantage of human weaknesses

AutoCAD malware, as we have seen, is a terrifying and remarkable creation. However, that’s only part of the story. Experts refer the remaining half to old-fashioned trickery and social engineering.

Sending large AutoCAD files, which can often be hundreds of megabytes in size, is not an alternative. Third-party file hosting can be a viable option however, it may not always work. Many AutoCAD files can be hundreds of megabytes in size therefore emailing them isn’t an option.

Ransomware, like the AutoCAD malware, is just one of the ten vectors employed to manipulate social networks. Recent research has revealed that the ability to fool people has caused an increase in these attacks by 270 percent. AutoCAD files are a common tool for corporate espionage and sabotage cases. The result is losses that exceed 30 trillion dollars.

It’s possible to prevent it.

Although the situation may appear grim, it’s not an excuse to avoid all work-related files. These malicious files can be prevented by a combination of security practices and modern security techniques.

AutoCAD comes with a security option that warns users not to open files on networks that are not secure. You can alter the level of security according to your preferences (turning off the feature isn’t advised) or specify trusted areas.