25, Nov 2023
West Zone Inter University Women’s Chess Tournament Hosted by HSNC University Concludes
The much-awaited West Zone Inter University Women’s Chess Tournament by the Association of Indian Universities- AIU (Inter-University Sports Board of India) concluded today at the pristine Worli campus of HSNC University, Mumbai with RTMNU (Nagpur) Chess Team lifting the Winners’ Trophy. A magnificent and sensational battle of some intense grinding finally came to an end on 24th November 2023. The tournament featured some illustrious players along with some very promising talents.
The valedictory ceremony of the tournament was graced by Dr Hemlata K. Bagla, Vice Chancellor, HSNC University; Dr Bhagwan Balani, Registrar, HSNC University; Dr Tejashree Shanbhag, Principal, K.C. College, Mr RK Sharma, AIU Observer; Mr Praful Zaveri, Tournament Director; Mr Sandesh Nagarnaik, Chief Arbiter; Ms Jayshree Dangche, Deputy Chief Arbiter.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Hemlata K. Bagla said that sports are very important for holistic grooming and Chess inculcates a lot of virtues in players such as confidence, leadership skills, decision-making, and a healthy competitive spirit. Dr Bagla congratulated the winners and asked those who lost to not get disheartened. She highlighted that though the pawn is the smallest of pieces, it can still emerge as one of the most powerful ones. Life is like chess, take it one step at a time, one move at a time. She expressed her fervent hope to see the players who participated in this tournament, playing in international tournaments in the years to come.
Presenting a summary of the Tournament, Mr Bhalchandra Savardekar, I/C Sports Director, HSNC University thanked the AIU for entrusting the responsibility of hosting the “West Zone Inter University Women’s Chess Tournament” at HSNC University from 21st -24th November 2023. He informed that the chess tournament was played in accordance with FIDE rules and 7 rounds were conducted with the assistance of officials. He revealed that over 150 participants (and their support staff) from 50 Universities across the West Zone participated in the tournament.
Avril David (University of Mumbai); Aakanksha Hagawane (Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune); Mrudul Dehankar (RTMNU, Nagpur); Mandakini Mishra (RDVV, Jabalpur, MP); Pooja Sain (Maharaja Ganga Singh University, Bikaner) and Pallavi Kadam (SRTM University, Nanded) were awarded special medals for winning 100% of the matches they played in the tournament.
Mr R.K. Sharma, AIU Observer, praised Dr Hemlata K Bagla and HSNC University for extensively promoting Chess and other sports in the country. He shared that India leads the world with the highest number of rated Chess players. He encouraged and motivated players to keep practicing hard since participation in tournaments is more important than winning or losing. He shared that 4 top Universities from each of the 4 Zones will be going for the AIU-conducted All India level Zonal Tournament at Jaipur and he was hopeful that the top4 West Zone Universities maintain their ranks and continue to be successful at Jaipur too.
In his vote of thanks, Dr Bhagwan Balani thanked players, managers, coaches, officials, arbiters, volunteers, and the organizing committee for making the event a resounding success. He stressed that Sports is a great practical education; a player admits the mistakes he commits in the field, learns from them, and is strong enough to overcome his weaknesses. He called upon the students to take up Sports as a career, recreation, and entertainment and advised them that winning and losing is part of the game; but what is more important is how much heart and soul is poured in while striving for success.
The 7-round Tournament was played as per the Swiss league system, wherein all the teams played all rounds without any knockout. The winning team was declared after the last round by amassing the scores gathered in different rounds by the concerned team members. More than 69 FIDE-rated players participated in the tournament. Over 10 Arbiters were roped in to ensure fair playing.
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- By Rabindra
25, Nov 2023
Kolkata to raise a toast to Asia’s largest sports and fitness `Kumbh’ through FITEXPO INDIA 2023
Kolkata, 25 November 2023: Kolkata is gearing up to host one of Asia’s largest sports, fitness, and wellness trade Expo through FITEXPO INDIA 2023 (December 1 to 3) at the Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan in Kolkata.
“FITEXPO INDIA is more like a `Kumbh mela’ for sports, fitness, and wellness and connects with the growing base of sports lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and wellness practitioners while providing a 360-degree view of these rapidly expanding sectors where health, wealth, and commerce go hand in hand under the same roof with overarching commercial benefits in the long run. The Indian sports, fitness, and wellness sector, under Khelo India and Fit India, is now five times bigger,” said Mr Gagan Sachdev, founder-director of THE FITEXPO INDIA and Vice-President, of Calcutta Sports Dealers Association (CSDA).
This mega EXPO spread over a sprawling three lac square feet, will draw over 5000 fitness experts and sports personalities from all over India. The event, being held in the sports-crazy `City of Joy’ in association with SPORTEXPO, is a one-of-its-kind event that is expected to garner huge footfalls, especially the crowd of young enthusiasts along with business-to-business (B2B) as well as business-to-commercial (B2C) clients.
“Our two years of effort and passion will culminate in FITEXPO INDIA 2023 which will engage the entire fitness and sporting community of West Bengal, including the sports development authorities, Sports Authority of India and The Bengal Olympic Association. We feel proud to present this event in which more than 10,000 people will participate during the three-day FITEXPO INDIA 2023,” said Mr Sachdev.
More than a hundred different kinds of events related to fitness, bodybuilding, powerlifting, kettlebell, weight lifting, CrossFit, arm wrestling, dance fitness, Zumba, yoga, and so on. FITEXPO INDIA 2023 will have thirty-two formats of martial arts, mixed martial arts, and combat sports. Other than popular games like cricket and football, there would be throw ball, dodge ball, rugby, skating, and cycling; indoor games like badminton, table tennis, carrom, chess, archery, and dart tournaments also, and many other activities.
“It’s not just a show; it’s a celebration of wellness. Bringing fitness icons from all kinds of genres under one roof makes it a wholesome experience, and I’m thrilled to be part of this vibrant community, where health and happiness dance hand in hand,” said personal trainer and Zumba presenter, Natalie Pote Shaw.
With a Corporate Business Lounge facilitating B2B activities and the FitPitch (the theme-based flagship fundraising and trade exchange) event would encourage growth, collaboration, and investment for start-ups and innovators.
“At The FITEXPO INDIA 2023, we’re not just lifting weights, we are lifting the standard for fitness. Our gym is proud to be part of this groundbreaking event, where health meets innovation, and we redefine what it means to elevate your fitness journey,” said Rashmi Sachdev, owner of Karma Fitness Studio.
“This Expo will not only nurture the spirit of sportsmanship and inculcate competitive behaviour but also help identify and honour talents from different fields of sports; encourage brand endorsements as more and more corporates come forward to recognise and endorse sporting talent. One of the biggest gains from the EXPO would be direct and indirect investment flowing into Bengal in the rapidly expanding sports and fitness sector. This includes sports goods and services, fitness gears, fitness software, and a wide array of training, coaching, and skill-development services,” said Mr Abhay Mishra, Principal Advisor, FITEXPO INDIA 2023.
A large number of associations and bodies related to sports, fitness, calisthenics, wellness, sporting infrastructure, and software, along with students from various schools of Kolkata will be participating in live events at the FITEXPO INDIA 2023. The event has been curated to match the standards of similar International events.
24, Nov 2023
SOS Children’s Villages India observes Child Safety Week
New Delhi, 24 November 2022: SOS Children’s Villages India, a leading non-profit organization, dedicated to childcare and child development, observed Child Safety and Child Rights Week from 14th to 20th November, reaching over 43000 children through its 40+ programme locations across India.
Child Rights Week, celebrated every year, begins with National Children’s Day on 14th November and concludes on International Children’s Day on 20th November. This year, at SOS Children’s Villages India, the objective of this week was to raise awareness about the importance of child safety and child rights while empowering children to exercise their rights.
During this week, SOS Children’s Villages India organized activities and events for children and young adults in its programmes. Based on the international theme for Children’s Day “For Every Child, Every Right” there were different activities, including workshops on child safety, storytelling sessions, art competitions, nukkad natak, and sports events. The children and stakeholders were made aware of child rights, emphasizing that child rights are universal, inherent, unconditional, inalienable, and indivisible.
Sumanta Kar, CEO of SOS Children’s Villages India, stated, “Child safety and child rights are central to our work at SOS Children’s Villages India. Every child has the right to a safe and nurturing environment and the freedom to live life to the fullest. This year’s Child Safety Week, true to its theme “For Every Child, Every Right”, primarily focussed on sensitising children while empowering them enough to identify, comprehend and voice out their opinions. We are committed to working collaboratively with children, families, communities and the government to create a better world for our children to thrive in.”
This week provided different platforms for meaningful discussions, collective action, collaboration of stakeholders, and the sharing of best practices on child rights and child safety. The participants, including children, youth, and adult stakeholders pledged to work together to ensure the protection and well-being of children.
24, Nov 2023
Aarya 3, Back for Revenge to Heartbreak to Mirzapur 2: Gripping Revenge Tales You Can’t Ignore
Betrayal, Redemption, and Retribution: Check Out these unmissable Revenge Dramas
In the realm of storytelling, revenge is a dish best served with a gripping narrative and a side of suspense. As William Shakespeare once mused, ‘If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you wrong us, shall we not revenge?’ This timeless sentiment sets the stage for our exploration into a collection of unmissable revenge dramas that will have you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting each moment of retribution.
From simmering vendettas to calculated paybacks, these web series and audio series delve into the complexities of human emotions when wronged. Each entry on our list is a compelling saga where betrayal becomes a catalyst for a riveting tale of justice, fueled by characters seeking vindication.
Whether you’re drawn to intricate plot twists, intense character transformations, or the sheer satisfaction of seeing the tables turned, our curated list promises a binge-worthy experience.
Aarya 3
Aarya 3 on Disney+Hotstar is a gripping rollercoaster of revenge and redemption. In a shocking twist, Aarya discovers her target is her own father, adding a layer of complexity to her journey. The series skillfully explores Aarya’s internal struggle, portraying her not as a cold-blooded killer but as a victim of circumstance. The finale, set against a Holi celebration, beautifully symbolizes the bloodshed that has marked their lives. Sushmita Sen’s stellar performance and the haunting background score make Aarya’s determination palpable. As Aarya faces new challenges, the series keeps you hooked, questioning if her pursuit of power will shield or endanger her family. Starring an ensemble cast of Sushmita Sen, Vikas Kumar, Ila Arun, Vishwajeet Pradhan, and Sikandar Kher, this web series is unmissable.
Back for Revenge
“Back for Revenge” on Pocket FM, written by Arati Bhatt, is a must-listen revenge audio series that unfolds a riveting saga of love, betrayal, and second chances. Poorva’s journey, born from devastating betrayal and her own demise, offers a unique blend of suspense and supernatural elements. Bhatt’s writing skillfully navigates the complexities of Poorva’s past, transforming her into a force seeking redemption and retribution. With a gripping plot fueled by unexpected twists and a touch of the supernatural, this audio series keeps you on the edge of your seat. “Back for Revenge” promises a thrilling exploration of justice and transformation that makes it an absolute must-listen.
Mai
“Mai” on Netflix is a riveting revenge drama that unfolds the relentless journey of Sheel Chaudhary (Sakshi Tanwar), a middle-class mother seeking justice for her daughter’s tragic death. What starts as a hit-and-run revelation evolves into a sinister conspiracy, fueling Sheel’s determination to uncover the truth. Starring an ensemble cast including Wamiqa Gabbi and Prashant Narayanan, the series showcases Sheel’s transformation from a meek woman to a relentless force. As she unveils the criminals behind her daughter’s demise, “Mai” becomes an unmissable tale of resilience and revenge. With powerful performances and a gripping narrative, this Netflix original is a must-watch for fans of intense drama.
Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge
“Taj Season 2: Reign of Revenge” on Zee5 starring Naseeruddin Shah, Aashim Gulati, Sauraseni Maitra, Dharmendra, Aditi Rao Hydari, Rahul Bose, and Zarina Wahab promises an unmissable saga of revenge and power within the Mughal empire. The intense battle for the throne unfolds with treacherous moves and murders, keeping the audience on the edge. The new season introduces compelling characters like Mehr-un-Nissa, Ali Quli Mirza, and Prince Salim’s sons, adding depth to the narrative. Focused on Shah Salim’s quest for revenge, Mehr-un-Nissa’s pursuit of the throne, and court intrigues, the series weaves a tale of ambition and betrayal. With a gripping blend of historical drama and intense relationships, “Taj Season 2” is a must-watch for those craving a captivating revenge narrative.
Mirzapur 2
“Mirzapur 2” on Prime Video is a relentless rollercoaster of revenge and power in the heart of Uttar Pradesh. Tripathi’s son Munna, having left a trail of blood at a wedding, faces a vengeful uprising. Immersed in a gritty tale of intense rivalries, the series navigates the ruthless ambitions of characters in the dark underbelly of ‘Mirzapur’. With a stellar cast led by Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, and Divyendu Sharma, the second season amplifies the stakes and tension. As old enemies resurface and new alliances form, “Mirzapur 2” is a gripping narrative that hits the mark, making it a must-watch for fans of gripping revenge dramas on Prime Video.
Tanaav
“Tanaav” on SonyLiv unfolds as an engaging and unmissable revenge drama. Retired STG officer Kabir Farooqi, played by Manav Vij, is drawn back into the shadows to identify the supposedly deceased terrorist, Panther (Sumit Kaul). What ensues is a riveting cat-and-mouse game that forms the heart of the story. With a stellar cast featuring Arbaaz Khan, Rajat Kapoor, and more, the series dives into the socio-political turmoil of the Kashmir Valley in 2017. The intense conflict between the STG and Pakistan-based terrorists adds layers of suspense and drama, making “Tanaav” a must-watch for fans of compelling revenge narratives on SonyLiv.
24, Nov 2023
Romanch Celebrates mother’s birthday with a heartfelt VIDEO, calls her the ‘True Star’ of his life
They say, “Life arrives without a manual, but it does come with a mother.” A mother steps into the roles of everyone else, yet her place remains irreplaceable. Today, actor Romanch Mehta resonates with these profound truths as his mother marks another year. Yes! It is the birthday of actor Romanch Mehta’s mother, and within the serene recesses of his soul, gratitude blossoms like a cherished garden.
Sharing his deep affection for his mother, Romanch Mehta expressed, “Behind every role I play, there’s a script written by the most incredible woman I know – my mother. She’s not just my guiding light, motivation and inspiration, but the heartbeat of my life’s story. In awe of her strength, inspired by her love, and forever grateful for the unspoken bond that makes every scene in my life worth celebrating. She is the thread that binds my joy, my strength, and my love. Her simplicity and pure heart illuminate my world. She’s the true star in my life’s movie, and I’m just blessed to be her leading actor.”
The ‘Kulfi Kumar Bajewala’ actor posted a heartening video on his Instagram handle capturing tender moments of his mother, where he marvels at his mother’s enduring love through the simple act of preparing delicious food. In her aging grace, she remains the beacon of love in his life, a testament to the timeless beauty of their mother-son relationship.
Link – https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cz-WR_eIMut/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
For Romanch, it is not just a celebration of another year but a poignant reminder of the profound bond that defines their shared journey—a bond that echoes through the silent spaces of a son’s heart, where a mother’s love is the sweetest melody.
On the work front, Romanch Mehta is known for his roles in Kabhi Kabhie Ittefaq Sey, Kulfi Kumar Bajewala among others. He recently wrapped up shooting for the web series ‘Bhagin.’ The release date and trailer for the web series are expected to be unveiled soon.
24, Nov 2023
ALL-Accor Live Limitless Presents Laughter On The Menu: A Three-City Comedy Tour with Atul Khatri
New Delhi, November 2023: ALL-Accor Live Limitless, the lifestyle loyalty programme by Accor, recently regaled its members with the last chapter of “Laughter On The Menu”, a three-city comedy tour featuring renowned stand-up comedian Atul Khatri.
The opening act of this laughter-filled journey took place at the Grand Mercure Bengaluru Gopalan Mall, marking the beginning of an entertaining adventure that continued in Mumbai at Novotel Mumbai International Airport and concluded on November 18, 2023, at Pullman New Delhi Aerocity.
Atul Khatri, the star of the show, delivered an hour of side-splitting comedy, leaving the audience in stitches and creating memories that will be cherished by attendees, followed by delightful cocktails and dinner.
Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President Operations – India and South Asia, Accor. Said “ ‘Laughter on the Menu’ exemplifies ALL- Accor Live Limitless’s commitment to enhancing value for its members alongside creating memorable experiences beyond traditional hospitality offerings. This is one of the first limitless experiences we have curated for this year, and what a fun, wonderful set of evenings they were”
“ALL-Accor Live Limitless is our lifestyle loyalty programme, which gives members a host of benefits (at participating Accor properties around the world). You can earn and redeem your points to enjoy evenings such as these, stay at hotels (globally), and dine—we have various opportunities put together for our members, and we look forward to welcoming more members” Puneet further added.
Internationally acclaimed comedian Atul Khatri boasts a stellar career that spans continents and accolades. From hosting prestigious award functions to acting in commercials and trending music videos, Atul’s versatility shines. Invited to grace the stages of prestigious comedy festivals worldwide, he has left an indelible mark on the global comedy scene, with performances in over 20 countries, including the USA, UK, Germany, UAE, and Australia.
With its unique bouquet of ideas and events, ALL-Accor Live Limitless continues to demonstrate its dedication to crafting moments of joy, laughter, and connection for its valued members.
24, Nov 2023
Karnataka Tourism Ready to Shine at IITM Pune
Pune, 24th November 2023: Karnataka Tourism is thrilled to participate in IITM Pune 2023, a premier travel and tourism event taking place from November 24th to 26th at Deccan College Ground in Pune. This event serves as a pivotal platform for Karnataka Tourism to unveil the state’s cultural richness, vibrant heritage, and diverse tourism potential to a discerning audience.
IITM, renowned for its role in travel-trade exhibitions, offers an exclusive chance for businesses to expand their networks and reach potential customers, collaborators, and businesses. Karnataka Tourism aims to position the state as a comprehensive and top-tier tourism destination by highlighting its myriad services and diverse experiences.
Karnataka, with its captivating landscapes and diverse attractions, boasts a harmonious blend of ancient temples, historical monuments, hill stations, serene beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. The state houses UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hampi and Pattadakal, and the newly added Hoysala temples in Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathapur showcase unparalleled architectural brilliance and historical significance.
The state’s culture, deeply rooted in the legacies of prominent dynasties like Kadamba, Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, Hoysala, Vijayanagara, and Wodeyar, shapes Karnataka’s vibrant traditions. Karnataka boasts an impressive 747 unique protected monuments, offering a glimpse into its glorious past and standing as a testament to its cultural eminence and architectural grandeur.
The Western Ghats in Karnataka showcase breathtaking landscapes, complemented by 35 wildlife sanctuaries and 5 national parks that unveil diverse flora and fauna. Along its 320-kilometer coastline, Karnataka’s beaches are renowned for scenic beauty and thrilling water sports activities. The state also features stunning hill stations like Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakaleshpura, and Kodachadri, providing opportunities to explore homestays, savour local coffee and cuisine, and immerse in unique traditions.
The state’s cuisine, known for its flavorful offerings, includes an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. From masala dosas and idlis to bisi bele bath and ragi mudde, Karnataka’s culinary delights are a treat for the taste buds.
Bengaluru, the thriving IT hub, is celebrated for its innovative atmosphere, fostering growth and entrepreneurship. The city hosts prominent Naturopathy and Yoga centers, promoting holistic health and wellness. Karnataka’s rich heritage of silks, spices, and sandalwood adds to its allure.
Karnataka Tourism’s participation at IITM Pune aims to showcase the state’s captivating tourism offerings, ranging from archaeology, religious sites, and eco-tourism, to wildlife adventures. The stand will offer visitors a chance to explore various travel experiences, engage with Karnataka tourism stakeholders, and gather valuable information for their trips. Whether seeking serene beaches, historical monuments, wildlife encounters, or scuba diving adventures, Karnataka Tourism stands ready to cater to every traveler’s desires. Visitors are invited to explore Karnataka’s rich history, culture, and natural splendor at IITM Pune.
24, Nov 2023
Sheersham Gupta, Director and Senior Technical Analyst at Rupeezy
Nifty Faces Strong Resistance at 19850, Potential Breakout or Breakdown Imminent; Banknifty Seeks Recovery After RBI Risk Norm Change by Sheersham Gupta, Director and Senior Technical Analyst at Rupeezy
Nifty is facing huge resistance at 19850 and again saw selling today after crossing 19850. While Nifty has been consolidating in a short range of 19650-19850 for the past 7 trading sessions, we may soon see a breakout or breakdown with the former more likely. The cooling down of the VIX also points to the same. Banknifty was more bearish compared to Nifty for the past few days due to the RBI risk norm change. Finding support at the 200 DMA yesterday, Banknifty closed in green today. The bulls will have to cross the next resistance which is at 43800 to gain control or else Banknifty will continue its downward march.
24, Nov 2023
Department of Fertilizers enlists Garuda Aerospace Kisan Drones across India as part of Vikshit Bharat Sankalp Yatra
24th November 2023; Chennai, India: Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone manufacturer, proudly announces its collaboration with the Department of Fertilizers in support of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra initiative. Flagged off by Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 15th, Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is a 60-day initiative aimed to spread awareness about the scheme and its advantages to citizens across rural and urban landscapes in 117 Tribal Districts which will expand to 691 districts across India. Garuda Kisan Drones will be deployed to conduct Demonstrations & raise awareness organized by the Department of Fertilizers & Garuda Aerospace Commenced 100 Kisan Drones
To ensure the Yatra’s success, Garuda Aerospace is closely working with National Fertilizers Limited (NFL), Madras Fertilizers Limited (MFL), The Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore Limited (FACT), Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd. (GSFC), and Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCF).
Garuda Aerospace will educate farmers about the agricultural drone through specially designed IEC (Information, Education, and Communications) vans which will travel through the Gram Panchayats, thus spreading awareness. Showcasing major schemes, Garuda Aerospace’s IEC Vans are customized to enable seamless information dissemination through audio-visuals, brochures, pamphlets, booklets, standees, etc in Hindi as well as local languages. The branded IEC vans will also present the company’s national, state, and district-level milestones and achievements.
Garuda Aerospace’s qualified, licensed, and experienced drone pilots will operate state-of-the-art agricultural drones throughout the yatra. An open Q&A session with experts from Garuda Aerospace will also make way for two-way communication and engagement with farmers thereby clarifying doubts and addressing concerns that they may have about drone technology in the agriculture sector.
Speaking on the company’s role in Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO, Garuda Aerospace said, “We are not merely introducing technology; we are ushering in a new era for Indian agriculture. Drones have the potential to transcend conventional boundaries, offering not just efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but a sustainable future for our farmers. We are thrilled to be a part of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, as it aligns perfectly with our mission to bring transformative technology to the agricultural sector. Through this initiative, we envision not just participation, but a partnership in progress. Our commitment is not just to innovation but to empowering the backbone of our nation – our farmers.”
Garuda Aerospace continues to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between technological innovation and on-the-ground agricultural practices. By actively engaging with farmers and addressing their concerns, Garuda Aerospace aims to foster a collaborative environment that promotes the sustainable adoption of drone technology in Indian agriculture
24, Nov 2023
Comparative Study Results on Linux and Windows Ransomware Attacks, Exploring Notable Trends and Surge in Attacks on Linux Systems
In a recent study conducted by Check Point Research (CPR), an in-depth examination of ransomware attacks on Linux and Windows systems sheds light on evolving trends in cyber threats. As ransomware attacks on Linux systems, particularly on ESXi systems, have seen a surge in recent years, CPR delves into the intricacies of these incidents, drawing comparisons to their Windows counterparts.
Historically, ransomware threats have predominantly targeted Windows environments. However, the landscape is evolving, with Linux-focused ransomware gaining momentum. CPR’s study analyzes 12 prominent ransomware families that either directly target Linux systems or possess cross-platform capabilities, allowing them to infect both Windows and Linux indiscriminately.
The release of the Babuk source code in 2021 has played a pivotal role in the proliferation of various ransomware families. What sets Linux-targeting ransomware apart is its relative simplicity compared to its Windows counterparts. Many of these Linux-focused threats heavily rely on the OpenSSL library, with ChaCha20/RSA and AES/RSA emerging as the most common encryption algorithms across analyzed samples.
Examining the historical evolution of ransomware, the first identifiable sample dates back to 1989, affecting Windows systems. It wasn’t until 2015, with Linux.Encoder.1, that Linux-specific ransomware gained traction. Despite the maturity of ransomware in Windows systems, the capabilities did not directly transfer to Linux until recent years, marked by a significant increase in attacks since 2020.
Figure 1 – Linux ransomware families.
Figure 2 – Windows ransomware families.
CPR’s study uncovers a trend of simplification among Linux-targeting ransomware families. Core functionalities are often reduced to basic encryption processes, relying heavily on external configurations and scripts, rendering them elusive and challenging to detect. The research also highlights distinctive strategies, particularly focusing on ESXi systems, and identifies vulnerabilities in exposed services as primary entry vectors.
Linux ransomware is strategically tailored for medium and large organizations
Linux ransomware diverges significantly from its Windows counterparts in terms of target and victim typology. While Windows is prevalent in personal computers and user workstations, Linux dominates certain server deployments. Linux ransomware primarily focuses on exposed servers or those within the internal network accessed by pivoting from Windows infections.
This orientation indicates a clear trend—Linux ransomware is strategically tailored for medium and large organizations, unlike the more generalized threats posed by Windows ransomware. The distinctive internal structures of both systems also influence attackers’ approaches to folder and file selection for encryption, with Linux-oriented samples often avoiding critical directories to prevent system corruption. This underscores the targeted and sophisticated nature of Linux ransomware compared to its Windows counterparts.
Comparing encryption techniques between Windows and Linux systems, CPR reveals a preference for OpenSSL in Linux ransomware, with AES as a common encryption cornerstone and RSA as the primary asymmetric choice. This uniformity among different threat actors underscores the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
Check Point Customers Remain Protected Against Ransomware
Check Point customers remain protected against the threats covered by this research while using Check Point Harmony Endpoint, and Threat Emulation – which provide comprehensive coverage of attack tactics and file types.
Check Point’s Anti-Ransomware, a Ransomware Protection solution protects organizations from the most sophisticated ransomware attacks, and safely recovers encrypted data. Anti-Ransomware is offered as part of Harmony Endpoint, Check Point’s complete endpoint security solution. Harmony Endpoint provides comprehensive endpoint protection at the highest security level
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• Ransomware.Wins.GwisinLocker.ta.A
• Ransomware.Wins.Clop.ta.I
• Ransomware.Wins.Royal.ta.B
• Ransomware.Wins.IceFire.ta.A
• Ransomware.Wins.Monti.ta.A
• Ransomware.Wins.ESXi.ta.B
• Ransomware.Wins.Babuk.ta.A
• Ransomware.Wins.LockBit.ta.AK
• Ransomware.Wins.BlackCat.ta.M
For a more detailed exploration of the comparative study on Linux and Windows ransomware attacks, readers are encouraged to visit the Check Point Research Blog for the full research findings.
