According to reports from cybersecurity researchers, there's a new ransomware virus on the loose that's targeting bitcoin miners. A file locking program called H-Ant has allegedly infected certain Antminer models in China and if the ransom is not paid the software aims to destroy the infected machine.

New Ransomware Called H-Ant Attacks Mining Rig Operators in China

Ransomware creators have found a new target to attack in the form of bitcoin mining operations. Unlike most traditional ransom attacks, where victims have to obtain coins in order to pay the ransom, victims of the H-Ant ransomware have cryptocurrencies on hand to pay the malicious attackers. The H-Ant ransomware that specifically targets certain Antminer brand rigs was first discovered by cybersecurity experts back in August 2018 but the malware did not become prevalent until this month. H-Ant can attack an S9 model, T9, and possibly even L3 Antminer brand litecoin miners. There have also been limited reports of Canaan brand Avalon miners that have been infected, explained the regional media outlet Yibenchain.

According to reports, H-Ant attacks the S9, T9, and possibly L3 litecoin miners. The virus has also infected Canaan brand Avalon miners.

The report also detailed that once a mining rig is infected with the H-Ant virus, the device will seize and stop mining cryptocurrencies. Then, if the owner hooks the device to an LCD screen, a matrix-like screen splash will appear and reveal the H-Ant ransomware note written in both English and Chinese.