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Ransomware

Articles about removing Windows lockers, Browser lockers, Crypto-viruses and other types of blackmailing threats.

How to remove Watz Ransomware and decrypt .watz files

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Watz Ransomware is a variant of the STOP/DJVU ransomware family, a notorious group of file-encrypting malware. This ransomware encrypts files on the victim's computer, rendering them inaccessible, and demands a ransom payment in exchange for a decryption key. The primary goal of Watz Ransomware, like other ransomware, is to extort money from victims by holding their data hostage. Once Watz Ransomware infects a system, it encrypts files and appends the .watz extension to the filenames. For example, a file named document.docx would be renamed to document.docx.watz. Watz Ransomware employs a combination of AES-256 and RSA-2048 encryption algorithms. AES-256 is used to encrypt the files, while RSA-2048 is used to encrypt the AES key. This dual-layer encryption ensures that decrypting the files without the private key held by the attackers is nearly impossible. After encrypting the files, Watz Ransomware creates a ransom note named _readme.txt in each folder containing encrypted files. The ransom note typically includes instructions on how to pay the ransom, the amount demanded (usually in cryptocurrency), and contact information for the attackers. The note may also offer a "discount" if the ransom is paid within a specified timeframe.

How to remove Waqa Ransomware and decrypt .waqa files

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Waqa Ransomware is a type of malicious software that belongs to the STOP/DJVU ransomware family. It is designed to encrypt files on the victim's computer, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This ransomware is particularly notorious for its ability to cause significant damage by locking down personal photos, documents, and other important files. After successfully encrypting files, Waqa Ransomware appends the .waqa extension to the affected files. For example, a file named document.docx would be renamed to document.docx.waqa. Upon completing the encryption process, Waqa Ransomware generates a ransom note, typically named _readme.txt. This note is placed in every folder containing encrypted files. The ransom note informs the victim that their files have been encrypted and provides instructions on how to pay the ransom to obtain the decryption key. It often includes contact information for the attackers and a demand for payment in cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin. Waqa Ransomware employs a combination of AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) encryption algorithms. AES is used to encrypt the files, while RSA is used to encrypt the AES key, making decryption without the private key extremely difficult.

How to remove Anyv Ransomware and decrypt .anyv files

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Anyv Ransomware is a type of malicious software classified under ransomware, specifically designed to encrypt a victim's data and demand a ransom for its decryption. This form of malware renders files inaccessible by appending a unique extension and then coercing the victim to pay for the decryption key. The primary goal of Anyv ransomware, like other ransomware variants, is to extort money from its victims by holding their data hostage. After encrypting files, Anyv ransomware appends a unique extension (.anyv) to the filenames. The format of the new filename is as follows: original_filename.{random_string}.Anyv. Anyv ransomware employs strong encryption algorithms to lock the victim's files. While the specific encryption algorithm used by Anyv is not detailed in the available sources, ransomware typically uses a combination of symmetric (e.g., AES) and asymmetric (e.g., RSA) encryption methods. This dual approach ensures that files are securely encrypted and that decryption is only possible with the private key held by the attackers. Upon completing the encryption process, Anyv ransomware generates a ransom note named README.TXT. This note informs the victim that their files have been encrypted and provides instructions on how to pay the ransom to obtain the decryption tool.

How to remove SRC Ransomware and decrypt .SRC files

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SRC Ransomware is a malicious software variant that belongs to the Makop family of ransomware. It is designed to infiltrate computer systems, encrypt files, and demand a ransom for their decryption. Upon encrypting files, SRC Ransomware appends a unique extension to the filenames, which includes the victim's ID, a contact email address (restoreBackup@cock.li), and the .SRC extension. For example, a file named 1.jpg would be renamed to 1.jpg.[6BH2N0X3].[RestoreBackup@cock.li].SRC. This renaming scheme not only signifies that the file has been encrypted but also provides victims with a means to contact the attackers. The encryption method used by SRC Ransomware is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. However, ransomware variants, including those from the Makop family, commonly employ robust encryption algorithms such as AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman). SRC Ransomware generates a ransom note named +README-WARNING+.txt, which is placed on the victim's desktop. This note informs victims that their files have been encrypted and outlines the steps required to pay the ransom for decryption. It provides contact details, including an email address and a TOX ID, for negotiating the ransom payment. The note also warns against using third-party decryption tools or altering encrypted files, as these actions may lead to permanent data loss.

How to remove TransCrypt Ransomware and decrypt encrypted files

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TransCrypt Ransomware is a malicious software that belongs to the Chaos ransomware family, known for its capability to encrypt files on the infected computers, rendering them inaccessible to the users. This article delves into the intricacies of TransCrypt Ransomware, including its infection mechanism, the file extensions it appends, the encryption method it employs, the ransom note it generates, the availability of decryption tools, and the steps to recover files encrypted by this ransomware. Upon encrypting files, TransCrypt appends a random extension to the filenames, which consists of four characters. This alteration not only signifies that the files have been encrypted but also serves as a marker for the ransomware, distinguishing affected files from unaffected ones. TransCrypt employs a robust encryption algorithm to lock the files on the infected computer. The ransomware is derived from the Chaos ransomware, indicating that it likely uses a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption methods to secure the files beyond the reach of the victims without the decryption key. This encryption is designed to be unbreakable without the specific decryption key held by the attackers. After the encryption process is complete, TransCrypt drops a ransom note named RECOVERFILES.txt on the victim's computer. This note informs the victim about the encryption and demands a ransom payment for the decryption key. The ransom note specifies the amount, usually in Bitcoin, and provides instructions on how to make the payment. It also includes contact information for the attackers, typically an email address, to facilitate communication regarding the payment.

How to remove OCEANS Ransomware and decrypt encrypted files

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OCEANS Ransomware is a malicious software that encrypts files on the infected computer and then demands a ransom for their decryption. It is based on notorious Chaos Ransomware. Upon infection, it modifies the filenames of the encrypted files by appending four random characters to them. For example, a file named document.pdf might be renamed to document.pdf.xyiz after encryption by the OCEANS Ransomware. This use of randomly generated extensions for encrypted files is a common tactic among ransomware variants, making it more challenging for victims to identify and recover their files without the decryption key provided by the attackers. After infection malware creates ransom note OPEN_THIS.txt, where it informs that ransom amount is $124k. It also modifies desktop wallpaper.

How to remove Capibara Ransomware and decrypt .capibara files

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Capibara Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt files on a victim's computer, rendering them inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attackers for decryption. This ransomware is part of a broader category of malware known as crypto-viruses, which leverage strong encryption algorithms to lock files. Understanding the mechanics of Capibara Ransomware, its infection methods, the nature of its encryption, and potential recovery options is crucial for both prevention and remediation. Once installed on a system, Capibara Ransomware initiates an encryption routine using robust encryption algorithms, such as AES or RSA. These algorithms are practically uncrackable without the unique decryption key held by the attackers. During the encryption process, Capibara appends a specific extension to the files it encrypts, typically .capibara, signaling that the files have been locked. Following the encryption of files, Capibara Ransomware generates a ransom note, usually named READ_ME_USER.txt, and places it on the desktop or within folders containing encrypted files. This note contains instructions for the victim on how to pay the ransom, often demanded in Bitcoin, to receive the decryption key necessary to unlock their files. The ransom amount and the payment method are specified within this note, exploiting the anonymity of cryptocurrencies to avoid tracing.

How to remove Veza Ransomware and decrypt .veza files

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Veza Ransomware is a newly identified variant of the STOP/Djvu ransomware family. This malicious software encrypts files on the victim's computer, rendering them inaccessible, and demands a ransom for their decryption. The ransomware appends the .veza extension to the encrypted files, making it easy to identify the affected data. For instance, a file named document.pdf would be renamed to document.pdf.veza after encryption. Veza Ransomware employs robust encryption algorithms to lock files. It uses a combination of RSA and Salsa20 encryption methods, which are known for their strength and complexity. The ransomware generates a unique encryption key for each file, making decryption without the key extremely difficult. After encrypting the files, Veza Ransomware drops a ransom note named _readme.txt in each folder containing encrypted files. The note informs victims that their files have been encrypted and provides instructions for payment to obtain the decryption tool and unique key. The ransom amount is typically $999, but it can be reduced to $499 if the victim contacts the attackers within 72 hours. The note includes contact emails such as support@freshingmail.top and datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc.