How to remove RCRU64 Ransomware and decrypt .HM8 files

What is RCRU64 Ransomware

RCRU64 Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a victim’s computer and demands a ransom for the decryption key. It is primarily spread through email attachments in phishing attacks, malicious software downloads, and exploitation of vulnerabilities, particularly through weak Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) passwords. RCRU64 changes the names of encrypted files by appending the victim’s ID, email address, and a specific extension. The known extensions associated with RCRU64 include .HM8 and other variants like “.TGH”, “.03rK”, “.q6BH”, and “.IalG. The ransomware uses strong encryption algorithms to lock files on the infected computer. While specific details about the encryption method are not provided in the search results, ransomware typically uses a combination of symmetric (e.g., AES) and asymmetric (e.g., RSA) encryption to secure files, making decryption without the key nearly impossible. RCRU64 creates ransom notes named Restore_Your_Files.txt and ReadMe.hta, which inform victims that their files have been encrypted and provide instructions for payment. The notes warn against attempting to decrypt files independently and offer to decrypt a few files as proof before payment is made.

As of the information available, there are no specific decryption tools mentioned for RCRU64 ransomware. Victims are generally discouraged from paying the ransom as it does not guarantee file recovery and may encourage further criminal activity. Decrypting files with the “.HM8” extension or other RCRU64-related extensions without the decryption key is extremely challenging. The recommended steps for victims include:

1. Isolate the Infected Device: Disconnect the device from the network to prevent further spread.
2. Remove the Ransomware: Use a reliable security tool to scan for and remove the ransomware from the system.
3. Check for Decryption Tools: Occasionally, security researchers release decryption tools for specific ransomware variants. Check resources like the No More Ransom project for any updates.
4. Restore from Backups: If you have backups that were not affected by the ransomware, restore your files from there.
5. Seek Professional Help: Contact cybersecurity professionals or companies specializing in ransomware data recovery.

How RCRU64 Ransomware infects computers

RCRU64 ransomware infects computers by:

Phishing Emails: Victims receive emails with malicious attachments that, when opened, execute the ransomware.
Malicious Downloads: Users may inadvertently download the ransomware disguised as legitimate software.
Vulnerability Exploitation: Attackers exploit vulnerabilities, such as weak RDP credentials, to gain access and execute the ransomware on the system

1. Download RCRU64 Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .HM8 files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like RCRU64 Ransomware

RCRU64 Ransomware files:


Restore_Your_Files.txt
ReadMe.hta
{randomname}.exe


RCRU64 Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .HM8 files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .HM8 files. Download it here:

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .HM8 files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with RCRU64 Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .HM8 files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like RCRU64 Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. RCRU64 Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.