The UK, a ransomware-type virus with high-risk features, infiltrates systems and encrypts all data. This makes it impossible to use. It shares many similarities with Hermes ransomware is likely to have been developed by the same person. This malware, unlike most viruses, does not modify or add any extensions to encrypted files. It is worth noting, however, that an updated version of RYUK ransomware has been released (titled ransomware) appends.RYK extensions (hence, its name). The UK can also be used to create a text file (“RyukReadMe.txt“, placing a copy of the document in each folder.
The new text file contains a message informing victims about the encryption and encouraging them to pay ransom to recover their data. Be aware that RYUK uses RSA-4096 and AES-256 encryption algorithms. Each victim is given several unique keys to access their data. All keys are hidden on remote servers by cybercriminals. Without these keys, it is impossible to restore data. Each victim is required to pay ransom for their release. Although the cost of ransom is not known, all information is sent via email. However, each victim’s ransom will vary. The victim will be required to pay an additional.5 bitcoin for every day that they delay payment (currently equal to $3200). This cost is much higher than other ransomware-type virus infections. It fluctuates between $500 to $1500 and rarely increases. The UK was designed to infect large numbers of computers simultaneously and target large businesses. Even though it might seem excessive to pay thousands of dollars per user, large companies often agree since the encrypted data they have is much more valuable. It is best to avoid paying ransomware, regardless of the cost. Ransomware creators often ignore victims after they have paid. Users are often scammed and paid ransoms do not result in a positive outcome. It is best to ignore any requests to contact developers and not to pay the ransom. There are no tools that can crack RSA/AES encryption or restore data for free. You can only restore everything from a backup.
Screenshot of a message asking users to pay ransom to decrypt their data
Many viruses have similarities to the UK. The UK is just one of many viruses that are similar to it. These viruses were created by cybercriminals from different backgrounds, but their behavior is the same – they all encrypt data and demand ransom payments. Ransomware-type viruses are almost identical in most cases. The only differences between ransomware and other ransomware-type viruses are the ransom amount and the encryption algorithm used. Most use algorithms that generate unique decryption keys. It is difficult to restore data manually without the involvement of developers, even if the virus has not been fully developed (or has bugs/flaws). The UK and similar viruses make it a good idea to keep regular backups of your data. However, you should store them on a remote server. Malware will encrypt backups along with regular files if you don’t.
What is ransomware and how did it infect my computer
Developers use trojans and spam emails to spread ransomware. They also use peer-to-peer networks (P2P), fake software updaters, unofficial software sources, and peer-to-peer networks (P2P). Trojans can open “backdoors” to allow other viruses to penetrate the system. Spam email contains malicious attachments which, once opened, can be used to download and install viruses. P2P networks and other third-party download/installation sources (freeware download websites, free file hosting sites, etc.) By presenting malware as legitimate software, users are tricked into installing and downloading viruses.
How can you protect yourself against ransomware infections?
Computer infections can be caused by poor behavior and ignorance. Therefore, pay close attention when browsing the Internet and downloading/installing/updating software. Be careful when opening attachments to emails. Irrelevant files and those received from suspicious/unrecognizable email addresses should never be opened. You should only download software from official sources and only use direct download links. Third-party downloaders/installers often include rogue apps, and thus should never be used. Software updates are subject to the same rules. Maintaining your software up-to-date is crucial. However, you should only do this by using the functions and tools provided by the developer. Having a reputable anti-virus/anti-spyware suite installed and running is also essential. Computer safety starts with caution. If your computer is already infected with RYUK, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this ransomware.
Text in RYUK ransomware text document (“RyukReadMe.txt“:
Screenshot of files encrypted using RYUK (no extension).
November 6, 2019, UpdateRYUK ransomware was recently updated with two new features that allow it to encrypt drives connecting to the same LAN network, and infect machines in sleep/standby mode. UK uses Address Resolution Protocol (ARP), and Wake-on LAN utility to accomplish this. The UK can only be used on Windows-based computers. UK’s ability to access drives connected via LAN networks increases its damage level. This is because it can encrypt files regardless of the operating system being used by another machine. RYUK ransomware can be used on Windows, but it can also infect Linux, macOS, and other operating systems if they are connected to the same LAN network. Ransomware can simply access remote data and encrypt it, without infiltrating other machines. More information on these new features can be found in her article on Threatpost.
December 27, 2019, UpdateRYUK’s developers have released a new variant of their ransomware that is designed to bypass *NIX-type files. This file system can be used in Unix-based OSes, such as Linux. Although there is not currently any RYUK ransomware that can be used to access Unix-based operating systems, there are situations where it could gain access while encrypting Windows OS data.
January 27, 2020, UpdateRYUK ransomware was ransomware designed to steal data and encrypt it. It was released by cybercriminals in September 2019. This version stole only Microsoft Word (“.DocxExcel (“.xlsxFiles. Last week, however, a new variant was found of the “updated” RYUK ransomware. It turns out that the target data types have increased – it now includes image files as well as cryptocurrency wallets. It is important to note that the malware does not simply steal the target type’s documents. It scans the names of documents and searches for certain strings. If a name contains a particular string, it will upload it to remote server-controlled cybercriminals. Unconfirmed information is available about whether the updated RYUK ransomware has been released by its developers or if it was simply stolen from someone. The result could be the same, regardless of which way it goes. More information about this stealer can be found here in Lawrence Abrams’ article about Bleeping Computer.
Updated March 2, 2021RYUK ransomware has a new variant that can spread itself from infected computers to other machines connected to local networks. This means that the new variant of RYUK uses the Windows domain to spread itself like a worm (another kind of malware). It is well-known that RYUK can infect computers if it has access to the Windows Remote Procedure Call service (RPC). It gathers Internet Protocol addresses from the Address Resolution Protocol, and then sends packets to all of the computers it finds. It then mounts all resources available from one host (shared resources) and encrypts the contents. The new RYUK variant can execute/install itself via scheduled tasks on any computer connected to the compromised networks.
Data-stealing RYUK malware targets a list of file formats:
- .cpp
- .doc
- .docx
- .h
- .jpg
- http://www.pdf
- .xls
- .xlsx
- wallet.dat
Removal of ransomware from RYUK
Automatic malware removal in an instant Combo Cleaner is an automatic tool to remove malware. Click the button below to download it.
V DOWNLOAD Combo CleanerYou agree to the terms and conditions of downloading any software from this website. Privacy PolicyAndConditions of Use. You will need a Combo Cleaner license to use the full-featured product. You can try the product for 7 days without any obligation.
Video showing what to do in the event of ransomware infections
The infected device must be isolated
Ransomware-type infections can encrypt files on external storage devices and infect them. It is important to immediately isolate the infected computer (or device) from any potential infection.
Step 1Disconnect from the Internet
Unplugging the Ethernet cable from a computer is the easiest way to disconnect it from the internet. However, certain devices are connected via wireless networks and disconnecting cables can be difficult for some users, especially those with fewer tech skills. You can also unplug the Ethernet cable from the motherboard via Control Panel.
Navigate to “Control PanelClick the search bar at the top-right corner of your screen and enter “Network and Sharing CentreSelect “and select search result:
Click on the “Modify adapter settings“Option in the upper-left corner
Right-click each connection point to select “Disable“. The system will be disconnected from the internet once it has been disabled. You can re-enable connection points by right-clicking again and selecting “Allow”
Step 2 Unplug all storage devices.
Ransomware, which can encrypt data or infiltrate any storage devices connected to the computer, could be mentioned. All external storage devices, such as flash drives and portable hard drives should be removed immediately. To prevent data corruption, all external storage devices (flash drives, portable hard drives, etc.) should be removed immediately.
Navigate to “My ComputerClick on the right-click icon for each device and choose “Eject”
Step 3Log out of cloud storage accounts
Some ransomware-type might be able to hijack software that handles data stored within “the Cloud”. The data might be encrypted or corrupted. You should therefore log out from all cloud storage accounts using browsers or other software. You can also temporarily uninstall the cloud-management software to ensure that the infection does not return completely.
Identify ransomware infections
It is essential to identify the infection before you can properly treat it. Ransomware infections can use the ransom-demand message as an introduction (see below the WALDO ransomware text).
However, this is very rare. Ransomware infections typically send more direct messages, stating that encrypted data has been accessed and that ransom must be paid. You should note that ransomware infections can generate messages with file names different from normal (e.g. “Ransomware” instead of “RSA Infected”._readme.txt“, READ-ME.txt“, DECRYPTION_INSTRUCTIONS.txt“, DECRYPT_FILES.html“, etc.). It may be tempting to use the ransom message name to identify the infection. However, most of these names are generic. Some infections even use the same names even though the messages received are different and the infections are not related. The message filename can cause permanent data loss and ineffectiveness. Users may also end up permanently damaging files if they try to decrypt them using ransomware-specific tools.
You can also check for ransomware infections by checking the file extension. This extension is added to encrypted files. Ransomware infections are commonly named after the extensions they add (see below for files encrypted with Qewe ransomware).
However, this method only works if the appended extension has a unique meaning – ransomware infections often add a generic extension to their ransomware (e.g. “.encrypted“,Enc“,.crypted“,.locked“, etc.). These cases make it impossible to identify ransomware via its attached extension.
One of the easiest and quickest ways to identify a ransomware infection is to use the ID Ransomware website. This website supports all ransomware infections. Victims can upload a ransom note and/or an encrypted file. We recommend that you upload both, if possible.
Within seconds, the ransomware can be identified and you will receive details such as the malware family that it belongs to, its scriptability, and other details.
Example 1: Qewe [Stop/Djvu] ransomware
Example 2 (.iso [Phobos] ransomware).
If ransomware has encrypted your data, ID Ransomware does not support it. You can search the internet using specific keywords such as ransom message title and file extension. You can find out more.
Look for ransomware encryption tools
Ransomware-type infections use extremely complex encryption algorithms. Only the developer can restore data if it is done correctly. Decryption is possible only if a key is created during encryption. It is impossible to restore data without this key. Cybercriminals usually store keys on remote servers rather than using infected machines as hosts. Dharma (Crysis), Phobos, and other ransomware families are almost flawless. It is impossible to restore encrypted data without their involvement. Despite this, there are dozens of ransomware-type infections that are poorly developed and contain several flaws (for example, the use of identical encryption/decryption keys for each victim, keys stored locally, etc.). Always ensure that you have the right tools to decrypt any ransomware that infiltrates your system.
It can be difficult to find the right decryption tool online. We recommend using the No More Ransom Project to identify ransomware infections. The No More Ransom Project website contains a “Decryption Tools” section with a search bar. You can enter the name of the ransomware to see a list of all decryptors if any.
Use data recovery tools to restore files
It all depends on the circumstances (quality of ransomware, the encryption algorithm used, etc. It is possible to restore data using third-party tools depending on the situation (quality of ransomware infection, type of encryption algorithm used, etc. Therefore, we advise you to use the Recuva tool developed by CCleaner. This tool supports more than a thousand data types (graphics and audio as well as documents). It is easy to use and requires very little knowledge to recover data. The recovery feature is also completely free.
Step 1Do a scan.
Follow the wizard to run the Recuva app. There will be several windows that allow you to select the file types and locations to be scanned. Select the options that you want and then start the scan. We recommend that you enable the “Deep Scan” Before you start, or else, your application’s scanning capabilities may be limited.
Wait for Recuva’s scan to be completed. It all depends on how large the files are (both their quantity and size). For example, scanning several hundred gigabytes can take more than an hour. Be patient while scanning. Modifying or deleting files that are already in use is not recommended as this could cause problems during scanning. This will slow down the scanning process if you add more data, such as downloading content or files, to your scan.
Step 2 Recover data.
After the process is completed, choose the folders/files that you wish to recover and click “Recover”. To restore data, you will need some space on your storage drive.
Create data backups:
Data security is best achieved through proper file management and backups. Always be careful and always think ahead.
Partition management is best to store your data in multiple locations and not just one partition. We also recommend that you do not keep important files on the same partition as the operating system. You will lose all data if you are forced to format the drive on which the operating system is installed. This is why you should have multiple partitions. If you have all of your storage devices assigned to one partition, you will need to delete them all. However, creating multiple partitions and properly allocating data can help you avoid such situations. It is possible to format one partition without affecting others. Your data will not be affected and will be deleted. It is easy to manage partitions. You can find all of the information here. Microsoft’s documentation page.
Backup of data: An external storage device is a reliable backup method. Keep it unplugged. Copy your data to an external storage device such as a flash drive, SSD, HDD, or flash drive. Then unplug it, and place it somewhere dry, away from sunlight and extreme temperatures. However, this method can be quite inefficient as data backups and updates must be done regularly. A cloud service or remote server can also be used. An internet connection is necessary. There is always the possibility of security breaches, but it is rare.
We recommend using Microsoft OneDrive for backing up your files. OneDrive allows you to store and sync your personal files and data across computers and mobile devices. This allows you to access your files from any Windows device. OneDrive allows you to save, share, preview, and delete files. You can also access your download history and move, delete, or rename files.
Your most important files and folders on your computer can be backed up (your Desktop folder, Documents folder, and Pictures folder). OneDrive’s most notable features include file versioning. This allows you to keep older versions of files for as long as 30 days. OneDrive also has a recycling bin that stores all your deleted files for a short time. The user can delete files but they are not included in the allocation.
The service is built using HTML5 technologies and allows you to upload files up to 300 MB via drag and drop into the web browser or up to 10 GB via the OneDrive desktop application. OneDrive allows you to download entire folders in a single ZIP file, with up to 10,000 files. However, it cannot exceed 15GB per download.
OneDrive comes with 5GB of storage free of charge. Additional 100GB, 1TB and 6TB storage options are available for a subscription fee. These storage plans can be purchased separately or combined with an Office 365 subscription.
How to create a backup of your data:
All file types and folders can be backed up the same way. Microsoft OneDrive can be used to back up your files.
Step 1Select the files/folders that you wish to back up.
Click hereOneDrive cloud icon to open the one drive menu. You can also customize your file backup settings from this menu.
ClickHelp and SettingsThen, selectSettingsSelect the drop-down menu.
Visit the backup tab click here backup.
You can choose to back up the menu.desktop files that are contained therein.DocumentsAndPicturesFolders with all files inside. ClickBackup.
You can now add files or folders to the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. They will automatically be backed up on OneDrive.
You must manually add files and folders to your computer, not at the places shown above.
Open File ExplorerNavigate to the folder/file that you wish to back up.Right-click the item you wish to purchase click here copy.
Then, Navigate to OneDrive by right-clicking click anywhere on the window. Paste. You can also drag and drop files into OneDrive. OneDrive will automatically create backups of the file/folder.
All files that are added to the OneDrive folder automatically get backed up in the cloud. The checkmark inside the green circle indicates that the file is both available locally and online. It also shows that the file version is identical on both. The blue cloud icon signifies that the file is not synced and can only be accessed on OneDrive. The sync icon means that the file is currently being synchronized.
Access files only on OneDrive online: Go to the help and SettingsDrop-down menu and select view online.
Step 2Repair corrupt files
OneDrive ensures that files are kept in sync so that they remain the same on both the cloud and on your computer. You can still use OneDrive if ransomware has encrypted your files.OneDrive Version history this feature will allow you to restore the file versions before encryption.
Microsoft 365 includes a ransomware detection function that alerts you when OneDrive files are being attacked and guides you through the process to restore your files. You will only receive one file recovery and detection if you do not have a Microsoft 365 subscription.
You can restore your entire OneDrive if it is corrupted or deleted. Here are the steps to restore your entire OneDrive.
1. Click the button if you are signed in using a personal account. Setting cog at the top of this page. Then, click here are many optionsSelectRestore your OneDrive.
Click the button if you are signed in with a school or work account. Setting cog at the top of this page. Then, click Restore your OneDrive.
2. 2.Select a date from our drop-down menu. You will need to choose a restore date if you are restoring files after ransomware detection.
3. Click here after configuring all file restoration options.RestoreYou can undo all activities that you have selected.
It is important to keep your backups up-to-date to prevent ransomware infections.