.21btc virus file – what is it? The virus is known as Dharma ransomware which encrypts files and demands a ransom. .21btc virus file uses 21btc@cock.li as mail for contacting the cybercriminals.
The .21btc Dharma virus as a new representative of this ransomware family has been detected in an ongoing attack campaign. One of the reasons why it is regarded as dangerous to computer victims is because it follows the common actions of this malware type. Threats of this family are known to spread using different mechanisms and once they are deployed on a given device they will lead to numerous computer changes, including the encryption of user’s data and blackmail of the victims.
.21btc virus Summary
| Name | .21btc virus |
| File Extension | .21btc |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .21btc extension to them, along with a unique identification number placing the new .21btc extension as a secondary. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .21btc virus. |
.21btc File Virus (Dharma Ransomware) – What Is It and How Did I Get It?
A new version of the Dharma ransomware has been detected bearing the .21btc extension. It is a new strain that has been developed by an unknown hacking group and delivered to target end-users by using several distribution tactics. We assume that the same popular mechanism is going to be used by the criminals as seen by previous Dharma ransomware examples. While at this time the identity of the hackers is not known, hacking groups can purchase custom versions of the malware, it is possible that this .21btc files virus is such a case.
Common methods to get infected with ransomware rely on various tactics to manipulate the victims into downloading and running virus-infected files. They can be the virus files themselves created in executable files or different types of infection carriers. Common examples of such are macro-infected documents, they are created in popular formats that the users typically download and run from the Internet. When they are opened by the victims a prompt will be launched asking them to enable the built-in code, this will actually trigger the relevant infection. An alternative to this is the distribution of malicious application installers — they are made by taking the original setup files and adding in the necessary virus code.
All of these files can be spread to various outlets from where users typically download files. The criminals use covert and fake identities to spread them. This includes download portals, sharing data on BitTorrent trackers, social media and etc. The .21btc virus will start the relevant infection as soon as the virus is started on a given system. At this moment there is no detailed virus analysis of them available yet. However given the fact that this appears to be a generic derivative of the Dharma ransomware family, we assume that the typical behavior will start.
At the beginning of the infection, many Dharma ransomware infections choose to start a security bypass function, programmed to detect and stop any installed security applications and services such as anti-virus programs, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. This can be followed by information gathering, a process that is designed to hijack sensitive user’s data and operating system values. The collected information can be used by another module for the purpose of creating a unique identifier for each host. It can be quoted later on in the ransom note or applied in some way to the extension placed on the locked files. Sensitive information can also be used by criminals to carry out crimes such as identity theft or blackmail.
Any system changes that are planned are carried out can be the following:
- Persistent Installation — The .21btc virus samples can reconfigure the victim operating systems to start automatically when the computers are launched. This may also block access to certain recovery options, thereby making it very difficult to effectively restore the computers.
- Windows Registry and Configuration Files Changes — They can severely disrupt the normal functioning of the computers. This can result in data loss, the inability to launch certain services, and etc.
- Data Removal — .21btc virus versions can be programmed to delete important files on the affected computers such as backups and shadow volume copies.
- Other Virus Installations — This Dharma ransomware example can be efficiently utilized to deploy other malware to the affected computers. One of the most common example is the installation of Trojan horse infections — they install a local agent software to the affected computers. It allows the hackers to hijack control of the computers and steal users data.
When the .21btc virus starts its ransomware component a strong cipher will be applied to the victim files. Important users’ data will be usually affected: backups, documents, text files, multimedia files, archives, and etc. All of the affected files will receive the .21btc extension. In folders where there are processed files, the hackers will place ransom notes which are text files that include instructions on how to pay the hackers a decryption fee.
Remove .21btc File Virus (Dharma)
If your computer got infected with the .21btc File Virus, you should be experienced in removing malware manually. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the opportunity to spread further and infect more machines. You should remove the ransomware and follow the instructions guide provided with easy-to-follow steps below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for .21btc virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .21btc virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .21btc virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by .21btc virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .21btc virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .21btc virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and .21btc virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
.21btc virus-FAQ
What is .21btc virus Ransomware?
.21btc virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does .21btc virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does .21btc virus Infect?
Via several ways..21btc virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of .21btc virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open ..21btc virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..21btc virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your ..21btc virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..21btc virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..21btc virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of .21btc virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate .21btc virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..21btc virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can .21btc virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the .21btc virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .21btc virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the .21btc virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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