What Is Avyu Virus?
Avyu virus is the name of a ransomware infection, whose primary purpose is to get in your computer and begin encrypting your files so that it can extort you later into paying a ransom in Bitcoin to get them back. This particular infection belongs to a large ransomware family of threats, also known as the Djvu viruses. It uses the _readme.txt ransom note and the .avyu file extension which it adds after each encrypted file name.
Read this article to learn more about how this virus spreads, what does it do on your computer and how you can get rid of it safely and try to get your files to work again.
Avyu Virus Summary
Name | Avyu virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
File Extension | .avyu |
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 Avyu Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .avyu extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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Avyu Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
Avyu virus is similar to other such infections, like .bbbw, .bbbe and .bbbr ones.
It enters your computer in a couple of ways, and one of them is if the virus is sent to you via email, pretending to be a document that is important, for example:
- Work-related files.
- “Password changed” types of e-mails.
- Receipts.
- Invoices.
- Flight tickets.
- Train tickets.
- Documents for an upcoming event.
Be advised, that most of these documents contain malicious script, that when opened may trigger the following infection process:
Another way this infection can end up on your device is if it is download it from some shady website, where it pretends to be a legitimate executable that you may have been looking to download for free:
- Keygens for programs or games.
- Patches.
- SFX or other archives carrying game mods or similar files.
- Fake installers.
- Portable versions of programs that are cracked.
- Software crackfixes.
Avyu Virus – What Does It Do?
Once added on your device, the Avyu virus may connect to a remote host from where it may situate its payload files directly on your drive, more specifically in the following Windows directories under different names:
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
The virus may also use the _readme.txt note, to notify the victim of the situation and what they must do to get their files to work again:
Among the activities of this ransomware infection, is attacking some of the Registry keys of Windows, like the following:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
What Are .avyu Files
The .avyu files are the encrypted copies of your original data. These files are encoded, which means part of their data is altered using the AES encryption algorithm. This produces a unique decryption key that is used to get the fans back to their normal working state. The virus scans for the following types of files, based on their file extensions to encrypt them:
- Audio file formats (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video file kinds (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archive file types (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of all sorts (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Other files.
After the encryption is complete, the malware creates copies of the original files and adds the file extension it uses, making the files appear like the following examples shows:
Picture.jpg.avyu
How to Remove Avyu Virus?
If you want to remove the .avyu virus immediately from your computer, then we suggest that you use the information in this article in combination with the removal guide beneath it. It has been created with the primary purpose to provide you with the necessary assistance to delete this virus either manually or automatically. For the most effective removal, security experts would recommend that you download and run a scan of your computer system, using anti-malware software. Such a security to created to perform an effective scan on your device and get it rid of the virus thoroughly, while ensuring future protection.
How to Decrypt .avyu Files?
Avyu virus files can be decrypted in case you have online key. What is achievable by following the instructions in our STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide. Another way to try is to watch the video guide below, in case you prefer this way of decryption.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Avyu virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Avyu 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Avyu 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 Avyu virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Avyu virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Avyu 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 Avyu 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.
Avyu virus-FAQ
What is Avyu virus Ransomware?
Avyu 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 Avyu 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 Avyu virus Infect?
Via several ways.Avyu 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 Avyu 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 .Avyu virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Avyu 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 .Avyu virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Avyu virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Avyu 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 Avyu 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 Avyu virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Avyu 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 Avyu 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 Avyu virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Avyu 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 Avyu 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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