A ransomware referring to itself as RAA and RAA SEP is running in the wild. What makes it unique is that it comes along with the Pony Infostealer Trojan and is written entirely in Javascript. The ransomware encrypts files with .locked extension. 250 US dollars is the sum asked for ransom payment. To see how to remove the ransomware and what to try for restoring your files, you should read this article carefully to the end.
Threat Summary
| Name | RAA SEP Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware is written entirely on JavaScript and is actually a .JS file. The virus will encrypt files putting the extension .locked to them and ask for a ransom of 250 US dollars. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will lock your files with .locked extension. !!!README!!!.rtf file created containing instructions for payment. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Suspicious Sites |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss RAA SEP Ransomware. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
RAA SEP Ransomware – Distribution Method
RAA SEP ransomware is in actuality a .JS file. That file can be distributed with spam emails. Such emails spread malware as attachments. The malicious code is most often found inside these attachments. However, only by opening emails like that, might get your PC infected because the body of the email may contain the malware code.
Social media networks and file-sharing websites are probably also used as mediums to deliver the unwanted crypto-virus. The infection spreads along with an information-stealing Trojan known for a long time as Pony Loader.
The best prevention tactic against such malware is to be extremely careful in what you click, download or open while using the Internet. Avoid suspicious files and links, especially if they have an unknown origin.
RAA SEP Ransomware – A Closer Look
RAA or also known as RAA SEP is ransomware that has these names in its code and refers to itself with those names. Not to mention that after the encryption process finishes, the following email is given for contact details – raa-consult1@keemail(.)me. The ransomware was found by two malware researchers who have the following twitter handles: @benkow_ and @JAMESWT_MHT.
The ransomware is written entirely in JavaScript. Some people say it’s JScript, but regardless of the name (the Sun Microsystems implementation or the Microsoft one), it is the same language. The Pony Loader infostealer might be spreading with that .JS file.
The RAA SEP ransomware creates the file !!!README!!!.rtf, after encryption. Inside that file you can find the ransom payment instructions. Here is how the file looks like:
The file is in Russian, but a rough translation in English will look like the following:
***ATTENTION !***
Your files have been encrypted virus RAA.
For encryption was used algorithm AES-256 is used to protect information of state secrets.
This means that data can be restored only by purchasing a key from us.
Buying key – a simple deed.All you need to:
1. Send your ID [random ID] to the postal address
raa-consult1@keemail(.)me.
2. Test decrypt few files in order to make sure that we do have the key.
3. Transfer 0.39 BTC ($ 250) to Bitcoin-address
15ADP9ErZTNgU8gBoJWFCujGbJXCRDzgTv.
For information on how to buy Bitcoin for rubles with any card –
//www.bestchange(.)ru/visa-mastercard-rur-to-bitcoin(.)html
4. Get the key and the program to decrypt the files.
5. Take measures to prevent similar situations in the future.Importantly (1).
Do not attempt to pick up the key, it is useless, and can destroy your data permanently.Importantly(2).
If the specified address (raa-consult1@keemail(.)me) you have not received a reply within 3 hours, you can use the service for communication Bitmessage (our address – BM-2cVCd439eH5kTS9PzG4NxGUAtSCxLywsnv).
More details about the program – //bitmessage(.)org/wiki/Main_PageImportantly (3).
We CAN NOT long keep your All keys, for which no fee has been paid, are removed within a week after infection.
README files located in the root of each drive.
The ransom price which is asked is 0.39 BitCoins, and although it is claimed that this is 250 US dollars, right now it is around 270 US Dollars. The paying instructions are written in Russian, so it is logical that mainly Rissian speaking countries will be infected. It is strongly unadvised to pay the ransom. Paying can only serve as motivation for the malware owners. Nothing can guarantee that you will get your files back after paying.
The RAA SEP ransomware uses an AES 256-bit algorithm for encryption. The file extensions that this ransomware searches to encrypt are:
→.doc, .docx, .xls, .rtf, .pdf, .dbf, .jpg, .dwg, .cdr, .psd, .cd, .csv, .mdb, .png, .LCD, .zip, .rar
After the encryption process is complete, all files will bear the same extension – .locked. This extension has also been utilized by the Cryptolocker.AA ransomware and by the MM Locker ransomware.
- Windows
- RECYCLER
- Recycle.Bin
- APPDATA
- TEMP
- Microsoft
- ProgramData
- Program Files (x86)
- Program Files
If the .JS file is uploaded on the VirusTotal website, you can see that some security programs are already detecting it:
RAA SEP ransomware is confirmed to also delete the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system.
Remove RAA SEP Ransomware and Restore .locked Encrypted Files
If your computer was infected by the RAA SEP ransomware, you should have some experience with removing malware. You should remove the ransomware as soon as you can as it may encrypt other files and further spread the network you are in currently. We recommend that you remove this ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions written below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for RAA SEP Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by RAA SEP Ransomware.
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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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.
RAA SEP Ransomware-FAQ
What is RAA SEP Ransomware Ransomware?
RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 .RAA SEP Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .RAA SEP Ransomware 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 .RAA SEP Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".RAA SEP Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this RAA SEP Ransomware 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 RAA SEP Ransomware 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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.