Another variant of the many Troldesh ransomware variants leaving the e-mail Grand_car@aol.com has been detected in the wild. The ransomware virus is reported to use an advanced AES encryption algorith with 128-bit strength, the decryption for which is reported to be next to impossible. The ransomware has been reported to spread via several multiple ways by ESG malware researchers. It may also drop a ransom note where it may leave instructions on how to decrypt user files after the affected users pay a ransom payoff, which is usually in BitCoin. We advise you to read this article to learn how to remove Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware from your computer and restore your encrypted files.
Decrypt Files Encrypted by Shade Ransowmare
Threat Summary
Name | Grand_car@aol.com |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | A variant of the .XTBL ransomware viruses. Encrypts files with a strong encryption and drops a ransom note with payoff for decryption instructions. |
Symptoms | After encryption the ransomware may steal information and appends .xtbl extension after every file. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Grand_car@aol.com 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. |
Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware – Distribution Strategy
For it to infect users, the virus may utilize several different technologies. No matter what type of technology it uses, whether it is remove brute forcing to control the computer, Exploit Kits, JavaScript or directly inserting obfuscated executables, the infection may proceed in two main ways.
One scenario is if the user clicks on a malicious URL that may cause a browser redirect and the infection of the user PC via a JavaScript or a drive-by-download.
Another scenario is for users to open a malicious e-mail attachments that may be obfuscated from their antivirus and cause the infection. Such attachments usually exist in several different forms, but most of them resemble either Microsoft Office documents or Adobe Reader PDF files.
Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware – How Does It Work?
After the Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware has infected your computer, the virus might connect to a remote location and send the following information to the attackers:
- Windows version.
- IP networking information.
- Antivirus software is installed.
Based on such information the actual payload may be dropped in concealed form that prevents detections from any antivirus software that might be installed on the user PC. The malicious files may be dropped in several Windows locations and under different names:
Typical to the XTBL ransomware variants is to also drop ransom note type of files in the Startup folder of Windows to make these viruses run when Windows boots up. Here is the default location of the folder:
→C:\Users\
In addition to having done this, the Grand_car@aol.com virus may also execute a privileged command in Windows command prompt, called “vssadmin delete shadows” that will delete the Windows Shadow Volume Copies without the user even noticing it has happened.
When it has been executed and started to encrypt files, Grand_car@aol.com ransomware may look for a pre-programmed set of file extensions that it will encode:
→ .odc, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt, .docm, .docx, .doc, .odb, .mp4, sql, .7z, .m4a, .rar, .wma, .gdb, .tax, .pkpass, .bc6, .bc7, .avi, .wmv, .csv, .d3dbsp, .zip, .sie, .sum, .ibank, .t13, .t12, .qdf, .bkp, .qic, .bkf, .sidn, .sidd, .mddata, .itl, .itdb, .icxs, .hvpl, .hplg, .hkdb, .mdbackup, .syncdb, .gho, .cas, .svg, .map, .wmo, .itm, .sb, .fos, .mov, .vdf, .ztmp, .sis, .sid, .ncf, .menu, .layout, .dmp, .blob, .esm, .vcf, .vtf, .dazip, .fpk, .mlx, .kf, .iwd, .vpk, .tor, .psk, .rim, .w3x, .fsh, .ntl, .arch00, .lvl, .snx, .cfr, .ff, .vpp_pc, .lrf, .m2, .mcmeta, .vfs0, .mpqge, .kdb, .db0, .dba, .rofl, .hkx, .bar, .upk, .das, .iwi, .litemod, .asset, .forge, .ltx, .bsa, .apk, .re4, .sav, .lbf, .slm, .bik, .epk, .rgss3a, .pak, .big, wallet, .wotreplay, .xxx, .desc, .py, .m3u, .flv, .js, .css, .rb, .png, .jpeg, .txt, .p7c, .p7b, .p12, .pfx, .pem, .crt, .cer, .der, .x3f, .srw, .pef, .ptx, .r3d, .rw2, .rwl, .raw, .raf, .orf, .nrw, .mrwref, .mef, .erf, .kdc, .dcr, .cr2, .crw, .bay, .sr2, .srf, .arw, .3fr, .dng, .jpe, .jpg, .cdr, .indd, .ai, .eps, .pdf, .pdd, .psd, .dbf, .mdf, .wb2, .rtf, .wpd, .dxg, .xf, .dwg, .pst, .accdb, .mdb, .pptm, .pptx, .ppt, .xlk, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xls, .wps.Source:fileinfo.com
This is usually done to avoid any critical Windows files being encrypted and hence prevent Windows from ever starting again.
The files which are encrypted by the Grand_car@aol.com ransomware virus are left with a quite long file extension. It may either be the .xtbl or .CrySiS file extension and in addition to that it includes:
- Unique alpha-numerical identifier.
- The e-mail address Grand_car@aol.com.
Files that have been encoded with this file extension may look like the following example:
Grand_car@aol.com Virus – Conclusion, Removal, and File Restoration
As a bottom line, there are many variants of this virus and malware researchers feel convinced that it may be sold directly as a pack of tools for infection and distribution in the deep web forums. Not only this, but the virus is also reported to be a part of a RaaS (ransomware as a service) scheme, and it might also have various modifications, depending on each variant. Either way, researchers strongly advise not to pay any ransom asked by cyber-criminals and wait for a decrypter to be released.
To completely delete Grand_car@aol.com virus, it is strongly advisable to follow the removal instructions posted below. They along with some of the information in this article may help you locate and delete the files and objects associated with Grand_car@aol.com ransomware. In case manual removal fails or you feel like the virus is still on your computer, it is them almost a must to download and install an advanced anti-malware software on your computer or reinstall it and copy the files to another carrier.
If you want to restore your files, you may want to use the alternative tools in step “3.Restore files encrypted by Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware”. Bear in mind, that you should make copies of the encrypted files, just in case direct decryption methods damage them in a way.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Grand_car@aol.com with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Grand_car@aol.com.
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 Grand_car@aol.com 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.
Grand_car@aol.com-FAQ
What is Grand_car@aol.com Ransomware?
Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com Infect?
Via several ways.Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 .Grand_car@aol.com files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Grand_car@aol.com 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 .Grand_car@aol.com files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Grand_car@aol.com" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Grand_car@aol.com 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 Grand_car@aol.com 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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