Ransomware variation, associated with the e-mail centrumfr@india.com has been reported by malware researchers to use encryption to lock users out of their files and then leave a ransom note. The ransom note is named “Help to decrypt.txt” and it is very brief in it’s instructions on what to do. Everyone who has their files encrypted by the centrumfr@india.com virus, should not contact the e-mail in any circumstances since a decryptor may be available for this ransomware variant. To remove this ransomware virus and attempt to restore your files, it is strongly advisable to read this article thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name | Centrumfr@india.com!! |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | Centrumfr@india.com!! may be a part of the Shade/XTBL ransomware variants and may encrypt files with the AES-128 ciphers after which asks a ransom for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a .txt file. Encrypted files are appended the .centrumfr@india.com!! file extension |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| 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. |
Centrumfr@india.com Ransomware – How Does It Spread
To cause a successful infection, the Centrumfr@india.com virus may use a combination of tools. One of those tools may be a malicious executable that may be a Trojan.Downloader that drops the malware by downloading it from a third-party host or an Exploit Kit that uses exploits in Windows to cause an infection and drop the payload of Centrumfr@india.com. Another type of infection may occur via malicious web links that may cause a browser redirect to the malicious website itself. Such links could be posted anywhere, from spam messages on forums to fake e-mails disguised as buttons, like the spam e-mail below:
After being clicked on, the malicious URL may cause an infection via a JavaScript or another type of malware by downloading and executing it without the user noticing.
Centrumfr@india.com Ransomware – More Information
As soon as it has caused a successful infection, the Centrumfr@india.com virus may drop it’s payload by connecting to it’s C&C server and downloading it. The payload may be located in one or more of the several folders:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %SystemDrive%
- %Windows%
- %Temp%
After connecting to the remote server, the ransomware may also collect different information from the infected machine such as:
- IP address.
- Operating system information.
- Nationality and language data.
- Antivirus software installed (if any).
The Centrumfr@india.com Ransomware may also target the following registry keys to add values in them with the location of the malicious files so that they run when Windows boots up:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce “*Centrumfr@india.com”
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run “Centrumfr@india.com_{number}”
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce “*Centrumfr@india.com_{version}”
After the virus does the following, it may begin to encrypt the files of the infected computer. At this stage, it is unknown what types of files it may look for, but similar to other variants that use the @india.com e-mail as an extension, it may encode:
- Most types of Videos.
- Images.
- Audio files.
- Database files.
- Microsoft Office documents.
- Documents related to other widely used programs, like Adobe Reader, for example.
After encryption, the ransomware adds the centrumfr@india.com e-mail address as a file extension to the encrypted files’ names. An encrypted file may or may not look like the following:
In addition to this, the virus also creates a unique type of file, named a ransom note. The file is called “Help to decrypt.txt” and is very brief in it’s message to the victim:
Your key: {victim key}”
When we contacted the e-mail address, we received the following response:
→ Hello! Your files have been encrypted with cryptographic algorithm!
We suggest you purchase a decoder which
decrypt all your files in a fully automatic mode on the same day after
payment! (You not need to send any files to us). As we can guarantee – we can
decrypt files for free (2-3 total weight <= 5mb). For warranty
decryption (if required) you should send to us archived
test files in the response letter (even if you did it before).
The cost of the decoder: 500$ (five hundred dollars).
payment instructions:
1. Go to https://localbitcoins.com/
2. Register (sign up)
3. You need to buy Bitcoins from people. (You can pay with any method,
which is convenient to you)
4. Send purchased Bitcoins to our address listed
below. If you have any questions, you can contact support
this service, or email us. Our Bitcoin wallet: 13RtR9N5deidmhgVMqLvNR7BGW3tHbpEuF
The guarantee to decrypt.
1) I give decrypted files for you, and you see - i have decryptor.
2) Making personal decoder for you - it takes just 3-5 minutes. After payments - everyone gets a personal decoder without exception.
Write if you have any questions about the case. There is no bidding, requests to give free decoder and other unnecessary questions - will be ignored.
According to the amount payable. Price for this day - 500$, it will be relevant for two days, starting from you wrote to me. After spending two days - the price of the decoder will increase every day on 250$. It mean, for example, after 4 days from the time you contact me, if you still have not paid the decoder - the amount will be 1000$. (except for two days without a price penalty).
Centrumfr@india.com – Conclusion, Removal and File Decryption
The ransomware virus is believed by researchers to be a part of the Shade/XTBL ransomware variants. To remove Centrumfr@india.com Ransomware, we strongly urge you to follow the step-by-step removal instructions that are posted after this article. They are designed to help properly and methodologically get rid of this virus. In case you are not tech savvy, experts advise following instructions, like our Automatic removal instructions below that will help remove this and other viruses on your computer at a click of a button.
A decryptor has been released for the FenixLocker ransomware virus. In order to decrypt your files for free, we advise you to see the instructions in the web link below:
FenixLocker Decryption and Removal Instructions
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Centrumfr@india.com!! with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Centrumfr@india.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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.com!! 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 Centrumfr@india.com!!
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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.
Centrumfr@india.com!!-FAQ
What is Centrumfr@india.com!! Ransomware?
Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.com!! Infect?
Via several ways.Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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 .Centrumfr@india.com!! files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Centrumfr@india.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 .Centrumfr@india.com!! files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Centrumfr@india.com!!" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.com!! ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.com!! Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Centrumfr@india.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 Centrumfr@india.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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
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