This article will help you to remove the Jigsaw ransomware completely. Follow the ransomware removal instructions given at the bottom of the article.
The .Game File Virus is in actuality Jigsaw ransomware. The cryptovirus is back with a new picture and ransom screen, along a new ransom message. Although it differs a bit compared to past variants, it is based on the code of the original malware. The virus has a list with over 120 file extensions that seeks to encrypt. All of the locked files will get the extension .Game appended to them.
Threat Summary
| Name | .Game File Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware will encrypt your files and display a screen with the ransom note, which is themed around the movie “IT” and a character written by Stephen King. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt files by placing the .Game extension to all of them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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| User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .Game File Virus. |
.Game File Virus (Jigsaw) – Update July 2018
A variant of the .Game File Virus has been spotted by malware researchers in July, 2018. You can preview the sample posted on the VirusTotal service in the below screenshot:
As you can see above, multiple security engines are already detecting the threat.
The new variant encrypts files and places another extension to them (compared to the .Game File Virus), which is .beep. That version is not only decryptable, but you can also unlock your PC and file data by putting in the correct unlock key listed in the box down here:
If you enter the code incorrectly you will get a message saying: “Wrong key! Try again!”
In the above screenshot, you can see the screen and picture that show for entering the decryption key incorrectly (on the left), and how the screen and picture change if you entered the correct key in the appropriate field (on the right). The images with the clown featured on the right corner of the screen are both animated gif images that have the same theme as the main one.
.Game File Virus (Jigsaw) – Spread
Jigsaw ransomware could infect computers using different methods for spreading that infection. Spam e-mails could be spreading its payload dropper. Those types of emails will try to convince you that something important is attached as a file to that e-mail. In actuality, the attachment will look like a legitimate document or one that is archived, but it is a file containing a malicious script. If you open that file, it will launch the payload for the ransomware. You can preview the analysis of one such file on the VirusTotal service:
Jigsaw ransomware might be using other methods for spreading, like putting the payload file dropper via social media and file-sharing sites. Freeware applications which roam the Internet could be presented as useful but also could hide the malicious files of this virus. Refrain from opening files after you download them, especially if they come from unverified sources, such as links and e-mails. First, you should scan these files with a security tool, and also make sure to check their sizes and signatures for anything that seems unusual. You should read the ransomware preventing tips topic in the forum.
.Game File Virus (Jigsaw) – Description
The Jigsaw ransomware ransomware virus is back with this new variant. This time the theme is based around the Stephen King’s character Pennywise the Clown seen in the original “IT” movie. That makes it somewhat different compared to the original Jigsaw ransomware virus.
When the Jigsaw virus is initialized, it could modify an existing entry in the Windows Registry or create a new one to achieve a higher level of persistence. That registry entry makes the malware to automatically execute with each launch of the Windows operating system.
Next, a window will pop-up on your screen that shows the Pennywise character and text being typed out with green letters. That text is the ransom message with information and instructions for payment.
The text of the ransom note reads:
Your personal files are being deleted. Your photos, videos, documents, etc…
But, don’t worry! It will only happen if you don’t comply.
However I’ve already encrypted your personal files, so you cannot access them.
Every hour I select some of them to delete permanently, therefore I won’t be able to access them, either.
If you turn off your computer or try to close me, when I start next time you will get 1000 files deleted as a punishment.
Yes you will want me to start next time, since I am the only one that is capable to decrypt your personal data for you.
Meanwhile….. You want a balloon? Hahahahaha_
The Jigsaw ransomware scares you that it will delete files from your computer every time you try to close it and that there is nothing else that you can do to prevent that. However, that is a lie. But you should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum as the note is lying to you about the decryption as well – the virus remains decryptable. Supporting cybercriminals is a bad idea as that will only motivate them to do more criminal acts.
.Game File Virus (Jigsaw) – Encryption Process
The list is with a little over than 125 file extensions that will become encrypted. The full list is the following:
→.3dm, .3g2, .3gp, .7zip, .aaf, .accdb, .aep, .aepx, .aet, .ai, .aif, .as, .as3, .asf, .asp, .asx, .avi, .bmp, .c, .class, .cpp, .cs, .csv, .dat, .db, .dbf, .doc, .docb, .docm, .docx, .dot, .dotm, .dotx, .dwg, .dxf, .efx, .eps, .fla, .flv, .gif, .h, .idml, .iff, .indb, .indd, .indl, .indt, .inx, .jar, .java, .jpeg, .jpg, .js, .m3u, .m3u8, .m4u, .max, .mdb, .mid, .mkv, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpa, .mpeg, .mpg, .msg, .pdb, .pdf, .php, .plb, .pmd, .png, .pot, .potm, .potx, .ppam, .ppj, .pps, .ppsm, .ppsx, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .prel, .prproj, .ps, .psd, .py, .ra, .rar, .raw, .rb, .rtf, .sdf, .sdf, .ses, .sldm, .sldx, .sql, .svg, .swf, .tif, .txt, .vcf, .vob, .wav, .wma, .wmv, .wpd, .wps, .xla, .xlam, .xll, .xlm, .xls, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xlt, .xltm, .xltx, .xlw, .xml, .xqx, .xqx, .zip
The list with file extensions for encryption is around the number of 127 but it could have been updated with more than that. The encrypted files will have the .Game extension appended to all of them, after their file name. The extension .Beep might still be appended in some variants of the ransomware a bit older than the current one.
The Jigsaw ransomware is very likely to erase all Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system, in order to make the encryption process more viable. The command for that is the following:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
A decryption tool developed by the malware researcher Michael Gillespie is available for you to try out. Since this variant is new, the decrypter might not work yet, but you should definitely consider running it. You can find it in the bottom of the article.
Remove Jigsaw Virus and Restore .Game Files
If your computer got infected with the Jigsaw ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .Game File Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .Game File 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 .Game File 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 .Game File 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 .Game File Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .Game File 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 .Game File 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.
.Game File Virus-FAQ
What is .Game File Virus Ransomware?
.Game File 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 .Game File 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 .Game File Virus Infect?
Via several ways..Game File 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 .Game File 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 ..Game File Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..Game File 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 ..Game File Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..Game File Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..Game File 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 .Game File 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 .Game File Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..Game File 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 .Game File 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 .Game File Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .Game File 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 .Game File 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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