Spartacus Virus is a newly discovered malware instance that appears to be made by an unknown hacker or criminal group. The security researchers propose that future attacks might impement newer versions of the malware engine.
Threat Summary
| Name | Spartacus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The Spartacus virus is a malware that encrypts the target data with .spartacus. |
| Symptoms | The victims will find that their files are encrypted with the .Spartacus. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, File Sharing Networks, Exploit Kits |
| Detection Tool |
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Spartacus virus – Infection Spread
The Spartacus virus at the moment is being delivered to target users using a lot of different tactics. A preferred method is the use of email messages that use various social engineering tactics. In many cases the criminal operators opt to use graphics and text taken from well-known sites. This leaves the impression in the users that the received messages originate from the services and not from computer criminals.
The malware samples associated with the Spartacus virus can be either hyperlinked in the body contents or attached directly to the messages. A related method is to use various payload delivery mechanisms such as the following:
- Software Installers — The developers behind the Spartacus virus take legitimate setup files of popular software which are then customized with the malware instance. Examples include computer games, creativity suites and system utility programs.
- Malware Documents — Another strategy is to embed the dangerous code into documents of different types. Examples include rich text documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Once they are opened by the victims a notification prompt appears which asks the users to enable the built-in scripts (macros). If this is done the malware will be downloaded from a remote server and initiated on the local machine.
Such threats can also be delivered via browser hijackers. They are dangerous web browser plugins that are usually made compatible with the most popular applications (Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Opera, Safari, Microsoft Edge). The uploaders usually utiize fake credentials and user reviews and lure victims into downloading the files by posting elaborate descriptions. Once they have infiltrated the target systems various tracking technologies are employed in order to create a complete profile of the victims. The next step is to deploy virus threats such as this one.
Spartacus virus – Technical Data
The initial analysis of the threat shows that it does not contain code taken from the famous malware families. It is believed that it follows similar behavior patterns to other well-known malware. It is possible that the whole operation is run by an individual hacker or a criminal collective.
The engine used by Spartacus is modular in nature which makes it possible to extend its features in updated versions. Newer versions of it can launch an information gathering component. It is started after the infection has infiltrated the computer. Future versions of the virus that contain this module usually work by harvesting data that can be classified in two types:
- Private Data — The information can be used to directly expose the victims identity and is made up of the victims name, address, telephone numbers, location, interests, passwords and account credentials.
- Anonymous Metrics — The obtained information is used by the criminals for statistical purposes and usually contains data such as operating system configuration settings and a list of the avilable hardware components.Anonymous Metrics — The obtained information is used by the criminals for statistical purposes and usually contains data such as operating system configuration settings and a list of the available hardware components.
Another possible update is the inclusion of a protective module that can guard the the instances against removal. They typically use the gathered data in order to scan the system for any anti-virus products or other security software that can interfere with the prescribed malware execution. The follow-up steps are to cause system modification as programmed by the hacker operators. This can include any of the following:
- Windows Registry — The Spartacus virus can be programmed to create new entries in the Windows registry or modify existing ones. As a consequence the users may experience overall performance issues or the inability to launch certain applications or system services.
- Boot Options — The engine can remove the possibility into entering the recovery menu.
- Additional Malware Delivery — The Spartacus virus can be used to deliver additional threats if programmed to do so.
- Trojan Component — In certain cases the Spartacus virus can engage in a network connecton with a malware server. This connection is used to harvest sensitive data and take over control of the infected hosts.
Further code changes can be made depending on the specific hacker instructions.
Spartacus virus — Encryption Process
As soon as all components have executed correctly the ransomware component is started. It uses a complex cipher to encrypt target user data. The collected samples so far seem to target specific locations instead of individual file type extensions. One of the captured samples has been to act against data found in these folders:
- System
- ProgramData
- Desktop
- My Computer
- Desktop Directory
- Favorites
- Personal
- My Music
- History
- Personal
As a consequence all affected data will be renamed with the .Spartacus extension preceded by the hacker criminal email address in brackets. The ransomware note is created in a file caled READ ME.txt which contains the following message:
All your data has been locked us.
You want to return?
Write email MastersRecovery@protonmail.com or MastersRecovery@cock.li
Your personal ID KEY: DvQ9/mvfT3I7U847uKcI0QU3QLd+huv5NOYT2YhfiySde0vhmkzyTtRPlcu73BAJIL***
Additionally a lockscreen instance is used to further blackmail the victims. It is designed as a full-screen overlay which reads the following:
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us the e-mail:
MastersRecovery@protonmail.com and send personal ID KEY:
In case of no answer in 24 hours us to theese e-mail: MastersRecovery@cock.li
Remove Spartacus virus and Restore Your Files
If your computer got compromised and is infected with the Spartacus ransomware virus, you should have some experience with removing viruses before tampering with it. You should get rid of the ransomware fast before it can spread further on the network and encrypt more files. The recommended action for you is to remove the ransomware completely by following the step-by-step instructions written below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for Spartacus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 Spartacus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Spartacus.
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 Spartacus 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.
Spartacus-FAQ
What is Spartacus Ransomware?
Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 Spartacus Infect?
Via several ways.Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 .Spartacus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Spartacus 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 .Spartacus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Spartacus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 Spartacus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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 Spartacus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Spartacus 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 Spartacus 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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