This article has been created in order to help you by explaining how to remove the .enc file version of Meine_ransomware_PGP_DANGEROUS from your computer and try to restore files that have been encrypted by it.
A new ransomware infection has been detected by malware researchers to use a combination of strong ciphers to encrypt the files on It’s victims’ computers and then leave behind the .enc file extension as a file suffix. The ransomware virus then leaves behind a ransom note, called ENCRYPTION_DETAILS.txt. In this ransom note it aims to scare victims to visit a custom URL where they are asked to pay ransom in order to recover their encrypted files.
Update October 2019. Our research indicates that the .enc ransomware is once again attacking users, so be careful with opening attached files in emails and downloading from freeware websites.
Threat Summary
| Name | .enc Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The .enc files virus encrypts the files on your PC and asks for hefty ransom to be paid in order to restore them back to their working state. |
| Symptoms | The files on your computer are encrypted after which the malware sets the .enc file extension as a suffix and adds the ransom note ENCRYPTION_DETAILS.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| 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 .enc Files Virus. |
| 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. |
.enc Files Virus – How Does It Spread
The main method which is used by this variant of Meine Ransomware is believed to be e-mail spam messages that contain deceptive content. The end goal of those e-mails that are sent to victims is to convince them into opening an e-mail attachment or clicking on a web link. To do that, the e-mails often have interesting statements, that make them appear trustworthy, similar to what that example e-mail below shows:
In addition to this, the malware may also come as a result of the hackers uploading a malicious file, posing as a legitimate one the victim might be searching for, like:
- Setup of a program.
- Software license activator.
- Patch.
- Crack.
- Key generator.
.enc Files Virus – More Information
Once the .enc version of Meine Ransomware has infected your computer, the virus may start dropping it’s payload on the victim’s computer. The payload may consist of various types of files being dropped on the victim’s PC, primarily in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
Once the malicious files have been dropped on the victim’s computer, the malware may begin it’s malicious activities. The first one of those is believed to be modifying the following Windows registry sub-keys, responsible for multiple different types of activities, the main of which is to run the malicious file of the .enc virus automatically when you login Windows. The sub-keys targeted for this purpose are believed to be the Run and RunOnce ones, with the following locations:
→ 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
In addition to this, the .enc ransomware may also modify the following sub-keys as well:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
After having done this, the Meine Ransomware which is believed to be a variant of PGP ransomware virus is reported to possibly delete the shadow volume copies by injecting a script which runs Windows Command Prompt with the following commands in it:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
The ransomware also drops it’s ransom note, called ENCRYPTION_DETAILS.txt and it’s primary goal is to get victims to visit a randomly generated URL which may lead to further ransom instructions. The ransom note has the following message in it:
Your files have been encrypted! Follow this URL
{random google.com URL}
to get the decryption key and the program
The URL is believed to lead to further instructions for decryption where the victim is likely going to pay the ransom.
.enc Files Virus – Encryption Process
In order to encrypt the files on the victim’s computer, this ransomware virus uses a combination of the RSA and AES encryption algorithms. They are used in a way that one cipher encrypts the files on the computer, like:
- Documents.
- Videos.
- Images.
- Audio files.
- Video files.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drive files.
- Other files.
The other cipher, which is usually the RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman), which is quite the headache and cannot be solved even by supercomputers aims to encrypt the AES asymmetric decryption key afterwards. After the encryption process has finished, the Meine Ransomware sets the .enc file extension to the encrypted files, making them to appear like the following:
Remove .enc Files Virus and Restore Encrypted Files
To delete this ransomware infection from your computer, security researchers strongly advise using an advanced anti-malware program. It’s primary goal is to help you to effectively delete all of the malicious objects associated with this virus from your PC either manually or automatically. In the scenario that you lack the experience of removing this virus manually or you feel unsure that the virus files may still remain on your PC, be advised that security experts always recommend to use an advanced anti-malware software. It will automatically get rid of Meine Ransomware and make sure that your PC remains protected against future infections as well.
In addition to this, if you want to restore the files encrypted by this ransomware, reccomendations are to follow the alternative file recovery methods underneath in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .enc Files Virus”. They may not be 100% effective and able to restore all of your files, but may help to recover at least some of them.
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 .enc Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 .enc Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .enc Files 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 .enc Files 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.
.enc Files Virus-FAQ
What is .enc Files Virus Ransomware?
.enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 .enc Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 ..enc Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..enc Files 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 ..enc Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..enc Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 .enc Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..enc Files 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 .enc Files 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 .enc Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .enc Files 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 .enc Files 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.
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.