The OBLIVION virus is a newly discovered threat that uses the built-in ransomware engine to rename target sensitive files with the .OBLIVION extension. Our in-depth removal guide shows how victims can recover the data and remove the threat from their computers.
Threat Summary
| Name | Oblivion |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .OBLIVION extension and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Oblivion. |
| 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. |
OBLIVION Virus – Distribution Ways
The Oblivion virus was discovered in a very limited attack campaign. At the moment it cannot be told which is the primary delivery method however we assume that the hacker or group behind it will use the most popular tactics.
One of the common methods is the use of email spam messages. They use social engineering tactics in order to coerce the targets into interacting with the dangerous element. The hackers typically take text and graphics from well known Internet sites and web services. Links to the malware strains can be embedded in the body contents, in other cases it can also be delivered directly as file attachments. The messages can also be used to deliver payloads. There are two popular types:
- Software Installers — The hackers can embed the Oblivion virus code into application installers. The typical method is to take the legitimate installers from the official site and modifying them with the Oblivion malware. Usually the criminals choose popular targets such as system utilities, creativity suites or games.
- Documents — One of the most common tactics is to include the dangerous code into files of various types: text documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Once the users open them up they will be greeted with a message asking them to enable the built-in macros (scripts). When this is done the malware will be downloaded from a remote server and executed on the local computer.
The threat can also be delivered using web scripts of various types such as scripts, banners, pop-ups and redirects. They can also affecte legitimate sites through affiliate and ad networks.
Another delivery method that may be used by the Oblivion virus criminals is the use of browser hijackers. They represent malware plugins made for the most popular applications: Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Safari and Google Chrome. In most cases the main goal seems to be the redirection to a hacker-controlled site. This is done by changing settings such as the home page, search engine and new tabs page. The next step is to load the virus engine.
OBLIVION Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The Oblivion virus seems to be a new strain based on Scarab. The initial code analysis shows that the encountered samples may be testing versions as they do not contain much of the advanced code that is expected in such releases.
Future versions of the threat are expected to launch a data harvesting component. It is programmed to extract strings that can be classified into these two types:
- Anonymous Metrics — They are used by the criminals to judge how effective the attack campaign is. The data is composed mainly of information about the available hardware components and certain operating system values.
- Personal Data — It can be used to directly expose the identity of the users. Example information includes a person’s name, addresss, telephone number, interests, location, passwords and account credentials.
Using the gathered data the hackers can launch a stealth protection feature. It is used to protect the Oblivion virus from being interrupted by software applications and security services. This includes the likes of anti-virus software, sandbox environments and virtual machine hosts. If the virus engine is not able to bypass them then it may remove itself to avoid detection.
The next step is to launch different system changes. Modifications to the Windows Registry can render certain applications unusable. This can also apply to system services if such entries are impacted. Advanced strains can lead to severe performance issues and a persistent state of execution. If this is done the virus will be automatically launched every time the computer is started.
Further modifications can result in the inability to enter into the recovery menu, a consequence of boot options manipulation. The hackers are also expected to delete the Shadow volume copies of personal user files. This makes recovery harder without the use of a quality product. Refer to our instructions for more information.
The criminals can also choose to use the virus in a Trojan like manner by instituting a network connection with a malware server. it is used to spy on the victims in real time, as well as overtake their machines on request. Additional malware can be loaded through it.
OBLIVION Virus – Encryption Process
The ransomware module is started once all prerequisite components have completed execution. It uses a powerful cipher in order to encrypt sensitive files found on the infected machines. This is done by using a built-in list of target file types. An example list includes the following data:
- Archives
- Backups
- Databases
- Music
- Images
- Videos
The affected files are renamed with the .OBLIVION extension. A ransomware note is created in a OBLIVION DECRYPTION INFORMATION.TXT file which contains the following message:
==========================================================================================================================================================
,o888888o. 8 888888888o 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 ,o888888o. b. 8
. 8888 `88. 8 8888 `88. 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 . 8888 `88. 888o. 8
,8 8888 `8b 8 8888 `88 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 ,8 8888 `8b Y88888o. 8
88 8888 `8b 8 8888 ,88 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 88 8888 `8b .`Y888888o. 8
88 8888 88 8 8888. ,88′ 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 88 8888 88 8o. `Y888888o. 8
88 8888 88 8 8888888888 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b ,8′ 8 8888 88 8888 88 8`Y8o. `Y88888o8
88 8888 ,8P 8 8888 `88. 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888b8′ 8 8888 88 8888 ,8P 8 `Y8o. `Y8888
`8 8888 ,8P 8 8888 88 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`888′ 8 8888 `8 8888 ,8P 8 `Y8o. `Y8
` 8888 ,88′ 8 8888 ,88′ 8 8888 8 8888 `8.`8′ 8 8888 ` 8888 ,88′ 8 `Y8o.`
`8888888P’ 8 888888888P 8 888888888888 8 8888 `8.` 8 8888 `8888888P’ 8 `Yo
==========================================================================================================================================================YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED!
Your personal ID
[redacted 324 hex]Your documents, photos, databases, save games and other important data was encrypted.
Data recovery the necessary decryption tool. To get the decryption tool, should send an email to:obliviondecrypt@cock.li or obliviondecrypt@protonmail.com
Or telegram us:
https://t.me/oblivionhelpLetter must include Your personal ID (see the beginning of this document).
In the proof we have decryption tool, you can send us 1 file for test decryption.
Next, you need to pay for the decryption tool.
In response letter You will receive the address of Bitcoin wallet which you need to perform the transfer of funds.If you have no bitcoins
* Create Bitcoin purse: https://blockchain.info
* Buy Bitcoin in the convenient way
https://localbitcoins.com/ (Visa/MasterCard)
https://www.buybitcoinworldwide.com/ (Visa/MasterCard)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitcoin (the instruction for beginners)– It doesn’t make sense to complain of us and to arrange a hysterics.
– Complaints having blocked e-mail, you deprive a possibility of the others, to decipher the computers.
Other people at whom computers are also ciphered you deprive of the ONLY hope to decipher. FOREVER.– Just contact with us, we will stipulate conditions of interpretation of files and available payment,
in a friendly situation– When money transfer is confirmed, You will receive the decrypter file for Your computer.
Attention!
* Do not attempt to remove a program or run the anti-virus tools
* Attempts to decrypt the files will lead to loss of Your data
* Decoders other users is incompatible with Your data, as each user unique encryption key==========================================================================================================================================================
Remove OBLIVION Virus and Restore .Oblivion Files
If your computer system got infected with the OBLIVION 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.
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 Oblivion with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 Oblivion
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Oblivion.
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 Oblivion 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.
Oblivion-FAQ
What is Oblivion Ransomware?
Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 Oblivion Infect?
Via several ways.Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 .Oblivion files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Oblivion 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 .Oblivion files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Oblivion" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 Oblivion ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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 Oblivion Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Oblivion 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 Oblivion 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.
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