The Sequre virus is a new malware strain originating from the CryptConsole 2.0 malware family. It’s main goal is to encrypt sensitive user data with a strong cipher. It uses different extensions depending on the attained sample. Continue reading to find out how to effectively remove it from infected host.
Threat Summary
| Name | Sequre |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with different extensions 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 Sequre. |
| 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. |
Sequre Virus – Distribution Ways
The Sequre virus can be distributed using various methods depending on the chosen targets. It is possible that the captured samples associated with it are merely the test versions of the threat. It is expected that the upcoming malware will utilize popular spread tactics.
One of the proposed ways is to use email messages that include social engineering tactics attempting to coerce the victims into interacting with the malware elements. This can be done by directly attaching the files or alternative hyperlinking that lead to the off site hosted instances. In connection with this the criminals can also make use of payload delivery, two popular types are the following:
- Installer Bundles — The hackers can integrate the malware Sequre virus code into installers of famous software. Often this includes examples such as system utilities, creativity suites, Internet apps and computer games.
- Documents — Dangerous scripts can be inserted into files of various types: rich text documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Once they are opened by the users a notification prompt will appear that asks them to run the built-in macros (scripts). If this is done the virus will be downloaded from a remote location and executed on the local computer.
Such threats can be delivered via web scripts as well: pop-ups, banners and etc. Through various affiliate networks and etc they can infect legitimate sites as well.
Another method relies on the use of browser hijackers. They are malicious plugins made for the most popular web browsers (Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Opera and Safari). They have the main goal of redirecting the victim users to a hacker-controlled site. This is done by changing default settings values such as the default home page, search engine and new tabs page. The next step is to install and run the virus code to the host computer.
Sequre Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The Sequre virus appears to be a strain of the CryptConsole 2.0. At the moment there is no information if the same hackers are behind the new version or not. It is believed that the captured strains are merely the test versions. Depending on the results that the hackers obtain they may choose to create updated versions of Sequre that can be launched in a follow-up attack.
One of the interesting facts about this particular virus is that it the main program launches an embedded encrypted application written in the C# programming language. It will be launched directly into memory and the contents will be decrypted in real time. This allows the virus to evade the signature based virus scans. It is possible that a stealth protection is engaged right after the virus has been delivered. It scans for any applications or system services that can interfere with the correct execution.
The infection itself can start with an information gathering component that can hijack sensitive content from the infected machines. It can target both anonymous metrics that are used by the hackers to judge how effective the Sequre campaign is. This is done by harvesting information about the installed hardware components and certain operating system values. The other type of data that can be acquired can directly identify the users and their identity. The extracted strings can reveal a person’s name, address, telephone number, interests, location, passwords and account credentials.
Further modifications can target the operating system settings themselves. Some of the Windows Registry changes can make it impossible to start certain applications or system services. It also affects the overall performance of the systems. Certain viruses can also delete the Shadow Volume copiesof sensitive files before they are encrypted. This is done in order to make data recovery more difficult.
The malware engine can also set the Sequre virus as a persistent threat which can automatically launch it every time the computer starts.
Sequre Virus – Encryption Process
The ransomware engine is started once all prerequisite components have completed execution. Like other common threats it uses a strong cipher to encrypt target user data. This is done by using a built-in list of target file type extensions. An example list may target the following data:
- Archives
- Backups
- Images
- Videos
- Music
- Documents
Depending on the configuration of the samples they can use the following rename patterns to signal the affected files: sequre@tuta.io_[hex], sequre@tuta.io_[random_0-9A-Z] or [ransom_email]_[0-9A-Z].
The associated ransomware note is created in a HOW DECRIPT FILES.hta which reads the following:
Your files are encrypted!
Your personal ID
NQFWTAPP72VXJI2TKUFGN2107016WN0KDU9UYCUI
Discovered a serious vulnerability in your network security.
No data was stolen and no one will be able to do it while they are encrypted.
For you we have automatic decryptor and instructions for remediation.
How to get the automatic decryptor:
1) 0.14 BTC
Buy BTC on one of these sites:
1. https://localbitcoins.corn
2. https://www.coinbase.com
3. https://xchangetccbitcoin adress for pay:
14vo2jGKGemxwWKySqPKJ2kTh4MoboqAbG
Send 0.14 BTC2) Send screenshot of payment to sequre@tuta.io . In the letter include your personal ID(look at the beginning of this document).
3) You will receive automatic decryptor and all files will be restored
* To be sure in getting the decryption, you can send one fie(iess than 10MB) to sequre@tuta.io In the letter ndude your personal ID(look at the beginning of this document). But ths action wi ncrease the cost of the automatic decryptor on 0.01 btc…Attention!
• No Payment = No decryption
• You realy get the decryptor after payment
• Do not attempt to remove the program or run the anti-vrus tools
• Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data
• Decoders other users are not compatible wth your data, because each user’s unique encryption key
• If you can’t send a message, try to write with the other e-mail address, for example register mail.india.com
Remove Sequre Virus and Restore .Sequre Files
If your computer system got infected with the Sequre 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 Sequre with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Sequre 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 Sequre 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 Sequre 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 Sequre
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Sequre.
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 Sequre 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.
Sequre-FAQ
What is Sequre Ransomware?
Sequre 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 Sequre 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 Sequre Infect?
Via several ways.Sequre 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 Sequre 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 .Sequre files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Sequre 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 .Sequre files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Sequre" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Sequre 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 Sequre 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 Sequre ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Sequre 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 Sequre 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 Sequre Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Sequre 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 Sequre 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.
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