This article has been created to explain what is the .ovgm files varant of YYTO ransomware virus and how to remove it from your computer plus how you can restore encrypted files.
The .ovgm files virus is a new version of YYTO ransomware, which previously used the .yyto file suffix. The ransomware now uses the .ovgm file extension which is added to the files which are encrypted by this ransomware infection. The malware also drops a README.txt ransom note, whose primary goal is to get victims to pay a hefty ransom fee in BitCoin in order to restore the files that have been encrypted by this variant of YYTO ransomware. If your computer has been infected by this virus, we advise that you read this article and learn how you can remove it from your computer and restore the files, encrypted by it on your PC.
Threat Summary
| Name | .ovgm Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on your computer and then leave behind the .ovgm file extension. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware virus encrypts the files on your computer and then leaves behind the .ovgm file suffix after which drops the README.txt ransom note on your computer. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .ovgm 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. |
.ovgm Files Virus – Spread
For this infection to be replicated, it may come as a result of spammed e-mail messages that carry malicious e-mail attachments, like the example e-mail below shows:
In addition to this, the malicious files of the virus may also come as fake files, uploaded on websites and pretending to be:
- Setups of programs.
- Software or game cracks and patches.
- License activators.
- Key generators.
.ovgm Files Virus – Activity
The .ogvm files virus is the type of malware that encrypts the files on user PC’s. The infection ais to do that by performing several different activities which lead to the files becoming no longer openable. These activities may start via the malware dropping it’s malicious files, that may be of the following file types;
→ .exe, .dll, .tmp, .cmd, .bat
After this is done, the .ovgm files virus may activate the dropped files as an administrator. They are likely located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
The malicious files may perform different settings on the victims’ computers and these may include creating mutexes and interfering with the Windows registry editor. The .ovgm files virus may create registry entries to make it’s malicious files run automatically on system start. To do this, the malware creates the entries in the Run and RunOnce registry sub-keys, that have the following locations:
→ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
After doing this, the virus may also delete the shadow volume copies of the infected machine, possibly by executing a script in Windows Command Prompt that runs the program as an administrator and deletes the shadow volume copies via the following commands:
→ sc stop VVS
sc stop wscsvc
sc stop WinDefend
sc stop wuauserv
sc stop BITS
sc stop ERSvc
sc stop WerSvc
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe” /C vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet
Finally, the ransomware drops It’s ransom note on the victim PC. It is called Readme.txt and looks like the following:
Hello. Your files have been encrypted.
For help, write to this e-mail: codyprince92@mail.com
Attach to the letter 1-2 files (no more than 3 MB) and your personal key.If within 24 hours you have not received a response, you need to follow the following instructions:
a) Download and install TOR browser: https://www.torproject.org/download/download-easy.html.en
b) From the TOR browser, follow the link: tor web link
c) Register your e-mail (Sign Up)
d) Write us on e-mail: e-mail and tor web linkATTENTION: e-mail (e-mail and tor web link) accepts emails, only with e-mail registered in the TOR browser at {tor web link}
Your personal key:
Visiting the Tor web page, it asks the victim to login and then it displays the ransom note of the malware with further instructions on how to pay the ransom in BitCoin:
.ovgm Files Virus – Encryption Process
The .ovgm files virus is the type of ransomware infection, whose main goal is to make the files unopenable. This may include the following types of files, for which the virus scans on your computer:
- Documents.
- Video files.
- Audio files.
- Images.
- Documents.
- Archives.
As soon as the .ovgm malware detects the files on your computer system, they may immediately become encrypted and may no longer function. This is because the .ovgm ransomware may use an advanced encryption mode which alters the key structure of the encrypted files, making them seem as if they are corrupt. The files have the .ovgm file extension and may appear like the following:
Remove .ovgm Files Virus and Restore Encrypted Files
The .ovgm file ransomware is the type of virus which cannot be removed conventionally. This is why we advise that you follow the instructions underneath. They can help you delete this infection either manually or automatically, based on your malware-removal experience. If manual removal represents a difficulty for you, you can remove this ransomware automatically, as most security experts advise doing. This method often includes downloading and installing an advanced anti-malware software. Such tool will help you to detect and erase all of the malicious objects related to the .ovgm files virus on your computer system.
In addition to this, the .ovgm files can also be restored if you follow the file recovery methods in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .ovgm files virus”. They are created so that they help you restore as many files as possible by they are in no way a guarantee to recover all of the encrypted files.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .ovgm Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 .ovgm Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .ovgm 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 .ovgm 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.
.ovgm Files Virus-FAQ
What is .ovgm Files Virus Ransomware?
.ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 .ovgm Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 ..ovgm Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..ovgm 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 ..ovgm Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..ovgm Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 .ovgm Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..ovgm 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 .ovgm 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 .ovgm Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .ovgm 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 .ovgm 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.