This article will help you to remove RedFox ransomware effectively. Follow the ransomware removal instructions given below in the article.
RedFox is a ransomware virus that encrypts your files. The malware is distributed as RaaS (Ransomware as a Service). The RedFox virus displays a ransom note message. Cybercriminals presenting themselves as SigmaTeam are known to be behind the threat. Also, the website which offers it is selling it for 0.1 Bitcoin and contains detailed overview of its features. In case you get your PC infected with this cryptovirus, you should be able to find instructions about paying a ransom in Bitcoin for supposedly recovering your data left by cybercriminals. Continue reading below to see how you could try to potentially restore some of your locked file data.
Threat Summary
| Name | RedFox |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus, RaaS |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer and displays a ransom message afterward. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and put up a ransom note inside a text file. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss RedFox. |
| 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. |
RedFox Ransomware – Infection Spread
RedFox ransomware might spread its infection with various methods. A payload dropper which initiates the malicious script for this ransomware is being spread around the World Wide Web, and researchers have gotten their hands on a malware sample. If that file lands on your computer system and you somehow execute it – your computer system will become infected.
RedFox ransomware might also distribute its payload file on social media and file-sharing services. Freeware which is found on the Web can be presented as helpful also be hiding the malicious script for the cryptovirus. Refrain from opening files right after you have downloaded them. You should first scan them with a security tool, while also checking their size and signatures for anything that seems out of the ordinary. You should read the tips for preventing ransomware found in the forum section.
RedFox Virus – Detailed Analysis
RedFox is a virus that encrypts your files and extorts you to pay a ransom to supposedly recover them. The extortionists want you to pay in Bitcoin for the possible restoration of your files. Malware researchers have discovered that it is a RaaS (Ransomware as a service), thus it can be distributed by a number of cybercriminal groups.
RedFox ransomware might make entries in the Windows Registry to achieve persistence, and could launch or repress processes in a Windows environment. Such entries are typically designed in a way to launch the virus automatically with each start of the Windows Operating System.
The features available to this RedFox RaaS ransomware are the following:
- Autodetected Bitcoin Payments
- Auto Spread
- Change Process Name
- Change Ransom Amount
- Command-and-control Center
- Countdown Timer
- Delete All Restore Points
- Detects VM, Sandbox And Debugger Environments
- Disable Regedit
- Disable Safe Boot
- Disable Shutdown
- Disable Task Manager
- Edit File Icon
- Empty Recycle Bin
- Enable USB Infection
- Files On External Media Also Encrypted
- Full Lifetime License
- Fully Undetectable
- Generate PDF Reports
- GEO Map
- Hide RedFox Files
- Master Boot Record Exploit
- Military Grade Encryption
- Multi Language
- No Dependency
- Payment Page Link
- Quick File Encryption
- Real Time Ticket Support System For Victims
- Secure File Erase
- Statistics
- Text To Speech
- UAC Exploit
- Unlimited Builds
- Weekly Updates
That ransom note is unknown as it might get written by different cybercriminals who buy this RaaS on the sigmateam.neocities.org web domain. The contents of the page can be viewed down below, in the following screenshot:
The RedFox RaaS description on the website page reads the following:
RedFox is the most advanced and customisable ransomware you’ve ever seen. It is one of the best money making scheme out here. RedFox uses BlowFish encryption to encrypt all available files on the victim’s hard disk and shared drives except .exe, .dll, .sys, other system files. During encryption RedFox will generate unique BlowFish key for each file and then encrypt the keys further with RSA-2048 encryption and will send victim’s system information back to the command-and-control center. The Command-and-control center allows you to set the ramsomware warning time duration, ransom amount, ransom message, payment mode and also allow decrypting the files on the victim system after payment is received. The victim’s computer is not completely blocked as some other ransomwares, it just opens a popup allowing the victim to access their browser to buy Bitcoins and sent to the address indicated. RedFox is a cheap and easy to manage ransomware developed by SigmaTeam. It’s meant to be really easy to use. You can also use binders, packers and crypters. RedFox can communicate with command-and-control center over Tor. RedFox is editable and you can change your own amount and bitcoin address. You can manage your victims through the command-and-control center window using filters, creating groups and also generate PDF reports with relevant statistics, charts and maps.
RedFox will also add a startup key on the Windows registry and then show a GUI telling the user that the files were encrypted and giving your email address so the user can get in touch. Every 2 hours, a random file is permanently deleted, to hurry up the victim. A countdown to the next delete, as well as the last file deleted and a count of how many files were deleted so far will be shown to the victim. Time limit will ends in 96 hours and the user will not be able to get the files back anymore. You can also enable or disable the countdown timer and set how much time you want to delete random files as well as how many files are deleted on every interval, to hasten the victim to pay the ransom faster.
The coolest RedFox feature is that, instead of paying huge servers costs monthly, we present you the “Bridges”. Bridges are the way victims and attacker enters in touch in a distributed network. Bridges store the clients keys, verify payments and provide the victims informations to the command-and-control center safely. And they can be hosted on nearly any server, even hacked servers, shared hosting, dedicated or VPS. As the bitcoin payment verification is done on the server side, by the bridge, there is no way to spoof it on the victim machine. Also, the randomly-generated decryption keys for each victim are also kept on the bridges and there is no way of recovering it without paying. The distributed Bridges network will grant you a better anonymity.
You can spread RedFox through popup offers like free music, movies, plugins, lotteries, fake anti-virus software and email spamming. With RedFox you will also have the option to have it USB auto installable with time frame. Meaning, you can install it on a portable USB and it will automatically boot and start encrypting files after a give time frame.
RedFox is fully autonomous with autodetected Bitcoin payments. Just spread and wait for the money to come. By buying RedFox, you’ll receive an all-in-one kit that will allow you to make unlimited builds. You will get the full source code of the RedFox and PDF guides on how to use it. Your only concern will be where to go next holiday.
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If you have any questions you may ask us on sigmateam@gmx.com.We hope you consider buying RedFox at its impressive price point for its functionality.
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The note of the RedFox ransomware would state that your files are encrypted. You will most likely be demanded to pay a ransom in the Bitcoin cryptocurrency. However, you should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum. Your files may not get restored, and nobody could guarantee that. Moreover, giving money to cybercriminals will probably motivate them to create more ransomware viruses or do other criminal activities.
In case you click on the blue “Buy Now” button, you will be redirected to the following page:
As you can see from the above screenshot, the page offers the ransomware files in exchange for paying a sum in a cryptocurrency – most notably for 0.1 Bitcoins. It is also noteworthy that there is a reference to Satan ransomware in that window.
RedFox Virus – Encryption Process
The encryption process of the RedFox ransomware is utilized with the help of the RSA encryption algorithm or at least that is stated inside the ransom note. It will encrypt your files while it may place an extension to all of the locked files.
The targeted extensions of files which are sought to get encrypted are currently unknown and if a list is discovered, it will be posted here as the article gets updated. The files used most by users and which are probably encrypted are from the following categories:
- Document files
- Audio files
- Video files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials and data
The RedFox cryptovirus might be set to erase all the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with the help of the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If the above-stated command is executed that will make the encryption process more efficient. That is due to the fact that the command eliminates one of the prominent ways to restore your data. If your computer device was infected with this ransomware and your files are locked, read on through to find out how you could potentially recover your files.
Remove RedFox Virus and Restore Encrypted Files
If your computer got infected with the RedFox 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.
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Tsetso Mihailov is a tech-geek and loves everything that is tech-related, while observing the latest news surrounding technologies. He has worked in IT before, as a system administrator and a computer repair technician. Dealing with malware since his teens, he is determined to spread word about the latest threats revolving around computer security.
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Step 1: Scan for RedFox with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall RedFox 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 RedFox 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 RedFox 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 RedFox
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by RedFox.
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 RedFox 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.
RedFox-FAQ
What is RedFox Ransomware?
RedFox 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 RedFox 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 RedFox Infect?
Via several ways.RedFox 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 RedFox 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 .RedFox files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .RedFox 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 .RedFox files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".RedFox" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .RedFox 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 RedFox 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 RedFox ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .RedFox 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 RedFox 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 RedFox Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this RedFox 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 RedFox 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.