This is an article that provides specific details on an iteration of Jigsaw ransomware dubbed .dat crypto virus as well as a step-by-step removal followed by alternative data recovery approaches.
An infection with the so-called .dat crypto virus leads to the corruption of valuable files stored on your PC. Once encrypted the files remain inaccessible until an efficient recovery solution is applied. In fact, the name of this ransomware is a derivative of the specific extension it uses to mark encrypted files – .dat. Yet another trait of an infection with this ransomware is a ransom message that attempts to blackmail you into paying hackers a predefined ransom. Since there is a chance to restore .dat files with the help of alternative methods we advise you to refrain from paying the ransom no matter of its amount.
Threat Summary
| Name | .dat Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes the strong cihper algorithm AES to encrypt valuable files stored on the computers it infects. Upon encryption it demands a ransom for decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | The access to important files is restricted while they are all renamed with the .dat extension. A ransom message blacmails you into paying hackers a ransom. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| 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 .dat 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. |
.dat Files Virus – Distribution
The infection code of .dat files virus could be spread with the help of various shady techniques like email spam messages, corrupted web pages, malvertising campaigns, software bundles, freeware packages and more.
In general attackers prefer to spread their malicious code via spam email messages. What they aim is to make you believe that the email is sent by a legitimate source and this way trick you to interact with a malicious component that triggers the infection process. The malware code is often embedded in documents, images, and PDFs. All these commonly used files are then spread via massive email spam campaigns in the form of email attachments. The campaigns may be targeting users worldwide. Once you download the email attachment and open it on your PC you unintentionally trigger the ransomware payload.
If you want to keep your system secure against devastating threats like .dat files virus in future we advise you to open all files that seem dubious on your PC only after you scan them with a free online extractor. The results of the scan will help you to understand whether the file contains malicious elements or not.
.dat Files Virus – Infection Overview
The infection with .dat crypto virus begins when its malicious payload is started on the system. With the help with only one executable file, the ransomware could either drop additional from its command and control server or create new ones directly on the system. What all malicious files are designed for is the corruption of various system settings which in turn enable the threat to evade detection and achieve persistence.
There are a few folders that are regularly detected to keep malicious ransomware files and they are:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
So it is possible that files associated with .dat crypto virus may be located in some of the above-mentioned folders. Another system component that is often plagued by crypto viruses like this Jigsaw ransomware iteration is the Registry Editor.
Registry Editor is a hierarchical database that stores low-level settings, options and values, all designed to manage the smooth performance of the operating system and installed apps. Most of the times ransomware manipulates the functionalities of Run and RunOnce subkeys as they cause the automatic execution of all necessary files on each system start. With their help .dat files virus becomes able to run its infection files whenever you power on the computer.
In addition, the crypto virus may add malicious values under these subkeys in order to display its ransom note. This usually happens after all target files are encrypted. This note is likely to inform you about the presence of the ransomware and reveal the devastating impact of the threat. Its primary purpose is to urge you to pay hackers a ransom for data decryption tool. The message could either urge you to contact hackers at a given email or blackmail you to transfer them a specified amount of money. The following image is also associated with .dat Jigsaw variant and may be dropped or displayed on your PC:
.dat Files Virus – Encryption Process
When the ransomware establishes its malicious files on the system it continues with the main stage of the infection process which is data encryption. Like its predecessors .dat crypto virus is likely to use the AES cipher algorithm to encrypt target files. Once the original code of target files is transformed with the help of AES cipher they remain inaccessible until an efficient recovery solution is put into use. As of corrupted types of files they could be all of the following:
→.3dm, .3g2, .3gp, .7zip, .aaf, .accdb, .aep, .aepx, .aet, .ai, .aif, .as, .as.txt, .as3, .asf, .asp, .asx, .avi, .bmp, .c, .class, .cpp, .cs, .csv, .dat, .db, .dbf, .doc, .docb, .docm, .docx, .dot, .dotm, .dotx, .dwg, .dxf, .dxf.c, .efx, .eps, .fla, .flv, .gif, .h, .idml, .iff, .indb, .indd, .indl, .indt, .inx, .jar, .java, .jpeg, .jpg, .js, .m3u, .m3u8, .m4u, .max, .mdb, .mid, .mkv, .mov, .mp3, .mp4, .mpa, .mpeg, .mpg, .msg, .pdb, .pdf, .php, .plb, .pmd, .png, .pot, .potm, .potx, .ppam, .ppj, .pps, .ppsm, .ppsx, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .prel, .prproj, .ps, .psd, .py, .ra, .rar, .raw, .rb, .rtf, .sdf, .ses, .sldm, .sldx, .sql, .svg, .swf, .tif, .txt, .vcf, .vob, .wav, .wma, .wmv, .wpd, .wps, .xla, .xlam, .xll, .xlm, .xls, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xlt, .xltm, .xltx, .xlw, .xml, .xqx, .zip
With such a long list of extensions, you may find all files that store valuable information corrupted by the ransomware. This includes your:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
How encrypted files could be recognized is by the specific extension .dat appended to their original names. This extension is one of the traits of infection with this Jigsaw ransomware version.
The crypto virus could be set to erase all Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system as well. This way it eliminates one of the prominent ways to restore your data. The process happens with the help of the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If a computer device was infected with this Jigsaw ransomware version and your files are locked, read on through to find out how you could potentially restore some files back to their normal state.
Remove .dat Files Virus and Restore Data
Below you could find how to remove .dat files virus step by step. To remove this ransomware manually you need to have a bit of technical experience and ability to recognize traits of malware files. Beware that ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So as recommended by security researchers you need to utilize an advanced anti-malware tool for its complete removal. Such a tool will keep your system protected against devastating threats like this iteration of Jigsaw and other kinds of malware that endanger your online security.
After you remove the ransomware make sure to check the “Restore Files” step listed in the guide below. But before you take any further actions, don’t forget to back up all encrypted files to an external drive in order to prevent their irreversible loss.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for .dat Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .dat 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 .dat 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 .dat 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 .dat Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .dat 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 .dat 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.
.dat Files Virus-FAQ
What is .dat Files Virus Ransomware?
.dat 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 .dat 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 .dat Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..dat 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 .dat 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 ..dat Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..dat 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 ..dat Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..dat Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..dat 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 .dat 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 .dat Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..dat 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 .dat 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 .dat Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .dat 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 .dat 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.
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