This is an article that provides specific details on .boost files virus as well as a detailed guide with removal steps and alternative data recovery approaches.
Owners of the notorious Dharma ransomware have released yet another version of their threat in active attack campaigns. This time the ransomware is set to append the extension .boost to all files it encodes. The purpose of data corruption remains the same – ransom payment. In case of infection with this Dharma .boost variant, you won’t be able to access the information stored by important files until you apply an efficient data recovery solution. Our advice is to avoid following the instructions from the ransom note as their completion does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted data.
Threat Summary
| Name | .boost Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A version of the CrySyS/Dharma ransomware family that is designed to encrypt valuable files stored on infected computers and then extort a ransom from victims. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted and renamed with the extension .boost. A ransom note appears on PC screen to present ransom payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .boost 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. |
.boost Files Virus – Distribution
There are several ways which may be used for the distribution of this version of Dharma ransomware. One of those methods is known to be malwspam. It provides hackers the chance to spread corrupted files of common file types in massive email campaigns. The emails are usually disguised as legitimate ones. However, their purpose is to trick you into opening corrupted files with embed malicious code on your device and this way trigger the ransomware payload. A variety of common file types such as documents, PDFs, images could be transformed into carriers of ransomware code.
These files are often presented as the following:
- Invoices coming from reputable sites, like PayPal, eBay, etc.
- Documents from what appears to be the victim’s bank.
- An online order confirmation note.
- Receipt for a purchase.
- Others.
The malware authors may be also using compromised sites to spread this .boost Dharma ransomware infection. This method enables them to upload the ransomware configuration file to a compromised web page and set its automatic execution after a registered visit of this page.
.boost Files Virus – Overview
An infection with .boost files virus begins when its payload is started on the system. Upon successful execution it enables the ransomware to plague large number of system components and reach the main stage which is data encryption.
In the beginning of the infection process it could drop or create additional malicious files that will support the completion of the attack. Some of these files may be located in the following system folders:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
Among the malicious activities performed by .boost files virus are modifications of registry keys. By creating certain registry values in the Run and RunOnce Windows registry sub-keys it could set up its files to run automatically on each system boot.
These changes could be noticed when you enter the following registry sub-keys locations:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
These sub-keys are used when the virus wants to load its ransom note on the screen. The note is dropped during the infection process. The note could be copied several times so that it could appear on your desktop as well as in folders with corrupted files.
.boost Files Virus – Encryption Process
Alike some of the previous versions (.combo, .arrow, .bkp, etc.) Dharma .boost crypto virus needs to utilize its built-in encryption module for the completion of its main purpose. It could be configured to transform target files with the help of one or two cipher algorithms one of which is the AES. Following encryption, valuable files become inaccessible due to essential changes of their code. Unfortunately, all of your important files could be affected by the ransomware including your:
- Audio files.
- Videos.
- Image files.
- Databases.
- Archives.
A visible trait of all corrupted files is the distinctive extension .boost that appears at the end of their names. In addition, all .boost files will have other two extensions appended to their names. As discovered by security researchers Dharma .boost ransomware uses the following rename pattern for files it encrypts:
- Original file name – original file extension – victim ID – hackers’ contact email – boost
For example, you could see how a file that was originally named project1.docx will appear like shown in the image below:
During the encryption process, the ransomware generates unique decryption key that supposedly could recover the original code of corrupted files. In order that hackers could extort a ransom from their victims, their threat is configured to transfer the key to their server immediately after the encryption stage. However, there is no guarantee that the generated key could restore data as only a single bug in the code could break it.
Remove .boost Files Virus and Restore Data
Below you could find how a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove this .boost files virus. The manual removal approach demands practice in recognizing 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 it should be secured properly before it could be used regularly again.
For alternative data recovery methods make sure to read thoroughly the information under “Restore Files” step form our guide. Beware that before recovery process you should 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 .boost Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .boost 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 .boost 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 .boost 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 .boost Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .boost 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 .boost 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.
.boost Files Virus-FAQ
What is .boost Files Virus Ransomware?
.boost 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 .boost 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 .boost Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..boost 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 .boost 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 ..boost Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..boost 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 ..boost Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..boost Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..boost 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 .boost 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 .boost Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..boost 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 .boost 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 .boost Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .boost 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 .boost 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.
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