This article will help you remove the latest version of the Dharma ransomware virus and show you how you can try to possibly restore files encrypted with the .xwx extension.
Dharma ransomware authors keep on building new variants of their cryptovirus, which spread across computers worldwide. The current variant of Dharma encrypts files by appending the .xwx extension to them, making them inaccessible. It also may add a unique identification number as previous versions do. All encrypted files will receive the new extension as a secondary one. The ransomware drops a ransom note, as usual, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly restore their files, and tries to make them pay money as a ransom. Continue to read the article and see how you could try to potentially restore some of your files without paying the ransom fee.
Threat Summary
| Name | .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .xwx extension to them, along with a unique identification number placing the new .xwx extension as a secondary. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .xwx Files Virus (Dharma). |
| 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. |
.xwx Files Virus (Dharma) – Distribution Methods
.xwx Files Virus might spread its infection via 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. You can see the detections of such a file on the VirusTotal service right here:
.xwx Files Virus 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.
.xwx Files Virus (Dharma) – Detailed Description
.xwx Files Virus is a cryptovirus that encrypts your files and shows a ransomware note. The extortionists want you to pay a ransom for the alleged restoration of your files, same as with the previous Dharma / CrySis ransomware family variants, for example the [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/bkp-files-virus-dharma-ransomware-remove-restore-data/”] .Bkp Files Virus (Dharma).
.xwx Files Virus ransomware could 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.
Two of the most common registers that are modified are the following:
→HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
and
→HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
After encryption the .xwx Files Virus virus shows a ransom note inside a file, trying to make you want to pay the extortionists a large sum of money as a ransom. In that note it will be stated that with time the price will keep increasing or something along those lines, to try and trick you with this scare tactic to pay now.
This is how the ransom note looks (if it matches that of previous variants):
Here is what it says:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail data@decoding.biz
Write this ID in the title of your message [ID] In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails: data@decoding.biz
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
https://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
The following e-mail address is used to contact the cybercriminals:
- data@decoding.biz
However, you should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom. Your files may not get recovered, and nobody could give you a guarantee for that. Moreover, giving money to cybercriminals will most likely motivate them to create more ransomware viruses or commit different criminal acts. One more reason not to proceed with payments is that the criminals will make you pay over the TOR network.
Criminals prefer these services because of the TOR network, which helps the crooks to stay undetected and anonymous.
.xwx Files Virus (Dharma) – Encryption Process
The encryption process of the .xwx Files Virus happens in the same way as previous variants. All encrypted will receive the .xwx extension alongside a unique identifier number. That extension will be placed as a secondary one to each file and look something like 07BC0366-1510-441C-AB59-BBC8FFAFC2B5.vmcx.id-40003002[data@decoding.biz].xwx.
The targeted extensions of files which are sought to get encrypted are currently unknown and if a list is discovered, the article will get duly updated. The files used most by users and which are probably encrypted are from the following categories:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
The .xwx Files Virus could 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
In case 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 restore your files back to normal.
Remove .xwx Files Virus (Dharma)
If your computer got infected with the .xwx Files 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.
Tsetso Mihailov
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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma)
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .xwx Files Virus (Dharma).
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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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.
.xwx Files Virus (Dharma)-FAQ
What is .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) Ransomware?
.xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) Infect?
Via several ways..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 ..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 ..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..xwx Files Virus (Dharma)" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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 .xwx Files Virus (Dharma) 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.
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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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