This article will aid you to remove .Frendi Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
.Frendi Ransomware is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .Frendi extension. The .Frendi Ransomware will leave ransomware instructions as a desktop wallpaper image. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
| Name | .Frendi ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .Frendi extension on the target files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .Frendi ransomware. |
| 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. |
.Frendi Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The .Frendi ransomware is a new virus that is descendant from the Dharma/CrySiS family of threats. It is believed that it is created by an inexperienced hacker or criminal collective as it is merely a customized version of the main engine which is available on the underground hacker forums. The captured samples are relatively low in number which doesn’t give out the main method of distribution.
It is presumed that the hackers might be using email phishing tactics which is a popular mechanism for spreading out all kinds of malware. The hackers will send out messages that pose as legitimate notifications from well-known services, companies or products that they might be using. They contain malicious contents and links that will coerce the victims into interacting with them. Usually the emails pose as software updates notifications, account reset instructions, special offers and etc.
Another tactic that can be used to spread viruses en-masse is to create malicious sites that pretend to be legitimate sources. Examples include download portals, search engines, vendor sites and etc. The virus infection can happen through interaction with the displayed content or any elements such as banners, pop-ups, ads and etc.
In some situations the virus files can be spread via payload carriers of which there are two main types:
- Application Installers — They are made by taking the real software installers from their official sources and modifying them to include the necessary virus code. The hackers will typically target applications that are widely installed by end users: system utilities, creativity suites, productivity and office programs and even games.
- Infected Documents — The other tactic uses documents as the files that cause the infections, they can be of any one of the popular types: presentations, text files, databases and spreadsheets. Whenever they are opened a prompt will be spawned asking the victims to enable the built-in scripts. The quoted reason for this is that the this is required in order to correctly the document.
The files can additionally be delivered via file-sharing networks such as BitTorrent where both pirate and legitimate content can be shared. Larger attack campaigns can be orchestrated via the use of browser hijackers — dangerous plugins which are made available for the most popular web browsers. They are usually uploaded to the relevant repositories using fake developer credentials and user reviews. The victims are enticed into installing them as promises of new feature and performance optimizations are placed in the descriptions. If they are installed not only will the .Frendi ransomware be installed, but also other changes will be made to the browsers. Their default settings will be changed to redirect the users to a hacker-controlled landing page. Affected values include the default home page, search engine and new tabs page.
.Frendi Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
As soon as the .Frendi ransomware has been installed on the victim computers the built-in modular engine will engage the configuration steps that are preconfigured by the attackers. We anticipate that a typical pattern will be started.
Usually these type of attack start with an information gathering which can harvest data that can be categorized into two main groups:
- User Information — The .Frendi ransomware can directly expose the identity of the computer owners by looking out for strings that can directly reveal personal information. The engine can be programmed to look for strings such as their name, address, phone number, interests and any stored account credentials. Many ransomware of this type can also access the data used by web browsers thereby hijacking cookies, sessions data, bookmarks, history and etc.
- Machine Metrics — The criminals can create an ID that can be used to differentiate between the compromised machines. This is a value that is generated by an algorithm that takes its input values from data such as the installed hardware components, user settings and operating system environment values.
The collected information can be used further by another module called security bypass which is used to discover and disable any security software that can interfere with the proper .Frendi ransomware execution. In most cases the list of apps that are affected include the following: firewalls, anti-virus programs, intrusion detection systems and virtual machine hosts.
At this point the .Frendi ransomware can affect the whole operating system by carrying out various malicious actions. Some of the most popular one are the following procedures:
- Boot Options Modification — They are done by changing important configuration files that will make the virus automatically start as soon as the computer boots. This action usually disables access to the recovery boot menus nd certain settings which renders most manual recovery guides useless.
- Persistent Installation — The threat can be installed in a way which makes removal very difficult. This is done by modifying system settings, files and the Windows Registry.
- Windows Registry — The .Frendi ransomware can modify the existing Windows Registry values and creating new ones for itself. When those that are used by the operating system are modified by the ransomware the overall system performance will degrade. This can be done to the point of rendering the computer unusable. Changes to the values used by the third-party can lead to unexpected errors.
- Additional Payload Delivery — The virus engine can be programmed to deploy other malware to the infected computers. Usually Trojans and miners are the most common companion threats.
- Data Removal — The engine can be programmed to look for sensitive information that can be removed and thus make recovery much more difficult. Data that is affected includes backups, restore points and shadow volume copies. In these cases the victims will need to use a professional-grade data recovery application.
Other behavior can be set via the hacker commands that are built-in by the hackers before the campaign is launched. Advanced ransomware samples can even deploy a Trojan horse which will enable the hackers to take over control of the infected computers and spy on the users at all times.
.Frendi Ransomware – Encryption Process
Like other popular malware samples the .Frendi ransomware will launch the encryption engine once all prior modules have finished running. It will probably use a built-in list of target file type extensions which are to be processed by a strong cipher. An example list can include the following data types:
- Backups
- Databases
- Archives
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All affected files are renamed with the .Frendi extension. The associated ransomware note is created in a text file called Encrypted.txt which reads the following message:
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 tlalpidas1978@aol.com
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails: FobosAmerika@protonmail.ch
If there is no response from our mail, you can install the Jabber client and write to us in support of phobos_help@xmpp.jp, or phobos_helper@exploit.im
An HTML version and a lockscreen may also be produced.
Remove .Frendi Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .Frendi 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.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .Frendi ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .Frendi ransomware.
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 .Frendi ransomware 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.
.Frendi ransomware-FAQ
What is .Frendi ransomware Ransomware?
.Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 ..Frendi ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..Frendi ransomware 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 ..Frendi ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..Frendi ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .Frendi ransomware 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 .Frendi ransomware 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.