What is .bmn63 ransomware? .bmn63 ransomware is also known as .bmn63 virus and encrypts users’ files while asking for a ransom.
SIDENOTE: This post was originally published in April 2019. But we gave it an update in July 2019
The .bmn63 ransomware is a new sample release of a new malware family called Sodinokibi ransomware. According to the available information there is an ongoing wave of delivery campaigns using a variety of distribution methods.
The available code analysis reveals that the .bmn63 ransomware contains numerous dangerous components which are launched as soon as the infection is made. As soon as all components have finished in their prescribed order the actual file encryption operation will begin. Using a strong cipher sensitive user data will be processed according to the virus’s built-in instructions, usually a list of target file type extensions. The most common ones are to be encrypted: documents, music, videos, images, archives, backups and etc. All victim data is to be renamed with the .bmn63 extension. The associate ransomware note will be created in a file called bmn63-readme.txt. Take note that other similar strains of the same virus family may assign another extension. They may be randomly created extensions or assigned through a special algorithm.
Threat Summary
| Name | .bmn63 Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer machine and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly restore them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will blackmail the victims to pay them a decryption fee. Sensitive user data may be encrypted by the ransomware code. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .bmn63 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. |
.bmn63 Ransomware – Update July 2019
As this Sodinokibi virus can spawn numerous versions including the .bmn63 files virus has been found to be active in several attack campaigns. The hackers are sending in custom strains of the threat that once have infected the target computer have the ability to assign a custom extension. This means that several Sodinokibi virus iterations can be sent against the victims, each with their own custom configuration file.
What’s particularly worrying about this release is that every single derivative will create its own extension and possibly a ransomware note. One of the latest iterations have been spotted to be using a lockscreen instead of a ransomware note. This means that the victims will be unable to use their computers in the intended manner and only the use of a quality anti-spyware solution will help them recover their systems.
.bmn63 Ransomware — May 2019 Update
A new code code analysis of the threat captured in a recent attack campaign shows that the samples include an elaborate collection of dangerous modules. In order to hide the made changes to the system the main virus engine will suppress the errors and failures during the boot up procedures. This is often linked to boot modifications that start the virus engines as soon as the computer is powered on.
Access to certain operating system menus and options is also blocked — startup repair for example. This is done so in order to make it very hard to follow manual user removal guides. As part of the virus ransomware configuration it will also delete sensitive data, including volume snapshots and backups. Process lookup and hookups to the system will lead to the harvesting of the user interactions thereby making it possible to spy on the victims.
An advanced intrusion tactic used by the criminals is to delay the startup of the virus module after it has been deployed. This means that it will bypass the typical behavior scans employed by security software. Following the virus installation the threat will also read the system configuration and certain operating system variables in order to search for the presence of such security software: anti-virus programs, firewalls, sandbox environments and intrusion detection systems.
To make it more difficult the virus engine will modify the operating system settings in order to redirect the Internet traffic through a hacker-controlled server. This will enable the hackers to spy on the victim’s activities in real-time. This behavior effectively allows them to acquire vast information without resorting to the deployment of a dedicated Trojan malware on the local machine. Coupled with the extensive gathering of data this ransomware proves to be a very dangerous threat. As soon as an infection has been detected it should be removed as soon as possible to prevent any extensive damage to the compromised machines.
.bmn63 Ransomware – How Does It Infect?
It is very likely that several distribution mechanisms are being used with it. A very common method is the orchestration of email phishing messages which are sent in a SPAM-like manner that imitates the design and contents of legitimate and well-known companies and services. Any interaction with them can lead to to the relevant infection. A related mechanism is the creation of malicious web sites that are made in a similar way. They are hosted on similar sounding domain names that resemble the pages of search engines, download portals, landing pages and etc.
The virus infection code can also be found within payload carriers such as malware documents that can be of all popular formats: databases, spreadsheets, text documents and presentations. The built-in macros will launch the virus installation as soon as the users interact with them. The other popular carrier is the creation and distribution of application installers that are virus-infected copies of setup files for programs like utilities, productivity tools and creativity suites.
All of these files can also be spread via file sharing networks such as BitTorrent where all sorts of data is shared — both legitimate and pirate files. The virus installation may also be made via browser plugins which are malicious in nature, they are also called hijackers and they are spread on the relevant repositories. Usually this is done with fake user reviews and developer credentials in order to coerce as many victims as possible to download it.
.bmn63 Ransomware – What Does It Do?
The available code analysis reveals that the .bmn63 ransomware contains numerous dangerous components which are launched as soon as the infection is made. Coupled with the large-scale distribution campaign we anticipate that the criminal collective is experienced. One of the first actions that are undertaken by the criminals is to lead to serious system changes which includes a wide range of actions. It can list all running processes, create files and processes of its own and additionally modify operating system related data. The analyzed information can be scanned for the presence of any security software which can block the proper running of the
In order to facilitate a much more dangerous infection the virus engine can also renamed user data and delete or corrupt the automatic backups made by the operating system. Through interaction with the operating system services the ransomware may delete entries found within the Windows Registry and edit user preferences. Future versions can lead to other dangerous behavior such as the following:
- Persistent Infection — The .bmn63 ransomware can be set to automatically start as soon as the computer is launched. This will make it very difficult to interrupt the malware processes and also in many cases this will disable access to the relevant recovery processes. This will render many manual user removal guides non-working.
- Additional Malware Delivery — The ransomware can be used to deploy other threats to the system including Trojans, hijackers, miners and etc.
Any future releases can lead to the inclusion of further modules.
You should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum. Your files may not get recovered, and nobody could give you a guarantee for that.
The .bmn63 Ransomware cryptovirus 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
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 .bmn63 Ransomware
If your computer system got infected with the .bmn63 Files 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.
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Step 1: Scan for .bmn63 Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 .bmn63 Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .bmn63 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 .bmn63 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.
.bmn63 Ransomware-FAQ
What is .bmn63 Ransomware Ransomware?
.bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 .bmn63 Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 ..bmn63 Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..bmn63 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 ..bmn63 Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..bmn63 Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 .bmn63 Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..bmn63 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 .bmn63 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 .bmn63 Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .bmn63 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 .bmn63 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.
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