This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .darus virus file and provides a complete .darus virus removal guide. When following the steps below you will also find how to potentially recover .darus files.
There is a new strain of STOP ransomware and it is named Darus virus. It infects computer systems with the goal to reach personal files and encode them with strong cipher algorithm. Corrupted files could be recognized by the extension .darus in their names. Hence, the name of this STOP variant originates from the extension it appends to files it corrupts. The main goal of this ransomware is to blackmail you into transferring ransom to cybercriminals. That’s why it drops a ransom message file (_readme.txt) soon after it finishes the encryption phase.
In the event that your computer has been infected by .darus virus file, you should locate, isolate and remove all malicious files and objects. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use it safely again.
Threat Summary
| Name | .darus Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A version of the STOP/DJVU ransomware 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 .darus A ransom message forces victims to contact hackers in order to receive instructions on how to pay a ransom ($490 – $980). |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .darus 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. |
.darus Virus File – Infection Overview
What is .darus virus file? It is a vicious computer infection that interferes with important system settings in order to encrypt personal files unnoticeably and blackmail victims into paying a ransom for their files.
Security researchers reported that the .darus virus file is a strain of the infamous [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-stop-ransomware/”] STOP ransomware. STOP (Djvu) ransomware is a threat that has been lurking across the web since the end of 2017.
Among the recently discovered predecessors of this STOP ransomware are the [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-berosuce-virus/”] Berosuce virus, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-herad-virus-file/”] Herad virus and [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-madek-virus-ransomware/”] Madek virus. Like most of them, .darus virus is likely to be spread via well-known techniques like malvertising, malspam, website corruption, freeware installers, and fake software updates.
The most preferred one is usually malspam. This spread technique is realized via massive spam email campaigns. The emails that are part of such campaigns attempt to deliver the malicious code directly on your PC. Typically, these emails have one or more of the following components:
- URL address presented as button, direct link, in-text link, image, etc.
- File attachment presented as invoice, order ID, purchase details, coupon, special offer, and even legal paper
- The name of a representative of a well-known brand, service, financial or governmental institution
As soon as the malicious code is started on the system, the .darus ransomware attack begins. The attack ends after the completion of several stages. The main stage is definitely the encryption process. For the data encryption process, .darus ransomware activates a specific cipher module that scans all system drives for target types of files and encodes the matches with the help of a sophisticated cipher algorithm. Unfortunately, it is likely that all common files listed below are among the targets of this nasty ransomware:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Following encryption, the ransomware leaves all encrypted files inaccessible and renamed with the extension .darus. As a result, you are forced to pay a ransom fee in cryptocurrency to cyber criminals. This happens via a ransom note message that could be placed on the desktop and in every folder that contains encrypted files.
Here you can see a copy of .darus virus file‘ ransom message (_readme.txt):
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest
encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:https://we.tl/t-514KtsAKtH
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.
To get this software you need write on our e-mail:gorentos@bitmessage.ch
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
varasto@firemail.cc
Our Telegram account:
@datarestore
Your personal ID:
According to the details presented in the ransom message, when you pay the ransom you will receive a decryption tool for encrypted files. However, since there is no guarantee that this tool will be working, we recommend that you avoid any negotiations with cybercriminals and attempt to solve the problem in a secure way.
Remove Darus Virus File and Restore Data
The so-called .darus virus is a threat with highly complex code that plagues the whole system in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by .darus ransomware. That’s why we recommend that all steps presented in the .darus removal guide below should be completed for the sake of your system and data security. Beware that the manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
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 .darus Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .darus 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 .darus 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 .darus 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 .darus Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .darus 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 .darus 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.
.darus Files Virus-FAQ
What is .darus Files Virus Ransomware?
.darus 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 .darus 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 .darus Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..darus 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 .darus 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 ..darus Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..darus 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 ..darus Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..darus Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..darus 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 .darus 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 .darus Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..darus 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 .darus 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 .darus Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .darus 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 .darus 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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