What is .seto (Seto) virus? .seto (Seto) virus is also known as .seto (Seto) ransomware which encrypts users’ files and then asks for a ransom.
Seto virus is a new malware threat that is being sent to targets across the world. It is a data locker ransomware with complex code that is distributed via various methods. It can lead to many serious system issues and can even install other malware threats. When it has completed running all of its modules it will proceed with the file encryption making sensitive user data inaccessible. The victims will be left with encrypted files renamed with .seto extension and a ransomware note file _readme.txt
Threat Summary
| Name | Seto |
| 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 |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Seto. |
| 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. |
.seto Virus – Update September 2019
During the first wave of the Seto virus the researchers observed several different tactics which were used more than others. A distinctive feature of the campaigns is that the hackers behind the distribution focus on creating infected payload carriers such as the following:
- Infected Documents — The macros placed inside the documents can be placed inside different types of formats: spreadsheets, presentations, databases and text files. Whenever they are opened by the victims a prompt will be spawned asking the victims to enable them citing the reason that this is required in order to correctly view the contents.
- Infected Software Installers — The criminals have created numerous versions of different software installers. The hackers typically will create malicious setup bundles of popular applications that are often downloaded by end users. In the case of the SETO ransomware STOP variants many of the infections are caused by downloading hacker-made IOBIT Driver Booster PRO installers.
The SETO virus can be contacted by navigating to different hacker-controlled pages, portals and scam redirects. One of the most popular outlets where such apps are found include not only web pages and phishing emails and also file-sharing networks such as BitTorrent.
.seto Virus – What Does It Do?
The .Seto virus is a crypto virus programmed to encrypt user data. As soon as all modules have finished running in their prescribed order the ransomware will prevent the users from interacting with their personal files. It will display a ransomware note to the victims.
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.
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.
Seto (.seto) File Virus (STOP Ransomware) – Detailed Description
The Seto virus is a dangerous ransomware which is being spread by an unknown hacker or criminal group. The virus belongs to the [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-stop-ransomware/”] STOP ransomware family. Currently, we do not know if it has specific targets or the perpetrators want to execute a global infection. Similar to its predecessors, Seto virus is very possible to be spread via some of the most popular distribution tactics. Different techniques may be applied simultaneously in order that hackers can select the most appropriate one.
Frequently the hackers choose to send out email-based phishing messages to the target recipients. The emails are sent in a manner which is very similar to the way SPAM messages are sent. They will manipulate the users into thinking that they have received a legitimate message from a popular company or service. A similar technique is the creation of special-built purpose scam sites that are designed to perform the same function. Interaction with their contents will lead to the .Seto virus deployment.
In some cases the Seto virus can also be embedded in various file carriers. A popular example is the macro-infected documents: text files, presentations, databases and spreadsheets. As soon as they are opened the victims will be prompted to enable the built-in macros. If this is done the associated ransomware infection will be made. The other widely used technique is the creation of infected software installers. They are made by taking the setup packages of popular applications and modifying them with the .Seto virus code. All data can be uploaded to file-sharing networks where both legitimate and pirate data is often uploaded. To facilitate a larger distribution the hackers may also embed the necessary code into browser hijackers — dangerous web browser extensions. The hackers will impersonate both developers or users. The posted descriptions often include promises of performance optimizations or the inclusion of new features. However, as soon as they are installed the virus will be deployed automatically.
When the Seto virus has finally been placed on a given computer it will start to execute its built-in sequence. It can follow the hardcoded instructions or only run certain commands depending on the local conditions. Usually, attacks with ransomware like this virus will start with a data harvesting module. It is used to acquire information that can expose the identity of the victims (useful for other crimes) and generate a report of the installed hardware components. This data can be used to create a unique ID that is assigned to each affected device.
The collected information can then be used to scan the system for any installed applications that can block the proper .Seto virus execution. In most cases, this includes the following security engines: anti-virus programs, firewalls, virtual machine hosts, sandbox and debug environments and etc.
By default, they will be blocked or entirely removed from the system. When the threat can run freely it will proceed further to carry out other system changes:
- Windows Registry Change — The creation or modification of existing values found within the Windows Registry. This will lead to serious performance issues, problems when running certain functions or operating system features. The users may also find it very difficult to use their computers normally as they can face sudden errors.
- Additional Malware Delivery — The .Seto virus can be used to deploy other threats to the infected hosts. This includes Trojan horses which can take over control of the computers and allow the hackers to spy on the victims in real-time. The other popular threat which can be attributed to this virus’s installation is the cryptocurrency miner. It is mostly found with the browser redirect infections where the malicious code is delivered through a rogue extension. When the miner is activated it will download a sequence of small resource-intensive jobs. They are complex mathematical calculations that will place a heavy load on the computer’s resources. For every reported successful task the hackers will receive cryptocurrency directly into their digital wallets.
In addition, the .Seto virus 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
When applied this command minimizes the chances of recovering .seto files by one.
When all dangerous Seto virus modules have finished running the actual file encryption will begin. Like other similar threats, the actual file processing will be modeled on the typical ransomware virus action — a strong cipher will encrypt target user data according to a list of defined file types. Examples are the following: multimedia files, archives, backups, databases, archives and etc.
In the end the Seto virus will assign the custom extension .seto to the processed files showing that the users cannot access them. A ransomware note will be then activated in order to blackmail the users into paying the hackers a decryption fee.
Here is a copy of Seto virus’ ransom message which is named _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.chReserve e-mail address to contact us:
gorentos2@firemail.ccOur Telegram account:
@datarestoreYour personal ID:
The ransom should NOT be paid under any circumstances. This action does not guarantee the recovery of .seto files.
Remove Seto Virus (Ransomware Removal Guide)
If your computer system got infected with the .Seto 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.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Seto with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Seto 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 Seto 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 Seto 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 Seto
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Seto.
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 Seto 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.
Seto-FAQ
What is Seto Ransomware?
Seto 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 Seto 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 Seto Infect?
Via several ways.Seto 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 Seto 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 .Seto files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Seto 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 .Seto files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Seto" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Seto 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 Seto 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 Seto ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Seto 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 Seto 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 Seto Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Seto 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 Seto 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.