.WSHLP Virus Files – Dharma Ransomware Variant
Dharma ransomware is back with a new cryptovirus variant. The current version of the Dharma family ransomware encrypts files by appending the .WSHLP 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, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly recover their files.
.WSHLP virus Summary
| Name | .WSHLP virus |
| File Extension | .WSHLP |
| 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 .WSHLP extension to them, along with a unique identification number placing the new .WSHLP extension as a secondary. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .WSHLP virus. |
.WSHLP File Virus (Dharma Ransomware) – What Is It and How Did I Get It?
The .WSHLP Dharma ransomware is a new iteration of this malware family. It has recently been captured in an ongoing attack campaign against computer users worlwide. Like previous versions it uses popular infection tactics in order to intrude onto the target computers. Some of the common tactics are the following:
- Virus-Infected Files — The .WSHLP Dharma ransomware code can be inserted in different types of files. When they are run the virus infection will start immediately. Some of the possible variants are macro-infected documents which are of all popular file formats. The hackers may also add in the malware in application installers of popular programs.
- Phishing Contents — The hackers will prepare contents that will mask as legitimate messages that have been sent by famous companies and services. This is usually done via email or special redirect pages which are hosted on similar sounding domain names. To manipulate the victims into thinking that they are viewing safe and legitimate pages the hackers can copy down design and text, as well as integrate self-signed security certificates. The email messages are usually sent in bulk in distinct SPAM campaigns.
- Files Uploading — The .WSHLP virus code and all associated files can be uploaded to various online places where data is commonly downloaded from. The criminals typically make use of BitTorrent trackers which are used to share legitimate and pirate files online. All malware data can also be hidden in file downloads published on download portals. Advanced tactics may make use of online communities — the criminals can use fake or stolen credentials and post the files in public posts, groups or send links to them in private messages.
When the virus has infected a given computer the built-in infection sequence will begin. As this is a Dharma ransomware variant the hackers will likely include the most frequent components and actions. While there is no information regarding the identity of the hackers, it is possible that the group has bought a custom variant from the developers of the malware or have acquired the original code and modified it to include the designated actions.
Dharma ransomware viruses usually start with a data harvesting module used to hijack sensitive information from the infected hosts. The component will do this by accessing applications data, users files and other data that may contain finanial or identity related information. It will be relayed to the criminals and allow them to conduct various criminal activity.
Dharma viruses like the .WSHLP malware can additionally modify the boot options — this will install the threat as a persistent threat. Ransomware variants that are of this type will run automatically when the computer is powered on. Additionally the hackers may limit access to the recovery boot options. This will make it very hard to follow most manual user removal guides and techniques.
.WSHLP virus file is ransomware that encrypts your files and shows a ransomware note. The virus is a variant of the Dharma ransomware family to which the previous iterations are .blm Virus File and .gold Virus File (Dharma Ransomware).
This particular sample may also carry out any of these system-related actions:
- Operating System Changes — This can include the modification or creation of entries of the Windows Registry values. Modification of existing information may lead to severe performance issues and the inability to use some of the services.
- Data Removal — The malware can delete important files from the host computer. Examples are backups, shadow volume copies and etc.
- Additional Infections — Many of the Dharma ransomware can be used as conduits for other infections. Some of the former samples have been used to install Trojans, viruses that will overtake control of the machines and allow the hackers to spy on the victims and steal their files.
Dharma ransomware infections like the .WSHLP files virus will encrypt users data based on the malware’s built-in algorithm and cipher. The resulting files will not be accessible, the wide range of affected file types will be based on a built-in list of target extensions. The resulting files will be renamed with the relevant .WSHLP extension.
The victims will then be extorted to pay the hackers a decryption fee which will be requested in digital currency for privacy reasons. The blackmail may be done via text messages or window pop-ups.
Remove .WSHLP File Virus (Dharma)
If your computer got infected with the .WSHLP File Virus, you should be experienced in removing malware manually. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the opportunity to spread further and infect more machines. You should remove the ransomware and follow the instructions guide provided with easy-to-follow steps 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 .WSHLP virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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.
.WSHLP virus-FAQ
What is .WSHLP virus Ransomware?
.WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP virus Infect?
Via several ways..WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 ..WSHLP virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..WSHLP 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 ..WSHLP virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..WSHLP virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .WSHLP 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 .WSHLP 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.
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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