Dance Ransomware
Dance is a cryptovirus based on the code of the well-known CrySis/Dharma ransomware. It has been released in the wild to blackmail online users for ransom payments. The virus may be hidden in email attachments, hacked sites, and software installers.
Hackers have set this ransomware to append the .dance file extension to the files it encrypts. It forces victims to pay a ransom in BitCoin for the decryption of their valuable .dance files.
If your computer has been attacked by the Dance ransomware, we suggest that you read this article and find reliable help for this problem.
Dance Ransomware Summary
Name | Dance also known as Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E, Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom], A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Crysis.P, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Maliciou Extensions | .id-K279B356.[cryptodancer@onionmail.org].dance |
Ransom Notes | info.txt and a pop-up window |
Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the computers that have been infected by it and then add a few file extensions to the encoded files. Then the ransomware blackmails victims to pay a ransom to get files back. |
Symptoms | Files cannot be opened and have the .id-K279B356.[cryptodancer@onionmail.org].dance extensions added to them. The virus drops a ransom note, containing the extortionist message and the e-mail cryptodancer@onionmail.org |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
Detection Tool |
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.dance Virus Files – More Information
Hackers are believed to be using several common infection strategies to conduct infections with the Dance variant of Dharma ransomware. The most preferred strategies are spam emmails with malicious attachments and links to hacked sites. Malicious files that trigger Dance virus infection may reside within:
- Cracks.
- Patches.
- Keygens.
- License updaters.
- Portable programs.
- Setups.
Similar to other Dharma ransomware strains, like 2021 virus and Myday virus, Dance virus aims to encrypt the prsonal files.
After a succssfull encryption process the ransomware blackmails victims to pay a ransom to obtain a decryption tool that will possible fix .dance files.
Sadly, the threat is likely to encrypt the following types of files on your computer:
→ .ebd, .jbc, .pst, .ost, .tib, .tbk, .bak, .bac, .abk, .as4, .asd, .ashbak, .backup, .bck, .bdb, .bk1, .bkc, .bkf,
.bkp, .boe, .bpa, .bpd, .bup, .cmb, .fbf, .fbw, .fh, .ful, .gho, .ipd, .nb7, .nba, .nbd, .nbf, .nbi, .nbu, .nco,
.oeb, .old, .qic, .sn1, .sn2, .sna, .spi, .stg, .uci, .win, .xbk, .iso, .htm, .html, .mht, .p7, .p7c, .pem, .sgn,
.sec, .cer, .csr, .djvu, .der, .stl, .crt, .p7b, .pfx, .fb, .fb2, .tif, .tiff, .pdf, .doc, .docx, .docm, .rtf,
.xls, .xlsx, .xlsm, .ppt, .pptx, .ppsx, .txt, .cdr, .jpe, .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .bmp, .jiff, .jpf, .ply, .pov, .raw,
.cf, .cfn, .tbn, .xcf, .xof, .key, .eml, .tbb, .dwf, .egg, .fc2, .fcz, .fg, .fp3, .pab, .oab, .psd, .psb, .pcx,
.dwg, .dws, .dxe, .zip, .zipx, .7z, .rar, .rev, .afp, .bfa, .bpk, .bsk, .enc, .rzk, .rzx, .sef, .shy, .snk, .accdb,
.ldf, .accdc, .adp, .dbc, .dbx, .dbf, .dbt, .dxl, .edb, .eql, .mdb, .mxl, .mdf, .sql, .sqlite, .sqlite3, .sqlitedb,
.kdb, .kdbx, .1cd, .dt, .erf, .lgp, .md, .epf, .efb, .eis, .efn, .emd, .emr, .end, .eog, .erb, .ebn, .ebb, .prefab,
.jif, .wor, .csv, .msg, .msf, .kwm, .pwm, .ai, .eps, .abd, .repx, .oxps, .dot.
The encryption is realized with the AES encryption algorithm (Advanced Encryption Standard). As a result, the transformed .dance files can be used after a decryption process.
For the ransom extortion, the threat creates two ransom notes. One of them appears as a pop-up window, while the other remains somewhere on the infected machine. Here is a copy of the text presented by the Dance ransomware’s pop-up window:
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
cryptodancer
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
If you want to restore them, write to the mail: cryptodancer@onionmail.org YOUR ID –
If you have not answered by mail within 12 hours, write to us by another mail:cryptodancer@msgsafe.ioATTENTION!
We recommend you contact us directly to avoid overpaying agentsDo not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
The additional ransom note is stored by the file info.txt and all the information it presents reads:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
write email cryptodancer@onionmail.org or cryptodancer@msgsafe.io
Remove Dance Virus – Try to Restore .dance Files
If you want to remove the Dance ransomware virus, we suggest that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been created with the primary purpose of helping you to remove as many malicious files as possible.
If the manual removal does not seem to have any effect, we would advise you to do what most cyber-security experts would do – run a scan with an advanced anti-malware tool on your PC. Such a program aims to detect and delete all malicious files and objects automatically and protect your machine against future infections.
If your goal is to recover files encrypted by this Dharma ransomware variant, we will share that you can try using the methods we have listed in the “Try to restore” step below. They may not recover all the files, but with their aid, you might be able to restore at least some data.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Dance Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Dance 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Dance 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 Dance Ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Dance Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Dance 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 Dance 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.
Dance Ransomware-FAQ
What is Dance Ransomware Ransomware?
Dance 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 Dance 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 Dance Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Dance 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 Dance 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 .Dance Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Dance 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 .Dance Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Dance Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Dance 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 Dance 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 Dance Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Dance 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 Dance 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 Dance Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Dance 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 Dance 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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