This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .a files virus and provides a complete guide on how to remove malicious files and how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
.a Virus Files
The one-letter name A is given to a ransomware program. It is a strain of the HiddenTear ransomware family. The malicious program is developed to invade computer operating systems to encode particular files stored on them. The encryption is realized after the activation of a strong cipher algorithm. The outcome is all valuable files locked with the .a extension and a ransom note that extorts a ransom fee for their recovery. The payment of 0.2 BTC (currently close to $7200) is highly advisable to be avoided. It does not guarantee the recovery of .a files.
A Files Virus Summary
| Detection Names | Generic.Ransom.Hiddentear.A.29080EF9, Ransom.HiddenTear, Ransom_CRYPTEAR.SM0 |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Malicious Extension | .a |
| Ransom Demanding Notes | READ_ME.TXT |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes AES cihper algorithm to encrypt important files stored on infected devices. To decrypt files it demands a ransom payment. |
| Symptoms | Important files are corrupted and inaccessible. They are all renamed with .a extension. A ransom note appears on screen to extort a ransom. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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The A Ransomware Virus in Detail
The A ransomware or the .a files virus is an infection that has been spotted in the wild by security researchers. In the event that it has infected your PC, it was probably a malicious email attachment you opened on the system or a hacked site you loaded in the browser.
The payload is usually an executable file. Its unattended load could happen along with a load of a corrupted email attachment or web page. Spam emails part of ransomware spread campaigns are often designed to resemble the emails we receive from legitimate sources.
A cryptovirus belongs to the HiddenTear ransomware family. An infection with this threat begins soon after its payload is started on a target system. When this event occurs the ransomware becomes able to run various malicious commands in order to plague system settings and continue with the attack.
Once A ransomware is ready to continue with the data encryption stage, it performs a scan of all computer drives to locate and encrypt each file that appears in its target data list. During the data encryption process, similar to previous HiddenTear variants A ransomware is believed to use the AES cipher algorithm. This cipher modifies parts of the original code of target files making their new versions completely unusable.
After a file is encrypted, it could be recognized by the file extension .a as it is appended to the original names of all corrupted data.
In order to achieve a higher level of persistence the ransomware is likely to add malicious registry entries in the Windows registry. Changes usually support the automatic execution of ransomware files every time the Windows system starts. By adding values under the sub-key presented below, A is also able to open its ransom note soon after the encryption process is done:
→HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
The ransom note file is called READ_ME.txt and it could be found on the system. Here is how it looks and what it reads:
Beware that paying the ransom does not guarantee the recovery of your .a files so we advise you to attempt to fix the problem with the help of available alternative solutions.
Remove A Ransomware and Restore .a Files
Below you could find how a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove A ransomware. The manual removal approach demands practice in recognizing the traits of malware files. Beware that ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So it should be secured properly before it could be used regularly again.
The automatic approach enables you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few clicks after the scan. A reliable anti-malware program is also one of the best ways to protect the PC from ransomware.
If you want to understand how to fix .a files without paying the ransom make sure to read carefully all the details mentioned in the step “Restore files” from the guide below. Beware that before the recovery process you should back up all encrypted files to an external drive in order to prevent their irreversible loss.
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 A Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall A 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 A 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 A 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 A Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by A 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 A 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.
A Files Virus-FAQ
What is A Files Virus Ransomware?
A 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 A 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 A Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways.A 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 A 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 .A Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .A 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 .A Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".A Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .A 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 A 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 A Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .A 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 A 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 A Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this A 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 A 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.
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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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