This article has been created to show you how to remove .ACTUM file ransomware and restore files that have been encrypted by this virus on your computer system.
The GlobeImposter ransomware family of viruses has been on the rise since the beginning of August 2017. First, the virus began with malicious e-mail spam campaigns that carry 3-digit file extensions which they add to the files, encrypted by this ransomware virus. Then, the virus switched to words in it’s “.astra file” variant which is also increasing in popularity. And now the virus is here once again with the .ACTUM file extension which it again ads to the files that have been encrypted by the virus. Then, the .ACTUM file virus aims to extort it’s victims for a hefty ransom fee in the cryptocurrency BitCoin. If you are one of the victims of .ACTUM GlobeImposter variant, we would suggest that you read this article thoroughly.
SensorsTechForum is currently looking into .ACTUM ransomware. Stay tuned for an update in the next 12 hours.
Threat Summary
| Name | .ACTUM Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | GlobeImposter variant. Encrypts the files on the computer it has previously infected and then asks the owner to pay a ransom to get their important files back. |
| Symptoms | Documents, audio files, videos, images, archvies are encrypted. The .ACTUM file extension is added along with a ransom note. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| 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 .ACTUM 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. |
How Does .ACTUM Ransomware Spread
The cyber-criminals behind the latest iterations of GlobeImposter ransomware, including the .ACTUM variant use the same method to spread the ransomware – via e-mail spam that carries malicious e-mail attachments. The spammed e-mail messages may contain various different types of topics and e-mail bodies. The most often used one is the message, pretending that the malicious attachment within the e-mail address is actually a form of a receipt for a purchase the victim has not made. This is very effective, especially when it comes to the average users who get tricked into this and actually download and open the malicious file, which causes the infection.
More Information on .ACTUM File Virus
Once an infection with the .ACTUM GlobeImposter variant takes place, the virus may immediately attack your Windows Task Manager. In it, .ACTUM file virus runs malicious system processes which give it total control (administrative permissons) over your computer. This results in the .ACTUM file virus performing different malicious activities on your computer, like deleting your shadow volume copies by using the vssadmin command:
→ vssadmin delete shadows /for={DrivePartition} /oldest | /all | /shadow={Identification of the shadow copies}] /quiet
In addition to this, the .ACTUM file virus may also attack the Windows Registry Editor of the affected computer, more specifically it may add value strings in the Run and RunOnce registry keys of Windows. This results in the malware running automatically on Windows start up. The sub-keys have the following location:
→ 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
How Does .ACTUM File Virus Encrypt Files
The encryption used by the .ACTUM variant of GlobeImposter is conducted via the RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) algorithm with a 2048-bit strenght. This cipher makes sure that each encryption generates a separate encryption keys – public and private one. The public one can be factorized, however without the private key, you cannot unlock the files even if you wanted to. The .ACTUM file virus targets the following types of files to encrypt them:
→ .$er .4db .4dd .4d .4mp .abs .abx .accdb .accdc .accde .accdr .accdt .accdw .accft .adn .adp .aft .ahd .alf .ask .awdb .azz .bdb .bib .bnd .bok .btr .cdb .cdb .cdb .ckp .clkw .cma .crd .daconnections .dacpac .dad .dadiagrams .daf .daschema .db .db-shm .db-wa .db2 .db3 .dbc .dbf .dbf .dbk .dbs .dbt .dbv .dbx .dcb .dct .dcx .dd .df1 .dmo .dnc .dp1 .dqy .dsk .dsn .dta .dtsx .dx .eco .ecx .edb .emd .eq .fcd .fdb .fic .fid .fi .fm5 .fmp .fmp12 .fmps .fo .fp3 .fp4 .fp5 .fp7 .fpt .fzb .fzv .gdb .gwi .hdb .his .ib .idc .ihx .itdb .itw .jtx .kdb .lgc .maq .mdb .mdbhtm .mdf .mdn .mdt .mrg .mud .mwb .myd .ndf .ns2 .ns3 .ns4 .nsf .nv2 .nyf .oce .odb .oqy .ora .orx .owc .owg .oyx .p96 .p97 .pan .pdb .pdm .phm .pnz .pth .pwa .qpx .qry .qvd .rctd .rdb .rpd .rsd .sbf .sdb .sdf .spq .sqb .sq .sqlite .sqlite3 .sqlitedb .str .tcx .tdt .te .teacher .tmd .trm .udb .usr .v12 .vdb .vpd .wdb .wmdb .xdb .xld .xlgc .zdb .zdc
If you have files that have the file extensions below, blocks of data on them, like their headers, is encrypted and they can no longer be opened. After the encryption process has completed, this ransomware virus adds the .ACTUM file extension to the encrypted files. The files appear like the following example:
→ New Text Document.txt.ACTUM
Remove .ACTUM GlobeImposter and Restore Encrypted Files
For the removal process of the .ACTUM file virus it is important to know that you must perform a backup of your important files beforehand. After doing so, we would suggest to follow the instructions below as they are specifically designed to help you remove this virus from your computer system either manually or automatically. Be advised that the best method to remove this virus is to do it automatically using a ransomware-specific removal tool. Such will fully and swiftly remove .ACTUM ransomware and ensure future protection as well.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by this ransomware virus, we suggest that you focus on trying out our alternative file recovery options below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .ACTUM virus”. They are specifically designed to help you restore as many files as you can, without paying the ransom.
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 .ACTUM Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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.
.ACTUM Virus-FAQ
What is .ACTUM Virus Ransomware?
.ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM Virus Infect?
Via several ways..ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 ..ACTUM Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..ACTUM 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 ..ACTUM Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..ACTUM Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .ACTUM 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 .ACTUM 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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