This article has been created to help you fully remove the AES-NI ransomware infection and restore .aes-ni encrypted files.
A ransomware virus has been detected in April 2017, oriented towards English-speaking users. The virus may spread worldwide, but it stops once it detects it has been activated on countries from the former Soviet Union. The AES-NI ransomware aims to encrypt the files on the computers infected by it using ECB mode and AES-256 encryption algorithm. It then locks the files with RSA-2048, generating unique decryption keys which are then sent to the servers of the cyber-criminals. Then, AES-NI drops a ransom note, named !!! READ THIS – IMPORTANT !!!.txt in which it demands a hefty ransom to be paid in order for the cyber-criminals to restore the encrypted files back to working state. In case you have been infected by the AES-NI ransomware, recommendations are to read this article.
Threat Summary
| Name |
AES-NI Virus |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | Encrypts important documents and other files on computers it infects. Asks for a ransom to be paid. |
| Symptoms | The victim may see a ransom note, named !!! READ THIS – IMPORTANT !!!.txt and the files encrypted with and added .aes-ni file extension. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| 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 AES-NI 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. |
AES-NI Ransomware – Infection Process
The infection file of the AES-NI ransomware may be a heavily obfuscated JavaScript that is malicious or a dropper file. It may also be a Trojan horse or other malware, such as botnet that has previously compromised the victim PC.
The distribution of the infection file may be conducted via massive spam e-mail campaigns that aim for one thing only – to trick users into either clicking on the malicious file or a malicious web link that is embedded within the body of the e-mail sent. One example of such message can be seen below:
Besides e-mail, cyber-criminals who are behind the AES-NI infection may authorize themselves to upload malicious files on file-sharing websites, like torrent sites, for example. Such files may be presented to the user as key generators to activate a license for a given program or a crack or patch for different software.
Other infection methods may include attacks via fake updates or as a result of a malicious browser redirect. Such can happen if the user has an ad-supported potentially unwanted application, also known as PUA.
Once an infection has happened, by any of those scenarios, AES-NI ransomware’s malicious files may be dropped on the infected computer. They include:
- !!! READ THIS – IMPORTANT !!!.txt
- .key.aes_ni files
- Exectuable files located in the %System Drive%, %AppData% or %Windows% folders.
.Aes-ni File Virus – Infection Activity
Besides the primary malicious files of AES-NI, the virus may also create duplicate files or support modules of different file types (.dll, .tmp, .vbs, .bat, .exe) that may be located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %SystemDrive%
- %Windows%
- %System32%
The activity of the virus may also include the modifications of Windows Registry sub-keys in a way that the malicious executable that encrypts files runs on system start-up. The keys targeted for this 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
In those keys, the AES-NI virus may create custom value strings with the path to the malicious files, so if you are removing the virus manually, you can open the key and see where the malicious file is located.
The AES-NI virus also performs a check of the location of the compromised computer, and if the computer is from one of the former Soviet Union countries, the AES-NI ransomware self-deletes and does not encrypt any files.
Other activities of the AES-NI ransomware infection may include the modification of the Window Shadow copies via the following administrative Winodws Command prompt command lines:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
The Encryption Process of AES-NI Ransomware
To encrypt files, this ransomware virus uses the so-called ECB encryption mode. This encryption mode includes several different encryption sequences. The mode is also known as Electronic Code Book mode. This mode is used when more than one block of data with the same key is encrypted once. The encryption algorithm for the ECB mode is called Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and is the strongest AES-256 bit. Then , the AES-NI ransomware may combine the file encryption with the RSA algorithm which generates a unique decryption key for each file or set of files. The decryption keys may then be sent via encrypted connection to the servers of the cyber-criminals who are behind AES-NI ransomware.
Among the files encrypted by AES-NI ransomware may be the following:
- Documents.
- Music.
- Videos.
- Recordings.
- Images.
- Database files.
After the encryption process has completed, the AES-NI ransomware sets a custom file extension to the encrypted files and they appear like the following:
The final step of the encryption process is to notify the victim of the encrypted files. This happens by dropping the ransom note of the virus, named !!! READ THIS – IMPORTANT !!!.txt. It has the following content:
==========================# aes-ni ransomware #==========================
█████╗ ██████╗██████╗ ███╗ ██╗ ██╗
██╔═██╗██╔═══╝██╔═══╝ ████╗ ██║ ██║
██████║█████╗ ██████╗███╗██╔██╗██║ ██║
██╔═██║██╔══╝ ╚═══██║╚══╝██║╚████║ ██║
██║ ██║██████╗██████║ ██║ ╚███║ ██║
╚═╝ ╚═╝╚═════╝╚═════╝ ╚═╝ ╚══╝ ╚═╝
SORRY! Your files are encrypted.
File contents are encrypted with random key (AES-256 bit; ECB mode).
Random key is encrypted with RSA public key (2048 bit).
We STRONGLY RECOMMEND you NOT to use any “decryption tools”.
These tools can damage your data, making recover IMPOSSIBLE.
Also we recommend you not to contact data recovery companies.
They will just contact us, buy the key and sell it to you at a higher price.
If you want to decrypt your files, you have to get RSA private key.
In order to get private key, write here:
0xc030@protonmail.ch
Also there is one fast way to contact us.
If you are familiar with Jabber, write us to JID: zooolo@darknet.nz (it is Jabber, not e-mail address!)
You can get Jabber account for example at https://www.xmpp.jp/signup
IMPORTANT: In some cases malware researchers can block our e-mails.
If you did not receive any answer on e-mail in 48 hours,
please do not panic and write to BitMsg (https://bitmsg.me) address:
BM-2cVgoJS8HPMkjzgDMVNAGg5TG3bb1TcfhN
or create topic on https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/ and we will find you there.
Also it will be better if you download Tor browser here: https://www.torproject.org/download/download-easy.html.en
Download, install and run it; then visit our site (from Tor browser): https://kzg2xa3nsydva3p2.onion/index.php
Please do not visit this site from standard browser: it just will not open. You need Tor Browser to open .onion sites.
There is a form, you can write us there if all e-mails are blocked and we will contact you very fastly.
If someone else offers you files restoring, ask him for test decryption.
Only we can successfully decrypt your files; knowing this can protect you from fraud.
You will receive instructions of what to do next.
You MUST refer this ID in your message:
{Unique ID}Also you MUST send all “.key.aes_ni” files from C:\ProgramData if there are any.
==========================# aes-ni ransomware #==========================
Source: id-ransomware-blogspot.bg
Remove .AES-NI Virus and Get Your Data Back
Before removing the AES-NI ransomware, it is strongly recommended to back up all your files. Then, we advise following the removal instructions down below. They are carefully designed to help isolate the threat first and remove it second. For maximum effectiveness, experts strongly advise removing AES-NI ransomware automatically by performing a scan with a particular anti-malware software. It will also protect the system in the future.
For the restoration of the files, keep following this article, as a free decryptor is yet to be released. However, you can still restore chunk of the files by using some of the alternative methods for file recovery below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by AES-NI Virus”.
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 AES-NI Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 AES-NI Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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.
AES-NI Virus-FAQ
What is AES-NI Virus Ransomware?
AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 AES-NI Virus Infect?
Via several ways.AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 .AES-NI Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .AES-NI 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 .AES-NI Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".AES-NI Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 AES-NI Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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 AES-NI Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this AES-NI 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 AES-NI 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.
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.