A crypto-virus, dubbed as APT Ransomware requesting it’s victims to pay with Coinbase or Blockchain has appeared out into the open, encrypting files and adding .dll extension after it has completed encryption. APT Ransomware 2.0 also drops a ransom note in an .HTML file, called “DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES”. This ransom note aims to “motivate” the victims to pay a hefty ransom fee in 5 days for the cyber-criminals to be able to decrypt their files in return. And even though it is not confirmed, the virus allegedly uses RSA-4096 to render files unusable. Many consider it to be one of the strongest encryption algorithms, primarily because it uses a military grade encryption strength and a unique private and public decryption keys which both have to be used to decrypt files.
Threat Summary
| Name | APT Ransomware 2.0 |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The ransomware allegedly encrypts files with a strong RSA-4096 cipher and asks a ransom payoff of approximately 1 BTC for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted and become inaccessible with an added .dll file extension to them. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a DECRYPT_YOUR_FILES.html file. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
| Detection Tool |
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APT Ransomware 2.0 – How Is It Distributed Out In The Open/h4>
This virus is not believed to be very widespread, but it may become in the future, depending on the resources of the cyber-criminals and the outcome of the operation. For the moment, it is widely believed that APT Ransomware 2.0 uses phishing e-mails to infect users. The infection may be processed via two main different methods:
- Malicious URLs embedded in the body of the e-mail that redirects to a drive-by download page and causes an infection.
- Malicious files disguised as legitimate Microsoft Office or Adobe documents.
The user PC can also become infected via simply opening a malicious web link, and it does not matter where the web link is posted.
APT Ransomware 2.0 – More Information
Once already infected, the APT Ransomware 2.0 virus may be downloaded onto the computer via the assistance of an Exploit Kit that caused the infection or the help of other malware like a downloader Trojan, for example. After being downloaded, the APT Ransomware 2.0 threat may situate malicious files in key Windows folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local Files%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Common%
- %System%
After this has been done, the APT Ransomware 2.0 may also create several other types of objects on the infected computer, like registry entries allowing it to run every time Windows starts. The targeted registry keys for this are the RUN and RUNONCE keys, usually located in:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
After having created value strings on those keys, the APT Ransomware 2.0 may delete the shadow copies or other backups on the targeted machine by executing the vssadmin command in quiet mode.
To encrypt the files of the infected computer, the APT Ransomware 2.0 may use the immensely strong RSA-4096 encryption which is also quite risky to implement and may permanently break your files. The ransomware may scan for widely used types of files, such as:
- Document files (Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader).
- Image files (Photos, Adobe Photoshop files).
- Videos (Movie Maker files, .avi, .mpeg4 files).
- Audio files (.wav, .mp3, .wmv).
After the encryption, the APT 2.0 Ransomware appends the .dll file extension to the encrypted files, for example:
The ransomware demands users to pay a ransom payoff which is 1 BTC to their BitCoin address, and they also give instructions on how to make a wallet and buy BitCoin as well.
Malware researchers, however, believe that paying the ransom will solve nothing and they strongly advise users to remove any traces of the APT Ransomware 2.0 from your computer.
Remove APT Ransomware and Restore Your Files
To remove this malware from your PC, we advise you to follow the instructions mentioned in this article. In addition, it is also advisable to focus on deleting the virus automatically using an advanced anti-malware program which will ensure it’s successful removal from your computer.
To attempt and restore your files, we advise you to use alternative methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by APT Ransomware 2.0” while a decrypter becomes publicly available for free. The methods may not be 100% effective, so we advise you to back up your files before attempting them.
The release of a free decryptor, however, is very unlikely because news broke out online that the creators of the ransomware may have created bad code and may not be able to decrypt the encrypted files themselves. We will keep track of the virus and update this article with more information as it becomes available.
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 APT Ransomware 2.0 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by APT Ransomware 2.0.
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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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.
APT Ransomware 2.0-FAQ
What is APT Ransomware 2.0 Ransomware?
APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 Infect?
Via several ways.APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 .APT Ransomware 2.0 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .APT Ransomware 2.0 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 .APT Ransomware 2.0 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".APT Ransomware 2.0" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this APT Ransomware 2.0 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 APT Ransomware 2.0 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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