Article created to help remove AvastVirusinfo ransomware and assist in attempts to restore files encrypted with an added .A9v9Ahu4 file expansion.
A virus that encrypts files using Xorist Builder genealogy and XOR encryption algorithm has been reported to cause damage to computers by rendering their files encrypted. The files can no longer be opened after the virus known as AvastVirusinfo attacks your computer and they have a file extension added to them – .A9v9Ahu4. After encryption the virus also adds a .txt file which aims notify victims with what has happened exactly to their files and extort them to pay the sum of 15 $ to get the files back. In case you have been attacked by this ransomware infection, we advise you to read this article with care.
Threat Summary
| Name | AvastVirusinfo |
| Type | Ransomware Virus |
| Short Description | This ranosmware virus encrypts the files using XOR encryption mode and asks the victims to pay ransom to get the files back. |
| Symptoms | Files are enciphered and become inaccessible by any type of software. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a .txt file in english and russian., |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks, Malicious Executable in Torrent Trackers. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| 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. |
AvastVirusinfo Ransomware – How Does It Infect
Ever since it was discovered back in 2015, this ransomware infection may still resort to the very same methods of infection for which it was firstly responsible. The ransomware may infect via e-mail spam messages which carry e-mail attachments that are malicious, like the example below displays:
Another method which can spread the AvastVirusinfo ransomware infection has been reported to be via infected installers of programs which slither and execute it’s malicious files on the compromised computers. It is also a scenario that malicious game cracks or program patches and activators that are published on suspicious sites or uploaded as torrents to be carrying the AvastVirusinfo infection malware in them.
AvastVirusinfo Ransomware – Further Information
After this ransomware gets you to open a malicious files, the infection is immediate and no longer avoidable. Once infection is commenced this ransomware virus creates multiple different files on the computers infected by it. The files are as follows
- An executable, named Setup.exe.
- Another two executables, named up_date.exe and update.exe.
- A randomly named executable.
- A randomly named .tmp.exe file.
- A plugin.dll file.
- A randomly named .dll type of file.
In addition to those files the virus also drops two .txt files, named HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt and it’s Russian analogue, named КАК РАСШИФРОВАТЪ ФАЙЛЪI.txt.
The files are usually located in the administrative Windows user directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
Then, this ransomware may delete any shadow volume copies on the compromised computers. This is usually achievable by using the vssadmin command in a /quiet mode.
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
The Encryption Process of AvastVirusinfo Ransomware
Regarding encryption, this ransomware uses a relatively simple encryption algorithm in comparison to the other ones – XOR. What is very particular about this infection is that regarding the encryption, it attacks a very wide variety of file types. The file extensions it is pre-configured to encrypted are over 1000:
After encryption, the files become no longer openable and have an added file extension to them, named – .A9v9Ahu4. They may appear without file icon, similar to the following:
After this has happened, the ransomware infection may drop it’s ransom note to notify the victims of this virus that they must make a ransom payoff in order to restore access to the encrypted files. The ransom note is called HOW TO DECRYPT FILES.txt and has the following content:
→ “What happened to your files?
All of your files were protected by a strong encryption.
There is no way to decrypt your files without the key.
If your files not important for you just reinstall your system.
If your files is important just email us to discuss the price and how to decrypt your files.
You can email us to avastvirusinfo@yandex.com”
There is also a Russian version of the ransom note with the same message.
Remove AvastVirusinfo Ransomware and Decrypt XOR Encrypted Files
Before beginning any removal process, it is recommended that you not pay any ransom and you backup the encrypted files by creating multiple copies of them on removable drives.
For the removal of this ransomware, just like with any other, some steps must be followed. To simplify the situation for you we have created the removal manual below and we recommend that you follow it. In case you are having difficulties or lack the experience in removing this ransomware virus, experts often advise using an advanced anti-malware program. Such will surely take care of the automatic removal of this ransomware infection and future protection of your computer as well.
In case you want to restore your files, there are several alternative tools that may help you out. We have mentioned these methods with links in step “2. Restore files encrypted by AvastVirusinfo” below. Be advised that these methods are not 100% effective but fortunately they may restore at least some of your files.
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 AvastVirusinfo with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by AvastVirusinfo.
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 AvastVirusinfo 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.
AvastVirusinfo-FAQ
What is AvastVirusinfo Ransomware?
AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo Infect?
Via several ways.AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 .AvastVirusinfo files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .AvastVirusinfo 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 .AvastVirusinfo files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".AvastVirusinfo" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this AvastVirusinfo 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 AvastVirusinfo 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.