A new iteration of the well-known Jigsaw ransomware has been detected by security researchers, and it is known to append the .Bitconnect extension to encrypted files. As reported by researcher Michael Gillespie, the ransomware is using a new extortion method where it demands the victim to take a photo of himself/herself and post it on Instagram. This article will help you to remove the .Bitconnect file virus (Jigsaw ransomware) from your system.
Threat Summary
Name | .Bitconnect File Virus |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files and appends the .Bitconnect extension to them. |
Symptoms | Files on the system are encrypted. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .Bitconnect File Virus. |
.Bitconnect File Virus – Distribution
Jigsaw ransomware and its .Bitconnect iteration could infect computers using different methods for spreading itself to victims. Spam e-mails are most likely distributing its payload dropper. These types of emails will try to convince the potential victim that something important is attached as a file where in fact the attachment is a file containing a malicious script. Upon opening the file, the payload of the ransomware is typically launched.
An analysis of one such file carrying the .Bitconnect file virus is available on VirusTotal .
Also, keep in mind that the .Bitconnect iteration of the Jigsaw ransomware might be using other methods for distribution, like using file-sharing websites and social media to further spread the payload file dropper. Freeware applications could also be hiding the malicious files of this ransomware.
To stay protected, be extra cautious when opening files after you download them, especially if they come from unverified sources and unknown senders. You may want to scan such files with a security tool, and also make sure to check their sizes and signatures for anything that seems out of the ordinary. More ransomware preventing tips are available in our forum.
.Bitconnect File Virus (Jigsaw Ransomware) – Technical Details
The Jigsaw ransomware ransomware keeps on appearing on the radar of malware researchers, as its coders continue to release new iterations. Many of these iterations are themed with the Jigsaw character from the movie series “SAW”.
Typically, when the Jigsaw file virus (in this case the .Bitconnect iteration) is executed, it will modify an existing entry in the Windows Registry or create a new one to achieve persistence. That registry entry makes the malware to automatically execute with each boot of the system.
In particular, the .Bitconnect file virus is using a new extortion method where it demands the victim to take a photo of himself/herself and post it on Instagram.
A Jigsaw decrypter was developed by security researcher Michael Gillespie for victims to get their files back without paying the ransom. However, keep in mind that the ransomware has many iterations, and this decrypter does not work on all of them. In case you are not able to decrypt your files, you may want to try alternative methods of file restoration.
.Bitconnect File Virus (Jigsaw Ransomware) – Removal
If your computer got infected with the .Bitconnect iteration of the Jigsaw ransomware, it is highly recommended to get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it gets the chance to spread further and infect other computers. Instructions on how to remove the ransomware are provided below. Depending on your own experience in malware removal, you can either remove it manually or rely on an anti-malware program to do it for you.
In addition, there are alternative methods for file recovery that exclude ransom payment. You can find them in the second part of the guide below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .Bitconnect File Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .Bitconnect File 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 .Bitconnect File Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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.
.Bitconnect File Virus-FAQ
What is .Bitconnect File Virus Ransomware?
.Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File Virus Infect?
Via several ways..Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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 ..Bitconnect File Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..Bitconnect File 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 ..Bitconnect File Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..Bitconnect File Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .Bitconnect File 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 .Bitconnect File 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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