.blm virus file – what is it? The virus is known as Dharma ransomware which encrypts files and demands a ransom. .blm virus file uses Blmmind@tuta.io as mail for contacting the cybercriminals.
.blm Virus Files – Dharma Ransomware Variant
Dharma ransomware is back with a new cryptovirus variant. The current version of the Dharma family ransomware encrypts files by appending the .blm extension to them, making them inaccessible. It also may add a unique identification number as previous versions do. All encrypted files will receive the new extension as a secondary one. The ransomware drops a ransom note, which gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly recover their files.
.blm virus Summary
Name | .blm virus |
File Extension | .blm |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .blm extension to them, along with a unique identification number placing the new .blm extension as a secondary. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .blm virus. |
.blm Virus (Dharma Ransomware) – What Is It and How Did I Get It?
The .blm virus is a new sample originating from the Dharma ransomware family. This release is created by an unknown hacking group and is likely to follow the same same distribution sequence and execution commands. Following the reports on previous samples originating from this malware family we can state that the following are the most widely used strategies:
- Phishing Email Messages — The hacker-sent messages are distributed in a SPAM-like manner and can feature faked layout and links. By following the inserted links and opening up attachments.
- Payload Files Delivery — The virus code can be inserted in different types of files that are usually downloaded and run from the Internet. Some of the best-known examples are macro-infected documents. They are created to be compaible with all popular office file formats and will prompt the users into activating the built-in scripts to view the contents. This will trigger the infection. The other popular alternative is the creation of virus-infected program installers — they are made by inserting the virus code in the executables. The .blm ransomware will be automatically installed alongside the program.
- Web Sites and Internet Services — The .blm virus can be uploaded to different types of download portals or online communities such as forums, social networks, chat rooms and etc. The hackers can use fake or stolen online accounts to post the files in public or private conversations.
Apart from this Dharma ransomware strains can also be delivered via other infections, usually Trojans.
When the infection has been placed on a given computer the built-in execution sequence will be started. Many viruses of this category will begin the infection by starting a local information gathering module. It will scan the hard drive and applications, as well as generate a report of the installed hardware components. This information will be made available to the hackers who can hijack personal sensitive information and may also generate an unique ID of each computers to have a record.
This virus can also include a module which will lead to a security bypass of the installed anti-malware and anti-hacker programs. The list includes anti-virus programs, firewalls, intrusion detection systems and etc. Depending on the instructions these programs can be disabled or completely removed.
In a lot of cases Dharma ransomware are also used to install other threats on the target computers. Usually the most popular option is the deployment of Trojan horse infections — they will install a local client which will connect to a hacker-controlled server. It will allow the remote attackers to take over control of the systems.
The .blm Virus will start its ransomware component which will encrypt user data with a very strong cipher. The list of files that are to be encrypted will be governed by a built-in list of target file extensions. All processed files will receive the respective .blm extension. The victims will be blackmailed to pay a ransom decryption fee by looking at specially created text files or an instituted lockscreen instance.
We recommend that active infections are removed as fast as possible to preven further infections.
Remove .blm File Virus (Dharma)
If your computer got infected with the .blm File Virus, you should be experienced in removing malware manually. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the opportunity to spread further and infect more machines. You should remove the ransomware and follow the instructions guide provided with easy-to-follow steps below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .blm virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .blm 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 .blm 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 .blm 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 .blm virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .blm 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 .blm 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.
.blm virus-FAQ
What is .blm virus Ransomware?
.blm 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 .blm 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 .blm virus Infect?
Via several ways..blm 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 .blm 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 ..blm virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..blm 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 ..blm virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..blm virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..blm 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 .blm 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 .blm virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..blm 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 .blm 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 .blm virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .blm 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 .blm 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.