This article will aid you to remove BSS Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
BSS Ransomware is one that encrypts your data with and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. The BSS Ransomware will leave ransomware instructions as text file. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
| Name | BSS ransomware |
| 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 and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss BSS ransomware. |
| 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. |
BSS Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The BSS ransomware is a new Hidden tear based virus threat which has been captured in its test forms. As it is based on older code we anticipate that it will use the most popular attack methods. Hidden Tear ransomware strains are mostly sent out via phishing email messages which scan the recipients into thinking that they have received a legitimate notification from a well-known company or product. The files can be linked directly or embedded as multimedia content or links.
The other technique is to embed the virus links in malicious web sites that are fake copies of legitimate domains: portals, download pages, landing pages and etc. To make them look more legitimate the hackers can use host them on domain names that are very similar to the real ones and also include security certificates.
To increase the number of infected clients the criminals can opt to include the virus code in infected payloads of which there are two popular types:
- Documents — The criminals can embed virus installation scripts in documents of all popular types: spreadsheets, presentations, databases and text documents. When they are opened by the users a message will appear asking them to enable to built-in content to correctly view them. This will trigger the infection.
- Application Installers — The other popular techniques is to insert the virus code into application installers of popular software that are often downloaded by end users. The list includes creativity suites, system utilities, optimizers and office apps. Whenever the files are executed the virus infection will be started.
Such data can also be spread on file-sharing networks like BitTorrent where both legitimate and pirate content can be found.
Large-scale Hidden Tear infections are frequently orchestrated via browser hijackers — malicious plugins which are made compatible with most popular web browsers. These instances are uploaded both to fake download portals and the browsers repositories with fake user reviews and developer credentials.
BSS Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
The captured BSS ransomware samples are early test releases, they do not feature any distinct malware components that are expected from Hidden Tear based are not found. This means that the future versions will probably follow the typical behavior patterns.
Threats like the BSS ransomware usually start by launching a data harvesting — it will scan the local contents, memory and any other storage locations (network shares and removable storage devices). Most Hidden Tear variants will generate a machine ID that is made by listing the installed hardware components, user settings and certain operating system environment values. If configured by the attackers it can also expose the identity of the victims by looking for their name, address, phone number, interest and even stored username and password combinations.
The collected information can then be processed further by the next component called security bypass which will scan the computer for the presence of any security software that can interfere with the virus process. This includes anti-virus programs, sandbox environments, virtual machine hosts and etc. If such an engine is detected it will be bypassed or completely removed.
The BSS ransomware has a modular code base allowing it to be programmed to carry out all kinds of malicious actions once it has obtained complete control of the target machines. Examples include the following:
- Process Creation and Modification — The ransomware can create its own processes and hook up to others, including systems ones. This allows it to spy on the victims in real-time.
- Windows Registry Changes — The virus can modify values in the Windows Registry belonging both to the operating system and any third-party installed apps. The changes can cause performance issues and make the computer completely unusable. Programs can quit with unexpected errors causing severe problems when using it.
- Boot Options Changes — One of the most dangerous aspects of ransomware infections is their ability to install themselves in a persistent way. This means that the main engine will reconfigure the Windows boot settings in order to automatically start itself every time the computer is powered on. This will additionally make it very difficult to remove using manual methods as the recovery boot menus will be disabled.
- Additional Payload Delivery — Hidden Tear variants are particularly useful to distribute other malware threats like Trojans, hijackers and miners.
Depending on the exact configuration the future BSS ransomware samples can have a much more dangerous effect on the infected machines.
BSS Ransomware – Encryption Process
As soon as all prior components have finished running the ransomware engine will be started. Like previous Hidden Tear variants it will search for data that is deemed important to the victims by using a built-in list of target file type extensions:
- Archives
- Databases
- Backups
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All compromised files will be renamed with the .bss_locked extension. Instead of a ransomware note the victims will be shown an application frame with the following message:
Files has been encrypted with ransomware
Send me some bitcoins or kebab
And I also hate desserts and coffee
By the way… the password is:
It is posible that future versions use it as a lockscreen instance which will block the normal operation of the affected machines until the threat is completely removed.
Remove BSS Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the CryTekk ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for BSS ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by BSS ransomware.
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 BSS ransomware 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.
BSS ransomware-FAQ
What is BSS ransomware Ransomware?
BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 .BSS ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .BSS ransomware 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 .BSS ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".BSS ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this BSS ransomware 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 BSS ransomware 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.
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