This article has been created in order to help you by showing how to remove Comrade HT ransomware and how to try and restore .comrade encrypted files without having to pay the ransom.
New ransomware virus has been reported to possibly be related to the Comrade variants. The virus is themed accordingly and is named Comrade HT. This ransomware is just like any other crypto nightmare – it uses AES encryption algorithm to get the files of it’s victims to seem corrupt and broken. Then, the virus claims it can unlock the files it has encrypted if you pay $480 usd in BTC to get the files decrypted once again. If you have become a victim of Comrade HT ransomware, recommendations are to read the following article in order to learn how to remove Comrade HT ransomware and restore .comrade encrypted files.
Threat Summary
| Name | Comrade HT |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrpts the files on your computer and then demands a ransom payoff to decrypt them of $480. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted with .comrade extension added and a ransom note DECRYPT_FILES.txt is also dropped. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Comrade HT. |
| 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. |
Comrade HT Ransomware – Distribution Methods
In order for this virus to infect the maximum amount of users, it may be spread via more than one distribution techniques. The main of those used may be via malicious e-mail spam messages, also known as malspam. To do this, the cyber-criminals use convincing messages in order to trick victims into either clicking on buttons that download the malicious file or downloading the file as an e-mail attachment, that they believe is a legitimate document. Such e-mails may contain messages within them that aim to convince you that the attachment is an important document, like invoice, receipt, payment letter and other types of documents, for example:
In addition to this, the Comrade HT ransomware may also be concealed as a fake program setup, fake key generator or other fraudulent type of software.
Comrade HT Ransomware – More Information
As soon as your computer has been infected by Comrade HT ransomware, the virus immediately begins to perform various different activities on your computer, starting with dropping multiple malicious files in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
- %LocalLow%
As soon as the malicous files belonging to Comrade HT ransomware have been dropped on the victim’s computer, the virus may immediately begin to delete the shadow volume copies on your PC. This happens after the Comrade HT malware runs a command as an administrator on your computer system:
→ process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
In addition to deleting the shadow volume copies on your computer, the Comrade HT ransomware also aims to modify some of the Windows registry sub-keys in the Registry Editor, by creating values with custom data in them. The attacked sub-keys may be the following:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
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
After this has happened, the virus also drops a ransom note to notify the victim of the infected PC of the situation. The note is named DECRYPT_FILES.txt and has the following contents:
All your files has been encrypted!
How do I get my files back?
Send $480 worth of Bitcoin to: 1NwlqXBqV2CBUZ53aLyzD71XkzDYc6bXe5
and send a email to cybervigilante4453@protonmail.com
If you don’t pay us within 24 hours, we will be forced to delete your decryption key.
If you turn off your pc, your files will automatically be encrypted again,
When you next boot.
Making it harder for you to decrypt your files.
Signed, Comrade.
Similar to the Comrade Cirle ransomware variants, this virus may also use socialist propaganda wallpapers in order to mock the victim.
Comrade HT Ransomware Encryption – Process
When Comrade HT ransomware encrypts your files, the virus will append the .comrade file extension to the encrypted files, making them appear like the following after the encryption process is complete:
Pic
In addition to this, Comrade HT ransomware does not encrypt just any file. The firus scans your computer for only specific file types, while being very careful not to encrypt system files in Windows. Usually, the most often targeted file types by Comrade HT ransomware are:
- Pictures.
- Documents.
- Audio files.
- Videos.
- Archives.
- Often used file types.
Remove Comrade HT Ransomware and Restore .comrade Files
In order to remove this virus, recommendations are to firstly remove all of the files associated with it and all of the registries. You can try to hunt down for the files manually after shutting down your internet connection by following the manual instructions below. However, since Comrade HT ransomware may also encrypt your files further if you try to tamper with it, experts advise removing the virus automatically by downloading an advanced anti-malware tool which will take care of the removal for you. Be advised that it is not reccomended to restart your PC after an infection with the Comrade HT ransomware.
If you want to restore the encrypted files of this virus, it is strongly advisable to try the alternative methods for file recovery below. They are specifically designed to help you restore you encrypted files via the alternative methods for file recovery below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Comrade HT”.
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 Comrade HT with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Comrade HT.
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 Comrade HT 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.
Comrade HT-FAQ
What is Comrade HT Ransomware?
Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT Infect?
Via several ways.Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 .Comrade HT files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Comrade HT 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 .Comrade HT files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Comrade HT" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Comrade HT 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 Comrade HT 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.