This article aims to help you remove The Dark Encryptor ransomware and show you how to try and get back files encrypted with .tdelf file extension.
A ransomware virus, very similar to JigSaw ransomware has been discovered by malware researchers. The virus is believed to be created by someone calling himself “carlv”. The ransomware aims to encrypt the files on the PC’s which it has previously infected and demand a ransom payoff of 350 USD from the victims to pay in order to get their files back. If you are one of the victims of this virus, we strongly suggest you to read the following material.
Threat Summary
| Name | The Dark Encryptor |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Resembles JigSaw ransomware. Encrypts the files and then adds a wallpaper with the ransom note, demanding 350 dollars to be paid to get the files back. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted to the point that they cannot be decrypted unless you have the private key. To them, the extension .tdelf is added. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss The Dark Encryptor. |
| 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. |
The Dark Encryptor Virus – Spread
For this virus to cause a successful infection, the ones behind it may use a combination of different malicious tools:
- Malware obfuscators to conceal the loader or the infection objects from antivirus software.
- Exploit kits to exploit non-updated Windows operating systems.
- Spam software or spamming services to spread the infection file.
- A set of hosts to which the infection file connects and downloads the payload from.
In addition to those tools, the crooks may also have a pre-created list of e-mail addresses from which they may send out spam messages that may either contain malicious web links or malicious e-mail attachments. The e-mails have convincing messages within them, that get the victim to click on an attachment or a web link, similar to the example below:
The Dark Encryptor – More Information
After the user opens the malicious file of the virus, the executable of The Dark Encryptor is dropped on the compromised computer while remaining undetected. It has been reported by researchers and uploaded on VirusTotal.com as RansomWare.exe:
Besides this malicious files, The Dark Encryptor ransomware may also situate other support modules that may result in various activities on the compromised computer:
- The virus may gain administrative access to your PC.
- It may add value strings in the Run and RunOnce Windows registry keys in order to run automatically on Windows start.
- It may delete the shadow volume copies on the infected computer by using the vssadmin and bcedit commands.
In addition to those activities, The Dark Encryptor also adds it’s ransom note to be automatically opened on the desktop of the victim. It has the following ransom demands:
“THE DARK ENCRYPTOR
All your files have been encrypted by THE DARK ENCRYPTOR using a military grade encryption algorithm.
But dont worry ! You can get them backn you just need to pay 100 USD in bitcoin. For more informationst please read the text document placed on your Desktop.
Have a nice day !
WARNING: The price will rise to 350 USD if you don’t pay in the next 5 days.”
The Dark Encryptor – Encryption Process
It is widely believed that The Dark Encryptor may use a strong encryption algorithm to render the files on the computers it infects no longer able to be opened. However, there is also the possibility that there is a mistake in the encryption mode and the virus later may be decrypted.
For the encryption process, The Dark Encryptor uses the .tdelf file extension to identify itself. It is added as a suffix to the files encrypted by this virus.
After this has completed, The Dark Encryptor may self-delete or remain active on the victim’s computer. It is interesting that the virus may target only specific file types, like:
- Microsoft Office documents.
- Documents related to Adobe software.
- Presentations.
- Pictures.
- Music.
- Videos.
- Archives.
- Other important files.
Remove The Dark Encryptor Ransomware and Restore Your Files
Before doing any removal actions, we recommend you to backup your files even if they are encrypted.
Then you can proceed with the removal process, preferably by following the removal instructions underneath. They are specifically designed to help you remove The Dark Encryptor either manually or automatically. In case you lack the experience in manual removal, cybersec experts recommend using an anti-malware scanner to eliminate The Dark Encryptor ransomware virus automatically.
At this current point, there is no official decryptor for The Dark Encryptor ransomware threat. However, it may as well come out soon. We are monitoring the situation and will update this blog post as soon as a free decryptor is released. In the meantime, you are advised to try alternative file recovery methods, like the ones in step “2. Restore files encrypted by The Dark Encryptor” below. They may not be 100% effective, especially if you have reinstalled Windows, but may help recover a big portion of your encrypted 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 The Dark Encryptor with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by The Dark Encryptor.
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 The Dark Encryptor 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.
The Dark Encryptor-FAQ
What is The Dark Encryptor Ransomware?
The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor Infect?
Via several ways.The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 .The Dark Encryptor files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .The Dark Encryptor 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 .The Dark Encryptor files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".The Dark Encryptor" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this The Dark Encryptor 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 The Dark Encryptor 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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