What is DIKE Ransomware?
DIKE is the name given to malicious software based on the code of the Phobos ransomware. What DIKE ransomware aims to do is to extort ransom fees from its victims. When this ransomware infects a computer system it leaves lots of files that store valuable data completely inaccessible. To make those files recognisable, the DIKE virus adds three extensions to original names. The first one is a specially crafted ID number for every victim, the second is an email address associated with hackers and the third is the .DIKE extension. Following data encryption, the threat will drop two files that contain ransom messages.
If you are one of DIKE’s victims then keep reading this article to learn more about the specifics of this cryptovirus and the process of its complete removal.
DIKE Summary
| Name | DIKE also known as Gen:Variant.Ransom.Phobos.62, W32/Generic.AP.34AB98!tr, Ransom-Phobos!25A984B212E7, Trojan.Win32.Phobos.fa |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Malicious Extensions | ID numner + email address + .DIKE |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt personal files stored on the infected computer. It demands a ransom for a decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed completely. Their names are changed with three extensions, the last of which is .DIKE. Corrupted files remain unusable until their code is reverted back to original state. |
| Ransom Messages | info.hta and info.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Websites, Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
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How Does DIKE Ransomware Infect PCs?
Ransomware infections like DIKE try to infect computer operating systems via techniques that install them unnoticeably. Techniques that are used to hide the risk of malware infection are malspam (spam email messages that host malicious files), malicious adverts, software cracks, free applications and others.
Malicious files attached to legitimate-like email messages are considered to be the most popular technique for distribution of ransomware. The same spam email messages may also feature links that open hacked web pages.
Sites that host dangerous scripts may download the ransomware and run it in the background of all other running apps. Except email messages, social media and other bogus sites like Emolumentsurvey.top redirect may open those dangerous pages. Beware of the places you visit online. Always keep an active program for system protection to prevent falling victim to nasty malware.
What Does DIKE Ransomware Do?
DIKE ransomware is software that supports hackers’ goals as well as vicious operations. Its purpose is to damage some major computer settings and then encrypt personal files that are typically used for the storage of valuable personal data. The end goal of this program is to force victims to pay a ransom fee for a decryption tool that will allegedly restore .DIKE files.
For the activation of this ransomware on a computer system, a malicious executable file should be started. Then this file triggers a lot more operations including download and installation of additional harmful files. There are several directories that can be used by DIKE ransomware for the storage of those files and they include:
- %AppData%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %Temp%
- %System%
Once the DIKE virus plagues essential system components, it proceeds with a data encryption process which we will reveal in the next paragraph. What happens at the end of the attack is the creation of two ransom messages that urge victims to contact cyber criminals. All victims of DIKE ransomware may find the file info.txt on their infected machines. This file informs the following:
ATTENTION!
ALL YOUR DATA ARE PROTECTED WITH RSA ALGORITHM
Your security system was vulnerable, so all of your files are encrypted.
If you want to restore them, contact us by email: taoshan@privatemail.com
in the header of the letter indicate your encrypted ID –
If you do not receive a response within 24 hours, please contact us by Telegram.org account: @supp_taoshan
BE CAREFUL AND DO NOT DAMAGE YOUR DATA:
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Do not trust anyone! Only we have keys to your files! Without this keys restore your data is impossible
WE GUARANTEE A FREE DECODE AS A PROOF OF OUR POSSIBILITIES:
You can send us 2 files for free decryption. Size of file must be less than 1 Mb (non archived). We don`t decrypt for test DATABASE, XLS and other important files.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DECODE YOUR DATA YOURSELF, YOU ONLY DAMAGE THEM AND THEN YOU LOSE THEM FOREVER.AFTER DECRYPTION YOUR SYSTEM WILL RETURN TO A FULLY NORMALLY AND OPERATIONAL CONDITION!
The message info.hta states the following:
ATTENTION!
ALL YOUR DATA ARE PROTECTED WITH RSA ALGORITHMYour security system was vulnerable, so all of your files are encrypted.
If you want to restore them, contact us by email: taoshan@privatemail.com
in the header of the letter indicate your encrypted ID (you can find it in the names of your encrypted files)
If you do not receive a response within 24 hours, please contact us by Telegram.org account: @supp_taoshanBE CAREFUL AND DO NOT DAMAGE YOUR DATA:
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Do not trust anyone! Only we have keys to your files! Without this keys restore your data is impossibleWE GUARANTEE A FREE DECODE AS A PROOF OF OUR POSSIBILITIES:
You can send us 2 files for free decryption. Size of file must be less than 1 Mb (non archived). We don`t decrypt for test DATABASE, XLS and other important files.DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DECODE YOUR DATA YOURSELF, YOU ONLY DAMAGE THEM AND THEN YOU LOSE THEM FOREVER.
AFTER DECRYPTION YOUR SYSTEM WILL RETURN TO A FULLY NORMALLY AND OPERATIONAL CONDITION!
The virus originates from the ransomware family Phobos. Similar to its predecessors, DIKE may start an information-gathering module that is set to collect sensitive details. All the data can then be transferred to remote servers and provided to hacker. Hackers, in turn, may misuse harvested data for financial abuses and future malware attack campaigns.
A basic Trojan module may also be used as part of the infection. If this happens, the virus may gather even more data and enable crooks to establish a permanent remote connection with the infected PC.
.DIKE Virus Files
The encryption of personal files happens after the execution of a module configured to run a sophisticated cypher algorithm every time it detects a target file. The bad news is that all files encoded by DIKE ransomware remain inaccessible for an unspecified period of time.
You can easily spot encoded files by noticing the following renaming pattern applied to their names:
- .id[9ECFA84E-3316].[taoshan@privatemail.com].DIKE
For example the file photo.jpg will appear as a broken file with the name photo.jpg.id[9ECFA84E-3316].[taoshan@privatemail.com].DIKE
If you want to prevent being tricked by cybercriminals once again, you should avoid paying the demanded ransom. There is no guarantee that they have a working decryption tool which they will send you for the recovery of your .DIKE files.
Remove DIKE Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Files
The so-called DIKE is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below should be completed. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for DIKE with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall DIKE 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 DIKE 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 DIKE 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 DIKE
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by DIKE.
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 DIKE 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.
DIKE-FAQ
What is DIKE Ransomware?
DIKE 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 DIKE 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 DIKE Infect?
Via several ways.DIKE 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 DIKE 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 .DIKE files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .DIKE 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 .DIKE files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".DIKE" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .DIKE 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 DIKE 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 DIKE ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .DIKE 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 DIKE 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 DIKE Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this DIKE 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 DIKE 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.