What Is .Fat32 Files Virus?
This article aims to help you by showing how to remove the .fat32 files ransomware virus from your computer and how to restore files that have been encrypted with the added .fat32 file extension.
A ransomware infection, going by the extension .fat32 which it adds to the files of the infected computer after it encrypts them has been reported to be spread via a multitude of ways online. The virus is from the file encryption kind, meaning that it replaces portions of data from the original files with data from the encryption algorithm it uses, making the files no longer able to be opened. After this is done, the ransomware adds a ransom note, named info.txt. In it, there are instructions on how to pay a hefty ransom of $700 in order to get the files decrypted and working. If you have been infected by the .fat32 files virus, read this article in order to learn how to remove this ransomware and how to try and restore .fat32 encrypted files without having to pay the ransom.
Threat Summary
| Name | .fat32 Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on your computer and then asks for $700 dollars as a payoff for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | Adds the .fat32 file extension to the encrypted files and an info.txt ransom note on the infected computer. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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Distribution Methods
For the .fat32 files virus to infect a computer, the malware uses various different types of techniques. The primary of those is to slither onto your computer via e-mail spam. To do this, the malware uses multiple different setups and techniques that obfuscate it’s infection file. The infection file itself may be masked as different fake legitimate files such as:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Documents.
- Fake program installers.
- Game patches.
- Game cracks.
Most of the files, that could infect your computer with the .fat32 files virus may be sent to you via the same spam e-mail tactict possibly as a previously detected ransomware virus, named Stroman which is very similar to the .fat32 files virus in that it uses similar ransom note, but demands less as ransom. The tactic which may be used by .fat32 may include uploading the malicious file as a fake document and sending it via e-mail to unsuspecting users, while including various deceitful messages to the file, like the following:
In addition to this, the ransomware virus, may also cause infection via fake setups, game patches and other seemingly legitimate executables that are uploaded on torrent sites or suspicious software-provider websites.
.Fat32 Files Ransomware – More Information
Once the .fat32 file infection has compromised your computer, the primary malicious file of this virus is dropped and alongside it other support files may also be dropped on your drive. The malicious files are usually located in the following Windows folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
As soon as the files are copied on your computer, the ransomware may connect to the server of the cyber-criminals operating it and enlist your computer in a list of infected devices, available to them only. This happens either via your unique key or an identifier created for your computer.
In addition to the dropped files, .fat32 virus also drops a ransom note which is called info.txt and has the following ransom note:
“Your data set are encrypted.
We can help decrypted files.
Price for full decrypt all files 700$
You will get decrypt soft + personal key + manual.
For recover your files – contact us email:
BM-2cVCMjYXg5ZwLi2t6mETUeQYhMNDmbfFA2@bitmessage.ch
Please use public email for contact: gmail etc.
For you to be sure, that we can decrypt your files
You can send us 1-2 encrypted files and we will send back it in a decrypt format FREE.
For download files use only dropmefiles.com not more then 10 Mb
Send us an email:
1.Personal ID
2.link dropmefiles.com
after wait decrypted files and further instructions.
Personal ID:
Hef0b1e0pI2y98boOKa7ciG2lUV8XIHAdoC5me99
Do not rename encrypted files
Not use false encryption key, it cause pernament data loss”
You must pay within 72 hours, or the price will be more.
The BitCoin payment address of this ransom virus is the same like the one used with the recently detected Stroman ransomware detection, suggesting that the two infections may have more in common than initially thought. In addition to this, the .fat32 files virus may also add registry value entries with sub-keys in them that are specifically created in order to make it so that the file, responsible for encryption runs automatically on system start. The targeted sub-keys for this to happen 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
In addition to those, the .fat32 ransomware may also modify the following reigstry sub-keys as well:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
Futhermore, .fat32 files virus may also attack the system recovery and shadow volume copies on your computer and delete them, by utilizing the following commands in Windows Command Prompt as an administrator:
process call create “cmd.exe /c
vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /quiet
bcdedit.exe /set {default} recoveryenabled no
bcdedit.exe /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
.Fat32 Ransomware – Encryption Process
For the encryption, .fat32 files virus does not choose just any file to encode. The ransomware uses very specific tactic – it skips the important Windows files in the %Windows% and other system directories, while in the same time hunts of the most often used files on your computer, like the following:
- Documents.
- Microsoft Office files.
- Images.
- Music.
- Archives.
- Program files that are used very often.
- Virtual drive files.
- Database files.
- Other often used file types.
The way the encryption process is conducted Is that the ransomware hunts for specific file types, like the following:
“PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX ..INI .PRF Encoded Files .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ R.BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”
After this has occurred, the ransomware virus may further begin to perform other types of activities, such as leave behind the .fat32 file extension to the encrypted files, making them appear like the image at the beginning of the article displays.
Remove .fat32 Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
In order to remove this ransomware infection from your computer, recommendations are to focus on removing the malicious files either manually or automatically (proffered) using the ransomware removal instructions below. They are specifically desgined to help you isolate the threat first and then remove it safely. For maximum effectiveness of the removal, malware researchers strongly advise to use an advanced anti-malware software which can help you delete the malicious files of .fat32 automatically and protect your PC against future infections as well.
If you want to restore files that have been encrypted by this ransomware virus, recommendations are to try out the alternative tools for file recovery below. They are specifically designed to help you recover as many files as possible without having to pay the ransom.
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 .fat32 Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .fat32 Files 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files Virus 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 .fat32 Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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.
.fat32 Files Virus-FAQ
What is .fat32 Files Virus Ransomware?
.fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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 ..fat32 Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..fat32 Files 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 ..fat32 Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..fat32 Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .fat32 Files 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 .fat32 Files 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.
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