This article provides information about a recently found ransomware dubbed .FileEncrypted files virus as well as a step-by-step guide that provides removal and data recovery help.
The so-called .FileEncrypted file virus plagues computer systems in order to encode valuable files and then demands a ransom for their decryption. An infection with this ransomware could be recognized by the distinctive files renaming pattern which ends with the extension .FileEncrypted. Another trait of this threat is a ransom message that demands 1 BTC ransom to be transferred to hackers’ wallet.
Threat Summary
| Name | .FileEncrypted file virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strond cihper algorithm to encrypt valuable files on stored on the infected computer. Hackers demand 1 BTC ransom payment for a decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .FileEncrypted extension. The information they store remains inaccessible until any efficient recovery solution is applied. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .FileEncrypted file virus. |
| 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. |
.FileEncrypted Files Virus – Distribution
There is no primary method known to be used for the distribution of .FileEncrypted files virus. However, the guesses are that some of the most common spread techniques support hackers’ malicious activities. Spam email campaigns could be considered as the main distribution vector utilized for the delivery of FileEncrypted ransomware’s payload. Most of the times such emails provide file attachments that as described in the text message contain important information that you should review as soon as possible. The trick here is that these files contain malicious embedded code that could trigger the ransomware infection the moment you open them on your device. Another infection element that may be used in spam emails is a clickable link presented in the form of button, in-text link, coupon voucher, etc. Such a link may be set to land on a corrupted web page that has malicious scripts integrated by cyber criminals. With the help of these scripts, the infection code could land on your system and execute without you noticing it. That’s why it is of paramount importance for the security of your system to have an active anti-malware tool installed on it. Once activated on the system such a tool will detect all intrusive malware on time which in turn will save you a lot of troubles.
Other methods of distribution that might have caused an infection with FileEncrypted ransomware are popular file-sharing services, P2P networks, various freeware, and fake update notifications displayed by any potentially undesired program installed on the PC. So you need to be very careful when you decide to download freeware and torrents from the net. It is advisable to find the official website of the company vendor and download the desired app from there. One more way to prevent infection with nasty malware infections like FileEncrypted crypto virus a scan of all downloads with free online archive extractor and malware scanner.
.FileEncrypted Files Virus – Overview
Once the infection code of .FileEncrypted files virus is started on the system it initiates various system settings modifications that enable it to fulfill all infection phases. Except the initial file that lands on the system the ransomware needs a few more files that could be even dropped from its server or created directly on the system. Traits of this files could be found in some of the following folders:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
Some major changes may affect specific registry keys in a way that malicious files become able to manipulate their functionalities. The keys that are often targeted by ransomware like FileEncrypted are Run and RunOnce. This could be explained by the fact that these keys manage the automatic execution of all essential files that contribute to the regular system performance. So by adding certain values under these keys the ransomware ensures its persistent presence on the system as its infection code starts automatically on each system load.
During its final infection stage, FileEncrypt drops a ransom note file on the system to inform you about its presence and impacts. The main goal of this message is to urge you into paying an insane ransom of 1 BTC (at this point 8230.00 USD) for the decryption key possessed by hackers.
Here is what the message in READ_TO_DECRYPT.html file says:
YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED USING A STRONG ALGORITHM. YOUR IDENTIFICATION IS [redacted 32 hex] SEND 1 BTC TO THE FOLLOWING BITCOIN WALLET ADDRESS 1EATMEBVDRmUPjaBeN9hsoj2ffFiUKArma AND AFTER PAY SEND EMAIL TO 160505@tt3j2x4k5ycaa5zt.onion SENDING YOUR IDENTIFICATION AND BITCOIN TRANSACTION ID TO RECOVER THE KEY NECESSARY TO DECRYPT YOUR FILES
The best advice we could give you is to refrain from paying hackers as there is no guarantee that they really have a working decryption solution. Furthermore, they may not contact you at all, even after you transfer them the money. Keep reading to learn more about some tested alternative data recovery solutions that may restore a few to all of your .FileEncrypted files.
.FileEncrypted Files Virus – Encryption Process
There is no information which cipher or combination of ciphers .FileEncrypted file virus uses to encrypt target data. And the good news is that after security experts conduct further analysis of this ransomware samples they may be able to crack its code and release free decryption tool in help of all infected users. Meanwhile, if some of the encrypted files are of great importance you could try to restore them by using some of the alternative data recovery methods set out in the removal guide that follows.
As of the types of data corrupted by the ransomware they may be all your:
- Archives
- Backups
- Images
- Videos
- Music
- Documents
The original names of all encrypted files are renamed with base64 encoding scheme and the distinctive extension .FileEncrypted is appended to them. The information they store is no longer accessible as the original code of the files is partly or completely transformed.
Remove .FileEncrypted Files Virus and Restore Data
Below you could find how to remove .FileEncrypted crypto virus step by step. If you choose to remove this ransomware manually you need to have a bit of technical experience and ability to recognize traits of malware files. Beware that ransomware is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So as recommended by security researchers you need to utilize an advanced anti-malware tool for its complete removal. Such a tool will keep your system protected against devastating threats like .FileEncrypted files virus and other kinds of malware that endanger your online security.
After you remove the ransomware make sure to check the “Restore Files” step listed in the guide below. Don’t forget to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before you take any further actions. This step is recommended as it could prevent their irreversible loss.
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 .FileEncrypted file virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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.
.FileEncrypted file virus-FAQ
What is .FileEncrypted file virus Ransomware?
.FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file virus Infect?
Via several ways..FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 ..FileEncrypted file virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..FileEncrypted file 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 ..FileEncrypted file virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..FileEncrypted file virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .FileEncrypted file 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 .FileEncrypted file 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.
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