This article will aid you to remove .fuck Ransomware. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
.fuck Ransomware is one that encrypts your data and demands money as a ransom to get it restored. Files will receive the .fuck extension. The .fuck Ransomware will leave ransomware instructions as a desktop wallpaper image. Keep on reading the article and see how you could try to potentially recover some of your locked files and data.
Threat Summary
Name | .fuck ransomware |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files by placing the .fuck before the affected files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files and leave a ransom note with payment instructions. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .fuck ransomware. |
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. |
.fuck Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
The .fuck ransomware is being distributed using a global attack campaign. The captured samples are based on the Globe Imposter ransomware family and they are widely known for using several popular methods.
A very popular method is the coordination of email SPAM messages which contain various phishing scams. The recipients will be coerced to interact with the built-in content by spoofing Internet companies or popular services. The users will be guided into believing that they are receiving legitimate notifications and will follow the instructions given — to install new software, apply updates or another behavior that will lead to the .fuck ransomware infection. The files themselves are usually linked in the body contents, in other cases they can be attached directly to the messages.
A similar technique is the creation of fake download sites — they will impersonate well-known sites, vendor landing pages or download portals and spread the virus files. The use of stolen design elements and self-signed security certificates. Together with the emails and other major mechanisms they are known for spreading malicious payloads:
- Software Installers — The virus code can be embedded in application setup files across all popular software that are downloaded by end users. They range from system utilities and productivity apps to creativity suites. Once the process is started the ransomware infection will begin.
- Infected Documents — The virus installation code can be found in scripts that are embedded across all popular types of documents: spreadsheets, rich text documents, databases and presentations. Whenever they are opened by the users a prompt will be spawned asking for the built-in macros to be enabled. If this is done the virus infection will follow.
The infected payloads can also be uploaded to various file-sharing networks like BitTorrent. This is often considered one of the most widely used tactics as they these networks are both used to spread legitimate content and pirate versions of both software and games. In all of these cases ransomware infections are spread.
Large-scale attacks may also employ browser hijackers which represent malicious plugins made for the most popular web browsers. They are widely distributed on the repositories belonging to the most popular web browsers. The hackers behind the hijacker will utilize fake user reviews and developer credentials in order to coerce the victims into installing them. Promises of new feature additions and optimizations will be offered.
.fuck Ransomware – Detailed Analysis
The captured .fuck ransomware samples belong to the Globe Imposter malware family. It is very possible that the malicious actors have obtained the source code and created their own custom version with the .fuck extension by themselves. Another option is to order them from the underground markets. This means that updates to its engine are expected.
The preliminary analysis reveals that it incorporates many of the features found within advanced threats. As soon as it is deployed onto the victim machines it will immediately attempt to infect the systems with a stealth bypass. This means that the virus files will look for security software and system services that can delete it. It will use various techniques in order to bypass and evade detection by them, usually in the end they will be either deleted or reconfigured to a non-working state. After a successful intrusion is done the .fuck ransomware engine will continue with data harvesting. Two groups of information will be extracted:
- Personal Information — The harvested information can be used to directly expose the identity of the users. The engine will collect data such as their name, address, phone number and any stored account credentials. This is possible as the virus will obtain access to the hard disk contents, operating system services and Windows Registry.
- Campaign Metrics and Victim ID Information — The .fuck ransomware engine can construct an unique ID that is associated with every infected machine. Most of them are made by utilizing an algorithm taking the input values from a generated report of the installed hardware components. Other information that can be hijacked includes user settings, regional-set preferences and operating system conditions.
As soon as these steps have completed the .fuck ransomware will have obtained access to the whole system enabling it to cause various changes to the infected machines.
The main engine create many processes and hook up to existing ones, including services and system applications. Common modifications include changes to the Windows Registry — this can impact both operating system services and third-party applications. Certain functions can be rendered unusable or the the whole programs can fail to start altogether. Other consequences include overall performance issues. These modifications are also connected with the persistent installation type. If this is done the malware will be started as soon as the computer is started making manual user removal very difficult.
Ransomware infections, especially advanced strains such as this one, can also lead to the installation of ther malware. Typical examples are the following:
- Trojans — They will not only report the collected information during the data harvesting phase, but also establish a secure connection to a hacker-controlled server. It will be used by the hacker operators to spy on the victims in real-time, steal their files and install other threats.
- Cryptocurrency Miners — They will download resource-intensive tasks that will take advantage of the available hardware resources. When running they will consume resources such as the CPU, GPU, memory and hard disk space. Upon completion of any of the tasks the hacker operators will receive income in the form of digital currency (usually Bitcoin) that will be wired automatically to their digital wallets.
- Browser Hijackers — They represent malicious browser plugins that are made compatible with the most popular web browsers. As soon as they are installed they will change the default settings and redirect the users to a hacker-controlled domain.
In addition the captured .fuck ransomware samples have been found to delete system data such as Shadow Volume Copies and Backups. This will make recovery very difficult unless a backup restore solution is used, refer to our instructions for more details.
Further updates may bring other changes to the infected computers.
.fuck Ransomware – Encryption Process
The encryption engine will be launched when all all modules have finished running. It will use a strong cipher as typical to the Globe imposter family from which it is descendant. Like previous samples a built-in list of target file type extensions. Example contents includes the following:
- Archives
- Backups
- Databases
- Images
- Music
- Videos
All victim files will be renamed with the .fuck extension and the associated ransomware note will be crafted in a file called README_BACK_FILES.htm. We have also received reports that the same virus can also encrypt files with the .gsg extension. This is evident of the fact that several attack campaigns may be spread at once.
The ransomware note will begin with the unique infection ID, after it the following contents is written:
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED!
TO DECRYPT, FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW.
To recover data you need decryptor.
To get the decryptor you should:
Send 1 crypted test image or text file or document to supportonl@cock.li ||| supportonl@airmail.cc
In the letter include your personal ID (look at the beginning of this document).
We will give you the decrypted file and assign the price for decryption all filesWe can decrypt one file in quality the evidence that we have the decoder.
MOST IMPORTANT!!!
Do not contact other services that promise to decrypt your files, this is fraud on their part ! They will buy a decoder
from us, and you will pay more for his services. No one, except supportonl@cock.li ||| supportonl@airmail.cc, will decrypt your files.Only supportonl@cock.li ||| supportonl@airmail.cc
Antivirus programs can delete this document and you can not contact us later.
Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data
Remove .fuck Ransomware and Try to Restore Data
If your computer system got infected with the .fuck ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .fuck ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .fuck ransomware 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 .fuck ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .fuck ransomware.
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 .fuck ransomware 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.
.fuck ransomware-FAQ
What is .fuck ransomware Ransomware?
.fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware 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 ..fuck ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..fuck ransomware 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 ..fuck ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..fuck ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .fuck ransomware 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 .fuck ransomware 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.