The article presents detailed information about the Geno virus and a step-by-step guide on removing malicious files from the infected system and how to try and recover encrypted files.
This particular malware is a vicious crypto infection that belongs to the infamous STOP ransomware. When started on your computer, it disrupts system security and encodes personal files with the help of two strong cipher algorithms. Encrypted files could be recognized by the extension .geno appended to their names. At the end of the attack, this ransomware creates a ransom message that urges you to pay a ransom for files decryption. This message could be found in the _readnme.txt file. It is placed on the desktop.
Geno Virus Summary
| Name | Geno |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware locks files on your computer system by encryption and demands a ransom to be paid for alleged file restoration. |
| Symptoms | The virus payload will initiate file encryption and appends its file extension to them making them unopenable. Ransom fee is demanded for payment. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss this threat. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar 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. |
Geno Virus (STOP Ransomware) – More About It
Security researchers released information that this very virus is based on the code of one of the most popular ransomware families dubbed [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-stop-ransomware/”] STOP. The spread of this variant of STOP ransomware is realized with the help of spam emails, email attachments, hacked web pages, and corrupted freeware installers.
Since malspam (emails that deliver malicious code) technique enables hackers to spread their ransomware on a large scale, they often bet on it. For its realization, hackers usually embed the malicious code in files of common types and then attach these files to email messages. The emails usually state that the attached files as:
- Invoices coming from reputable sites, like PayPal, eBay, etc.
- Documents from that appear to be sent from your bank.
- An online order confirmation note.
- Receipt for a purchase.
- Others.
Once activated on your system the cryptovirus creates several malicious files and places them in folders like %AppData% and %LocalAppData%. With the help of its malicious files, the ransomware corrupts essential system settings and becomes able to encrypt target files.
For the encryption of target files, the ransomware launches a built-in cipher module that scans selected folders for predefined types of files that store personal data. Every time the module detects a target file, it utilizes a combination of two sophisticated cipher algorithms to transform its code.
Unfortunately, the threat is likely to corrupt all files which store valuable information. Hence, encrypted may be:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Following encryption, corrupted files cannot be opened. In addition, they have the extension .geno appended to their names. In fact, the main goal of this ransomware is to blackmail you into paying a ransom to hackers. That is why this virus drops a ransom message with instructions on how to complete the ransom payment process.
Here is a copy of the ransom message which is named _readme.txt:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents, and other important are encrypted with the strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase a decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted files from your PC, and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only one file for free. Files must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
https://we.tl/t-514KtsAKtH
The price of the private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s the price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your email “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get an answer more than 6 hours.To get this software, you need to write on our email:
gorentos@bitmessage.chReserve email address to contact us:
gorentos2@firemail.ccOur Telegram account:
@datarestoreYour personal ID:
To encrypt the files, the ransomware may use an advanced encryption algorithm. Researchers believe that for most of the STOP Ransomware virus strains it is AES cipher. This cipher is also known as Advanced Encryption Standard and its main goal is to attack the files and encrypt only blocks of data from their code. This makes the files no longer openable. After the encryption, the AES cipher generates a unique decryption code that is sent to the criminals. In most cases the code is offline type of code, but if the code is online, then it becomes significantly more difficult for you to recover your files. After encoding of the files, they may start to look like the following:
You should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum to cybercriminals. This action does not guarantee the recovery of your files.
How to Remove Geno Virus
This ransomware 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 theransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below should be completed. Beware that the 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.
How to Recover Files
There are several alternative methods that may be efficient for the recovery of your files. You could find them listed under Step 5 from our Ransomware removal guide. Beware that you should make copies of all encrypted files and save them on a flash drive, for example. This additional step will prevent the permanent loss of encrypted files.
Ransomware Removal Instructions
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 5
Step 1: Scan for Geno with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Geno 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 Geno 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 Geno 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 Geno
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Geno.
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 Geno 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.
Geno-FAQ
What is Geno Ransomware?
Geno 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 Geno 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 Geno Infect?
Via several ways.Geno 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 Geno 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 .Geno files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Geno 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 .Geno files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Geno" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Geno 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 Geno 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 Geno ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Geno 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 Geno 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 Geno Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Geno 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 Geno 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.
Hello. I was infected with Stop Djvu virus strain in September 2020. All files were encrypted. I have tried to find tools for decoding and have done it but still with no success. My ID is 0248Oowhu34hVPDASDbS2Xd1lvKEE5yPo8VA7Lw2O82DwmZPPVK. Please have your help. Best regards!