Grod virus is the name of a ransomware infection that infects computers with Windows systems. It is a strain of STOP ransomware that has been lurking across the web for quite some time. The primary objective of this malicious software is to sneak into the computer system so that it can interfere with its settings and then make valuable files inaccessible.
The Grod ransomware virus is developed to perform an encryption process that prevents victims from using their personal files.
All files encrypted by Grod virus receive the .grod file extension after their original one. According to hackers who stand behind Grod ransomware the only way to “unlock” or decrypt encrypted files is to contact them and learn how to pay a ransom fee in BitCoin. This becomes clear from a ransom message file called _readme.txt
Keep up with our Grod virus removal guide as it will show you how to remove malicious files from the infected system and how to potentially restore .grod files by using the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Threat Summary
| Name | Grod Virus |
| File Extension | .grod |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| What Is It | A variant of STOP Ransomware infection. Aims to encrypt files and then attempts to blackmail you into paying ransom to hackers so that you can get .grod files to work again. |
| Symptoms | The file extension .grod is added to corrupted files. These files cannot be opened. A ransom note, called _readme.txt extorts a ransom fee from victims. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable Files, Hacked Websites |
| Removal | To effectively remove active Grod Virus virus infections, we recommend that you use an advanced anti-malware tool. Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Grod 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. |
Grod Ransomware Virus- How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Grod ransomware is the v0183 of STOP ransomware virus family. The malware is a very widespread type of infection across user computers, but we have seen it targeting companies as well. Researcher Michael Gillespie who first discovered this strain.
The virus infection file was also detected and it has the following parameters:
→ Name: 6A6D.TMP.EXE
Size: 669 KB
Identificator: dad04f0032c599427caa3db36ebea13b897b8185f6c550a72f49f61f81c7e473
Source: VirusTotal
The primary approach that is utilized for the propagation of Grod virus files is called malspam. What the crooks do to realize it is sending emails with infected attachments that can activate the ransomware on targeted computer systems. These types of e-mail attachments are presented in a way that attempts to make users believe that they are sent by legitimate institutions/services. The attached files are often presented as:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Files from your financial institution.
- Revoked tickets.
- Tax bills.
The files can usually be sent by phony e-mails that are spoofing real companies, such as PayPal, FedEx, DHL, Amazon.com, ebay.com as well as others.
When you download and then run the attached file on your PC you enable the Grod ransomware virus infection to complete several attack stages. The operations performed during these stages contaminate essential system settings so that the threat can evade detection and reach personal files for encryption.
By implementing malicious changes, the ransomware can become really persistent. It can start loading every time the infected PC is turned on. Since this issue occurs as a result of malicious entries that are added under major registry keys, we recommend that you check system registries and clean malicious entries while removing Grod ransomware from the infected system.
When Grod virus contaminates your computer system, the first thing you will certainly notice is that your valuable files are locked with the extension .grod Unfortunately, you won’t be able to open .grod files. This is a very unpleasant issue as these files are likely to store important information. They may be records, video clips, images, various types of documents and work projects.
Based on the fact that you cannot open .grod files, Grod ransomware virus extorts a ransom fee for a specific decryption tool that is possed by hackers. So when it finished data encryption phase it drops the _readme.txt ransom message note, that has the following contents:
ATTENTION!
Don’t worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase 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 file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
https://we.tl/t-7YSRbcuaMa
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that’s price for you is $490.
Please note that you’ll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don’t get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
restorefiles@firemail.ccReserve e-mail address to contact us:
gorentos@bitmessage.chYour personal ID:
The files encrypted by Grod virus start to appear like the following:
Paying the ransom to the criminals who are spreading this variant of STOP Ransomware across the web is not a good idea because:
- You cannot trust them. They may not be able to provide an efficient solution that will help you to restore .grod files.
- Paying them supports their malicious activities.
At this point Grod virus is not decryptable by Demonslay or Emsisoft free decryption tools. However, as soon as we notice security researchers’ announcement about an update that supports the decryption of some Grod ransomware strains we will update this article with information on how to decrypt .grod files.
Get Rid Of Grod Virus and Try to Restore Files
If you intend to eliminate the nasty Grod virus ransomware from your computer system, we highly recommend that you follow the removal steps below this paragraph. They include the needed actions that you need to take towards the complete elimination of this nasty strain of malware from your machine. For maximum efficiency, we suggest what cybersecurity specialists do – to download an advanced malware removal tool and run a scan of your infected computer system. Such software application’s is developed to check your computer for all virus files and then remove all malicious objects. In addition, it will protect your computer from future malware attacks.
If you want to try to restore .grod files, you can check the step five from our instructions where we suggest several alternative data recovery approaches. Beware that the methods may be efficient for some .grod files but may not be not working for the rest of your encrypted files.
Removal video for Grod Virus:
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Grod Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Grod 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 Grod 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 Grod 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 Grod Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Grod 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 Grod 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.
Grod Virus-FAQ
What is Grod Virus Ransomware?
Grod 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 Grod 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 Grod Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Grod 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 Grod 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 .Grod Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Grod 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 .Grod Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Grod Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Grod 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 Grod 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 Grod Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Grod 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 Grod 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 Grod Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Grod 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 Grod 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.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.