What Is Hudf Virus?
Hudf virus is an infection for Windows that may enter your computer system and begin encoding your files in order to extort you into paying a ransom that is hundreds of dollars. This particular infection belongs to a family of viruses, also known as STOP/DJVU ransomware. The main objective of these viruses is to leave your files encrypted so that you can follow the instructions that are posted in the _readme.txt ransom note it drops after infecting your device.
Not this article to learn more about this virus and how you can get rid of it from your computer system and try to get your files back.
Hudf Virus Summary
| Name | virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB |
| File Extension | .hudf |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Hudf Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .hudf extension to them. |
| 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
|
Hudf Virus – How Does It Infect?
Hudf virus is similar to other variants of this family of threats, like the recently seen .yjqs, .shgv and .mljx ones. And just like these viruses, the infection may spread on your computer using the two following ways:
- If you have recently downloaded some type of a file which upon executing has caused the infection.
- In case you have opened some type of an email attachment or clicked on a link that is shared on an email message sent to you that appears important.
Usually, most victims of this virus often complain about their computers being infected as a result of them having to download some type of a file that they have opened from some low reputation third-party website, for example:
- Key generator (or Keygen).
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
Another way of getting the virus is by opening some type of an email attachment, but may pretend to be a legitimate document of some sort, like:
- Invoices.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
If STOP Ransomware infect you by email attachment, it will usually be a document that will have malicious macros embedded in it, that triggered the following infection process:
Hudf Virus – What Does It Do?
Hudf virus aims to encrypt your files and make sure that you know it is active on your computer and the main way that it does that is using it ransom note file, that is called _readme.txt and has the following contents:
Besides this note, the virus may also drop its module files that help it encrypt your data. These could be located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
Not just this, but the virus may also tinker with the registry editor of Windows. The main problem with that is it could use registry values with data in the following subkeys, making its files run automatically on system boot:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Hudf Files – What Are They?
The Hudf files are the result of this virus scanning for your files and encrypting them. The way this works is it scans in all directories, besides the system directories of Windows and encodes files that may be of the following kinds:
- Audio file formats (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video file types (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Document file kinds (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Other types of often used data.
After this virus has finished with the encryption procedure, it may leave the firehouse appearing like the following example shows:
How to Remove Hudf Virus?
Hudf virus getting rid of your computer system by following the removal instructions, posted underneath this article. The main idea of those steps is to help you neutralize the threat either manually or automatically. For the most effective removal, security professionals strongly recommend that you run a scan of your computer system using an anti-malware software. Such a security program will effectively help to automatically delete any of the files belonging to this malware.
How to Decrypt .Hudf Files?
For the decryption process, we would strongly recommend that you try out the steps we have created in the STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide or watching the video below. They include information about how you can use the official decryption software for this virus, that has been created by independent malware researchers.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
If this does not work, then your particular variant of the virus contains an online key. This makes it much harder to be decrypted using a decryption software. In case that is the situation, we would suggest that you try out the alternative methods for file recovery that have been posted in the steps below. They may not come with a 100% guarantee but with their help you could restore at least some of your files.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Hudf with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Hudf 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 Hudf 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 Hudf 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 Hudf
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Hudf.
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 Hudf 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.
Hudf-FAQ
What is Hudf Ransomware?
Hudf 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 Hudf 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 Hudf Infect?
Via several ways.Hudf 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 Hudf 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 .Hudf files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Hudf 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 .Hudf files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Hudf" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Hudf 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 Hudf 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 Hudf ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Hudf 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 Hudf 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 Hudf Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Hudf 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 Hudf 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.