Article, created to show how to remove Merry Christmas ransomware and restore .MERRY files encrypted by the malware.
A ransomware virus, detected in mid-January, named Merry Christmas has been reported by malware researchers to use a very sophisticated techniques to operate, infect and encrypt files of compromised computers. This ransomware threat may use a advanced encryption ciphers to encode the data on the computers it attacks, making the files no longer able to be opened. To give the victim access back to the files, .MERRY Virus demands a payment from a well-designed ransom note page. If you have become infected by the Merry Christmas virus, we suggest reading the following material.
Threat Summary
| Name | Merry X-Mas |
| Type | Ransomware Virus |
| Short Description | This variant of Merry X-Mas virus encrypts files with strong encryption and asks a hefty ransom of .MERRY to be paid to the crooks to get the files back. |
| Symptoms | Encrypted files will have the ..MERRY extension appended to them. Also adds a ransom note, named MERRY_I_LOVE_YOU_BRUCE.HTA and changes the wallpaper with a Robot-santa. |
| Distribution Method | Spammed e-mail attachments, URLs, JavaScript or Exploit Kit files posted all over the web. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Merry X-Mas. |
| 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. |
.MERRY Virus – Further Information
This virus has been deemed to be from the file encryption type. It aims to infect the user in multiple ways and then modify Windows to allow the encoding process to take place.
Infection Methods of Merry Christmas .MERRY Ransomware
In order to cause an infection that is successful, good deception Is required, because most users already have had experience with ransomware and other malware and how it infects. This is why the ones behind .MERRY use different methods and techniques to cause an infection. One of those is to make up different phishing e-mails on which the crooks pretend to be a legitimate organization have worked on a request and this is the reworked file. Ofcourse, this is just one example of the spam, distributed by .MERRY ransomware. These e-mails may contain an .hta file in a .zip archive which is the one that is causing the actual infection.
This file appears to be heavily obfuscated, due to the fact that average antivirus programs tend to skip rendering it as an actual malicious file. This means that the virus uses an expensive obfuscation software which conceals it’s actual identification of being malicious.
One of those tools is a similar exploit kit that is very expensive and not sold to just any random hacker. This replication malware is usually a more sophisticated version than the average ones sold on the deep web.
.MERRY X-Mas Ransomware- Infection Activity
As soon as the malicious file has been opened, it immediately introduces itself by adding it’s distinctive ransom note, which is not only a note, but a whole system, containing different aspects of “customer support” to the victims as shown below:
But this is not where the terror caused by the .MERRY file virus ends. The ransomware also appends a unique file extension to the encrypted files. The files which have been encrypted by this ransomware virus appear like the following:
This is primarily because .MERRY ransomware appends a sophisticated encryption algorithm which actually replaces bytes of information of those files. These bytes are enough to make the files unable to be opened again.
The types of files which this iteration of .MERRY ransomware hunts for are of various character, but one thing is in common – they are often used. These files include:
- Documents.
- Photos.
- Music and other audio.
- Videos.
- Other files associated with often used Software.
.MERRY file ransomware is very careful not to encrypt the system Windows folders crucial to the working process of the OS, since this might damage it.
The .MERRY file virus also drops a ransom note, named MERRY_I_LOVE_YOU_BRUCE.HTA which has the following content:
ALL COMPUTER DATA ENCRYPTED
TIME AFTER ALL FILES WILL BE DELETED
YOUR ID
NOW YOU NEED TO PAY TO RECOVER YOUR DATA
AFTER MONEY TRANSFER YOU WILL RECIEVE THE DECRYPTOR
CONTACTS
TELEGRAM @comodosecunty
EMAIL comodosec@yandex.com
Any attempts to return your files with the third-party tools can be fatal for your encrypted files! The most part of the third-party software change data within the encrypted file to restore it but this causes damage to the files.
Finally it will be impossible to decrypt your files! There are several plain steps to restore your files but if you do not follow them we will not be able to help you!
The primary goal of this ransom note is to scare off the user and give him or her instructions on how to pay the .MERRY file virus’s ransom which is in BTC.
In addition to this, the .MERRY ransomware virus does not fool around when it comes to “not getting your files back”. The virus may actually delete the shadow volume copies of the infected computer, by using the privileged vssadmin command in Windows command prompt.
After this has been completed, the virus may either have modified the Windows Registry Editor to add custom keys in the Run or RunOnce registry sub-keys or may have dropped files in the %Startup% folder of Windows. These files may run on System Startup every time.
Remove .MERRY File Virus and Get Your Files Back
In case your computer has become infected by the MERRY ransomware virus, there is one thing that you should not do and that is to pay the ransom. The primary reasons for that is paying the ransom may not result in getting the files back and supporting cyber-crooks to spread .MERRY ransomware further is not a good idea in general. This is why the removal of this virus is strongly suggestible.
An effective method to remove the .MERRY file virus from your computer is to follow the specific removal instructions we have designed for you below. They will make sure that you will be able to safely locate and remove the files from your computer. If you do not have experience in how to manually locate all the registry entries and modified as well as touched objects in key Windows directories of the virus, security experts always advise using an advanced anti-malware tool for the removal process. The usage of such tools not only ensures full removal of all objects but also protects your computer in the future.
After already having remove the .MERRY file ransomware from your computer, we urge you to focus on getting the files back the hard way and that is to use other alternative tools. We have suggested several of those in step “2. Restore files encrypted by .MERRY Virus” below. Bear in mind, however that the tools are not 100% effective and if you try other decryptors for other viruses they may further scramble your encrypted files. So doing a backup of the encrypted files is also a necessity.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for Merry X-Mas with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Merry X-Mas.
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 Merry X-Mas 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.
Merry X-Mas-FAQ
What is Merry X-Mas Ransomware?
Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas Infect?
Via several ways.Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 .Merry X-Mas files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Merry X-Mas 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 .Merry X-Mas files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Merry X-Mas" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Merry X-Mas 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 Merry X-Mas 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.