This is an article, that has been created to explain what exactly is Nakw virus and how you can remove this ransomware and try to restore your files.
Update November 2019. The Nakw virus is a ransomware infection and its main goal is to perform an online extortion scheme, involving your personal files. The virus is a part of the STOP Ransomware family of viruses and its main goal is to enter your PC unnoticed and scramble your documents, videos, images and other types of files. The end idea of Nakw Virus is to drop a note, called _readme.txt and get you to follow the instructions in it, that are involving paying about a $1000 to get your files back. Read this article to learn how you can remove Nakw virus and try to get your data back.
Threat Summary
| Name | Nakw Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The Nakw virus has one goal – to get you to pay BitCoin so that you can use your files once again. |
| Symptoms | Nakw virus leaves your files no longer to be able to be opened and ads the ransom note _readme.txt. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Nakw 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. |
Nakw Virus – Update October 2019
According to research by Michael Gillespie, the researcher who discovered Nakw variant of STOP ransomware, this is the 177th version of the virus following the .derp extension variant.
#STOP #Djvu #Ransomware w/ extension ".nakw" (v0177) spotted on ID Ransomware
— Michael Gillespie (@demonslay335) October 29, 2019
So far, it is clearly known that the .nakw file variant of this ransomware uses pirated software to infect computers. New information is that this pirated software could be spread via being uploaded on torrent sites that are suspicious. Since the variant is new, there is no new info about when the decryption will be available. This is why we advise that you do a fresh backup of your files even though they are encrypted and use the info here to remove the virus and decode the .nakw files when available. When the decryptor by mr. Gillespie is updated, we will post a link to it here, so keep following this article.
Nakw virus – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Nakw virus can enter your computer by using software that exploits weaknesses in Windows. Nakw virus may spread its infection file by uploading it on different forms of websites, where it could pose as:
- Software activator.
- Key generator.
- Crack.
- Patch.
Nakw virus can also be spread via e-mail by having the cyber-criminals send you e-mail attachments. These attachments can contain the infection file to appear as if it is an:
- Invoice.
- Receipt.
- Document that is important.
Once Nakw virus has infected your computer, it may drop its virus files in the following Widnows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
Once having done this, the Nakw virus may assume administrator privileges over your computer and perfom the following activities:
- Create mutexes.
- Obtain read and write permissions.
- Check if you are running in a virtual evironment or no.
- Check if it has previosly infected your PC and if so, the virus does not encrypt and shuts down.
Once all of its preparation is complete, the Nakw virus could begin to encrypt the following types of files:
- Document file types.
- Image files.
- Videos.
- Audio file formats.
Once the encryption is complete, the Nakw virus may begin to set its on .nakw virus extension added as a suffix to the encoded files.
Then, the virus presents to victims the _readme.txt ransom note file which it ads:
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-514KtsAKtH
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:
gorentos@bitmessage.chReserve e-mail address to contact us:
gorentos2@firemail.ccOur Telegram account:
@datarestoreYour personal ID:
Paying the ransom is just what the crooks want you to do. Be advised that despite what they want, it is not reccomended to fall for their ransom demands because this does not guarantee the decryption of your data. Not only this, but in addition to it, you also support their cyber-criminal activities as well.
Remove Nakw virus from Your Mac
The Nakw virus aims to encrypt the files on your computer. Since this is already inevitable, you can remove the virus first and then think about the files. The Nakw virus can be deleted if you follow the removal steps underneath this article. They have been created with the one and only purpose to help you eradicate this threat. Be advised that the most effective removal method when it comes to this virus is to use an advanced malware removal software, which will scan for all of its malicious files and remove them.
When it comes to file recovery, you can follow the file restore steps underneath. They are not a 100% chance of recovery, but they could be able to recover at least some of your files.
Video, containin removal steps fro Nakw Ransomware:
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 Nakw Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nakw 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 Nakw 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 Nakw 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 Nakw Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nakw 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 Nakw 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.
Nakw Virus-FAQ
What is Nakw Virus Ransomware?
Nakw 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 Nakw 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 Nakw Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Nakw 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 Nakw 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 .Nakw Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nakw 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 .Nakw Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nakw Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nakw 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 Nakw 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 Nakw Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nakw 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 Nakw 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 Nakw Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nakw 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 Nakw 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.
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