Do you have all your valuable files renamed with the .nile extension? This means that your PC has been infected with Nile virus. See how to remove the Nile ransomware virus and how to potentially recover .nile files.
Nile Virus
The ransomware infection dubbed Nile virus is developed to infect computer operating systems and compromise files stored on the drives. Victims cannot open their personal files due to the fact that they are encrypted with a strong cipher algorithm. Files corrupted by Nile virus appear with the .nile file extension. According to security researchers, the Nile virus is based on the code of one of the most popular ransomware families – STOP/Djvu. Decrypting files encrypted by the latest versions of STOP ransomware is hard, if possible at all. However, a ransom payment is still a highly inadvisable step.
What Does Nile Ransomware Do?
Nile ransomware activates malicious files on systems it infects. These files are configured to complete a set of operations that compromise the settings of specific system components. This way, the ransomware becomes able to misuse system functionalities and evade detection. Afterward, Nile ransomware scans system drives for personal files and performs a sophisticated encryption process. The cipher algorithm that locks files makes them hard to decrypt. An infection with Nile ransomware is likely to make the PC very slow. The device becomes really slow, especially during the encryption process. At last, the ransomware drops and opens a ransom note. The purpose of this note is to extort a ransom payment for the decryption of .nile files.
.nile File Extension
Almost every data locker ransomware is associated with a malicious extension. Just like its predecessors .kuus, .kook and .bmic, this strain of STOP ransomware has been modified to append the extension .nile to files it encrypts. The worst part of an infection with a data locker ransomware is the encryption of personal files. Once encrypted by this ransomware the image file smile.jpg, for example, will appear as smile.jpg.nile. This file as well as all other files marked with .nile file extension will remain inaccessible until an efficient decryption solution reverts their code back to its normal state. Cybercriminals who stand behind all Nile ransomware attacks hope that victims will desperately send them the demanded ransom so soon as they notice that their files are locked. However, beware that there is no guarantee that fraudsters have a working decryption tool. So we advise you to keep your money and try to cope with the problem by using the help of reliable security solutions.
Nile Virus Summary
| Name | Nile |
| File Extension | .nile |
| 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 data encryption and append the extension .nile to files. This will make them unopenable. Ransom fee is asked as payment. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom Amount | $980 or $490 (in Bitcoin) |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Counterfeit Software Updates |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Nile virus. |
| 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. |
Nile Ransomware – More Information
Nile ransomware is malicious software that has been lurking the web for a few days now. A few methods may be used for its propagation including torrents, freeware, hacked websites, and spam emails with malicious attachments.
Nile Virus spreads out quickly in various means. The infection payload is generally sent out to a computer system with torrents as well as file-downloads. Free apps or files promoted online can have a harmful script containing this variant of STOP ransomware.
As the latest STOP ransomware version, Nile infection ought to be dealt with seriously, as soon as possible. Infecting your computer is the first wave of attack but afterward, it is most likely to spread to various other computers in a local network and to every linked system as well as the device it can get to. Such crypto infections stay persistent even after reinstallation.
Nile ransomware is a regular cryptovirus that primarily aims to encrypt your important documents. Comparable to Tycoon ransomware as well as ElvisPresley ransomware, Nile virus places a personalized encryption key using a unique decryption method.
Hackers desire from victims one thing — money. The bad guys guarantee targets to recover their files if they pay a ransom charge, and also have made the infection to state that in the _readme.txt note left together with the encrypted files. Unfortunately, nobody could guarantee that this will certainly occur.
New STOP ransomware versions are not decrypted right away as most of them utilize ONLINE encryption keys used for file encryption. To put it simply, the key is sent out online back to the bad guys, so without it, you can not properly utilize a decryptor to recover every one of your documents. If by some luck the secret decryption key is stored OFFLINE, implying that it remained on your computer, a decrypter will certainly discover it and also decrypt effectively.
Being a strain of the STOP ransomware, Nile virus is an extremely nasty threat that endangers the overall security of systems its infects. Threats like Nile virus tend to access Windows Registry and add specific malicious values under significant registry keys like Run and RunOnce. By doing this, data locking ransomware becomes able to load automatically on every system start and misuse important system functionalities for the completion of its attack. Since Nile ransomware disrupts the overall system security, it should be removed from the infected PC as soon as possible. Otherwise, its presence on the system may enable hackers to gain access to installed browsers where some important login credentials are usually stored.
This ransomare is primarily developed to scan system drives for target types of files and encodes them with a strong cipher algorithm. Followig encryption, corrupted files appear with the malicious extension .nile appended to their names. Like previous variants of STOP ransomware variant, Nile virus is likely to corrupt types of files that store valuable data including:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
All .Nile files cannot be used until suitable decryption is applied to their code.
Criminals attempt to blackmail victims to pay a ransom fee for the recovery of .nile files. Beware, that no one can guarantee that the files will get restored and that the criminals are telling the truth. Newer STOP ransomware versions are known to be hard to decrypt especially in cases when files are encrypted with the use of ONLINE keys. The key is stored online, and thus you cannot use it for decryption. If the key is on your computer, then a decrypter will find and use it.
After encryption, the .Nile files virus will create ransom notifications in the form of text files and place these files in various folders. The main note is named _readme.txt and you can read its content:
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-gSEEREZ5tS
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:
helpmanager@mail.chReserve e-mail address to contact us:
restoremanager@airmail.ccYour personal ID:
Apparently, hackers require a ransom fee of 490 USD – 980 USD for their decryption tools/keys. The amount varies as it is defined by the time passed before victims contact hackers. If a victim contacts them via their email within the first 72 hours after the Nile virus infection occurs, he will be asked to pay around $490 for the decryption of his/her .nile files. It is most likely that the ransom amount will be requested in any cryptocurrency as all cryptocurrency transactions tend to be hard to trace. Unfortunately, sometimes encrypted files cannot be decrypted even with the help of the original ransomware decryption tool because the malware code contains flaws that lead to the generation of inefficient decryption keys.
You should not pay ransom fees. Your files are not guaranteed to get recovered so you should not take that chance. By funding the criminals, you are not helping anybody else, but them.
Shadow Volume Copies in Windows will get erased with a single command as written down here:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If your computer is infected with the ransomware and your files are locked, see how you could potentially restore your files. In case your files are locked with an ONLINE key, there is a very little chance for decryption. Do not let that discourage you and try decrypting, after you create a backup of your files.
How to Remove Nile Virus and Restore Data
The so-called Nile virus is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the Nile virus ransomware. For the purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. In addition, in the guide, you will find several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore files encrypted by Nile ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
Nile Virus video removal guide:
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 1: Scan for Nile with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nile 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 Nile 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 Nile 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 Nile
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nile.
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 Nile 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.
Nile-FAQ
What is Nile Ransomware?
Nile 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 Nile 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 Nile Infect?
Via several ways.Nile 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 Nile 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 .Nile files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nile 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 .Nile files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nile" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nile 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 Nile 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 Nile ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nile 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 Nile 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 Nile Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nile 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 Nile 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.