This blog post has been created with the main purpose of explaining what is the .obfuscated files ransomware and show how to remove it from your computer effectively.
New ransomware virus, using the .obfuscated file extension which it appends to the encrypted files has been detected by security researchers. The virus aims to encrypt the files on the computers attacked by it and then set the .obfuscated file extension. The ransomware also adds a ransom note aiming to extort victims to pay ransom in order to get their files to work once again. If your computer has been infected by the .obfuscated ransomware we would suggest that you read the article underneath thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name | BigBobRoss |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the compromised computer and then ask victims to pay ransom in order to get them restored. |
| Symptoms | Files have the .obfuscated file extension added to them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| 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 BigBobRoss. |
| 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. |
.obfuscated Files Virus – Update March 2019
A decryption tool for the .obfuscated Files Virus got released by EMSIsoft, that you can download from the link provided here – Emsisoft Decrypter for BigBobRoss. You will need a ransom note from this ransomware in order to use the decrypter.
.obfuscated Files Virus – Distribution Methods
The primary method of distribution that is used by this ransomware has been reported to be conducted via software bundling, which uses e-mails to spam potential victims and infect them via the e-mail attachments, like the example image below shows.
In addition to e-mail, another distribution way is conducted via the ransomware virus being directly downloaded from the victim from a website for free software. Most viruses often use different executables, like cracks, key generators, license activators and other forms of installers the users may be looking to download and run. The most demand for such programs is usually game and software cracks, patches and portable versions of programs as well.
.obfuscated Ransomware – Analysis
As it’s name suggests the ransomware uses obfuscation techniques in order to hide the infection from any antivirus and other protection software. The outcome of this is that the .obfuscated ransomware may conduct its activities in a concealed manner.
The first activity of this malware strain is to copy itself on the victim’s computer. This may happen by either extracting or downloading the virus files onto the PC of the victim. The files may exist under different file names and are generally located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
Once this is done, the ransomware may display it’s ransom note file on the victims’ computers, which is called Read Me.txt and has the following message:
Hello, dear friend!
=================================================
1- [All your files have been ENCRYPTED!]Your files are NOT damaged! Your files are modified only.
The only way to decrypt your files is to receive the decryption program.
your files can not be decrypted without the special program we made it for your computer.=================================================
2- [ HOW TO RETURN FILES? ]To receive the decryption program Write to our email “BigBobRoss@computer4u.com”
and tell us your unique ID=================================================
3- [ FREE DECRYPTION! ]Free decryption as guarantee.
We guarantee the receipt of the decryption program after payment.
To believe, you can give us 1 file that must be less than 1MB and we decrypt it for free.
File should not be important to you! databases, backups, large excel sheets, etc.=================================================
4- [ Instruction ]the easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. you have to register, click “buy bitcoins”
and select the seller by payment method and price.https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
=================================================
CAUTION!
please do not change the name of files or file extension if your files are important to you!
Your unique ID : [redacted 8 uppercase hex]
In addition to this, the .obfuscated files virus may also attack Windows Registry Editor and in the Run and RunOnce keys add registry entries with data that will set the malicious file or files of this virus to run automatically on Windows boot. The sub-keys have the following locations:
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
In addition to this, the ransomware virus may also delete the shadow volume copies of the infected machine, which are made with the main purpose to minimize the chance of victims to restore their files via Windows Backup and recovery. The commands could be among the ones listed below:
→ sc stop VVS
sc stop wscsvc
sc stop WinDefend
sc stop wuauserv
sc stop BITS
sc stop ERSvc
sc stop WerSvc
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe” /C vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet
.obfuscated Ransowmare – Encryption Process
In order to encrypted the files on victim PC’s the .obfuscated files virus may conduct a scan on the computers of users. The scan skips important Windows and system directories and may encrypt files from the following types;
- Documents.
- Videos.
- Images.
- Audio files.
- Archive files.
- Template files.
- Virtual Drive files.
As soon as the files infected by this ransomware virus are encrypted, the .obfuscation file extension is added to them and they may start to appear like the following:
Remove .obfuscated Files Virus and Try Restoring Files
If you wish to remove the .obfuscated file ransomware from your computer, we would reccomend that you follow the instructions that are underneath this article. They have been created with the main idea of helping you delete this ransomware the way you prefer. If manual removal does not seem to work, experts strongly advise you to automatically remove all of the .obfuscated virus files on your computer by using an anti-malware program. This software will perform scans for malware and make sure that all of the malicious files are gone and your computer stays protected against future infections as well.
If you are trying to restore .obfuscated files, we will have you know that at this point there is no direct solution, but you can try the alternative methods for file restoration we have listed in the accordion below. They have been created to help restore as many encrypted files by this ransomware as possible.
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 BigBobRoss with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by BigBobRoss.
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 BigBobRoss 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.
BigBobRoss-FAQ
What is BigBobRoss Ransomware?
BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss Infect?
Via several ways.BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 .BigBobRoss files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .BigBobRoss 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 .BigBobRoss files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".BigBobRoss" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this BigBobRoss 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 BigBobRoss 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.