This article has been created in order to explain what is the .ONI files virus and how to remove it from your computer effectively.
A new ransomware virus, going by the name of ONI ransomware has been detected by security researchers. The ransomware virus is similar to a virus that we have detected late October, 2017, called ONI Locker and originated from what appears to be Russia. Unlike the previous version, that encrypted the whole drive of the computers infected by it, this version of ONI ransomware encrypts only the files, leaving behind the .ONI file suffix after their original one. If your computer has been infected by this variant of ONI ransomware, we strongly suggest that you read this article as it aims to help you remove this virus and shows you several methods which you can use to try and restore your encrypted files.
Threat Summary
| Name | .ONI Ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files on your computer and then asks victims to pay ransom to get them back. |
| Symptoms | The files have the .ONI file extension added and are completely renamed to random 0-9 A-Z names. A ransom note, called RESTORE_ONI_FILES.txt starts to appear. |
| 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 .ONI Ransomware. |
| 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. |
.ONI Files Virus – Update January 2019
.ONI Files Virus – How Does It Infect
The primary method via which the .ONI file ransomware infects computers is via malicious e-mail attachments. These attachments may be encountered malicious spam e-mails that include them as archives. They often pretend to be seemingly legitimate forms of documents, for example:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Banking documents.
- Warranty of a product.
The e-mails sent are also very cleverly composed and may include multiple different types of messages, stating the importance of those files, for example:
Besides via e-mail, the .ONI virus may land on your computer via other methods as well. One of those methods is believed to be by uploading the virus files and making it seem as if they are legitimate type of files, such as:
- Setups of programs.
- License activators.
- Portable programs.
- Cracks.
- Patches.
- Keygens.
.ONI Files Virus – Activity Report
Once .ONI ransomware has infected your computer, the virus may commence it’s infection activity. The first chain of actions it performs is to drop it’s malicious payload on your computer. It may consist of more than one files being spawned and these processes may have the following locations:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
In addition to this, the ransomware virus also drops it’s ransom note file, called RESTORE_ONI_FILES.txt. The ransom note has the following contents:
Oops! Your files have been encrypted.
Your files are no longer accessible.
You might have been looking for any way to recover your files.
Don’t waste your time, you can’t recovery PC without our decryption service.Our email: enco@cock.email
Your ID (send it to my mail):
{ID HERE}
Attention!
-Only enco@cock.email can decrypt your files
-Trist no one enco@cock.email
-Do not attempt to uninstall the program or run anti-virus tools
Attempts to self-encrypt files will result in loss of your data.
-Decoders of other users are not compatible with your data because each user has a unique encryption key.
Furthermore, ONI ransomware also heavily modifies registries in Windows Registry Editor. For starters, the .ONI ransomware virus interacts with the following Windows files via the registry editor of Windows:
→ “C:\Windows\SysWOW64\rsaenh.dll”
“C:\Windows\Globalization\Sorting\SortDefault.nls”
“C:\Windows\System32”
“%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Caches”
“C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Caches\cversions.1.db”
“C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Caches\{AFBF9F1A-8EE8-4C77-AF34-C647E37CA0D9}.1.ver0x0000000000000004.db”
“C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe”
“%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Caches”
“%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Caches\cversions.1.db”
“%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Caches\{AFBF9F1A-8EE8-4C77-AF34-C647E37CA0D9}.1.ver0x0000000000000004.db”
“C:\Windows\Globalization\Sorting\SortDefault.nls”
“C:\Windows\AppPatch\AppPatch64\sysmain.sdb”
“C:\Windows\System32\en-US\wbadmin.exe.mui”
“C:\Windows\Logs”
“C:\Windows\Logs\WindowsBackup”
“C:\Windows\System32\blbres.dll”
“C:\Windows\System32\en-US\blbres.dll.mui”
“C:\Windows\Logs\WindowsBackup\Wbadmin.3.etl”
“C:\Windows\Logs\WindowsBackup\Wbadmin.2.etl”
ONI ransomware then may perform other activities on the infected machine, such as delete the shadow volume copies in it. To do this, ONI ransomware may run the following Windows Shell commands:
→ /c cmd.exe /c wbadmin DELETE SYSTEMSTATEBACKUP & wbadmin.exe wbadmin DELETE SYSTEMSTATEBACKUP & cmd.exe /c wmic SHADOWCOPY DELETE & WMIC.exe wmic SHADOWCOPY DELETE & cmd.exe /c vssadmin Delete Shadows /All /Quiet & vssadmin.exe vssadmin Delete Shadows /All /Quiet & cmd.exe /c bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No & bcdedit.exe bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No & cmd.exe /c bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures & bcdedit.exe bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
Once this is done, .ONI files virus may immediately start encrypting your files.
.ONI Files Virus – Encryption Process
In order to encrypt the files on your computer, the .ONI files virus may initially scan for the types of files it wants to encrypt. The files this virus may look for are often used types of files, such as:
- Documents.
- Images.
- Videos.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drives.
Once, the .ONI ransomware virus is able to encrypt the files on your PC, the malware may add the .ONI file extension to the files. After this, the files may start to appear like the following:
Remove ONI Ransomware and Restore .ONI Encrypted Files
If you want to remove .ONI ransomware from your PC, it is recommended that you be very careful. For removal, you can use the manual and automatic removal instructions below. If manual removal does not seem to help or you feel lack of confidence that you will be able to delete this virus in full, we strongly suggest that you remove this virus automatically. For maximum effectiveness, security experts strongly advise using an advanced anti-malware software for the removal process. Such software’s primary goal is to fully scan for and delete all files, related to .ONI ransomware from your computer and in the same time ensure that it stays protected against infections that might occur in the future too.
If you want to restore .ONI encrypted files, you can try and use the file recovery instructions in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by .ONI Ransomware”. They have been created with the main purpose to help you recover as many files as possible, but they are no guarantee that you will be able to restore all the files.
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 .ONI Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .ONI Ransomware.
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 .ONI Ransomware 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.
.ONI Ransomware-FAQ
What is .ONI Ransomware Ransomware?
.ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways..ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 ..ONI Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..ONI Ransomware 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 ..ONI Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..ONI Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .ONI Ransomware 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 .ONI Ransomware 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.