A new variant of the Stampado ransomware – the Philadephia virus has been released to the public using the .locked file extension. The virus has been sold in the deep web markets as an inexpensive virus that can encrypt the files of the victims and make them pay a ransom money to get them back. Anyone who has access to the deep web forums can have the Philadelphia ransomware for just 400$. THis low-cost makes ransomware even more accessible to anyone who wants to extort users for their files. The “sales page” of the virus advertises it as a sophisticated threat, but malware researchers feel convinced that it is not as unbeatable as it looks like. This is why anyone who has been infected by this virus are strongly advised to remove it using the instructions in this article and wait for a decrypter to be released while trying alternative file restoration methods.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Philadelphia |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using a strong encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | Philadelphia Ransomware leaves a ransom note and may delete random files from your computer if the terms in the note are not met. Changed file names and the various file extensions may be used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Philadelphia 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. |
Philadelphia Ransomware – Distribution Methods
Researchers at Bleeping Computer have reported that the virus is being sold in deep web forums, and it’s creator The Rainmaker has begun to distribute it and infect over 20 thousand victims in the frame of the first day his campaigns starts. This points out possibly to very massive spam campaigns that aim to redistribute the malicious files of Philadelphia ransomware. One spam campaign has reported redistributing a fake notice from Brazil’s Ministry of Finance:
The fake notice was accompanied by a web link or a javascript that aims to automatically connect to the malicious server of the crook controlling the virus and download Philadelphia to infect the user PC and encrypt the files. This technique is called a drive-by download because the malicious executable of Philadelphia virus Is automatically executed as soon as It has been downloaded.
Philadephia Virus – In-Depth Analysis
As soon as this malware is executed on the victim’s computer, it may immediately drop it’s malicious files and automatically execute them. It leaves two randomly named and one executable directly on the User’s profile folder:
- C:/Users/{UserProfile}/{random name}
- C:/Users/{UserProfile}/{random name}
- C:/Users/{UserProfile}/Isass.exe
The virus also simultaneously modifies the Windows Update registry key to run the executable via the update service:
→ HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\Windows Update
Then Philadelphia may begin to encrypt the victim PC’s files, without the user even batting an eye. The Philadelphia virus may use different ciphers on different types of files, but by default it is reported to encrypt the following types of files:
→ .7z;.asp;.avi;.bmp;.cad;.cdr;.doc;.docm;.docx;.gif;.html;.jpeg;.jpg;.mdb;.mov;.mp3;.mp4;.pdf;.php;.ppt;.pptx;.rar;.rtf;.sql;.str;.tiff;.txt;.wallet;.wma;.wmv;.xls;.xlsx;.zip
After encryption, the files can no longer be opened by any type of software. The files have completely random names, and the .locked file extension is added, for example:
The encryption which may be used by this ransomware, is believed by the EmsiSoft researcher Fabian Wosar to be a strong one, but the virus itself may be coded poorly and be relatively easy to create a decrypter for it.
After encrypting the files, the Philadelphia ransomware also aims to perform various other activities, like drop a ransom note to notify the user of the situation presented before him/her. The ransom note has the following content:
→“All your files have been encrypted!
All your documents (databases, texts, images, videos, musics, etc.) were encrypted. The encryption was done using a secret key that is now on our servers. To ecrypt your files, you will need to buy the secret key from us. We are the only on the world who can provide this for you.
What can I do?
Pay the ransom, in bitcoins, in the amount and wallet below. You can use LocalBitcoins.com to buy bitcoins.”
In addition to this, the Philadelphia ransomware also includes a so-called “Russian roulette” mechanism that deletes a random file on the computer of the user on a random time period if the ransom amount requested is not paid in BitCoins. The ransom amount required by default is 0.3 BTC, but it may vary since the virus is sold to anyone who has 400$.
Other features of the Philadelphia virus include a so-called “Philadelphia Headquarter” which is a PHP-based user interface that detects all of the infected machines with their IP addresses, their operating systems, and their unique ID. It also allows management tools, like tracking the device on Google Maps, checks if the ransom is paid, see detailed information as well as show the private password for decrypting the files. The interesting interface even has a “Give Mercy” button that decrypts the files for free:
Remove Philadelphia Ransomware and Restore .locked Files
To restore the files enciphered by Philadelphia ransomware, you should first delete the virus from your computer. To perform this removal process , please follow the manual underneath. They are carefully designed to remove the virus so that no harm comes to the files. For better effectiveness, malware researchers also strongly recommend that an advanced anti-malware software should be used since it should make sure that the Philadelphia virus is fully removed, and the computer is protected in the future as well.
To directly decrypt your files, we suggest following this article since we expect a decryptor to be released soon, by EmsiSoft. In the meantime, you may want to try the decryption instructions posted after this article in step 3 – “Restore files encrypted by Philadelphia”. They may not be 100 percent effective, but they are a good temporary substitute while we update this article with a download URL for a decrypter.
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 Philadelphia with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Philadelphia.
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 Philadelphia 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.
Philadelphia-FAQ
What is Philadelphia Ransomware?
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia Infect?
Via several ways.Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 .Philadelphia files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Philadelphia 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 .Philadelphia files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Philadelphia" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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.
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