What Is PHP File Virus?
In this article, you will find more information about .php files virus as well as a step-by-step guide on how to remove malicious files from an infected system and how to potentially recover .php files.
The ransomware which has been given the name .php files virus is reported to be a strain of one of the biggest ransomware families called Dharma. Its name is a derivative of the specific extension it uses for marking encrypted files. Once this threat manages to run its infection files on your computer it interferes with essential system settings which in turn seriously disrupts operating system’s security. As a result, the ransomware performs a data encryption stage without being detected by active security measures. At the end of the attack, .php cryptovirus creates a ransom note file to inform about its presence. The primary goal of its ransom message, however, is to force you into paying a ransom fee to cybercriminals. Since there is no guarantee that hackers will keep their promises, we recommend that you should avoid their instructions.
Threat Summary
| Name | .php Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A version of the CrySyS/Dharma ransomware that is designed to encrypt valuable files stored on infected computers and then extort a ransom from victims. |
| Symptoms | Important files are encrypted and renamed with the extension .php A ransom note appears on PC screen to present ransom payment instructions. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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.php Files Virus – Distribution and Impact
Typically, hackers attempt to infect users’ computers by tricking them into running the malicious code by their selves. A common spread technique known to be used for the delivery of malicious code is the malspam. Malspam is realized via massive spam email campaigns that could be targeting online users worldwide. Oftentimes, the emails that are part of malspam campaigns pose as representatives of legitimate websites, services, and even governmental institutions.
Another trait that signifies for a malicious email is the presence of an attachment file. This file could be stated to be a document, an archive, an image, a PDF or another well-known file format. The load of such a file on the device results in the activation of the malicious code it contains. Hence, it triggers the ransomware infection.
Another trait that may help for the detection of an email that is part of malspam campaign is a URL address be it presented in the form of an in-text link, button, coupon, banner, image or another clickable form. A load of this URL address in your browser could result in the unnoticed execution of ransomware payload on the background.
As of .php files virus, it has recently been spotted in the wild. According to security researchers’ analyses the threat belongs to the infamous ransomware family [wplinkpreview url=” https://sensorstechforum.com/plut-files-virus-dharma-remove/”]Dharma.
Once loaded on the computer, Dharma .php virus interferes with essential system settings in order to evade detection and complete all attack stages.
One system component that is likely to be affected by the ransomware is the Registry Editor. The registry keys Run and RunOnce are among the most targeted ones. This could be explained by the fact that these registry keys manage the automatic execution of certain files. So when affected by .php virus they will be automatically loading its malicious files too. Below are listed their directories:
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
The primary goal of .php files virus is to find specific types of files stored on computer drives and then leave them out of order by encrypting their code. For the purpose it activates a built-in encryption module that is set to use a strong cipher algorithm every time it detects a target file. The encrypted files could be:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Encrypted files could be recognized by the extension .php that appears appended to their names. By corrupting valuable files, Dharma .php aims to convince you to pay hackers a ransom fee.
So it drops a ransom message file on the infected PC and loads it on the screen. At this point, there is no information about the exact amount of the demanded ransom. However, it is likely that hackers will require it to be transferred in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin.
We advise you to avoid contacting hackers and paying them the ransom. There is no guarantee that they possess a working decrypter for your .php files.
Keep reading to find some data alternative methods that are secure and may be useful as well.
Remove .php Files Virus and Restore Data
The so-called .php files 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 computer in a secure manner again is to remove .php virus with all its malicious files and objects from the computer system. For the purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. You will also be presented with several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore .php files. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
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 .php Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .php Files 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 .php Files 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 .php Files 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 .php Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .php Files 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 .php Files 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.
.php Files Virus-FAQ
What is .php Files Virus Ransomware?
.php Files 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 .php Files 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 .php Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..php Files 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 .php Files 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 ..php Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..php Files 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 ..php Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..php Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..php Files 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 .php Files 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 .php Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..php Files 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 .php Files 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 .php Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .php Files 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 .php Files 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.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
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