This article has been created to explain what is Princess Evolution ransomware and how you can effectively remove it from your computer plus how you can attempt and recover files, that have been encrypted by it.
A new version of Princess ransomware, naming itself Princess Evolution has been detected by malware researcher demonslay335. The ransomware virus slithers unnoticed on the user’s computer and shortly after that encrypts the important files in it. The virus then leaves behind the files unopenable with a random file extension. Alongside the files, the malware also drops a ransom note, called
^_READ_TO_RE5T0RE_{file extension}.html, which asks victims to download the Tor browser and go to the Tor web page of the cyber-criminals. If your computer has been infected by Princess Evolution ransomware we recommend that you read this article completely.
Threat Summary
| Name | Princess Evolution |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Aims to encrypt the files on the infected computer and then leave behind a ransom note asking the victim to pay ransom to get them back. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware leaves the files no longer able to be opened with a random file extension and a ransom note, called “^_READ_TO_RE5T0RE_.txt” and “^_READ_TO_RE5T0RE_.html” |
| 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 Princess Evolution. |
| 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. |
Princess Evolution Ransomware – Distribution
In order for this ransomware virus to be spread, the malware may start to be seen as a form of e-mail attachment that is sent to the computers of users, pretending to be a legitimate document, from the likes of:
- Invoice.
- Receipt.
- Online banking statement.
- Some form of confirmation letter.
- Suspicious account activity report.
In reality, the attachment is the infection file of Princess Evolution ransomware and may contain the malicious payload of the virus that is likely infecting via Rig Exploit Kit.
Furthermore, another method via which this ransomware may infect computers is as a result of visiting a comrpomised website, which is rigged to push the exploit kit to your computer.
Another possible method of this malware entering your computer system is by having it downloaded while believing it is a legitimate program. Such programs often tend to imitate:
- Patches.
- Software license activators.
- Online banking statement.
- Cracks.
- Key generators (keygens).
- Portable versions of programs.
The Princess Evolution virus is being distributed as a Raas (Ransomware-as-a-service) via a hacker underground marketplace. This means that a certain hacker or criminal collective is offering the stock version or a custom version of it. This means that every version can have a different attack behavior and distribution methods. Affiliate infection schemes can distribute the revenue between the creators and the hackers.
Princess Evolution Ransomware – Activity
Once on your computer, this ransomware virus may create various types of malicious files and folders on your computer. They may be located in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocaLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
Similar to it’s previous variant, Princess Evolution ransomware may then connect to it’s Command and Control server and transmit the following information:
- AES-128 private decryption key.
- File extension as a unique identifier.
- User name.
- The name of the network interface.
- The system locale ID (LCID).
- OS type and version.
- The name of any security software that might be installed.
The malware, then may add registry entries in the Run and RunOnce Windows registry sub-keys, that 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 Princess Evolution ransomware may also make it possible to easily notice it’s ransom note files, both of which have the following messages for victims:
Your files are encrypted!
Download and install Tor Browser:
https://www.torproject.org/download/download-easy.html
And follow this link via Tor Browser:
https://{URL}.onion/
Or use this alternative in any exceptional cases:https://{URL}.tor2web.top/
The tor web page of Princess Evolution welcomes the user with the following well-made animation and the following ransom note:
The ransomware virus may also execute the following commands with the main goal of deleting any backed up shadow copies from the victim’s computer:
→ 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
Princess Evolution Ransomware – Encryption Process
For the encryption process of the Princess Evolution ransomware to take place, the virus may first scan the infected computers of victims for the following file types:
→ .1cd, .3ds, .3gp, .accdb, .ape, .asp, .aspx, .bc6, .bc7, .bmp, .cdr, .cer, .cfg, .cfgx, .cpp, .cr2, .crt, .crw, .csr, .csv, .dbf, .dbx, .dcr, .dfx, .dib, .djvu, .doc, .docm, .docx, .dwg, .dwt, .dxf, .dxg, .eps, .htm, .html, .ibank, .indd, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .kdc, .kwm, .max, .mdb, .mdf, .odb, .odc, .odm, .odp, .ods, .odt, .orf, .p12, .p7b, .p7c, .pdf, .pef, .pem, .pfx, .php, .png, .pps, .ppt, .pptm, .pptx, .psd, .pst, .pub, .pwm, .qbb, .qbw, .raw, .rtf, .sln, .sql, .sqlite, .svg, .tif, .tiff, .txt, .vcf, .wallet, .wpd, .xls, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xml
When the files, encrypted by tis virus are already damaged, it adds a random file extension which it also adds to the ransom note files it creates. The extension is believed to serve as an identificator for the victimised machine.
Remove Princess Evolution Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
If you want to remove the Princess Evolution Ransomware from your computer, we recommend that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been divided in manual and automatic removal instructions. If manual removal is not something you feel confident in doing, we strongly suggest what most malware removal experts would advise you to do and that is to use an advanced anti-malware program in order to automatically remove Princess Evolution ransomware from your computer. Downloading and installing such program will make sure that your computer is fully cleaned up and remains protected in real-time against threats, like Princess Evolution in the future as well.
Ransomware viruses, like Princess Evolution aim to encrypt files with the aid of advanced encryption. The AES-128 cipher has been used in this case and the malware aims to encrypt portions of the files, while generating a unique decryption key. This key is also heavily encrypted, so if you want to restore files, encrypted by Princess Evolution, at the moment there is no direct solution. You can however use one of the alternative methods for file recovery in step “2. Restore files, encrypted by Princess Evolution” below. They may not be 100% working, but with their aid, you may be able to restore as many encrypted files 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 Princess Evolution with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Princess Evolution.
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 Princess Evolution 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.
Princess Evolution-FAQ
What is Princess Evolution Ransomware?
Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution Infect?
Via several ways.Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 .Princess Evolution files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Princess Evolution 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 .Princess Evolution files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Princess Evolution" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Princess Evolution 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 Princess Evolution 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.