This article has been created to help explain what is the .pumax file extension ransomware and how you can remove it plus restore the encrypted files.
A new ransomware virus, carrying around the .pumax file extension has been detected by users. The virus is a variant of the STOP ransomware viruses and is very similar to the [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-puma-virus/”].puma files variant, suggesting that they are possibly made by the same people. If you want to know more about the .pumax files virus and how you can remove it from your computer and how you can try and restore files, encrypted by it on your PC, we advise you to read this article thoroughly.
Threat Summary
| Name | .pumax Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A variant of the notorious [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-stop-virus-restore-stop-files/”]STOP ransomware viruses. Aims to encrypt the files and then as victims to pay ransom to be able to open them again. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted with an added .pumax file extension. A ransom note may appear, with instructions on paying the ransom. |
| 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
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .pumax Files Virus. |
| 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. |
.pumax Virus – Update December 2018
There is a decrypter tool released for .puma, .pumax, and .pumas variants of STOP ransomware. The tool was released thanks to the Proof of Concept by AfshinZlfgh and Michael Gillespie’s finishing touches. You can download it via the .puma, .pumax, .pumas Decryption Tool link. The tool requires a pair of an original file and its encrypted version.
.pumax Virus – Distribution Methods
There are more than one infection methods in relation to .pumax files virus. One of those tools is to use the ransomware virus in a malspam attack. Such attack involves sending the malicious file via e-mail and making it a if the virus is a legitimate document of some sort. In the e-mails, the crooks may imitate as if the e-mails come from shipment company and other big companies, like:
- FedEx.
- PayPal.
- eBay.
- Amazon.
- DHL.
- Facebook.
- Instagram.
- Twitter.
- Google.
The outcome of this may be that the victim is tricked that the file is important one and downloads and opens it. Usually the files pose a “must-see” type of documents, like:
- Invoices.
- Receipts.
- Password stolen documents.
- Security report or log for the user’s online account for a certain site.
But this is not the only way via which you can become a victim of the .pumax ransomware virus, since this infection can also be spread as a result of being uploaded online and posing as a legitimate program that users aim to download. Such can often turn out to be:
- Portable versions of programs.
- Software license activators.
- Cracks.
- Hacktools.
- Patches.
- Key generators (Keygens).
.pumax Ransomware – Activity
Since the 24th of November, the .pumax variant of STOP ransomware has started infecting computers. The virus is from the ransomware type and it uses the ransom note !readme.txt which it drops upon infection. The ransom note has the following contents:
====================!ATTENTION PLEASE!====================
Your databases, files, photos, documents and other important files are encrypted and have the extension: .pumax
The only method of recovering files is to purchase an decrypt software and unique private key.
After purchase you will start decrypt software, enter your unique private key and it will decrypt all your data.
Only we can give you this key and only we can recover your files.
You need to contact us by e-mail pumarestore@india.com send us your personal ID and wait for further instructions.
For you to be sure, that we can decrypt your files – you can send us a 1-3 any not very big encrypted files and we will send you back it in a original
form FREE.
Discount 50% avaliable if you contact us first 72 hours.
=====================================================
E-mail address to contact us:
pumarestore@india.com
Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
BM-2cXonzj9ovn5qdX2MrwMK4j3qCquXBKo4h@bitmessage.ch
Your personal id:
Once infected a computer, the .pumax files virus may drop Its malicious files in the following directories of Windows:
- %Desktop%
- %User’s Folders%
- %Temp%
The files that are dropped on the desktop in relation to .pumax ransomware could be the following:
→ !readme.txt
delself.bat.
{random name}.exe
encrypt.pdb
After this has been done, the ransomware virus may also tamper with the following Windows Registry sub-keys:
→ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI\Background
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\ScreenSaveTimeOut
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop
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
After this is done, the .pumax variant of STOP ransomware may also execute a .bat file which deletes the backups of your computer by entering some or all of the following commands as an administrator in Windows Command Prompt:
→ 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
.pumax Files Virus – Encryption Process
The .pumax files virus is the type of ransomware whose main purpose is to get your files to not work, also known as a cryptovirus. To reach it’s goal, the virus uses the AES-256 encryption algorithm for the file enciphering procedure and it combines this cipher with CFB encryption mode. The files are encrypted with a zero IV and one 32 byte key is generated for the files. The maximum encryption size is 0x500000 byte, which is around 5 MB of space, according to ID Ransomware’s blog post.
To encrypt the files on your computer, the .pumax virus scans for the files, based on their file extensions (.jpg, .avi, .bmp, .png, .docx, etc.). The virus aims to encrypt only files that are important and often used, but it stays away from critical Windows files that may damage your operating system. The file type it aims to encrypt could be the following:
- Documents.
- Images.
- Videos.
- Archives.
- Virtual drives.
- Backup files.
- Database files.
- Presentations.
- Photoshop and other files.
The outcome of the encryption is that the files are no longer usable and they have the .pumax file extension that is added to them. The files look like the following after the encryption:
Remove .pumax Ransomware and Try to Restore Encrypted Files
Before starting to perform any form of removal of this virus, we strongly suggest that you backup your files on a flash drive or other external memory carrier, just in case.
For the removal process of the .pumax files virus, we suggest that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been created with the main purpose to get you to remove the .pumax virus files and objects either by manually hunting for them or by doing it automatically. For maximum effectiveness during the removal, security experts recommend to remove this virus automatically, preferably by downloading an advanced anti-malware program. This is because such tool aims to make sure that all the files and objects related to .pumax files virus are fully removed and the ransomware is erased completely. More so, such software can also protect your computer against threats in the future as well.
If you want to try and restore as many encrypted files as possible, we would suggest that you follow the file recovery methods in the instructions below. They are alternative means by which you could theoretically bring back at least some of your files, but they are no 100% guarantee to recover all the data.
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 .pumax Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .pumax 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 .pumax 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 .pumax 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 .pumax Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .pumax 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 .pumax 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.
.pumax Files Virus-FAQ
What is .pumax Files Virus Ransomware?
.pumax 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.
Can .pumax Files Virus Ransomware Cayse Damage?
Yes, ransomware can damage your computer. Ransomware is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
Should I Ignore Viruses, Like .pumax Files Virus?
No, you should never ignore ransomware. It can encrypt your data and block access to your computer, making it impossible to access your files until you pay a ransom.
Ignoring ransomware could lead to the permanent loss of your data, as well as the potential for the ransomware to spread to other computers on your network. Additionally, paying the ransom does not guarantee that your data will be recovered.
How Does .pumax Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..pumax 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way you may become a victim of .pumax 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 ..pumax Files Virus files?
You can't. At this point, the ..pumax Files Virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryptionkey 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 ..pumax Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..pumax Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..pumax 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 .pumax 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 .pumax Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..pumax Files Virus files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like .pumax Files Virus ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts.
What to Do If I Cant Get The Files Back?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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 .pumax 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.
Why Is the Ransom Paid in Crypto?
Cryptocurrency is a secure and untraceable form of payment, making it the ideal choice for ransom payments. It is difficult to trace, and the transactions are almost instantaneous. This means it is nearly impossible for authorities to track the payment and recover the money.
Can 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 .pumax Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .pumax 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 .pumax 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.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.