What are .actin files? What is the .actin files virus? How to remove Phobos ransomware and try to restore .actin encrypted files?
A new variant of Phobos ransomware has been recently detected, using the .actin file extension. Phobos ransomware is very similar to Dharma ransom variants. It’s main goal is to encrypt the files on your computer adding the .actin extension in the process and making them unopenable, until you pay the criminals a ransom fee. The virus also ads a ransom note similar to the older Dharma ransomware variants, containing the ransom instructions. If your computer was recently infected by the Phobos variant of Dharma ransomware, then we recommend that you read this article thoroughly.
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Threat Summary
Name | Actin Virus |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | A variant of Phobos ransomware. Encrypts files and denies access to them until the victim pays ransom. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted and have the .actin extension. |
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 Actin 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. |
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Actin Virus – Update August 2019
Actin virus has recently been reported to affect computers of victims. What appears is a new massive spam campaign via e-mail carrying malicious e-mail attachments is likely the reason why Actin virus is stil infecting victims. The e-mails often look convincing and their primary idea is to get you to open the attachments embedded:
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.actin Files Virus – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Usually, ransomware viruses, like the .actin one use one very cunning method to spread – by sending e-mails that contain virus e-mail attachments. These attachments have the primary goal of getting victims to open them In order to get infected. To reach it’s end goal, the attachment in question may seem like it is an important invoice, receipt or a document of utmost urgency to be opened.
Either way, once a victim becomes compromised, the .actin virus may begin to change the file extensions of the following file types:
- Documents.
- Pictures.
- Videos.
- Images.
- Audio files.
- Archives.
- Files, used by installed programs.
Once the files are encrypted, they are appended the .actin file extension along which is also a unique victim id and the e-mail of the crooks. The files start to look like the following:
In addition to the files, the Phobos virus adds the old Dharma ransom note:
In addition to this, Phobos ransomware also performs the following malicious acitivites on the computers, compromised by it.
- Creates mutexes.
- May add registry values in the following registry sub-keys.
- May check if it is running on a virtual or a real environment.
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Remove .actin Ransomware and Try to Restore Files
To remove .actin ransomware, it is strongly reccomended to follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been created with the main idea to help you remove this virus either manually or automatically. If the first two manual removal steps do not seem to work, then we recommend that you remove .actin automatically with the aid of an advanced anti-malware software. Such tool will scan your computer and remove any viruses currently present on it.
If you want to try and restore .actin files, you should first back them up on a USB stick or some other external drive and then try the alternative file recovery methods below. They might work for some of your files, but not every file.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Actin Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Actin 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:
![delete ransomware from windows step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware from windows step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Run-Remove-Uninstal-pop-up-adware-hijacker-virus-sensorstechforum-2.jpg)
![delete ransomware from windows step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Run-Remove-Uninstal-pop-up-adware-hijacker-virus-sensorstechforum-3.jpg)
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Actin 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 Actin Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
![delete ransomware virus registries step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/5-step-remove-a-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware virus registries step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/6-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware virus registries step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/7-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
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 Actin Virus
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/3-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 4](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/4-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 5](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/windows-safe-mode-running.jpg)
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Actin 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 Actin 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.
Actin Virus-FAQ
What is Actin Virus Ransomware?
Actin 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 Actin 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 Actin Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Actin 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 Actin 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 .Actin Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Actin 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 .Actin Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Actin Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Actin 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 Actin 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 Actin Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Actin 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 Actin 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 Actin Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Actin 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 Actin 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.