Artemis Ransomware Virus
Artemis is the name given to a ransomware infection known to be using the .ultimate extension for files it encodes.
Unfortunately, if it hits your computer system, it will lock all of your valuable files and request a ransom payment for their recovery.
Infection with the Artemis ransomware virus leads to serious system damage because of the many changes that start to control the way your operating system works. The system security is disrupted which means it is extremely vulnerable to additional malware infections.
Find more information about Artemis virus as well as a step-by-step removal of its malicious files. The steps below will also show you how to potentially recover encrypted .ultimate files.
Artemis Ransomware Summary
| Name | Artemis |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware designed to corrupt computer operating systems, encrypt valuable personal fles and extort a ransom fee. |
| Symptoms | All important files are locked and renamed with a string of extensions that ends with the extension .ultimate Ransom message popups on screen to request a ransom payment. |
| Ransom Note | ReadMe-[victim’s_ID].txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Websites |
| Detection Tool |
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Artemis Ransomware – Distribution and Impact
Artemis is a data locker ransomware developed to encrypt personal files stored on computers it infects and append the extension .ultimate to their names.
The threat has one main goal and it is to supports cybercriminals’ operations. That’s why the moment it finishes the attack it drops a ransom note that provides instructions on how victims are supposed to act if they want to get back their locked files.
The infection may be lurking in the wild by being disguised as a fake software installer, a spam email that features an attachment or form of a clickable link, a phishing page, a malicious advert, an online scam, etc.
As soon as the Artemis ransomware virus runs on a PC, it initiates various malicious operations that help it to evade active security measures and continue harming other system parts. When this cryptovirus obtains permanent access to the infected system, it starts misusing system functionalities to perform additional malicious operations like data harvesting, installation of more malicious apps, and encryption of target data.
.ultimate Virus Files
To encrypt personal files, Artemis virus launches a cipher module that scans predefined system locations for target types of files and then encodes them by using a strong cipher algorithm like AES.
Encrypted files are left completely inaccessible. They share similarities in the changes of their names. All files are marked with three strange suffixes – victim’s ID number, e-mail address used by hackers (UltimateHelp@techmail.info) and .ultimate extension.
Sadly, at this point hackers are the only ones who possess a decryption tool for .ultimate files. They try to blackmail victims to pay a ransom fee if they want to obtain the tool and decrypt corrupted files. Below you can see the content of the ransom message (ReadMe-[victim’s_ID].txt) that appears in the end of the infection process:
!!! All your files encrypted !!!
You Have to Pay For The Restore
To Decrypt (Restore) them send e-mail to this address: UltimateHelp@techmail.info
If we don’t answer in 24h., send e-mail to this address: UltimateHelp@keemail.me
Your Unique ID : –
We know that you need to restore encrypted files but we recommend that you refrain from transferring money to cybercriminals. Otherwise, you risk losing both your valuable files and money.
For the sake of your security, it is advisable to clean your infected computer from present malicious files and consider the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Remove Artemis Ransomware Virus
The complex code of the so-called Artemis virus damages both essential system settings and valuable data. Hence, the only way to use your infected computer in a secure manner is to first remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware and then install a reliable anti-malware tool. If you want to speed up the removal process and ensure that the infected system is clean from any present malware, you can directly download and install the anti-malware tool presented in the guide below.
When trying to restore .ultimate files with the alternative methods we listed in the guide, do not forget to first create copies of the encoded files and store them on an external drive.
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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Attention! SensorsTechForum strongly recommends that all malware victims should look for assistance only by reputable sources. Many guides out there claim to offer free recovery and decryption for files encrypted by ransomware viruses. Be advised that some of them may only be after your money.
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.
- Guide 1: How to Remove Artemis Ransomware from Windows.
- Guide 2: Get rid of Artemis Ransomware from Mac OS X.
How to Remove Artemis Ransomware from Windows.
Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Artemis Ransomware
Step 2: Uninstall Artemis Ransomware and related software 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 uninstall most programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Artemis Ransomware 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 Artemis Ransomware 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: Scan for Artemis Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 5 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Artemis Ransomware.
Ransomware infections and Artemis Ransomware 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Get rid of Artemis Ransomware from Mac OS X.
Step 1: Uninstall Artemis Ransomware and remove related files and objects
1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:
- Go to Finder.
- In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
- Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
- If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.
In case you cannot remove Artemis Ransomware via Step 1 above:
In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:
You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:
→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons
Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.
Step 3 (Optional): Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Artemis Ransomware.
Ransomware infections and Artemis Ransomware 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 top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Artemis Ransomware FAQ
What is Artemis Ransomware ransomware and how does it work?
Artemis Ransomware 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 algorithm how 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.
How does Artemis Ransomware ransomware infect my computer?
Via several ways.Artemis Ransomware Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing e-mails, 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 Artemis Ransomware 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 .Artemis Ransomware files?
You can't. At this point the .Artemis Ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted.
Decryptor did not decrypt my data. What now?
Do not panic and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Artemis Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
One way to restore files, encrypted by Artemis Ransomware ransomware is to use a decryptor for it. But since it's a new virus, advised that the decryption keys for it may not be out yet and available to the public. We will update this article and keep you posted as soon as this decryptor is released.
How Do I restore ".Artemis Ransomware" files (Other Methods)?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Artemis Ransomware files.
These methods are in no way 100% guarantee that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How do I get rid of Artemis Ransomware ransomware virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti malware software. It will scan for and locate Artemis Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Artemis Ransomware files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like Artemis Ransomware ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts. Scanning your computer with an anti-malware software will make sure that all of these virus components are removed and your computer is protected in the future.
What to Do If nothing works?
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 it can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way to get back some of your files 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.
