The .bitcore virus is a new Paradise ransomware sample that is currently set against target end users on a global scale. There is no information available about the hacking group behind it. It is believed to be a new iteration of the famous ransomware family. This is one of the reasons why we believe that the hackers are experienced.
Once the .bitcore virus has started it will execute its built-in sequence of dangerous commands. Depending on local conditions or the specific hacker instructions various actions will take place. The file encryption will begin after them — the encrypting component will use a built-in list of target file type extensions. In the end the victim files will be renamed with the .bitcore extension.
Threat Summary
| Name | Bitcore Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer machine and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly restore them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will blackmail the victims to pay them a decryption fee. Sensitive user data may be encrypted by the ransomware code. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Bitcore 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. |
.bitcore Virus – Spread and Impact
A new security report indicates that a new Paradise ransomware which renames the virus with the .bitcore extension. Like previous strains of this family of threats several of the popular attack techniques can be used to spread it. Larger campaigns can even use several ones at once.
Typical of Paradise ransomware strains the .bitcore virus can be spread by social engineering techniques. The criminals do this by sending out email messages and hosting malware sites on similar domain names. The aim is to make the victims think that they are accessing a legitimate and safe site or message. The virus file will be either launched in some way (through a banner or by clicking on a link) or it will be linked in a button, text link or image.
The other popular strategy is to embed the necessary .bitcore virus infection code into different file carriers. Depending on the attack strategy used by the hackers the virus can be found by accessing the malware-infected app installers — they are usually modified setup bundles of popular software. The alternative is to prepare macro-infected documents that can be of all popular formats. The mechanism is to present a prompt to the users asking them to enable the built-in macros. The posted reason is that this is required in order to correctly show the contents of the files.
Larger .bitcore attack campaigns can also use other techniques, for example the uploading of the dangerous files to different file-sharing networks and social networks. This is done by using fake or hacked accounts and profiles — this can be done publicly or via private messaging options.
.bitcore Virus – What Does It Do?
At the moment there is no information regarding the identity of the hackers. We do not know if they are experienced or have merely customized the base ransomware code. Whatever the case the infections have still not infected devices as much as previous threats. Still it is very possible that future versions may include many more dangerous components.
An in-depth security analysis is not yet available at the time of writing this article. However it is very possible that the virus includes many of the typical components that are often displayed by such viruses.
Usually these viruses begin by harvesting sensitive data from the compromised hosts. It can be related to the computers (hardware information) or personal information. The extracted data is used to carry out further crimes and also processed by the other available modules. A typical malicious action is to create an unique ID for each compromised system. The harvested personal information can be used for other crimes such as identity theft and financial abuse.
Many of the ransomware that are part of Paradise malware family may perform dangerous system changes such as the following:
- Boot Options Changes — The .bitcore virus can be installed in a way which is referred to as a persistent infection. It will be started every time the computer is booted and it can block access to the recovery boot options. This will make it very difficult to remove the existing infections.
- Windows Registry Changes — The virus engine can access the Windows Registry and edit out existing values or create new entries. This action will lead to performance issues, data loss and unexpected errors.
- Additional Malware Infection — The made .bitcore ransomware infections can be used to deploy other viruses onto the compromised machines. Popular options include cryptocurrency miners, Trojans and browser hijackers.
- Data Removal — Some of the viruses can be programmed to identify and remove sensitive information an files. This can include backups, restore points, databases and etc.
At any time other components and actions can occur, depending on the instructions of the hackers and local machine conditions.
.bitcore Virus – The Encryption Phase
When every module has finished running the actual encryption phase will start. A strong cipher will be started which will process the target user fles. It is very likely that this action will be done by looking for files that are described in a hacker-generated list. Usually this include the following data:
archives, backups, databases, multimedia files, documents, restore points and etc.
The files which are processed will receive a special extension called .bitcore which wil help identify the. The victims will be unable to access their files and will see several files that are called -=###_INFO_you_FILE_###=-.txt — these are the so-called ransom notes. These files will contain blackmail contents that aims to manipulate the victims into paying the hackers a restore fee.
Remove .bitcore Virus
If your computer system got infected with the .bitcore Files ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for Bitcore Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 Bitcore Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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.
Bitcore Virus-FAQ
What is Bitcore Virus Ransomware?
Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 Bitcore Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 .Bitcore Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Bitcore 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 .Bitcore Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Bitcore Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 Bitcore Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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 Bitcore Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Bitcore 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 Bitcore 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.
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