This article explains the issues that occur in case of infection with .CORP files virus and provides a complete guide on how to remove malicious files and potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware.
A ransomware strain of Paradise family dubbed .CORP files virus has been spotted in the wild. An infection with this nasty threat leads to the corruption of valuable files all of which could be recognized by the extension .CROP appended to their names. The goal of this ransomware is extortion of a ransom payment.
Threat Summary
| Name | .CORP Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt files so it can demand a ransom for thier decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with .CORP extension. They cannot be opened. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| 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 .CORP 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. |
.CORP Files Virus – Distribution
There are several spread techniques that are probably used for the distribution of .CORP ransomware. Malsam is one of those techniques. It is used by hackers for the spread of malicious code via massive email campaigns. They usually embed their malware in files of common types and attach these files to email messages. In addition, emails are often disguised as legitimate businesses or services.
The last could be explained by the fact that their purpose is to trick you into opening the corrupted file on your device as this action triggers the execution of ransomware payload. A variety of common file types such as documents, PDFs, images could be transformed into carriers of ransomware code.
These files are often presented as the following:
- Invoices coming from reputable sites, like PayPal, eBay, etc.
- Documents from that appear to be sent from your bank.
- An online order confirmation note.
- Receipt for a purchase.
- Others.
Malware authors may be also using compromised software installers and infected websites to spread this nasty ransomware infection. These methods enable them to embed the ransomware payload to a app installer or inject it into a web page. Both cases could result in an automatic and unnoticed execution of this payload directly on a target system.
.CORP Files Virus – Overview
Once loaded on the system, .CORP files virus initiates a sequence of malicious actions that cause heavy damages over the whole system. Except the file that is designed to trigger the infection process, the ransomware is likely to establish additional malicious files on the system. These files may be located in the following folders:
- %Roaming%
- %Windows%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
With the help of some of the established malicious files, .CORP ransomware could evade detection and reach the main infection stage – data encryption.
An additional finding about the impact of this ransomware is that it adds specific executable files in the Windows startup folder. This process along with the process of infecting certain Windows registries such as Run and RunOnce sub-keys makes .CORP ransomware one of the first programs that load on each system start. In order to prevent this nasty side effect you should definitely check your registries for malicious values and erase them all if present.
According to further analyses of this .CORP ransomware sample, it is designed to detect infected device’s current language. This command is probably performed in favor of hackers’ statistic purposes. It could serve for the configuration of the ransom amount that may be different for each country.
At this point, it is clear that the ransom note associated with this Paradise version has the name $%%! NOTE ABOUT FILES -=!-.html. Here is the complete message it presents:
Your files are encrypted!
Paradise Ransomware Team!
[Your personal ID] [WHAT HAPPENED]Your important files produced on this computer have been encrypted due a security problem
[FREE DECRYPTION AS GUARANTEE]
If you want to restore them, write to us by e-mail.
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us.
After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.Before paying you can send us 1-3 files for free decryption.
[HOW TO OBTAIN BITCOINS]
Please note that files must NOT contain valuable information
The file size should not exceed 1MB.
As evidence, we can decrypt one fileThe easiest way to buy bitcoin is LocalBitcoins site.
You have to register, click Buy bitcoins and select the seller by payment method and price
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
write to Google how to buy Bitcoin in your country?Contact!
e-mail: alexbanan@tuta.io
or
e-mail: alexbanan@tuta.io
Since there is no evidence available whether hackers possess a working decryption tool or a broken one, we recommend you to avoid paying the ransom until you try to cope with this devastating issue with the help of security measures.
.CORP Files Virus – Encryption Process
Since the .CORP files virus has been identified to be an iteration of Paradise ransomware it is likely to follow the same encryption pattern as its predecessors. Therefore, your files could have been encrypted with the help of the RSA cipher algorithm. It is a really sophisticated algorithm that transforms parts of the original code of target files and leaves them corrupted. That’s why you cannot open files marked with the extension .CORP.
As of the files that are likely to be corrupted by .CORP files virus they could be all of the following:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
To mark corrupted files, this Paradise ransomware version uses the following pattern:
- _%ID%_{alexbanan@tuta.io}.CORP
For example if you have an image file named trip.jpg it will be renamed to trip.jpg_%ID%_{alexbanan@tuta.io}.CORP
Yet other two iterations detected to belong to the same ransomware family could be recognized by the specific extensions [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/vacv2-files-virus-paradise-remove/”].VACv2 and [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-paradise-ransomware-restore-paradise-files/”].paradise.
Remove .CORP Files Virus and Restore Data
The ransomware associated with .CORP extension is a threat with highly complex code that plagues not only your files but your whole system. So you should properly clean and secure your infected system before you could regularly use it again. Below you could find a step-by-step removal guide that may be helpful in attempting to remove this ransomware. Choose the manual removal approach if you have previous experience with malware files. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps select the automatic section from the guide. Steps there enable you to check the infected system for ransomware files and remove them with a few mouse clicks.
In order to keep your system safe from ransomware and other types of malware in the future, you should consider the installation of a reliable anti-malware program with active protection module. An additional security layer that could help you prevent the occurrence of ransomware attacks is an [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/the-most-popular-free-anti-ransomware-tools/”]anti-ransomware tool.
If you want to understand how to potentially fix encrypted files with the help of alternative data recovery approaches, make sure to read carefully all details mentioned in the step “Restore files”. We remind you that before the beginning of data recovery process, you need to back up all encrypted files to an external drive and prevent their irreversible loss by doing this.
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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Step 1: Scan for .CORP Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .CORP 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 .CORP 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 .CORP 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 .CORP Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .CORP 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 .CORP 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.
.CORP Files Virus-FAQ
What is .CORP Files Virus Ransomware?
.CORP 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.
What Does .CORP Files 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 .CORP Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..CORP 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.
Another way you may become a victim of .CORP 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 ..CORP Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..CORP Files 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 ..CORP Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..CORP Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..CORP 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 .CORP 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 .CORP Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..CORP Files 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 .CORP 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.
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 .CORP Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .CORP 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 .CORP 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.
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