This article has been created to help explain what is the .vanss variant of Dharma/CrySyS ransomware virus and how you can remove it plus how you can try and restore files, encrypted with the .vanss file extension.
With another week upon us, there has been another variant of Dharma ransomware released in the wild, this time using the .vanss file extension which is added to the encrypted files. The virus is from a ransomware type, which means that it encrypts the files on your computer, leaving them in a state which prevents you from opening them, until you pay ransom. This virus also includes two ransom notes being added. The notes, are FILES ENCRYPTED.txt and Info.hta and their main purpose is to give instructions how the victims can pay ransom to get their files back. If your PC has become a victim of this nasty virus, we recommend that you read this article.
Threat Summary
| Name | .vanss Dharma Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A variant of [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/remove-dharma-betta-ransomware/”] Dharma ransomware. Aims to encrypt the files on the victims’ comptuers, then extort them for ransom payment in BitCoin. |
| Symptoms | Info.hta and FILES ENCRYPTED.txt start to appear on your PC. The files are encrypted with the file extension – id-{random ID}.[Blacklist@cock.li].vanss |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .vanss Dharma 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. |
Dharma .vanss Ransomware – Distribution Methods
To be widespread and infect computers effectively, the ones who spread this variant of Dharma ransomware may use different devious tactics. One of them is to spread the virus via an infection file that is added as an extension on spammed e-mail messages. Such types of files usually pose to be legitimate documents, like an invoice, a receipt or a banking statement. The e-mails are often set up to imitate legitimate messages from big companies, like PayPal, eBay, Amazon, LinkedIn, DHL, FedEx and even banks, for example:
In addition to via e-mail, the malicious files may also be uploaded on hoax or compromised WordPress websites, in the form of different exectutables, like;
- Game or program patches or cracks.
- Key generators.
- License activators.
- Installers.
- Portable versions of programs.
In addition to this, the files that have been dropped may also be self-extracting archives or JavaScript files that may be uploaded in downloading scripts that are embedded on malicious URLs. This means that you may have become infected with Dharma ransomware by opening a web link that leads to automatic download and install of the infection file.
Dharma .vanss Ransomware – Analysis
The main malicious file of Dharma’s .vanss variant has been reported in VirusTotal to have the following technical specifications:
→ MD5:e86893b92eca6e8dfbcfb9bbc08ee973
SHA-1:acaf1392ea344a074cd4dd47faa6a7e1530747f
Type:Win32 EXE
Size:4.72 MB
Once dropped on the victimized machine, the Dharma .vanss virus begins to interact with the following system files in Windows:
→ KERNEL32.dll
USER32.dll
WTSAPI32.dll
The .vanss variant of Dharma uses those .dll Windows files to import the following functions:
• LocalFree
• GetProcessAffinityMask
• LocalAlloc
• GetModuleHandleA
• GetModuleFileNameW
• VirtualQuery
• FreeLibrary
• ExitProcess
• Sleep
• SetThreadAffinityMask
• SetProcessAffinityMask
• GetProcAddress
• LoadLibraryA
• GetProcessWindowStation
• GetUserObjectInformationW
• WTSSendMessageW
The Dharma ransomware then may interact with the following Windows files in System32:
→ C:\WINDOWS\system32\winime32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ws2_32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\ws2help.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\psapi.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\imm32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\lpk.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\usp10.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\comctl32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\shell32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\WinSxS\x86_Microsoft.Windows.Common-Controls_6595b64144ccf1df_6.0.2600.5512_x-ww_35d4ce83\comctl32.dll
C:\WINDOWS\WindowsShell.Manifest
C:\WINDOWS\system32\MSCTF.dll
C:\WINDOWS\system32\MSCTFIME.IME
In addition to this, Dharma ransomware also modifies multiple registry sub-keys in Windows:
→ \Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\996E.exe
\Registry\MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Option
\Registry\Machine\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Safer\CodeIdentifiers
\REGISTRY\MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Safer\CodeIdentifiers\TransparentEnabled
\REGISTRY\USER\S-1-5-21-1482476501-1645522239-1417001333-500\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Safer\CodeIdentifiers
\Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\ole32.dll
\Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\oleaut32.dll
\Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\version.dll
\Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\comctl32.dll
\Registry\Machine\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\SHELL32.dll
Among the activities of the .vanss Dharma ransomware is to also drop it’s ransom note, called Info.hta on the victim PC. The note looks like the following when opened:
Dharma .vanss Ransomware – Encryption Process
Similar to the previous versions of Dharma ransomware, this one does not cheat the tradition and adds various differnent functions that skip encrypting files in the key Windows directories, like:
- %System%
- %System32%
- %Windows%
- %ProgramData%
- %AppData%
This is done with the main purpose of leaving Windows active so that the victim can use the PC to pay ransom, which we highly advise against doing.
Dharma ransomware may then scan for the files it aims to encrypt by looking for them, based on their file extensions. The most targeted files naturally are the most commonly used ones, for example:
- Pictures.
- Videos.
- Audio files.
- Archives.
- Virtual Drives.
- Backups.
The virus then may use the AES encryption algorithm to encrypt your files. It may create encrypted copies of the files and delete the original ones or directly attack the files themselves. After the .vanss version of Dharma ransomware is done with your files, the malware generates an asymmetric decryption key, which is also encrypted so that only the crooks can use it to recover your files. The file name is also modified and has it’s file icon stripped down from it. Files, encrypted by .vanss Dharma ransomware look like the following:
Remove Dharma Ransomware and Try Restoring .vanss Files
Before beginning any removal process of this iteration of Dharma, we recommend that you do a backup of your files, just in case.
If you want to remove this virus, you can try doing so by following the removal instructions that are underneath this article. They have been made with the main goal of helping you delete the virus files and objects of Dharma ransomware either manually or automatically. If manual removal Is not something you feel confident in doing, then most security experts would advise you to run a scan of your PC, using an advanced anti-malware program. Such software will scan your computer to look for all malicious files and objects, that may be related to this virus and remove them from your computer, plus secure it against future infections.
If you want to restore files, you can try doing so b following the alternative methods for file recovery underneath. They are located in step “4. Try to Restore files encrypted by .vanss Dharma Virus”. They may not be a 100% guarantee that you will be able to restore all of your encrypted files, but with their aid, you may be able to recover some or most of your files, depending on the situation.
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 .vanss Dharma Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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.
.vanss Dharma Virus-FAQ
What is .vanss Dharma Virus Ransomware?
.vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma Virus Infect?
Via several ways..vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 ..vanss Dharma Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..vanss Dharma 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 ..vanss Dharma Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..vanss Dharma Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .vanss Dharma 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 .vanss Dharma 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.