Initially identified in July 2013, DirtyDecrypt Ransomware has been yet again revived. Researchers report that the crypto virus has spread on over 15 countries over the world with a high detection rate since its discovery. Also known as Revoyem, this ransomware chooses for its victims primarily PCs which are based in Europe and also in the United States of America. Despite this, we cannot guarantee that these cyber-attacks will not replicate to various other places as well. Given that ransomware attacks have “boom-ed” lately and the millions lost by users, it is strongly advisable to have relevant protection. In case you have been infected by DirtyDecrypt aka Revoyem, we strongly recommend reading the below-mentioned article to help you effectively deal with this threat and try to restore the files encoded by this virus.
Threat Summary
Name |
DirtyDecrypt |
Type | Ransomware Virus |
Short Description | DirtyDecrypt encrypts the victim’s files and asks for payment. |
Symptoms | DirtyDecrypt Ransomware locks the user’s PC and his files cannot be reached. |
Distribution Method | Via exploit kits and visiting adult content websites. |
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 DirtyDecrypt Ransomware. |
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. |
How Does DirtyDecrypt Replicate
To have a successful infection, DirtyDecrypt’s latest versions have been reported to take advantage of malicious .JS (JavaScript) files which have been uploaded on porn websites.
Another method of spreading the DirtyDecrypt is characterized by one common element – the usage of the Styx Exploit Kit. Such EK attacks may be common when massive spam e-mail campaigns are conducted. Lately, we have seen a tendency with old crypto viruses like DirtyDecrypt to conduct new spam campaigns and start re-infecting user PCs.
More Information About DirtyDecrypt (Revoyem) Ransomware
After research regarding this cyber-threat has been conducted by Symantec experts, they have established that computers which have been affected by DirtyDecrypt Ransomware have had the following OS’s installed on them:
- Windows 2000
- Windows NT
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
After DirtyDecrypt Ransomware has been activated via one way or another, it may create malicious files that have random names in several Windows directories:
C:\Users\{user profile}\AppData\Local\Temp\{random numbers and letters}.exe
C:\Users\{user profile}\AppData\Local\{random numbers and letters}.exe
Furthermore, DirtyDecrypt Ransomware starts blocking access to the computer by locking its screen and displaying an image to alert the user that his files are encoded. The image is named “DIRTY ALERT” and its message may look like the following:
This file can be decrypted using the program DirtyDecrypt.exe
Press CTRL+ALT+D to run DirtyDecrypt.exe
If DirtyDecrypt.exe is not opened сheck the paths:
C:\Program Files\Dirty\DirtyDecrypt.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\{user profile}\Local Settings\Application Data\Dirty\DirtyDecrypt.exe
C:\Program Files (x86)\Dirty\DirtyDecrypt.exe
C:\Users\{user profile}\AppData\Roaming\Dirty\DirtyDecrypt.exe
C:\Documents and Settings\{user profile}\Application Data\Dirty\DirtyDecrypt.exe”
The cyber-criminals behind DirtyDecrypt do not mess around, and they have even provided the locations of the decryptor in case the victim experiences further difficulties. The cyber-crooks may use untraceable online payment methods, such as Ukash, PaySafeCard, MoneyPak and others to conduct the payoff while being undetected.
If you have decided to pay the ransom asked by DirtyDecrypt’s cyber-crooks, do not. There are several obvious reasons for that:
- You help the cyber-criminals to further replicate DirtyDecrypt Ransomware.
- You may not get back the access to your files.
We would also like to provide a reminder that the most efficient way to secure yourself against file-encryption by DirtyDecrypt is to back them up frequently. For more information about how to protect yourself against DirtyDecrypt, you can check the related article below:
Related Article: Safely Store Your Important Files and Protect Them from Malware
Regarding the file-encryption process of DirtyDecrypt ransomware, it scans primarily for files with the following file extensions:
The encrypted files by DirtyDecrypt can no longer be opened because their code has been scrambled with an advanced encryption algorithm, which may contain one or more ciphers from the RSA, AES, XOR and other types.
DirtyDecrypt Ransomware – Remove It and Restore Encoded Files
To completely delete DirtyDecrypt(Revoyem) Ransomware virus, you should isolate the threat before removing it. To do this, we advise you to carefully follow the removal instructions below and boot your computer in Safe Mode. From there, you may want to go over and take a look at the Manual and Automatic options for removal below. In case DirtyDecrypt modifies various registry entries and creates additional files, experts strongly advise using an advanced anti-malware program to automatically remove the virus in safe mode without damaging your computer.
In case you want to restore files encoded by DirtyDecrypt Ransomware, we strongly suggest that you take advantage of the alternative solutions for file restoration which we have provided below. They are not 100 percent guarantee you will get your files back, but they are the best alternative solutions you can get to until a decryptor has been released for free in public. When such software is released, make sure to follow this article – we will update it with a download URL for the decryptor.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for DirtyDecrypt with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall DirtyDecrypt 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 DirtyDecrypt
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by DirtyDecrypt.
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 DirtyDecrypt 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.
DirtyDecrypt-FAQ
What is DirtyDecrypt Ransomware?
DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt Infect?
Via several ways.DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt 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 .DirtyDecrypt files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .DirtyDecrypt 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 .DirtyDecrypt files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".DirtyDecrypt" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this DirtyDecrypt 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 DirtyDecrypt 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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- Always check "About Us" web page.
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