New file encryption malware named Dr.Jimbo has been spotted to encode user data adding the .encrypted file extension to the encoded files. The ransomware uses a sophisticated encryption algorithm which changes the hex code of the files, making them inaccessible. It is not likely that Dr. Jimbo ransomware will spread on a massive scale in the future. But in case you have been infected with this ransom virus, we strongly advise you to read this article to learn how to remove this virus and try restoring your files without having to pay 2 BTC, which is demanded by the cyber-criminals of Dr.Jimbo.
Threat Summary
Name | Dr.Jimbo |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with an immensely strong cipher and asks a ransom payment for decryption. |
Symptoms | Files are enciphered and become inaccessible. A text file with ransom instructions is added. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join our forum to discuss Jimbo 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. |
Dr.Jimbo – How Does It Infect Users
To confirm a successful infection, Dr.Jimbo Ransomware has to successfully connect to the malicious server of the cyber-criminals. To do this, it may use a malicious executable dropped by a Trojan.Downloader, which can be masked as an:
- E-mail attachment.
- Fake setups of programs.
- Fake game cracks or key generators.
In addition to that other types of attacks may be used, in correlation with malicious URLs being posted online or in spam messages:
- Exploit kit attacks.
- JavaScript attacks.
Dr.Jimbo – More About The Ransomware
After it slips past the defenses of the victim PC, most likely via using obfuscators, Dr.Jimbo may create malicious files in some of the following Windows folders:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Desktop%
- %Temp%
- %User’s Profile%
After creating the malicious files, Dr.Jimbo ransomware might as well create registry entries in order to make one or more files run every time Windows has started and change the wallpaper of the infected computer to one with a ransom note. Here are some of the probably targeted registry keys by Dr.Jimbo:
→ 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
The encryption process used by Dr.Jimbo may be taken from other ransomware viruses. As soon as it is activated the ransomware may start scanning the computer for different file types of commonly used files, for example:
Encrypted files are no longer accessible and the file extension .encrypted is added to them. This very file extension has been reported to be seen with other ransomware viruses, like Crypren and Apocalypse viruses.
The encrypted files with such extension added to them may look like the following example:
The encryption cipher(algorithm) used to encrypt those files may be one of the following:
- RSA
- AES
- XOR
After encryption, the ransomware drops the following file so that the user can see it:
The file states the following ransom message:
All your data was Encrypted!
If you wanna get it back contact via email:
Dr.jimbo@bk.ru
WARNING: If you don’t contact next 48 hours, then all DATA will be damaged unrecoverably!! !
The domain of the malicious e-mail address strongly suggests that there may be Romanian involvement in the development or the usage of this virus to make a profit at the user’s expense. However, it may be a trick by the cyber-criminals to simply mask their real identity.
The demanded payoff amount by Dr.Jimbo ransomware is reported to be in the range of 2 to 3 BitCoins – a hefty sum.
Also, even though it is not confirmed, Dr.Jimbo ransomware may delete backups and file history from your computer, using the vssadmin command with one of its following parameters:
Specifies the volume for which the shadow copy is to be deleted.
/oldest – Deletes the first shadow records.
/all – Eradicates all copies of a volume, for example, C:
/shadow={ID} – Removes shadow copy by identification.
/quiet – A mode allowing it to run unnoticed.
Source: technet.microsoft.com
Remove Dr.Jimbo Ransomware and Try to Restore Encrypted Files
To delete Dr.Jimbo Ransomware, we suggest you follow the step by step instructions which we have provided for you after this article. Since the ransomware may create different files and various malicious registry entries, experts advise eradicating it automatically with an advanced anti-malware program for maximum effectiveness.
To try and restore your files, direct decryption will not work. You can, however, try some of the methods we have prepared in step “3.Restore Files Encrypted by Dr.Jimbo” below. They are not 100 percent effective but if you are lucky, haven’t reinstalled Windows or have backups, you may restore some of your files.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Dr.Jimbo with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Dr.Jimbo.
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 Dr.Jimbo 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.
Dr.Jimbo-FAQ
What is Dr.Jimbo Ransomware?
Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo Infect?
Via several ways.Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 .Dr.Jimbo files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Dr.Jimbo 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 .Dr.Jimbo files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Dr.Jimbo" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Dr.Jimbo 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 Dr.Jimbo 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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