This article will help you remove Dragnea ransomware efficiently. Follow the ransomware removal instructions provided at the end of the article.
Dragnea is a virus that claims to encrypt your files and demands money as a ransom to supposedly get those files restored. The Dragnea ransomware will not actually encrypt your files. In addition, it uses the GUI of Jigsaw ransomware, although malware researchers have deducted that it belongs to the “Stupid” ransomware family. Continue to read the article and see how you could try to potentially recover restore your computer back to normal.
Threat Summary
| Name | Dragnea |
| Type | Ransomware, Virus |
| Short Description | The ransomware could lock your computer screen and displays a ransom note message. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware claims that has encrypted your files and displays a screen with instructions on how to pay the cybercriminals to restore everything back to normal. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Dragnea. |
| 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. |
Dragnea Ransomware – Distribution Techniques
Dragnea ransomware might spread its infection in various techniques. A payload dropper which initiates the malicious script for this ransomware is being spread around the World Wide Web, and researchers have gotten their hands on a malware sample. If that file lands on your computer system and you somehow execute it – your computer system will become infected.
You can see the detections of such a file on the VirusTotal service right down here:
Dragnea ransomware might also distribute its payload file on social media and file-sharing services. Freeware which is found on the Web can be presented as helpful also be hiding the malicious script for the cryptovirus. Refrain from opening files right after you have downloaded them. You should first scan them with a security tool, while also checking their size and signatures for anything that seems out of the ordinary. You should read the tips for preventing ransomware found in the forum section.
Dragnea Ransomware – In-Depth Description
Dragnea is a virus that supposedly encrypts your files and shows a window with instructions on the screen of your computer system. The extortionists want you to pay a ransom for the alleged restoration of your files and restoration of your computer system back to normal.
Dragnea ransomware makes entries in the Windows Registry to achieve persistence, and could launch or repress processes in a Windows environment (such as locking your computer screen). Such entries are typically designed in a way to launch the virus automatically with each start of the Windows operating system.
After the “encryption” process of the Dragnea virus completes, a ransom message will be displayed on your computer screen. You can see its contents from the following screenshot given right down here:
As you can see Dragnea uses the GUI of Jigsaw ransomware, although malware researchers have deducted that it belongs to the “Stupid” ransomware family.
The ransom note is in the Romanian language and states the following:
Permite-mi sa-ti explic ce se intampla:
Fisierele tale personaîe vor fi distruse. Documente, poze, video-uri etc..
Si stai linistit, nu ai cum sa opresti asta.
De ce? Pentru ca asa vrea mustata mea. Nu am BTC wallet si nici nu-mi fac, ca nu stiu cumAsa ca, odihneasca-se-n pace!
Acum sa aste-tam impreunaTrimite cel putin 1989 mineri partidului aici.
Introdu cheia de decriptare aici:
Am platit, acum da-mi fisierele.
A machine translation in English would look like this:
Allow me to explain to you what is happening:
Your personal files will be destroyed. Documents, pictures, videos, etc.
And you stay calm, you can not stop it.
Why? Because that’s what my mustache wants. I do not have a BTC wallet and I do not, I do not know howSo, rest in peace!
Now to go together togetherSend at least 1989 miners to the party here.
Enter the decryption key here:
[ I paid, now give me the files. ]
The note of the Dragnea ransomware states that your files are encrypted. You are demanded to pay a ransom of 100 US dollars. However, you should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom. Your files may not get recovered, and nobody could give you a guarantee for that. Moreover, giving money to cybercriminals will most likely motivate them to create more ransomware viruses or commit different criminal acts.
An error message will pop-up if you do not pay the ransomware and click on the button at the bottom of the screen as seen in the image here:
The error message states the following:
Error
Nu mor caii cand vor cainii.
Translated into English, it means:
Error
Horses do not die when the dogs want.
That Romanian saying means, in this case, that even if you wish that you got your files restored, you are not the one to decide that. In other words, the ransomware authors want you to pay the ransom and hint that only they can unlock your files. That is funny as for the moment the ransomware does not actually lock your files.
Dragnea Ransomware – Encryption Process
The encryption process of the Dragnea ransomware is not known to work at the time of writing of this article. That might change in the future, as the ransomware might be in a developmental phase and implement the encryption feature at a later point in time.
However, if the setting in the ransomware is restored and the ransomware begins to encrypt files, malware researchers have found out that the malware is designed to place the .dragnea file extension to all locked files. Hence, the name of this ransomware virus – ”Dragnea”.
It is currently unknown if any version of this ransomware actually encrypts files. The encryption feature might be implemented in the future, especially if the malware is still under development. Currently there is no information regarding which types of files might get encrypted if such a feature was present in the malicious application. If information about the file extensions which might get encrypted in the future is found, this article will get duly updated.
The files which are used the most by users that would probably get encrypted will probably be from the following categories:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
The Dragnea Ransomware threat can still lock your screen and demand a ransom as payment.
The Dragnea cryptovirus could be set to erase all the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with the help of the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If the above-stated command is executed that will make it harder to restore your computer back to its state before becoming infected with the threat. In the future that would also help make the encryption process more viable. That is due to the fact that the command eliminates one of the prominent ways to restore your data as well. If your computer system was infected with this ransomware and you wish to find out how you could potentially restore your system back to normal, continue reading below.
Remove Dragnea Ransomware and Restore Data
If your computer got infected with the Dragnea 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.
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Tsetso Mihailov is a tech-geek and loves everything that is tech-related, while observing the latest news surrounding technologies. He has worked in IT before, as a system administrator and a computer repair technician. Dealing with malware since his teens, he is determined to spread word about the latest threats revolving around computer security.
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Step 1: Scan for Dragnea with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Dragnea 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 Dragnea 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 Dragnea 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 Dragnea
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Dragnea.
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 Dragnea 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.
Dragnea-FAQ
What is Dragnea Ransomware?
Dragnea 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.
Can Dragnea Ransomware Cayse Damage?
Yes, ransomware can damage your computer. Ransomware is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
Should I Ignore Viruses, Like Dragnea?
No, you should never ignore ransomware. It can encrypt your data and block access to your computer, making it impossible to access your files until you pay a ransom.
Ignoring ransomware could lead to the permanent loss of your data, as well as the potential for the ransomware to spread to other computers on your network. Additionally, paying the ransom does not guarantee that your data will be recovered.
How Does Dragnea Infect?
Via several ways.Dragnea 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.
After you download and execute this attachment, a drive-by download occurs and your computer is infected with the ransomware virus.
Another way you may become a victim of Dragnea 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 .Dragnea files?
You can't. At this point, the .Dragnea files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryptionkey 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 .Dragnea files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Dragnea" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Dragnea 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 Dragnea 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 Dragnea ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Dragnea files.
Also, keep in mind that viruses like Dragnea ransomware also install Trojans and keyloggers that can steal your passwords and accounts.
What to Do If I Cant Get The Files Back?
There is still a lot you can do. If none of the above methods seem to work for you, then try these methods:
- Try to find a safe computer from where you can can login on your own line accounts like One Drive, iDrive, Google Drive and so on.
- Try to contact your friends, relatives and other people so that they can check if they have some of your important photos or documents just in case you sent them.
- Also, check if some of the files that were encrypted can be re-downloaded from the web.
- Another clever way is to find another old computer, a flash drive or even a CD or a DVD where you may have saved your older documents. You might be surprised what will turn up.
- You can also go to your email account to check if you can send any attachments to other people. Usually what is sent the email is saved on your account and you can re-download it. But most importantly, make sure that this is done from a safe computer and make sure to remove the virus first.
More tips you can find on our forums, where you can also asks any questions about your ransomware problem.
How to 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 Dragnea 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.
Why Is the Ransom Paid in Crypto?
Cryptocurrency is a secure and untraceable form of payment, making it the ideal choice for ransom payments. It is difficult to trace, and the transactions are almost instantaneous. This means it is nearly impossible for authorities to track the payment and recover the money.
Can 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 Dragnea Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Dragnea 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 Dragnea 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.