DummyEncrypter is a ransomware virus. The malware that unwraps the virus is hidden in an executable file. That file pretends to be the installer of CCleaner, while using its icon, name and other details to make it believable and try to trick users and their AV software. After execution of the malicious script your files will become encrypted and a screen locker will pop up, containing the ransom payment instructions. To see how to remove the virus and how you can try to restore your encrypted files, read the article in full.
Threat Summary
| Name | DummyEncrypter |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The virus will encrypt your files and demand a ransom as payment for their decryption. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware cleverly pretends to be CCleaner, but if executed, you will get your files encrypted and see a ransom note presenting the DummyEncrypter’s demands. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executables |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss DummyEncrypter. |
| 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. |
DummyEncrypter Virus – Infection
The DummyEncrypter ransomware could enter your computer by using different tactics. The sneakiest one of them all is by putting its malicious payload file in an executable that looks like the one of CCleaner. The .exe file takes the icon of the cleaning tool, as well as some signatures and description names so that you could mistake it for the installation setup for the famous registry cleaner by Piriform. You can view the detection rate and the signatures of the payload executable on the VirusTotal site:
Other ways that the DummyEncrypter virus could be spreading its malicious payload may exist as well. One of them can be through spam emails. Spam mail usually has an attachment. That attachment hides a malicious script that will infect your computer system when executed. Social media and file-sharing websites could distribute such files, too. Try not to open files from suspicious sources like emails and links until you at least do a scan with a security program and check their size and signature first. You should read the ransomware prevention tips from the thread open in the forum section.
DummyEncrypter Virus – In Detail
DummyEncrypter is a ransomware virus that was recently found by the malware researcher Karsten Hahn from G Data. One interesting fact about the virus is that it pretends to be the cleaning tool CCleaner by Piriform. The virus makes its payload file to look exactly like the setup for the cleaning program, so it’s advised to download any software only from its official website.
In case you have opened the executable, you will see a Command Prompt window flash on your screen and then your files will become encrypted. Right after that, the ransom instructions will be displayed in a message. After the encryption process is set and done, the message will load on your desktop as a lock screen.
When the DummyEncrypter virus has executed its payload and infected your machine, it could also create multiple entries in the Windows Registry. That action is often performed by such ransomware viruses so that they can attain a higher level of persistence. Registry entries can make the malware launch automatically at every boot of the Windows operating system. Your data will then become encrypted, and you will witness the ransom note popping up on your desktop.
You can view the screen lock note from the below image:
The ransom message reads something along the lines of the following:
Warning: Your data has been encrypted!
Your personal data has been encrypted by a safe technology called AES-256 with US federal government trusted.
When you see this message, we has ENCRYPTED your data by a KEY generated randomly by your machine, and we uploaded this key to our server.
The only way to decrypt your file is use the KEY corresponding the YOUR FILE.
Once encrypt complete we destroyed keys on this machine and only keeps a feature of this machine.
The other parts of your computer is just safe now. Do not worry. We do not harm your computer. But some applications may lost data or texture and unable to start. Once you unencrypt you can use it normally again.
We has been encrypted your 0 files so far.
1) Copy these machine code on a piece of paper or file forever broken:
2) Access the software provider and follow the introductions.
1. Ask for your decrypt key
2. Use DummyUnlocker to restore.
I know, close this dialog | I can’t understand what you are saying
DummyEncrypter will not rush you as it does not give you a deadline for paying the ransom. However, it will try to trick you into thinking that the only way that you can restore your files is to pay for an unlocker tool. That is not true, and you should NOT in any way pay the cybercriminals – this will fund them to perform more criminal acts. Nobody can guarantee you that all of your files will become useable again upon payment. Furthermore, the criminals will probably keep improving their ransomware and could probably encrypt your files in the future.
The DummyEncrypter ransomware uses the AES 256-bit encryption algorithm or so it claims. File types which are encrypted are documents, photos, database files, etc.
The DummyEncrypter virus is very possible to delete the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with using the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
Read below about what ways you might try out to restore some of your files back to normal.
Remove DummyEncrypter and Restore Your Files
If your computer got infected with the DummyEncrypter ransomware virus, you should have some experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect more computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide given below. To see ways that you can try to recover your data, see the step titled 2. Restore files encrypted by DummyEncrypter.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for DummyEncrypter with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by DummyEncrypter.
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 DummyEncrypter 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.
DummyEncrypter-FAQ
What is DummyEncrypter Ransomware?
DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter Infect?
Via several ways.DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 .DummyEncrypter files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .DummyEncrypter 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 .DummyEncrypter files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".DummyEncrypter" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this DummyEncrypter 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 DummyEncrypter 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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