Exx Ransomware Virus
Exx is the name given to another cryptovirus. Exx has just joined the ransomware landscape. It is a malicious program that damages major system security settings and leaves the PC extremely vulnerable to additional malware attacks. The corruption of the system security has one more goal and it is the encryption of valuable data.
This ransomware encrypts personal data by using the RSA-2048 cipher. Then it extorts money from its victims. For this purpose, the threat drops three files that contain three ransom messages. One of these files replaces the desktop wallpaper and activates a timer. The fact that all the files that have the extension .exx are completely inaccessible is terrible but still, a ransom payment is not the best option.
We strongly advise all victims of Exx ransomware to refrain from communicating with cyber crooks. These people should not be trusted. They can only take advantage of your unpleasant situation and make it even worse by stealing your money and not providing a decryption solution.
Exx Ransomware Summary
| Name | Exx also known as Trojan.Ransom.AJM, Trojan.Ransom.AJM (B), TROJ_CRYPTESLA.SM3 |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Malicious Extension | .exx |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt personal files stored on the infected computer. It demands a ransom for a decryption solution. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with the .exx extension. Corrupted files remain unusable until their code is reverted back to original state. |
| Ransom Messages | HELP_RESTORE_FILES.bmp HELP_RESTORE_FILES.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Websites, Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
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Exx Ransomware (.exx Files) – Overview
Ransomware threats like Exx obtain access to computer operating systems via shady techniques. The malicious file that triggers the Exx virus attack may be presented as an important document. The document may be attached to a deceptive email that pretends to be sent by a representative of a well-known company. The malicious payload may also be hosted on bogus sites that state it to be some kind of useful application.
Since the Internet is full of malicious programs we all should be very selective about the sites we visit, the ads we click, and the files we download. When we follow some of the basic security measures like having an active anti-malware tool, it is less likely that we will fall victims to nasty hacking attempts.
Regarding the nasty Exx ransomware, it is a cryptovirus that seriously damages your PC and corrupts personal files by appending the .exx file extension.
Files corrupted by Exx ransomware could not be used in any way. They are still available on your machine but you can not open them. The program that could restore them is a decryption tool possessed by hackers.
Knowing the facts, hackers force victims to transfer a ransom fee. The extortion happens via three ransom messages dropped by the virus. One of the messages replaces the desktop wallpaper and starts a timer that counts the hours left before hackers will erase the decryption key for your .exx files. This ransomware wallpaper informs the following:
All your important files have been encrypted!
Your personal files(including those on the network disks, USB, etc) have been encrypted:
photos, videos, documents, etc. Click “Show files” Button to view a complete list of encrypted files,
and you can personally verify this.Encryption was made using a unique strongest RSA-2048 public key generated for this computer.
To decrypt files you need to acquire the private key.
The only copy of the private key, which will allow you to decrypt your files,is located on a secret TOR
server in the Internet; the server will eliminate the key after a time period specified in this window.
Once this has been done, nobody will ever be able to restore your files…
In order to decrypt files press button to open your personal page and follow the instruction.
[File decryption button] in case of “File decryption button” malfunction use one of public gates:
hxxp://iq3ahijcfeont3xx.sm4i8smr3f43.com or
hxxps://iq3ahijcfeont3xx.tor2web.blutmagie.deUse you Bitcoin address to enter the site: 15Wgt4Fpgg6Mxai1BJ3yUJrznL9w79FJpm
[Click to copy Bitcoin address to clipboard] if both button and reserve gates not opening, please follow these steps:
You must install TOR browser www.torproject.org/projects/torbrowser.html.en
After installation,run the browser and ender address iq3ahijcfeont3xx.onion
Follow the instructions on the web-site. We remind you that the sooner you do so,
the more chances are left to recover the files.There is no other way to restore your files except of making the payment.
[Show files] [Enter Decrypt Key]
Any attempt to remove or corrupt this software will result in immediate
elimination of the private key by the server.
Other two messages are stored by the files HELP_RESTORE_FILES.bmp and HELP_RESTORE_FILES.txt. Their purpose is the same – to make you more prone to contact cyber criminals by visiting their website on the Tor network and learn how to transfer them a ransom fee for the decryption tool.
To avoid being tricked once again, we recommend that you refrain from following hackers’ instructions. There is no guarantee that they can send a working decryption tool that will restore .exx files. Instead, consider the completion of the removal steps below as they will help you to clean your system from malicious files and attempt to recover .exx files with alternative data recovery solutions.
Remove Exx Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Files
The so-called Exx Ransomware is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below should be completed. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for Exx Ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Exx Ransomware.
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 Exx Ransomware 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.
Exx Ransomware-FAQ
What is Exx Ransomware Ransomware?
Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 .Exx Ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Exx Ransomware 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 .Exx Ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Exx Ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Exx Ransomware 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 Exx Ransomware 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.
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