Eye Virus (Dharma Ransomware)
Eye virus – what is it? This cryptovirus is a strain of the nasty Dharma ransomware. It encrypts valuable files and demands a ransom payment. The threat is designed to lock files with the help of a strong cipher algorithm which prevents victims from using them. All encrypted files receive three extensions as a result of the encryption. The first extension is the ID number generated for the infected machine, the second one is an email address and the third is the specific .eye. The end of the attack is marked by the appearance of a ransom note which instructs victims how they can allegedly recover .eye files. Eye virus uses the email address eye@onionmail.org to force victims to contact cyber criminals. However, we recommend against such an action.
Eye Virus Summary
Name | Eye Virus |
File Extensions | .id-K865D975.[eye@onionmail.org].eye |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Ransom Notes | A pop-up window, FILES ENCRYPTED.txt |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files stored on computer drives and demands a ransom for ther recovery. |
Symptoms | Your files are encrypted by Eye ransomware. They appear with the .eye extension in their names. Two different ransom messages try to force you to contact hackers to transfer them money for a decryption tool. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Torrent Files |
Detection Tool |
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.eye Virus Files
The .eye virus files or just Eye ransomware might spread its infection payload by using several misleading techniques. Similar to previous strains (Coms, Blm, Fresh) infection files may be featured in free software installers, added to spam emails, or presented as torrent files. The Eye virus might also distribute its payload file on social media and file-sharing services.
The Eye virus is a malicious program defined as ransomware. It is programmed to encrypt valuable files and show a ransom note to extort money. The virus has been identified as a variant of the Dharma ransomware. It has been created with the purpose to generate revenue for cybercriminals.
So, once the Eye virus runs on a computer system, it passes through several attack stages, all of which help it to reach a data encryption phase. Every stage of the attack corrupts system settings which significantly disrupts the overall PC security.
What the ransomware does during the encryption stage is to activate a built-in cipher module. That module transforms the code of target files (images, documents, archives, video files, etc.) by using a complex cipher algorithm. As a result, corrupted files could no longer be used. They receive three specific extensions as part of their names.
For the decryption of .eye files, you need to use a special tool. And hackers request a ransom for this tool. Here is what the message on the pop-up window states:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail eye@onionmail.org
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails:1337@onionmail.org
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.
Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases,backups, large excel sheets, etc.)
How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
And the text document called FILES ENCRYPTED.txt states:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
Write email eye@onionmail.org or 1337@onionmail.org
You should NOT under any circumstances pay any ransom sum. If your computer was infected by Eye ransomware and your files are locked, read on through to find out how you could secure the infected device and how to potentially restore your files back to normal.
How to Remove Eye Virus
The Eye virus infection can be removed with the help of the removal steps beneath this post. They have been developed with the key purpose to aid you to remove this virus step-by-step from your computer. For maximum effectiveness, it’s recommended to get rid of Eye virus infection by using advanced malware elimination software. It will definitely guarantee that you have the ability to remove the virus files and other malicious objects automatically by scanning for them and erasing them.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Eye Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Eye Virus.
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 Eye Virus 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.
Eye Virus-FAQ
What is Eye Virus Ransomware?
Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 .Eye Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Eye Virus 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 .Eye Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Eye Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Eye Virus 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 Eye Virus 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.
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