This article has been created to demonstrate how to remove the newly emerged FileRipper ransomware and how to restore AES encrypted files with .rip extension.
The ransomware menace is gaining more and more popularity as newer and newer ransomware versions come out on a daily basis. Such virus is the FILE RIPPER ransomware infection. It aims to encrypt your files using the AES encryption and then asks you to contact the cyber-criminal to decrypt the files. The demands are stated in a ransom note file, named #HOW_TO_UNRIP#.txt. If you are among the victims off this virus, you should read this article.
Threat Summary
| Name | FILE RIPPER |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Encrypts the files using AES cipher and then demands to contact the attackers for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Files are encrypted with an added .rip file extension and a ransom note accompanying the lock-screen above are dropped. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss FILE RIPPER. |
| 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. |
How Does FILE RIPPER Infect?
The infection process of FILE RIPPER ransomware is conducted via several different types of methods, the main of which is via spam e-mails that carry malicious e-mail attachments. One of the attachments used to infect with FILE RIPPER ransomware is a fake invoice with name, such as the following – Invoice_22104.pdf.exe. The file pretends to be a .PDF document but in fact it is an executable type of file that is a loader, in other words, drops the malicious files of FILE RIPPER on your computer.
FILE RIPPER Ransomware – Analysis
When FILE RIPPER infects your computer, it becomes immediately evident. The ransomware first, drops it’s payload files via the fake .PDF loader. They are several files plus a newly created folder:
- file_ripper.exe
- file_unripper.exe
- HTTest
Among the activity of FILE RIPPER on the infected computer computer, is that the virus may display the following error message:
“Missing Dependency
The dependency PDFProcessor has not been found. It will now be downloaded and installed.
{OK}”
After this the virus adds a lockscreen on the victim’s computer which has a deadline timer of around 3 days left to contact the cyber-criminals. The ransom note has the following message:
YOUR FILES ARE KILLED
All your photos. videos. music, documents and other important files have been encrypted by the FILE RIPPER Ransomware!
You can find your unique ID in #HOW_TO_UNRIP#.txt files.
Ifyou are seeing this message it means this ransomware was not blocked byyour AV
This is just an educational project and might get publiced on ThePCSecurityChannel Forum for some testing.
If you got this example from TPSC feel free to inform me about what AV you used etc.
Ifyou got this ransomware from somewhere else. contact Danny @ forumthepesecuritychannelcom to get the decryption key for
free.
Ifyou want the decryption key(becauseyou for example ran it on your host PC which is not recommended) just contact me!
Give Me My Files Back!
In addition to this, FILE RIPPER may also create multiple other support files on the victim’s computer and also establish connection to the host superluckyblock(dot)16mb(dot)com.
After this has been completed, the virus may begin to interfere with the Shadow Volume Service and delete the shadow copies from the infected computer.
Another activity the FILE RIPPER ransomware may be involved with is to run automatically when your computer starts. One way to check this is to go to the Run and RunOnce keys and see if there are registry strings that are created with the location of the malicious files reported above.
FILE RIPPER Ransomware – Encryption Process
The encryption of this virus is comprised by mechanisms that aim for one thing only – to cripple your files so that you will no longer be able to open them. But FILE RIPPER does not just target any type of file. The virus is very careful to skip crucial Windows files, which are essential. Instead it looks for specific file types, like documents, images, music, videos, archives and other important files.
For the encryption process, FILE RIPPER uses the Advanced Encryption Algorithm, also known as AES cipher. It aims to replace blocks of data from the original files with data from the cipher. This makes the files not able to be opened by any type of software. In addition to this, the .rip file extension is added as a suffix to the files, making them look like the following:
Remove FILE RIPPER and Restore .rip Files
Before beginning the removal process of FILE RIPPER ransomware, we recommend you to focus on backing up your essential files, despite the fact that they might still be encrypted.
Then, you can proceed removing FILE RIPPER, preferably by following the removal instructions underneath. However, since FILE RIPPER is from the ransomware kind, it may situate different objects that may present a difficulty for you to remove manually and this may be risky for your OS. This is the primary reason why experts advise to use an automatic ransomware-oriented removal tool which aims to make sure that all of the objects related to FILE RIPPER are automatically deleted.
If you have removed this file encryption virus, you can try and restore your files using the alternative steps below in “2. Restore files encrypted by FILE RIPPER.” The steps themselves have been designed to help you restore as many files as possible. In the meantime, we also advise you to check this blog post as we will update it as soon as there is a decryption tool available for the FILE RIPPER threat.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for FILE RIPPER with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by FILE RIPPER.
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 FILE RIPPER 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.
FILE RIPPER-FAQ
What is FILE RIPPER Ransomware?
FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER Infect?
Via several ways.FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 .FILE RIPPER files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .FILE RIPPER 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 .FILE RIPPER files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".FILE RIPPER" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this FILE RIPPER 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 FILE RIPPER 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.