This article is made to explain to you what is the [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS files ransomware virus and how you can remove this variant of Gefest ransomware from your computer and how you can try and restore .GFS encrypted files.
A ransomware virus, using the .GFS extension was recently detected to cause a heap of trouble for users. The malware may or may not be a version, deriving from the [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/gefest-scarab-ransomware-remove/”]Scarab Gefest family of viruses. This is a virus that enters your computer silently and then performs number of malicious activities that result in you no longer being able to open your files because they are encrypted. The encrypted files have overwritten data in them, preventing them from being used and we are talking about the most commonly used file types on the infected computer. After encryption, a ransom note is dropped, called “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.txt” and it has instructions for victims how they can pay ransom to buy off the access to their files again – something which is NOT recommended. If your computer has been infected by the [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS files ransomware, read this article to learn how to remove this ransomware safely and how to try other methods to restore your files, that do not involve paying criminal hackers.
Threat Summary
| Name | [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | Possibly a variant of Gefest Ransomware. Encrypts files and asks victims of infected computers to pay ransom in cryptocurrecnies to get the files to be decoded and work again. |
| Symptoms | Infects the computer and then adds the [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS file extension. The ransomware also adds the “HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.txt” ransom note, containing the extortionist message. |
| 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus. |
| 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. |
[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS Files Ransomware – How Did I Get It
The most likely method via which your computer may have caught the [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS Files Virus could be if you opened a malicious e-mail attachment. Usually e-mails account for over 80% of ransomware infection and the GEFEST virus being of this type, it may be spread via this method. What the crooks do is they send you an e-mail, containing the infection file off GEFEST ransomware and this file could be pretending to be:
- An invoice.
- Purchase receipt.
- Report for a revoked plane ticket or an online purchase.
- Document from a bank, concerning a loan or something similar.
- Document stating you broke the law.
Another likely scenario via which viruses, like GEFEST ransomware could be spread is for the crooks to upload the infection file on multiple third-party sites and wait for the victim to download the virus and open it. Usually these sites are low-reputation websites or compromised WordPress sites, where the malware may reside, pretending to be:
- A software setup.
- Portable program./span>
- Activator for a license.
- Crack.
- Key generator.
[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS Files Ransomware – Activity
Once your computer becomes a victims with [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS file ransomware, the virus’s files may be dropped in the following directories:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
The [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS ransomware may also drop its ransom note file on the infected computers. It has the following contents:
“HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.txt” ransom note’s content:
GEFEST RANSOMWARE
Your files has been encrypted using RSA2048 algorithm with unique public-key stored on your PC.
There is only one way to get your files back: contact with us, pay, and get decryptor software.
We accept Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies, you can find exchangers on bestbitcoinexchange.io
You have unique idkey , write it in letter when contact with us.
Also you can decrypt 1 file for test, its guarantee what we can decrypt your files.
Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Contact information:
primary email: mrpeterson@cock.li
reserve email: debora2019@airmail.cc
Your unique idkey:
Besides te ransom note, victims can also miss out multiple hidden activiites that may be done by the [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS virus, such as:
- Execute commands in Windows Command Prompt.
- Obtain your location and IP address.
- Perform privilege escalation.
- Obtain administrator permissions.
- Create mutexes.
Furthermore, the GEFEST Ransomware virus may also tamper with the Run an RunOnce registry sub-keys, where value strings with data may be created in order to run the virus file each time you start Windows. The sub-keys have the following locations:
→ 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
The [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS may also delete the shadow copies on the computers that have been infected by it by executing the following commands as an administrator on victimized machines:
→ sc stop VVS
sc stop wscsvc
sc stop WinDefend
sc stop wuauserv
sc stop BITS
sc stop ERSvc
sc stop WerSvc
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} recoveryenabled No
cmd.exe /C bcdedit /set {default} bootstatuspolicy ignoreallfailures
C:\Windows\System32\cmd.exe” /C vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet
[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS Ransomware – Encryption
The files that could become encrypted as a result of an infection with [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS ransomware could end up to be from the following file types:
→ “PNG .PSD .PSPIMAGE .TGA .THM .TIF .TIFF .YUV .AI .EPS .PS .SVG .INDD .PCT .PDF .XLR .XLS .XLSX .ACCDB .DB .DBF .MDB .PDB .SQL .APK .APP .BAT .CGI .COM .EXE .GADGET .JAR .PIF .WSF .DEM .GAM .NES .ROM .SAV CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .GPX .KML .KMZ .ASP .ASPX .CER .CFM .CSR .CSS .HTM .HTML .JS .JSP .PHP .RSS .XHTML. DOC .DOCX .LOG .MSG .ODT .PAGES .RTF .TEX .TXT .WPD .WPS .CSV .DAT .GED .KEY .KEYCHAIN .PPS .PPT .PPTX ..INI .PRF Encoded Files .HQX .MIM .UUE .7Z .CBR .DEB .GZ .PKG .RAR .RPM .SITX .TAR.GZ .ZIP .ZIPX .BIN .CUE .DMG .ISO .MDF .TOAST .VCD SDF .TAR .TAX2014 .TAX2015 .VCF .XML Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .3G2 .3GP .ASF .AVI .FLV .M4V .MOV .MP4 .MPG .RM .SRT .SWF .VOB .WMV 3D .3DM .3DS .MAX .OBJ R.BMP .DDS .GIF .JPG ..CRX .PLUGIN .FNT .FON .OTF .TTF .CAB .CPL .CUR .DESKTHEMEPACK .DLL .DMP .DRV .ICNS .ICO .LNK .SYS .CFG”
After GEFEST ransomware encrypts those files, the virus may generate a uniuqe RSA decryption key for each file, which makes decrption much more difficult than normal. The ransomware may then leave the files looking like the following:
Remove GEFEST Ransomware and Try Restoring .GFS Files
If you want to get rid of the Gefest ransomware virus, we strongly advise you to do a backup of your files first, even though they cannot be opened. This is done to make sure that your files do not get permanently damaged during the removal process. The safest process is to create a system image of Windows, instructions for which can be found on the following URL. This avoids damage to your files by CBC(cipher block chaining) and other mechanisms ransomware viruses, like GEFEST may use to permanently damage your files if you tamper with them or try to change their extension.
To remove GEFEST Ransomware, you are welcome to try the manual removal steps underneath this article. Their main idea is to help you manually find and delete the files of GEFEST ransomware from your computer. If manual removal does not work or you want a fast and effective solution, then we recommend that you follow the automatic removal steps under step 1 and 2 below. They include scanning your computer with an advanced anti-malware software, the main idea of which is to scan your computer easily and detect and remove any virus files, belonging to GEFEST ransomware automatically from it. Installing such software also minimises the risk of your computer becoming a ransomware victim in the future too.
If you want to try and recover your files, you can see the “Try to restore” step underneath. It contains a lot of file recovery methods that can assist you in getting at least some of your data back. Be advised that the methods may not be 100% effective, but they are a good temporary solution, at least until researchers release a working decryption tool, which will be added in this article as an update when released. Keep following this post for further updates on the situation.
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.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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.
[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus-FAQ
What is [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus Ransomware?
[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus Infect?
Via several ways.[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 .[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 .[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .[mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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 [mrpeterson@cock.li].GFS GEFEST 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.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.
estou com esta encriptação em meus arquivos… so q nao sabia ainda do que se tratava formatei meu pc… e agora nao tem nenhuma chave de decriptação…. e perdi as artes da gráfica q trabalho… o.O
SLT JE VEUX UNE SOLUTION POUR MES FICHIER CRYPTER BLOWER ET MERCI