This article provides information about a ransomware dubbed H34rtBl33d as well as step-by-step removal and data recovery guide.
A new data locker ransomware called H34rtBl33d discovered to append the extension .d3g1d5 has been spotted in the wild. The name of each encrypted file is modified and has the specific extension at the end. After encryption, the threat drops a ransom note file that urges victims to follow hackers’ instructions and pay them a ransom of 0.1337 BTC. For the sake of your security, it is advisable to avoid negotiating with bad actors and deal with the problem by yourself. Below you will find more information about H34rtBl33d crypto virus as well as a detailed guide how to remove it from the infected PC. The good news is that some alternative data recovery methods may be used for encrypted files so you can prevent the ransom payment. Keep reading.
Threat Summary
| Name | H34rtBl33d |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | H34rtBl33d ransomware virus encrypts files on your PC and drops a ransom note that demands payment for the decryption of .d3g1d5y files. |
| Symptoms | This ransomware encrypts important files and then renames them with the extension .d3g1d5. The access to encrypted files is restricted. A ransom payment is demanded. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss H34rtBl33d. |
| 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. |
H34rtBl33d Ransomware – Distribution
Usually an infection with H34rtBl33d crypto virus happens after its payload is started on the system. There are several methods of its distribution. The most common one is via email spam messages that pose as legitimate companies, trustworthy websites, and governmental institutions. Such messages may provide malicious file attachments and links to compromised web pages. The text is likely to be written in a way to trick you into infecting yourself by downloading the attachment or visiting the malicious site.
As revealed by malware analysts H34rtBl33d payload is spread through P2P networks. LimeWire that uses the BitTorrent protocol is stated to be the main file-sharing software utilized for H34rtBl33d ransomware distribution. So be careful which websites you visit and choose wisely files that you download.
H34rtBl33d Ransomware – More About the Infection
The infection process begins once the malicious payload of H34rtBl33d is started on the system. The ransomware has complex code that enables it to compromise a vast number of system settings before it utilizes its encryption module. At first, the threat may obtain certain details about your system and send them to its command and control server. The information may help it to evade detection and remain on the infected host as long as possible.
It is unusual that H34rtBl33d ransomware crates copies of its files, archives them in a RAR file and then stores the data on the compromised machine.
In addition, H34rtBl33d may need to create further malicious files that may be located in some major Windows system folders like:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %LocalLow%
- %Roaming%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
Some of the files may be deleted immediately after the end of the infection while others may be set to execute automatically on each system start. This happens after H34rtBl33d ransomware accesses the Registry Editor and implement some modifications there. Commonly the targeted registry sub-keys are Run and RunOnce as they have the function to start automatically all files and objects that are essential for the Windows system. By adding some malicious values under these keys H34rtBl33d ransomware executes on each system start.
The same keys may be used when the ransomware needs to display its ransom note. This usually happens at the end of the attack. The message that H34rtBl33d drops on infected hosts urges victims to click an in-text link and enter a site created by the extortionists. Here is the message you may see on the screen of your infected PC:
Error! Your file could not be opened
Please Decrypt Your File Using H34rtBl33d Decrypter
–
Want Your Files Back? Click here
Find out here about H34rtBl33d Decrypter and how to return it click here
–
cheaper than wannacry!
H34rtBl33d very good ransomware in the world
–
Ransomware With Cheapest Ransom!
FACT! Ransomware that has infected your computer turned out RANSOMWARE WITH THE LOWEST CHOICE. Want your file back? Click here
The next step lands you on the suspicious website scorpionlocker.xyz. The main web page provides additional instructions about the amount of the demanded ransom and its payment. Below you can see a picture of the website as well as the entire text message:
If You Need Your Data Back You Need To
Pay Us 0.1337 Bitcoins Hehehe
Contact: torbox3uiot6wchz.onion create a account here and email us blackpanda007@torbox3uiot6wchz.onion
Your Data Is Safe When You Pay Us We Will Give You Key And You Can Unencrpyt Your Data
////////////////////////////// All Hope Is Gone \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
//////////////////////////////// [ Login ] \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
The initial analyses of its samples reveal that it has a crappy code. Hopefully, security specialists will soon crack H34rtBl33d’s code and release a free decryption tool. So don’t hurry to pay the demanded ransom.
H34rtBl33d Ransomware – Data Encryption
The primary aim of H34rtBl33d ransomware is to encrypt target files that store valuable data so it can then demand a ransom payment for their decryption. In case of infection with this crypto virus, it corrupts all your documents, images, music, videos, databases, archives, text files, projects, etc. in a way that they become completely unusable. Encrypted files can be recognized by their modified names that have the specific extension .d3g1d5 appended at the end.
It is known that hackers demand a ransom of 0.1337 BTC which at this point equals to 946.99 USD. By choosing to pay them the ransom, you will only support their nasty activities and encourages them to keep spreading such devastating threats while your files may remain locked. There is no guarantee that they will send you a working solution. Learn how to restore .d3g1d5 files with the help of alternative data recovery solutions and avoid ransom payment.
Remove H34rtBl33d Ransomware and Restore Files
The step-by-step removal guide below provides both manual and automatic approaches. Beware that the removal of H34rtBl33d crypto virus is not an easy task. It is a severe threat that plagues the whole system. Security researchers recommend the help of advanced anti-malware tool for maximum efficiency.
After you fulfill the removal process make sure to check the “Restore Files” step available in our guide below. But before that be advised to back up all encrypted files to an external drive and prevent their irreversible loss.
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 H34rtBl33d with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by H34rtBl33d.
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 H34rtBl33d 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.
H34rtBl33d-FAQ
What is H34rtBl33d Ransomware?
H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d Infect?
Via several ways.H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 .H34rtBl33d files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .H34rtBl33d 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 .H34rtBl33d files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".H34rtBl33d" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this H34rtBl33d 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 H34rtBl33d 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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