The .harma files virus is a threat with highly complex code that infects computer systems with the goal to corrupt some essential settings and then encrypt valuable personal files. Its name is a derivative of one of the extensions it appends to the name of each file it corrupts. The Harma ransomware is also associated with a ransom message that tries to convince victims into paying ransom fee for .harma files recovery.
If you are a victim of harma ransomware, you should consider the immediate removal of all malicious files from your infected system. Otherwise, it could spread its malicious files across the whole network and infect all devices connected to it.
In this article, you will find more information about .harma files virus as well as a step-by-step guide on how to remove malicious files from the infected system and how to potentially recover files encrypted by harma ransomware.
Threat Summary
| Name | .harma Files Virus |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware designed to plague computer system settings, utilize strong cihper algorithm and encrypt valuable files. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with a string of a few extensions. Ransom message insists on payment for a decryption program. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .harma Files 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. |
.harma Files Virus (Dharma) – Distribution and Impact
Dharma ransomware has been released in new attack campaigns one again. This time hackers set the ransomware to append the extension .harma to the names of all files it encrypts. That’s why the threat is called .harma files virus. Currently, samples of this threat are lurking around the web. Guesses are that the spread is realized mainly via malspam campaigns. Malspam enables hackers to deliver malicious code on users’ devices with the help of massive email campaigns. Spam emails which are part of attack campaigns usually contain one or more of the following components:
- A link to compromised web page that is set to download and execute infection files directly on the PC. The URL address to this page may be presented in the form of an in-text link, banner, image, button or full URL address.
- A malicious file attachment that is presented as legitimate document by the text message. It could be uploaded in a .rar or .zip archive. Such a file could be set to evade active security measures and trick you into running the ransomware on your PC.
The .harma files virus is a threat with highly complex code that infects computer systems with the goal to corrupt some essential settings and then encrypts valuable personal files.
Once started on a computer system .harma ransomware attempts to evade detection by running specific checks for active security measures. When ready, it initiates a long sequence of malicious operations that affect the settings of some essential system components like the Registry Editor.
By adding malicious entries under the registry keys Run and RunOnce, the ransomware becomes able to misuse their functionalities for obtaining a persistent presence on the infected device. So every next, time you start your PC, .harma files virus will load automatically along with all important system startup processes and applications.
In fact, almost all initial attack stages performed by .harma virus support the completion of its main goal which is encryption of personal data. Once it reaches this stage of the attack, the ransomware performs an encryption process by utilizing sophisticated cipher algorithm.
As a result, of this process, it prevents you from accessing the data stored by your valuable files. A distinctive trait of a corrupted file is the long sequence of extensions that appears appended to its name. Below you can see the pattern it follows:
- trip.mp4.id-F444271M.[WSS911@tutanota.com].harma
Yet another reason for .harma virus to affect the registry key RunOnce is the need to display its ransom message at the end of the attack. It first drops this message on the system and then loads it on the screen in an attempt to blackmail you into paying ransom fee for .harma files recovery.
Similar to some recently detected Dharma ransomware strains like [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/beets-files-virus-dharma-remove/”] .beets files virus, [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/good-files-virus-dharma-remove/”] .good files virus and [wplinkpreview url=”https://sensorstechforum.com/tor13-dharma-remove/”] .ТОР13 files virus the .harma variant is likely to present the following ransom message:
Here is a copy of the text of .harma virus’ ransom message:
All FILES ENCRYPTED “RSA1024”
All YOUR FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!!! IF YOU WANT TO RESTORE THEM, WRITE US TO THE E-MAIL WSS911@tutanota.com
IN THE LETTER WRITE YOUR ID, YOUR ID ********
IF YOU ARE NOT ANSWERED, WRITE TO EMAIL: WSS911@tutanota.com
YOUR SECRET KEY WILL BE STORED ON A SERVER 7 DAYS, AFTER 7 DAYS IT MAY BE OVERWRITTEN BY OTHER KEYS, DON’T PULL TIME, WAITING YOUR EMAIL
FREE DECRYPTION FOR PROOF
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.)
DECRYPTION PROCESS:
When you make sure of decryption possibility transfer the money to our bitcoin wallet. As soon as we receive the money we will send you:
1. Decryption program.
2. Detailed instruction for decryption.
3. And individual keys for decrypting your files.
!WARNING!
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.
Apparently, this message aims to persuade you to contact hackers at WSS911@tutanota.com so that they could send you back more details on the ransom payment process. Beware that they could fool you into paying for a broken decryption tool that cannot recover .harma files or even skip answering you once you transfer them the ransom.
.harma Files Virus (Dharma) – Update January 2020
The Dharma ransomware with its variant .harma has never really faded but has an update for November 2019. Newer victims report seeing a new ransom note and contact emails.
The ransom note is FILES ENCRYPTED.txt and states the same things, but has a different look:
The new emails for contacting the cybercriminals are the following:
- marjut56@cock.li
- marjut65@tutanota.com
The extension and email .[sumpterzoila@aol.com].harma are also present in 2020 variants of the harma ransomware.
Remove Harma Ransomware and Attempt to Restore Data
The so-called .harma files virus is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected system in a secure manner again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. In addition, in the guide, you will find several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore files encrypted by .harma ransomware. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
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 .harma Files Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 .harma Files Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .harma Files 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 .harma Files 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.
.harma Files Virus-FAQ
What is .harma Files Virus Ransomware?
.harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 .harma Files Virus Infect?
Via several ways..harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 ..harma Files Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..harma Files 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 ..harma Files Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..harma Files Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 .harma Files Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..harma Files 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 .harma Files 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 .harma Files Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .harma Files 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 .harma Files 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.
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