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Remove Matrix Ransomware and Restore .EMAN Files

This article will aid you remove Matrix Ransomware effectively. Follow the removal instructions at the end.

The .EMAN Matrix Ransomware is the newest strain associated with the Matrix family of malware. Like previous versions it has an extensive list of modules that are launched, they impact every single area of the operating system. Depending on their configuration they can also lead to the installation of other threats — viruses, ransomware, miners and Trojans. Our guide explains how computer users can spot the infections and attempt to remove them.

Threat Summary

Name Matrix ransomware
Type Ransomware
Short Description The ransomware encrypts files on your computer and displays a ransom message afterward.
Symptoms The ransomware will encrypt your files and put the extension .EMAN to them after it finishes its encryption process.
Distribution Method Spam Emails, Email Attachments
Detection Tool See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware

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User Experience Join Our Forum to Discuss Matrix ransomware.
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.

.EMAN Matrix Ransomware – Distribution

The .EMAN Matrix ransomware follows the same old distribution tactics as previous iterations of this family. It is very possible that the attacks are being operated by the same hacker or group behind previous attacks or the code has been customized/bought by another malicious actor. It is very possible that the code is for sale on the underground markets and that interested buyers can buy custom copies of the Matrix ransomware.

This particular threat is known to make heavy use of email SPAM messages — they are disguised as legitimate messages from well-known companies or services. The virus files can be either attached directly or hyperlinked in the body contents via in-line links. The call-to-action button leading to the infection may be disguised as a document download, link to a software update or another important action that the user must take.

A similar strategy is the use creation of fake web sites — they are designed to appear like any ordinary Internet portal or vendor download page. The hackers behind it may use tactics such as the registration of similar sounding domain names, security certificates and stolen content and/or design.

The Matrix ransomware files can be distributed via malicious payloads. Two of the most popular types are the following:

  • Documents — Macro-infected documents are a popular source of infections. They can be of any of the popular document types: presentations, rich text documents, spreadsheets and databases. Once they are opened by the targets a message box which will appear asking them to enable the built-in scripts. If this is done the built-in scripts will be started, they will lead to the virus installation.
  • Application Installers — The criminals can hijack the legitimate setup files of popular software often used by end users. This includes examples such as system utilities, productivity applications, creativity suites, multimedia players and etc.

Note that such threat can often be found on P2P networks as well which are used to spread various files among their users. One of the most popular example of this technology is BitTorrent. Scripts can also redirect the users to the fake sites: banners, pop-ups, in-line links, redirects and etc.

Advanced distribution tactics can make use of malicious browser plugins — they are made compatible with the most popular web browsers and advertised as enhancing their functionality. The individual strains are uploaded using stolen or fake developer credentials and user reviews in an attempt to advertise as much as possible. When they are installed on the target hosts typically they will modify the default options and redirect the users to a hacker-controlled site and then the virus infection will follow.

.EMAN Matrix Ransomware – Information

The .EMAN Matrix ransomware sample follows the same behavior patterns as previous strains of the malware family. One of the first actions that by default is run is the data extraction module, it is used to harvest sensitive information about the infected computer which is used to assign the individual victim ID of the computer. It may expose the victim’s identity by searching for strings that include the person’s name, address, interests, location and any stored account credentials. The other data that is used during the ID generation is made up of details about the installed hardware components, user settings and operating system variables.

This information can then be used by another module that is assigned to offer stealth protection — it will search for security software that can interfere with the ransomware’s correct execution — examples include anti-virus software, virtual machine hosts and debug (sandbox) environments. When this step has complete the hackers will have total control of the infected machines. At this point the rest of the modules can be downloaded and unpacked from the hacker-controlled servers.

An important part of the infection process is the manipulation of the Windows Registry — changed values belonging to the operating system can lead to severe performance issues. If application strings are affected then certain functions may be blocked.

Many Matrix ransomware family versions feature code that deletes system data: System Restore Points and Shadow Volume Copies.

Advanced infections not only will report the infections to the hacker-controlled servers, but will also lead to a Trojan virus deployment. It will use the established secure connection to spy on the victims, take over control of the machines and deploy other threats. A side effect of this is the deployment of cryptocurrency miners — scripts or small programs that leverage the available hardware resources in order to carry out complex calculations. They are very intensive on the system resources and when complete the malicious operators will be rewarded for the posted results of the complete job.

.EMAN Matrix Ransomware – Encryption Process

When all previous module have executed correctly the ransomware engine will be run. Like the previous Matrix ransomware sample the engine will process user data according to a built-in list, an example one is the following:

  • Archives
  • Backups
  • Databases
  • Music
  • Images
  • Videos

The victim files will be renamed with the .EMAN extension, the associated ransomware note will crafted in a file called #README_EMAN#.rtf#. The ransomare note will also be displayed as the user’s desktop.

Remove Matrix Ransomware and Restore .EMAN Files

If your computer got infected with the Matrix Ransomware ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.

Martin Beltov

Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.

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  • Step 5

Step 1: Scan for Matrix ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.


It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.


2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 2


3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 3


4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

scan for and delete ransomware virus step 4

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide

Step 2: Uninstall Matrix ransomware 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:


1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.
delete ransomware from windows step 1


2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.
delete ransomware from windows step 2


3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"
delete ransomware from windows step 3Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.


Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.
delete ransomware virus registries step 1


2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.
delete ransomware virus registries step 2


3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.
delete ransomware virus registries step 3 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.

IMPORTANT!
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 Matrix ransomware

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!
We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows Key + R.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 1


2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 2


3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".
remove ransomware in safe mode step 3
Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.


4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 4


5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.
remove ransomware in safe mode step 5


Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Matrix ransomware.

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:

stop ransomware decryptor step 1

2. Agree with the license terms:

stop ransomware decryptor step 2

3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:

stop ransomware decryptor step 3

4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.

stop ransomware decryptor step 4

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 Matrix ransomware 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.

1. Download the recommended Data Recovery software by clicking on the link underneath:

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.


Matrix ransomware-FAQ

What is Matrix ransomware Ransomware?

Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware Infect?

Via several ways.Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware 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 .Matrix ransomware files?

You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Matrix ransomware 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 .Matrix ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.

Can I Restore ".Matrix ransomware" Files?

Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Matrix ransomware 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 Matrix ransomware 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.

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