In case that your PC has been infected with N3TW0RM virus, you can follow a step-by-step removal guide and attempt to get rid of all malicious files created by this nasty ransomware. You could find information on how to potentially recover files encrypted by this ransomware as well.
N3TW0RM Ransomware Infection
N3TW0RM ransomware is malicious software that uses an extension of the same name to mark files it corrupts. The ransomware has been reported to be currently lurking across the web in active attack campaigns. The activation of this malicious on a computer system leads to serious changes that damage essential settings and leave the system extremely vulnerable to future malware attacks.
N3TW0RM virus is created to extort a ransom fee from its victims which are primarily businesses. The threat scans drives for certain types of files and encodes them by using a sophisticated cipher algorithm. At last, the ransomware drops the file N3TW0RM_MESSAGE.TXT. It contains a ransom message that demands a ransom payment.
N3TW0RM Virus Summary
| Name | N3TW0RM also known as Trojan.Encoder.33897, TR/Ransom.nwhkv, HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Agent.gen, Ransom.Win32.NETWORM.A |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Malicious Extensions | .n3tw0rm |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes strong cihper algorithm to encrypt personal files stored on the infected computer. It demands a ransom for a decryption tool. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with the extension .n3tw0rm. Corrupted files remain unusable until their code is reverted back to the original state. |
| Ransom Message | N3TW0RM_MESSAGE.TXT |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Corrupted Websites, Software Installers |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss N3TW0RM Virus. |
N3TW0RM Ransomware (.n3tw0rm Files) – Overview
How does the N3TW0RM ransomware virus enter a PC? Creators of N3TW0RM ransomware infection may use mass spam email campaigns for its spread. Emails that try to deliver nasty computer programs often present misleading email addresses, feature file attachments, or present links to hacked websites.
The infection process with this virus begins the moment you open its payload file on the computer. Its payload file triggers lots of malicious operations that support several attack stages. As a result, the system security is totally disrupted by the threat. Essential system settings are corrupted and misused by the ransomware.
Analyses of its behavior indicate that its malicious files could be found in the following folders:
- \Desktop\
- \User_folders\
- \%TEMP%\
Unfortunately, the N3TW0RM virus encodes target data with two strong cipher algorithms. This process leaves files completely inaccessible. They are very hard to decode. All files corrupted by N3TW0RM virus receive the following extension – .n3tw0rm.
To force victims to transfer the insane ransom fee of 3 – 5 Bitcoin to hackers, the cryptovirus drops a ransom message file on the infected system. This file is named N3TW0RM_MESSAGE.TXT and its text message states the following:
–== Dear users! ==–
N3tw0rm is talking to you…
N3tw0rm provides enterprise-level of ransomware attacks!
Don’t worry about your network because you’re not the first and of course not the last!
[+] What is Ransomware?[+] Ransomware is a type of malware from cryptovirology that threatens to publish the victim’s data or perpetually block access to it unless a ransom is paid.
It encrypts the victim’s files, making them inaccessible, and demands a ransom payment to decrypt them.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ransomware)
[+] What’s Happened? [+] Your entire company network has been encrypted! yes, your whole network!
By the way, everything is possible to recover (restore), but you need to follow the instructions. Otherwise, you can’t return your data (NEVER).
N3tw0rm extracted some of your important information as a deal guarantee, everything is moving better when you have a guarantee in your hands absolutely!
[+] Trial decryption [+] You can send 5 random files from any computers and receive decrypted data to make sure that N3tw0rm decryptor works.
[+] How to restore your files back? [+] Simple and easy!
You should pay 4 BTC to receive your network decryptor.
Wallet: ***
E-Mail: n3tw0rm@tuta.io
Your Computer Unique ID: ***
Your Network Identifier ID: ***
[!] NOTICE [!] You should make your payment before 05/04/2021, otherwise your price will be doubled and your data going to leak on N3tw0rm onion directory!
Check the N3tw0rm onion site:
http://***hra4wthvlgyeyd.onion/
[!] Don’t try to change files by yourself, Don’t use any third party software for restoring your data or antivirus solutions.
[!] Don’t modify encrypted files or you can damage them and decryption will be impossible!
If you want to prevent being tricked once again by cybercriminals, you should avoid paying them the ransom. There is no guarantee that they can send you back a working decryption solution for .n3tw0rm files. Instead, consider the completion of the removal steps below as they will help you to clean your system from malicious files. In addition, you will be presented with several alternative data recovery solutions.
Remove N3TW0RM Ransomware Virus and Attempt to Restore Files
The so-called N3TW0RM Virus is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after the complete removal of all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. That’s why it is recommendable that all steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below should be completed. Beware that a manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide.
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 N3TW0RM Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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.
N3TW0RM Virus-FAQ
What is N3TW0RM Virus Ransomware?
N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM Virus Infect?
Via several ways.N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 .N3TW0RM Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .N3TW0RM 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 .N3TW0RM Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".N3TW0RM Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this N3TW0RM 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 N3TW0RM 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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