This article aims to inform about Nemesis ransomware and help out to remove it and try to get back encrypted files.
When it comes to ransomware viruses like Nemesis that are focused on attacking servers, the stakes become higher. This particular virus aims to encrypt the files on the compromised servers and computers. What is unusual with Nemesis is that it requires the sum of approximately 10 BTC for the users to pay to get all the data on their devices decrypted. However, since the ransom amount is insanely high, researchers advise not paying a dime to cyber-criminals. Instead, recommendations are to focus on removing the malware yourself and getting the files back using alternative methods. Keep reading this article to learn how to get rid of Nemesis properly and try to revert missing data.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Nemesis |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using a strong encryption algorithm, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions” linking to a web page and a decryptor. Changed file names and a random file-extension which has unique ID has been used. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Nemesis. |
| 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. |
Update November 2017! Nemesis ransomware is believed to be a variant of the CryptON ransomware viruses which are decryptable. One possible, even though not certain way to try and decrypt the files is to first remove this virus and then attempt to decrypt those copies using Emsisoft’s CryptON Decrypter.It is preferred that you download the anti-malware tool mentioned above, to make sure the ransomware does not encrypt your files again after decryption.
Nemesis Ransomware – How Does It Perform an Attack
For the virus to attack someone, it may use deceptive tactics. One of those tactics is associated with phishing e-mails. Most phishing e-mails are generated to come from companies, like FedEx, Amazon or some other big and widely known company or organization. The primary distribution of Nemesis, if conducted via e-mail spam may include two types of infection objects:
- A malicious web link with embedded script.
- A malicious e-mail attachment.
Usually cyber-criminals may take advantage of multiple infection approaches this way:
- Usage of malicious JavaScripts.
- Infection via a malicious macros.
- Infecting users by making them visit a Dropbox website as well as website for online file sharing that is legitimate. On such websites, the malicious infection file of Nemesis ransomware may be contained.
The spam messages may have different forms and they all aim to deceive the victim into opening the malicious object and hence becoming infected.
After the victim opens the malicious file, infection is inevitable and Nemesis ransomware may drop multiple malicious files on the compromised computer. The files of Nemesis ransomware may be located in the following Windows server folders:
%Windows%
%LocalLow%
%Local%
%Roaming%
However, the case of Nemesis may be different. Since the malware wants approximately $9000 as a ransom payoff to unlock the files, the cyber-criminals may havealso directly targeted the organizations they are aiming at. This means that phishing e-mails may be sent from the inside of organization and may include more detailed information, such as employee names, phone numbers, addresses and other data, to increase the likelihood of the victim opening the virus.
And what is more, other malware may be used, such as Trojans or even Worms that may spread the virus not only to servers, like the ones Nemesis encrypts, but to all computers of the organization.
Nemesis Ransomware – Malicious Activity
The activity of Nemesis ransomware may be composed of multiple different modifications on the servers attacked by the virus. The malware may begin to modify the Windows Registry entries of the servers which can allow it to:
- Change the wallpaper.
- Run files on system startup.
- Lock the screen.
- Display ransom notes on system start up.
In addition to this activity, the Nemesis virus may also tamper with crucial Windows server processes and also modify policies on the server, but it’s primary purpose is to encrypt files on the servers.
Nemesis Ransomware – Encryption Process
Among the encrypted files by Nemesis ransomware may be the following:
“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”Source:fileinfo.com
After the encryption process by Nemesis Ransomware has completed, the virus may set a file extension with a unique id number and a file expansion containing 4 a-z 0-9 symbols, like the image below displays:
After this has happened, the virus drop it’s ransom note which asks victims to contact the cyber-criminals via BitMessage:
“ALL YOUR IMPORTANT FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted! To decrypt your files you need to buy the special software – <> To obtain decryptor, please, contact me by email: nemesis-decryptor@india.com
Write me in online: https://bitmsg.me
Address: {BITCOIN ADDRESS}”
One way to contact them is by visiting Nemesis virus’ one of many TOR-based web pages, which requires your unique infection ID to login:
Once logged in, the victims can see a form of chat with the cyber-crooks where they make further demands. Usually the ransom fee amount depends on the organization attacked. Some server administrators have complained it to be approximately 1 BTC while others – less.
Remove Nemesis Ransomware and Try Restoring Your Data
In case you have been affected by this ransomware, the last thing ransomware researchers advise to do is paying the ransom. Cyber-criminals are not to be trusted to get your files back even if you pay, so we recommend not to do it. Instead we advise you to focus on removing Nemesis Ransomware using an advanced anti-malware software to do it completely and trying to restore your files, preferably by following the alternative methods on the removal instructions below.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for Nemesis with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 Nemesis
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nemesis.
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 Nemesis 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.
Nemesis-FAQ
What is Nemesis Ransomware?
Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 Nemesis Infect?
Via several ways.Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 .Nemesis files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nemesis 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 .Nemesis files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nemesis" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 Nemesis ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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 Nemesis Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nemesis 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 Nemesis 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.