This article is created to help you remove the latest Nemucod-AES ransomware variant and try to recover the files which have been encrypted via AES-128 cipher.
A new version of the Nemucod ransomware has been reported to roam around in the wild and infect unsuspecting victims, called Nemucod-AES. The ransomware virus utilizes the AES-128 encryption algorithm to render the files on the computer infected by it no longer able to be opened. The virus then drops a ransom note and sets a screenlock both with message that the only way to restore the files is to pay a ransom of 0.11 BTC in order to restore the files that have been encrypted by this ransomware. If you are one of the victims of Nemucod we advise you to read this article instead of paying the ransom.
Threat Summary
| Name | Nemucod-AES |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The Nemucod ransomware infection aims to encrypt the files on the computers infected by it and then demand 0.11 BTC as a ransom payoff to get them restored. |
| Symptoms | A “Decrypt.txt” ransom note is dropped on the Desktop of the infected computer and it is accompanied by a White/Red “ATTENTION!” lockscreen. |
| 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 Nemucod-AES. |
| 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. |
How Does Nemucod-AES Ransomware Infect
The infection method of Nemucod-AES ransomware does differ that much from the 80% of most ransom malware out there. The first method it may use is to slither malicious e-mail attachments within e-mails that pose as important invoices or other notifications. Once the victim is deceived to open the attachment or the malicious web link, his computer immediately becomes infected by this malware. One example of such e-mail, carrying malicious attachment can be seen below:
Other methods by which your computer could turn out to be a victim of the Nemucod-AES ransomware is if it comes via a fake update, fake patches, setups, game cracks or other types of files uploaded online.
Nemucod-AES – Analysis
The Nemucod-AES ransomware is characterized by the multiple malicious files that it infects with. Some of the files pretend to be UPS delivery files and other pose as malicious documents with macros. In total, the files associated with this ransomware look like somewhat the following:
- {random name}.doc
- {random name}.exe
- Cab{random id}.tmp
- Tar{random id}.tmp
- UPS-Delivery-32823338.doc.js
- UPS_Receipt-3883812.doc.js
Most of the files are dropped in the %Temp% Windows directory after an infection takes place. It is believed that they are downloaded from some of the malicious online locations to which the virus connects:
- 217.26.160.15
- 62.109.17.210
- 77.222.61.227
Among the dropped files is the ransom note of the Nemucod-AES ransomware, named Decrypt.txt:
ATTENTION!
All your documents, photos, databases and other important personal files were encrypted using a combination of strong RSA-2048 and AES-128 algorithms.
The only way to restore your files is to buy decryptor. Please, follow these steps:
1. Create your Bitcoin wallet here:
xxxxs://blockchain.info/wallet/new
2. Buy 0.11471 bitcoins here:
https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
3. Send 0.11471 bitcoins to this address:
{BTC address}
4. Open one of the following links in your browser:
{Moldovian and Russian Web Links}
5. Download and run decryptor to restore your files.
You can find this instruction in “DECRYPT” file on your desktop.
Nemucod-AES Ransomware Encryption Process
The encryption process of Nemucod-AES is conducted in a method that allows it to render the files no longer openable by replacing blocks of data from the original file structure with encoded data. This mode is known as ECB encryption mode and it applies the AES algorithm with a bit strength of 128. The virus attacks widely used file types, like 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 having done this, the files can no longer be opened and you are demanded to pay the hefty ransom fee. The Nemucod-AES infection does not add any file extension to the encrypted files after it infects your computer.
Remove Nemucod-AES Ransomware and Restore Your Files
Before removing this ransomware infection from your computer, it is strongly advisable to focus on backing your files up, even though they are encrypted, because your system is at risk.
Then, you can follow the removal instructions for Nemucod-AES ransomware in order to isolate the threat and remove it. However, since the virus creates multiple files that may make manual deletion risky, experts recommend using ransomware-specific software to delete Nemucod ransomware automatically. Such anti-malware program will also protect your system in the future as well.
If you are interested in restoring the files encrypted by this virus on your computer, we suggest you to try out the alternative methods for file recovery below in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Nemucod”. They are in no way a 100% solution for this virus, but may help you recover at least some of the encrypted files. You can also attempt to use the decryption instructions for the older version of Nemucod on this web link, but be advised to try them at your own risk and make copies of the files beforehand.
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 Nemucod-AES with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nemucod-AES.
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 Nemucod-AES 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.
Nemucod-AES-FAQ
What is Nemucod-AES Ransomware?
Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES Infect?
Via several ways.Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 .Nemucod-AES files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nemucod-AES 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 .Nemucod-AES files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nemucod-AES" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nemucod-AES 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 Nemucod-AES 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.